5 Best Horror Anime Titles That Will Terrify Even the Most Seasoned Fans

5 Best Horror Anime Titles That Will Terrify Even the Most Seasoned Fans
Image credit: Crunchyroll

From creepy vampires in a mansion to a vengeful ghost lurking within the walls of a school.

There are brilliant masterpieces of anime in the horror genre that have long won the sympathy of viewers. Some anime use techniques to create fear so effectively that they surpass even live-action feature films.

1. Another, 2012

The story centers on Yomiyama High School, a place with a notorious reputation for being haunted. It all begins with a tragic event: the suicide of a student.

In an attempt to cope with their grief, her classmates decide to pretend that she is still alive. However, this leads to unforeseen consequences when they awaken a vengeful ghost that wreaks havoc and death. The victims include not only the students but also their families.

2. Mieruko-chan, 2021

In Mieruko-chan, we are introduced to Miko and her ghosts. We are immersed in a maelstrom of impressively detailed yet grotesque apparitions. Instead of being scared or fighting back, Miko combats these otherworldly creatures by ignoring them.

This deliberate act of denial creates a blend of tension and dark humor that sets the series apart from any other anime.

3. Shiki, 2010-2011

In a quiet, mountainous village, horrific murders begin to occur. Around the same time, a mysterious clan moves into an old castle on the outskirts of town.

While the plot may seem simple, Another is much more than just a vampire story. With its unpredictable plot twists, dark exploration of human nature, and masterfully crafted atmosphere of suspense, this anime is a must-see for any horror fan.

4. Theatre of Darkness: Yamishibai, 2013

Yamishibai draws inspiration from kamishibai, a Japanese storytelling style, to create chilling horror anthologies. This anime series features demonic creatures and delves deep into Japanese folklore through the lens of horror.

Yamishibai offers a world where traditional folklore meets modern horror. For horror fans, this anime is a treasure trove. Intriguing storytelling and mystical tales of ghosts and spirits will really scare you.

5. When They Cry, 2006

At first, When They Cry seems like an adorable story about carefree life in the countryside. However, beneath this deceptively hospitable exterior lies a dark secret.

The plot unfolds in the quiet village of Hinamizawa, where a traditional festival is held every year. But behind the festival's festive atmosphere lies a creepy legend, and mysterious murders and disappearances occur in the area on the eve of the celebration.

From creepy vampires in a mansion to a vengeful ghost lurking within the walls of a school.

There are brilliant masterpieces of anime in the horror genre that have long won the sympathy of viewers. Some anime use techniques to create fear so effectively that they surpass even live-action feature films.

1. Another, 2012

The story centers on Yomiyama High School, a place with a notorious reputation for being haunted. It all begins with a tragic event: the suicide of a student.

In an attempt to cope with their grief, her classmates decide to pretend that she is still alive. However, this leads to unforeseen consequences when they awaken a vengeful ghost that wreaks havoc and death. The victims include not only the students but also their families.

2. Mieruko-chan, 2021

In Mieruko-chan, we are introduced to Miko and her ghosts. We are immersed in a maelstrom of impressively detailed yet grotesque apparitions. Instead of being scared or fighting back, Miko combats these otherworldly creatures by ignoring them.

This deliberate act of denial creates a blend of tension and dark humor that sets the series apart from any other anime.

3. Shiki, 2010-2011

In a quiet, mountainous village, horrific murders begin to occur. Around the same time, a mysterious clan moves into an old castle on the outskirts of town.

While the plot may seem simple, Another is much more than just a vampire story. With its unpredictable plot twists, dark exploration of human nature, and masterfully crafted atmosphere of suspense, this anime is a must-see for any horror fan.

4. Theatre of Darkness: Yamishibai, 2013

Yamishibai draws inspiration from kamishibai, a Japanese storytelling style, to create chilling horror anthologies. This anime series features demonic creatures and delves deep into Japanese folklore through the lens of horror.

Yamishibai offers a world where traditional folklore meets modern horror. For horror fans, this anime is a treasure trove. Intriguing storytelling and mystical tales of ghosts and spirits will really scare you.

5. When They Cry, 2006

At first, When They Cry seems like an adorable story about carefree life in the countryside. However, beneath this deceptively hospitable exterior lies a dark secret.

The plot unfolds in the quiet village of Hinamizawa, where a traditional festival is held every year. But behind the festival's festive atmosphere lies a creepy legend, and mysterious murders and disappearances occur in the area on the eve of the celebration.