Best Anime Openings: Top 30 to Add to Your Playlist Now
If you’re an anime enthusiast, you know that the opening of an anime series plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the rest of the show. From the catchy tunes to the stunning visuals, anime openings have become an essential part of the anime-watching experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 30 best anime openings that you need to add to your playlist now. These openings are not only popular among anime fans but also stand out for their exceptional music, animation, and representation of the show’s themes and characters.
Get ready to dive into the world of anime openings and discover some new favorites!
Key Takeaways:
- Anime openings are an important part of the anime-watching experience.
- The top 30 best anime openings are popular and exceptional in their music, animation, and representation of the show’s themes and characters.
- Exploring the world of anime openings can lead to discovering new favorites.
What Makes an Anime Opening Great?
Anime openings have become a significant part of the anime culture, and it is no wonder that they have become increasingly popular over the years. But what makes an anime opening great? What qualities do they possess that make them so memorable and iconic for viewers?
First, a great anime opening needs to have a catchy tune. The music sets the tone for the show and can stay with viewers long after they have finished watching. Iconic anime openings like Cowboy Bebop’s “Tank!” and Naruto’s “Go!!!” have become incredibly popular among fans, not just for the shows, but for the soundtracks themselves.
Second, a great anime opening should have iconic visuals. The animation can be just as essential as the music, portraying the characters, the world, and the overall atmosphere of the show. Some anime openings, like Death Note’s “The World,” use their visuals to connect with the themes of the show, creating a powerful impact on the viewer.
Finally, a great anime opening should effectively capture the spirit of the show. It should convey the essence of the characters and the plot, pulling viewers in and getting them excited for what’s to come. Popular anime openings such as Dragon Ball Z’s “Cha-La Head-Cha-La” and Attack on Titan’s “Guren no Yumiya” do just that, creating an emotional connection with viewers that lasts long after the show has ended.
With these qualities in mind, it is no wonder that certain anime openings become so popular among fans. They are more than just introductions to a show; they become symbols for the anime itself and a beloved part of its legacy.
“Attack on Titan’s” opening captures the essence of the show with its powerful visuals and music.
Top 10 Memorable Anime Opening Songs
Music plays a crucial role in the success of an anime opening. Sometimes, it’s the opening song that hooks viewers and sets the mood for the show. Here are the top 10 most memorable anime opening songs that have stood the test of time:
| # | Song | Artist | Anime |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cha-La Head-Cha-La | Hironobu Kageyama | Dragon Ball Z |
| 2 | Cruel Angel’s Thesis | Yoko Takahashi | Neon Genesis Evangelion |
| 3 | Colors | FLOW | Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion |
| 4 | The World | Nightmare | Death Note |
| 5 | Tank! | The Seatbelts | Cowboy Bebop |
| 6 | Guren no Yumiya | Linked Horizon | Attack on Titan |
| 7 | Hacking to the Gate | Kanako Itou | Steins;Gate |
| 8 | Unravel | Tk from Ling Tosite Sigure | Tokyo Ghoul |
| 9 | Flyers | BRADIO | Death Parade |
| 10 | JIBUN WOO | MIYAVI vs. YUKSEK | Kokkoku |
Each of these songs has a unique style that has become synonymous with the anime they represent. From the nostalgic power ballad in Dragon Ball Z’s Cha-La Head-Cha-La to the high-energy jazz-inspired Tank! from Cowboy Bebop, these opening songs continue to captivate and inspire anime fans around the world.
Top 10 Iconic Anime Opening Themes
These anime opening themes are more than just catchy tunes. They are cultural phenomena that are recognized and beloved by anime fans all over the world. Here are the top 10 most iconic anime opening themes:
| Rank | Title | Anime | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cruel Angel’s Thesis | Neon Genesis Evangelion | Yoko Takahashi |
| 2 | Unravel | Tokyo Ghoul | Tk from Ling Tosite Sigure |
| 3 | Again | Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | Yui |
| 4 | Colors | Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion | FLOW |
| 5 | The World | Death Note | Nightmare |
| 6 | Tank! | Cowboy Bebop | The Seatbelts |
| 7 | Guren no Yumiya | Attack on Titan | Linked Horizon |
| 8 | Departure! | Hunter x Hunter (2011) | Masatoshi Ono |
| 9 | Hikaru Nara | Your Lie in April | Goose house |
| 10 | Kimi no Sei | Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai | The Peggies |
These openings have become cultural icons in their own right, with many of them transcending the anime world and becoming popular among non-anime viewers as well. “Cruel Angel’s Thesis” from Neon Genesis Evangelion, for example, has been covered by various artists and even played at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.
The themes on this list have a wide range of musical styles and visuals, but they all effectively capture the essence of their respective shows and have left a lasting impact on viewers. They are not only memorable but also serve as a testament to the power of anime music in shaping the anime fandom as we know it today.
Best Anime Openings of the 90s
The 90s was a golden era for anime, and it was no different for anime openings. From J-pop to rock, the 90s had it all when it came to anime music. Here are some of the best anime openings from that decade:
| Opening Title | Anime | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| Cruel Angel’s Thesis | Neon Genesis Evangelion | Yoko Takahashi |
| Rhythm Emotion | Gundam Wing | Two-Mix |
| Sobakasu | Rurouni Kenshin | Judy and Mary |
Cruel Angel’s Thesis is one of the most iconic and recognizable anime opening songs of all time. It perfectly captures the essence of Neon Genesis Evangelion and is a prime example of how an opening can enhance the viewing experience. Rhythm Emotion from Gundam Wing is another great opening that combines catchy lyrics with high-tempo beats, inviting the viewer to join the action-packed adventure. Sobakasu from Rurouni Kenshin has a more mellow tone but is just as memorable and beloved among fans.
The 90s were a time of innovation and experimentation in the anime industry, resulting in some of the most timeless and unforgettable openings that continue to live in the hearts of anime enthusiasts.
Best Anime Openings of the 2000s
The 2000s was an era of growth and innovation for the anime industry, leading to some of the most memorable openings in anime history. Here are our top picks for the best anime openings of the 2000s:
| Rank | Anime | Opening Song | Artist |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fullmetal Alchemist | Again | YUI |
| 2 | Death Note | The World | Nightmare |
| 3 | Naruto | Haruka Kanata | Asian Kung-Fu Generation |
| 4 | Bleach | Asterisk | Orange Range |
| 5 | Code Geass | Colors | FLOW |
Fullmetal Alchemist‘s opening theme, “Again” by YUI, captures the essence of the show’s emotional storyline with its uplifting lyrics and catchy melody. Similarly, Death Note‘s opening, “The World” by Nightmare, sets the tone for the series with its gothic visuals and haunting vocals.
Meanwhile, Naruto’s opening theme “Haruka Kanata” by Asian Kung-Fu Generation became an instant classic, capturing the excitement and adventure of the series with its upbeat rock sound. Bleach‘s opening theme, “Asterisk” by Orange Range, perfectly matches the fast-paced action and supernatural elements of the show.
Last but not least, Code Geass‘s opening theme, “Colors” by FLOW, stood out for its unique fusion of rock and rap elements, reflecting the show’s themes of rebellion and political intrigue.
These anime openings from the 2000s continue to hold a special place in the hearts of anime fans. Their timeless music and creative visuals represent the pinnacle of anime openings of the time and serve as an inspiration for future generations of anime creators.
Best Anime Openings of the 2010s
The 2010s saw an explosion of creativity in the anime industry, leading to some of the most unique and memorable anime openings of all time. From the stunning visuals to the diverse music genres, these openings captured the spirit of their respective shows and left a lasting impression on viewers.
Here are the top 10 best anime openings of the 2010s:
| Rank | Title | Artist | Anime |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Flyers | Bradio | Death Parade |
| 9 | Unravel | Tokyo Ghoul | Ling Tosite Sigure |
| 8 | The Day | Porno Graffitti | My Hero Academia |
| 7 | My Soul, Your Beats! | Lia | Angel Beats! |
| 6 | Again | Yui | Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood |
| 5 | Hacking to the Gate | Kanako Itou | Steins;Gate |
| 4 | Kimi no Sei | The Peggies | Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai |
| 3 | Gurenge | LiSA | Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba |
| 2 | Colors | FLOW | Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion |
| 1 | “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” | Yoko Takahashi | Neon Genesis Evangelion |
“A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” takes the top spot, with its iconic opening bars and unforgettable visuals. It perfectly captures the tone of Neon Genesis Evangelion and has become a cultural touchstone in the anime community.
While each opening on this list has its own unique strengths, they all share one thing in common: they leave a lasting impression on viewers and are a testament to the creativity and talent within the anime industry.
Best Anime Openings of the 2020s
The 2020s have been a playground for anime openings, with studios experimenting with different genres and styles to elevate their shows. Here are the top anime openings so far in this decade:
| Opening | Anime | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | Haikyuu!! To the Top Part 2 | Burnout Syndromes |
| MUJINA | Jujutsu Kaisen | Cö Shu Nie |
| Naked Dive | SK8 the Infinity | Skirt and PUNPEE |
| Kaibutsu | Beastars Season 2 | YOASOBI |
| Easy Breezy | Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! | chelmico |
| Redo | Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World Season 2 Part 2 | Konomi Suzuki |
| Odd Taxi | Odd Taxi | skirt［Alexandros］ |
| Wild Side | BEASTARS | ALI |
These anime openings showcase the fantastic music and animation quality in modern anime. The haunting melody of MUJINA and the energetic beats of Naked Dive perfectly capture the essence of their respective shows, while Phoenix and Kaibutsu create an emotional connection with the viewers.
Moreover, Easy Breezy, Redo, Odd Taxi, and Wild Side are testaments to the diverse musical styles found in anime, ranging from pop, rock, to hip-hop. Their unique sound and animation make them stand out in the vast landscape of anime openings.
These anime openings have already left a significant impact on anime enthusiasts and are sure to continue to inspire new generations of fans.
Top Anime Openings That Became Viral Hits
Some anime openings have gone beyond just being popular among anime fans and have become viral hits on social media. These openings have gained widespread recognition for their catchy tunes, unique visuals, or cultural references that resonate with a broader audience.
One such opening is the iconic “Tank!” from Cowboy Bebop. The jazzy tune and stylized visuals perfectly capture the cool, adventurous spirit of the show. The opening has become a cultural phenomenon and has been parodied and referenced in various forms of media.
| Opening Title | Anime | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Renai Circulation | Bakemonogatari | A bubbly, upbeat song and playful visuals featuring the show’s main heroine became a viral hit and sparked a dance trend in Japan. |
| Again | Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | An emotional and uplifting song that perfectly captures the themes of the show, it gained popularity among anime fans and non-fans alike, with its music video racking up millions of views on YouTube. |
| Cruel Angel’s Thesis | Neon Genesis Evangelion | One of the most recognizable anime openings, the upbeat song and colorful visuals became a viral hit and even inspired a fan-made 8-bit video game. |
Another example is the opening for Attack on Titan, “Guren no Yumiya”. The intense rock song and fast-paced visuals featuring the show’s epic battles and titans became a viral sensation, with numerous covers and parodies created by fans.
Finally, the opening for Death Parade, “Flyers,” became a viral hit for its catchy tune and danceable beat. The colorful visuals and upbeat tempo perfectly capture the show’s themes of life and death, making it a fan favorite.
Hidden Gems: Underrated Anime Openings Worth Checking Out
While some anime openings become widely popular, others remain hidden gems that are worth exploring. These underrated openings may not have received as much attention, but they still possess exceptional music, animation, and storytelling elements that make them memorable. Here are a few underrated anime openings worth checking out:
| Underrated Anime Opening | Anime Title |
|---|---|
| “Aoi Shiori” by Galileo Galilei | Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day |
| “Koko” by Tamurapan | Kyousougiga |
| “Redo” by Konomi Suzuki | Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World |
| “Netsujou no Spectrum” by Ikimonogakari | Nanatsu no Taizai |
These underrated anime openings bring something unique to the table. “Aoi Shiori” perfectly captures the emotional essence of Anohana with its melancholic melody, while “Koko” matches the whimsical and surreal elements of Kyousougiga with its upbeat tone. “Redo” emphasizes the action-packed nature of Re:Zero with its intense beats and powerful vocals, and “Netsujou no Spectrum” energizes the audience for the epic battles of Nanatsu no Taizai with its rock-inspired sound.
These hidden gems may not be as well-known as some of the top anime openings, but they are still worth listening to and may even become your new favorites. Expand your anime opening playlist with some of these underrated gems and discover the hidden treasures of anime music.
Honorable Mentions: Anime Openings That Just Missed the Top 30
While our top 30 list of best anime openings is a comprehensive selection of the most popular and iconic openings in anime, there are still some honorable mentions that deserve recognition. These are the openings that narrowly missed the cut but still left a lasting impact on viewers.
| Anime | Opening Title | Artist |
|---|---|---|
| Cowboy Bebop | Tank! | The Seatbelts |
| Death Parade | Flyers | BRADIO |
| Toradora! | Pre-Parade | Rie Kugimiya, Yui Horie, and Eri Kitamura |
| Attack on Titan | Guren no Yumiya | Linked Horizon |
| Naruto | Haruka Kanata | Asian Kung-Fu Generation |
Cowboy Bebop’s “Tank!” is a classic and easily recognizable among anime fans, with its jazzy sound and stylish visuals setting the tone for the action-packed show. “Flyers” from Death Parade has a catchy beat that perfectly captures the show’s eccentricity and mystery.
Meanwhile, “Pre-Parade” from Toradora! has a charming and upbeat melody that reflects the show’s rom-com genre and showcases the vocal talents of the three main voice actors. On the other hand, “Guren no Yumiya” from Attack on Titan is an epic and intense opening that sets the tone for the dark and brutal world of the series.
Lastly, “Haruka Kanata” from Naruto is a nostalgic favorite among fans, with its catchy melody and energetic beat reflecting the series’ action-packed scenes. Despite being honorable mentions, these openings have still made a significant impact on anime fans worldwide, and are worth adding to your playlist.
Conclusion
Overall, anime openings are an integral part of the viewing experience and can be just as memorable and impactful as the shows themselves. The top 30 anime openings listed in this article are a must-have in any anime fan’s playlist, with their catchy tunes, iconic visuals, and their ability to effectively capture the spirit of their respective shows.
We hope this article has shed light on the diverse and evolving world of anime openings and inspired readers to explore further. Anime openings have the power to bring people together and create a sense of community, whether it’s through enjoying viral hits or discovering hidden gems. So, don’t be shy, share your favorite anime openings with your friends and join the conversation!
Keep Exploring
If you’re looking for more anime-related content, be sure to check out our other articles on the best anime series, movies, and soundtracks. And if you haven’t already, follow us on social media for more updates and recommendations!
FAQ
Q: What are anime openings?
A: Anime openings are the introduction sequences that play at the beginning of an anime episode. They typically feature a theme song, visuals, and animation that set the tone and style of the show.
Q: Why should I add anime openings to my playlist?
A: Anime openings are not only catchy and enjoyable to listen to, but they also evoke the emotions and atmosphere of the show. Adding them to your playlist allows you to relive those moments and immerse yourself in the world of your favorite anime.
Q: What makes an anime opening great?
A: An anime opening becomes great when it successfully combines captivating music, visually stunning animation, and effectively represents the essence of the show. Catchy tunes, iconic visuals, and a sense of excitement are some of the elements that make an anime opening stand out.
Q: Can you recommend some memorable anime opening songs?
A: Certainly! Here are some memorable anime opening songs:
1. “Unravel” by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure – Tokyo Ghoul
2. “The World” by Nightmare – Death Note
3. “Tank!” by The Seatbelts – Cowboy Bebop
4. “Guren no Yumiya” by Linked Horizon – Attack on Titan
5. “Cruel Angel’s Thesis” by Yoko Takahashi – Neon Genesis Evangelion
6. “Colors” by FLOW – Code Geass
7. “Ignite” by Eir Aoi – Sword Art Online
8. “Again” by Yui – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
9. “Hikarunara” by Goose house – Your Lie in April
10. “My Soul, Your Beats!” by Lia – Angel Beats!
Q: Can you recommend some iconic anime opening themes?
A: Absolutely! Here are some iconic anime opening themes:
1. “Pokemon Theme” by Jason Paige – Pokemon
2. “We Are!” by Hiroshi Kitadani – One Piece
3. “Asterisk” by Orange Range – Bleach
4. “Sorairo Days” by Shoko Nakagawa – Gurren Lagann
5. “Crazy Noisy Bizarre Town” by THE DU – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
6. “Gotta Catch ‘Em All” by John Loeffler – Pokemon
7. “Cruel Angel’s Thesis” by Yoko Takahashi – Neon Genesis Evangelion
8. “Tank!” by The Seatbelts – Cowboy Bebop
9. “Uragiri no Yuuyake” by Theatre Brook – Durarara!!
10. “Sono Chi no Sadame” by Hiroaki “TOMMY” Tominaga – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Phantom Blood
Q: Which anime openings from the 90s are considered the best?
A: The 90s gave us many iconic anime openings. Some of the best ones to check out include:
1. “Cruel Angel’s Thesis” by Yoko Takahashi – Neon Genesis Evangelion
2. “Tank!” by The Seatbelts – Cowboy Bebop
3. “Sobakasu” by Judy and Mary – Rurouni Kenshin
4. “Butter-Fly” by Koji Wada – Digimon Adventure
5. Moonlight Densetsu” by DALI – Sailor Moon
6. “Yuusha-oh Tanjou!” by Takayuki Miyauchi – Dragon Ball Z
7. “Northern Lights” by Megumi Hayashibara – Shaman King
8. “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” by Yoko Takahashi – Neon Genesis Evangelion
9. “Sakura Saku” by Megumi Hayashibara – Love Hina
10. “Change the World” by V6 – Inuyasha
Q: What are some of the best anime openings from the 2000s?
A: The 2000s saw a shift in animation quality and musical diversity. Here are some of the best anime openings from that era:
1. “Colors” by FLOW – Code Geass
2. “Rewrite” by Asian Kung-Fu Generation – Fullmetal Alchemist
3. “Again” by Yui – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
4. “Hikari e” by The Babystars – One Piece
5. “Gekidou” by UVERworld – D.Gray-man
6. “Melissa” by Porno Graffitti – Fullmetal Alchemist
7. “We Are!” by Hiroshi Kitadani – One Piece
8. “D-tecnoLife” by UVERworld – Bleach
9. “Ashita no Hikari” by AAA – Black Cat
10. “Ichirin no Hana” by High and Mighty Color – Bleach
Q: What are the best anime openings from the 2010s?
A: The 2010s brought modern animation techniques and diverse music genres to anime openings. Here are some of the best openings from that decade:
1. “Guren no Yumiya” by Linked Horizon – Attack on Titan
2. “My Soul, Your Beats!” by Lia – Angel Beats!
3. “Again” by Yui – Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
4. “Unravel” by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure – Tokyo Ghoul
5. “Crossing Field” by LiSA – Sword Art Online
6. “The Hero!! ~Ikareru Kobushi ni Hi wo Tsukero~” by JAM Project – One Punch Man
7. “Hacking to the Gate” by Kanako Itou – Steins;Gate
8. “Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari” by supercell – Bakemonogatari
9. “Silhouette” by Kana-Boon – Naruto Shippuden
10. “Flyers” by BRADIO – Death Parade
Q: Are there any notable anime openings from the 2020s so far?
A: Yes, the 2020s have already given us some impressive anime openings. Here are a few worth checking out:
1. “Gurenge” by LiSA – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
2. “Kaikai Kitan” by Eve – Jujutsu Kaisen
3. “Wild Side” by ALI – Beastars
4. “Easy Breezy” by chelmico – Eizouken ni wa Te wo Dasu na!
5. “Kemono Michi” by Daisuke Ono – Kemono Michi: Rise Up
6. “Centimeter” by the peggies – Rent-a-Girlfriend
7. “PHOENIX” by BURNOUT SYNDROMES – Haikyuu!! To The Top
8. “Katharsis” by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure – Tokyo Ghoul:re
9. “Hikari Are” by BURNOUT SYNDROME – Haikyuu!! Second Season
10. “GP” by Yutaka Yamada – Great Pretender
Q: Can you recommend any anime openings that became viral hits?
A: Absolutely! Here are some anime openings that gained viral popularity beyond the anime community:
1. “Caramelldansen” by Caramell – Internet meme, multiple anime openings
2. “Renai Circulation” by Kana Hanazawa – Bakemonogatari
3. “PAiNT it BLACK” by BiSH – Black Clover
4. “Don’t Say Lazy” by Yoko Hikasa – K-On!
5. “Hikaru Nara” by Goose house – Your Lie in April
6. “Kimi no Sei” by the peggies – Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
7. “Deal With The Devil” by Tia – Kakegurui
8. “Shinzo wo Sasageyo!” by Linked Horizon – Attack on Titan
9. “Sorairo Days” by Shoko Nakagawa – Gurren Lagann
10. “Silhouette” by Kana-Boon – Naruto Shippuden
Q: Are there any underrated anime openings worth checking out?
A: Absolutely! Here are some underrated anime openings that deserve recognition:
1. “Tanken Driland” by Miyuki Sawashiro – Tanken Driland
2. “Days” by FLOW – Eureka Seven
3. “Platinum Jet” by TRUE – Aoki Hagane no Arpeggio: Ars Nova
4. “Koko” by Tamurapan – Kyousougiga
5. “Fantastic Tune” by Kensho Ono – Kuroko no Basket
6. “LEGENDARY” by Roselia – BanG Dream!
7. “Sono Koe ga Chizu ni Naru” by CHiCO with HoneyWorks – Koi to Uso
8. “Adoration” by Yura Takayama – Noragami Aragoto
9. “Reality” by Masaaki Endoh – The Magnificent Kotobuki
10. “Memoria” by Eir Aoi – Fate/Zero
Q: Are there any honorable mentions for anime openings that just missed the top 30?
A: Absolutely! Here are a few notable anime openings that narrowly missed the top 30 list but are still worth checking out:
1. “Haruka Kanata” by Asian Kung-Fu Generation – Naruto
2. “Hikari” by Utada Hikaru – Kingdom Hearts
3. “Crossing Field” by LiSA – Sword Art Online
4. “Gekkouka” by Janne Da Arc – Black Jack
5. “Can Do” by GRANRODEO – Kuroko no Basket
6. “Rise” by Origa – Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex
7. “The WORLD” by NIGHTMARE – Death Note
8. “Sono Chi no Kioku” by Joe Inoue – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders
9. “Re:Re:” by ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION – Erased
10. “Harumodoki” by Nagi Yanagi – My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU
