20 Non–Violent Anime Series That Are Highly Addictive (2024)

Anime has become renowned for its intense and emotionally resonant stories and its ability to create visually mesmerizing worlds. From shounen to mecha, the genres have often tied themselves to over-the-top fight sequences and graphic depictions of violence.

While these gore-infused anime series do attract curious outsiders and satiate the true otakus, some viewers may entirely dismiss the medium, assuming anything animated from Japan must inherently be violent or disturbing. But that’s not the case at all.

There are some truly understated anime gems that hook viewers through more delicate narratives. Whether they’re slowly unfolding mysteries, or tackling relatable topics like growth and human connection, they don’t really need to rely on shock factor to be addictive. These anime series dabble in mature subjects, sure, but they are also low-key and subtle in visuals.

Anime’s vast arsenal of titles harbors charming and mindful series that will satisfy your senses but never trigger them. So, let’s explore 20 lesser-known anime series that are highly addictive because of their graceful storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

20 Hanasaku Iroha (2011)

A tender and heartwarming slice-of-life drama, Hanasaku Iroha follows the journey of fitting in of a precocious teen named Ohana Matsumae, who is forced to leave her home in Tokyo to live with her grandmother in a small town in rural Japan. Though bored with the remote setting, Ohana finds excitement in working at her grandmother’s traditional inn, meeting new customers, and eventually grows fond of her quirky friends at school.

What Makes It So Addictive

The story is told with a very lighthearted tone. Ultimately, it is a coming-of-age story, with Ohana’s refreshing perspective and bubby optimism being the main thing about the series that is so relatable. It also offers an immersive look into the ryokan culture of rural Japan and overall flows naturally and comfortably across one season. Stream it on Crunchyroll

19 Space Brothers (2012)

After witnessing a UFO one night as children, Mutta Nanba and his younger brother Hibito vow to become astronauts when they grow up. But life has different paths for them, leading the older Mutta to become a factory worker and the younger Hibito to follow regulations and become the first Japanese man to step on the Moon. But after losing his job, Mutta receives a response from the grueling JAXA program, stating that he has been selected as one of the few people to become the next astronaut.

What Makes It So Addictive

Realistically speaking, the time frame of this series is quite immense, making two seasons feel less than what the story could possibly have accomplished. However, this does not diminish the fact that Space Brothers is a wonderful anime that explores the joy and thrill of space travel. Rather than focusing on flashy spectacle, the series focuses on the wholesome bond and aspirations of the two brothers. Stream it on Crunchyroll

18 After the Rain (2018)

Koi wa Ameagari no You ni, or After the Rain, centers around a gorgeous high school teenager named Akira Tachibana, who has had boys advance her all her life, but she has her eyes set on the 45-year-old man Masami Kondou, the manager of Garden Cafe, where she works part-time. Despite the age gap, she finds herself drawn to his soft-spoken nature and kindness. But will confessing her feelings lead anywhere, ever?

What Makes It So Addictive

A show that makes you reflect and contemplate, After the Rain may seem indigestible at first, but the series has such a relaxed flow and poignant feel that it is impossible to put down. No narrative climaxes, no sensational scenes, and absolutely no drama, just a gentle observation of the everyday routine of the protagonist working at her calm café and realizing that love can feel all too fleeting when you have your entire life ahead of you. Stream it on Prime Video

17 Shirobako (2014)

Have you and your otaku fan ever dreamed of working in the anime world? Well, we certainly have. And so have these five best friends from Kaminoyama High School. Shirobako chronicles the life of Aoi Miyamori, Ema Yasuhara, Midori Imai, Shizuka Sakaki, and Misa Toudou, who are so enthusiastic about anime that they decide to make a career out of it. From making their first amateur anime together to winning and failing in real life, their talents bring the series alive.

What Makes It So Addictive

The anime won the Animation of the Year award back in 2016, and the reason for this is its ability to spread an infectious charm in the viewer’s heart. The way it depicts its witty heroines and fills them with spirit and nuance and passion is what drives the technicalities of the series. From Aoi’s triumph in the industry, to Misa’s unsatisfying job in a company, Shirobako stirs emotions you didn't even know existed inside of you. Rent it on Apple TV+

16 Mushi-shi (2005)

What is life? We’ve all had this question stuck in our heads for as long as we can remember. In the world of Mushi-shi, the term starts to make sense. “Mushi,” according to Japanese folklore, are the most basic forms of life in the world. They exist without purpose or being, beyond the fight of good and evil. Mushi-shi, on the other hand, are people who carry out research on “mushi,” and are willing to explore life’s deeper meanings through whimsical encounters.

What Makes It So Addictive

By taking one inquisitive protagonist and placing him in a visually poetic and meaningful world, Mushi-shi crafts a soulful scenery that soothes you and makes you think. But do not be fooled by its tender narrative, because Ginko, the protagonist, is often faced with the responsibility of cleaning up the mess made by these creatures, which are also surprisingly dangerous to humans. Stream it on Crunchyroll

15 K-ON! (2009)

In K-ON!, the members of Light Music Club enjoy their daily practice times together as school life passes by. They spend more time bonding over their duties than rehearsing. As graduation nears, this comical group will only enhance their closeness through a little magic and a lot of fun.

What Makes It So Addictive

The best aspect of K-ON! is the vibrant characters. Despite not having drama to anchor the narrative, the series expresses each character’s personality by infusing them with passion and youth and lighthearted inspiration. The anime follows a quintessential “cute girls doing cute things” trope but never grows trite. Instead, the progression is easy and soothing. Stream it on HIDIVE

14 Food Wars (2015)

Perhaps the most intense and competitive anime series on the list, Food Wars follows Souma Yukihira, a young and ambitious boy born into a household of chefs. He grew up working alongside his father as a sous chef, but his dreams were bigger. So, Souma transfers into an elite culinary academy that not only houses the most prodigious chefs but is also known for its “Shokugeki,” which are cooking battles with skilled chefs.

What Makes It So Addictive

Far beyond an anime about cooking, Food Wars takes pride in taking the audience through a journey of discovery by enlightening all of their senses. From the lavish animation to the detailed explanation, there isn’t one thing that won’t stimulate your appetite. Moreover, the main character, Souma, has a unique philosophy towards food, which reflects in his devotion, his recipes, and his flavors. Stream it on Crunchyroll

13 The Way of the Househusband (2021)

Tatsu, the legendary yakuza who was known across the globe as “Immortal Dragon,” has left the life of crime and underworld behind and just wants to be a househusband. But chores aren’t easy, we all know that. The Way of the Househusband follows the many shenanigans that ensue when Tatsu applies the same vigilance of street fighting to silly tasks like cooking or home repairs.

What Makes It So Addictive

The deadpan humor and absurdity of daily life is what generates low-key laughs in the anime. The anticlimaxes and visual gags are so thoughtfully paced that you don’t even notice the scenes transitioning from one real domestic setting to another. Plus, with Kenjirô Tsuda’s brilliant voice acting, we’re allowed to look into the life of a humorous ex-criminal and the adventures that erupt when his former life catches up to him. Stream it on Netflix

12 Hyouka (2012)

A mystery thriller that strays away from any violence, Hyouka centers around high school freshman Houtarou Oreki, who wishes nothing more than to live in the shadows, peacefully and away from all the enthusiasm of peers. However, with the courtesy of his sister, Oreki is ropes into the memberless Classics Club, where he must solve mysterious occurrences at his school using logic and observation.

What Makes It So Addictive

The anime is more for intellectuals than it is for mainstream viewers. Paced carefully like a novel, the audience is allowed enough time to understand clues and solve puzzles. The forensic duo of Oreki and Eru is as charming as it is genuine, and watching them peel back the social and psychological facets is extremely rewarding and addictive. Stream it on Crunchyroll.

11 Flying Witch (2016)

Set in a rural Japanese town where magic and witchcraft are common practice, Flying Witch journeys the life of 15-year-old Makoto Kowata, who has moved out of her parents' home in Yokohama to understand, learn, control, and practice her skills. Though new to crafting charms and using spells, Makoto enjoys village life alongside Chito, her black cat.

What Makes It So Addictive

Flying Witch spreads across one comedic season and feels like a warm brew on a lazy Sunday. Its watercolor style of animation and gentle pacing does a fantastic job at immersing the viewers into the narrative, which isn’t confusing or convoluted at all. There are a few dangerous run-ins and dramatic turns into the plotline, but the anime never gets violent and stays wholesome from start to finish. Stream it on Crunchyroll.

10 Toradora! (2008)

We all have our wing-person. Someone to help us talk to our crush or score a date. Toradora! turns the same idea on its head and places Ryuuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka, two polar opposites, with one another, to help each other in exploits that are heartwarming and hilarious. He’s gentle on the inside and giant on the outside, she appears small but is feisty. They have one thing in common – unrequited love for classmates who have no clue about it.

What Makes It So Addictive

From the vivacious side characters to the realistic portrayal of adolescence, Toradora! has a lot going for itself. The series expands already-existing tropes and hooks viewers with authentic teenagers navigating relatable topics. Winning in humor and drama equally, the anime blends every scene with an effortless understanding of human friendships and the connections we make. This is what makes it one of the most beloved and entertaining romance anime series out there. Stream it on Netflix

9 A Place Further than the Universe (2018)

A Place Further than the Universe is a Madhouse original television series directed by Atsuko Ishizuka. It centers around a bunch of impulsive and inquisitive high school girls who embark on an adventure to Antarctica after being inspired by their own personal individual stories. First, there’s Mari Tamaki, who dreams of exploring the universe. Then, there’s Shirase Kobuchizawa, who is determined to fund her own trip to the North. They are joined by Hinata Miyake and Yuzuki Shiraishi, two supportive crewmates.

What Makes It So Addictive

Despite starting on rocky ground and battling the feeling of anxiety, fear, and homesickness, it is the girls’ curiosity, courage, and camaraderie that anchors the anime. There is no violence in the anime for the simple reason that it doesn’t need one. Gorgeous animation coupled with an exhilarating coming-of-age story is what makes it so splendid and wise and soft. Stream it on Crunchyroll

8 Nichijou (2011)

Featuring 26 episodes of unbridled chaos, we have a lighthearted anime series called Nichijou. The title itself translates to “my ordinary life,” which clarifies just how basic and scenic the show is. Centered around the lives of a trio of three childhood friends, Mio Naganohara, Yuuko Aioi and Mai Minakami, the series uses slapstick humor and subtle commentary to celebrate life’s smallest joys.

What Makes It So Addictive

Almost too absurd to be true, this slice-of-life anime is the pinnacle of random humor that manages to win hearts simply because of how well-executed it is. The nuance of situations like deers attending classes alongside humans, as well as the subtexts that lead you to appreciate certain everyday scenes like running into an old friend, makes you feel connected to the characters and their gags. Stream it on Crunchyroll

7 The Tatami Galaxy (2010)

Watashi is a lonely college student who laments missing out on romance and relationships because he was so focused on extracurriculars and breaking up other couples on campus. When a mysterious looking man presents him with an opportunity to travel back in time and redo the first two years of college by networking openly and seizing the campus life he imagined, the young man takes it.

What Makes It So Addictive

Call it artistic, surreal, thrilling, or psychedelic, The Tatami Galaxy is addictive as hell. The series is based on a light novel and only has 11 episodes, which is perfect for binging in a single day. Its modern visuals and manic pacing makes it more than just a sci-fi mind trip. Instead, the anime intimately examines what it means to capture life’s most important moments, the ones that help you grow and shape your story. Stream it on Crunchyroll.

6 Natsume's Book of Friends (2008)

This anime is adapted from the Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Yuki Midorikawa. At the center of it is Takashi Natsume, whose ability to see strange creatures known as “youkai” poses several challenges while growing up. Wanting only friendship, he accidentally frees a spirit named Madara, who learns that Natsume has inherited his grandmother’s “Book of Friends,” where she enslaves youkai.

What Makes It So Addictive

Natsume's Book of Friends has a unique folkloric vibe in all its episodes. The series sweeps viewers into a brand new world of demonic spirits and their relationship with humans. Although complex, the anime feels authentic and tender. It shows potential for violence and gore, but there isn’t any. Instead, the anime effortlessly blends mystery, intrigue, drama, and soul for six long seasons. Stream it on Crunchyroll

5 Haikyuu!! (2014)

Haikyuu!! is a widely beloved sports anime. It follows Shouyou Hinata, who witnesses the “Little Giant” and is immediately fascinated by his skills. He joins his school’s volleyball team despite lack of experience and his less-than-impressive height for the sport. Through dedicated effort, Shouyou improves greatly and faces challenges like previous year’s stars and difficult matches.

What Makes It So Addictive

If you are new to the genre, you should definitely kick things off with Haikyuu!! The show is a very authentic portrait of the passion and synergy that goes into challenging your personal limits as well as growing as a team. The games are totally addictive, and they excite you not because of the tricks used, but because of the sheer display of skill and the will power to win. Moreover, the characters are also quite adorable. Stream it on Crunchyroll

4 Laid-Back Camp (2018)

Rin Shima is not your ordinary high school teenage girl. When it’s time for an annual vacation, you will not find her crawling back to her loved ones and planning a fancy trip with them. Instead, she prefers going on relaxing camping trips alone. Setting up her tent, preparing firewood, and cooking warm meals brings her peace. However, her go-to destination seems crowded this year by one person – the lost Nadeshiko Kagamihara.

What Makes It So Addictive

Watching two girls give up on the urban bustle and embrace a lovely campfire setting is perhaps the best feeling in the world. Laid-Back Camp allows you to lose yourself and travel to the most beautiful scenes without ever leaving your couch. By focusing on simple storytelling, visually soothing shots, and an adorable camaraderie between its main characters, the anime dunks you into a much-familiar setting and doesn’t let go. Stream it on Crunchyroll

3 Bunny Drop (2011)

Set around the theme of childcare, Bunny Drop (or Usagi Drop), is a wonderful anime series that follows a 30-year-old bachelor named Daikichi Kawachi, who is living a very stable life devoid of hindrances. But when his grandfather passes away, he unexpectedly gains custody of Rin, his six-year-old illegitimate daughter. The anime is about Daikichi’s journey of enthusiastic parenting, as well as Rin’s journey of healing traumatic wounds.

What Makes It So Addictive

Bunny Drop really penetrates your heart with the amount of emotion it displays. From the very beginning, you see Rin as a young child being ridiculed, shunned, and looked down upon by her relatives. On the other hand, Daikichi isn’t too patient or experienced either. But they bring out the best in each other by showcasing genuine care and faith and compassion, and it is their love that makes the anime so good. Stream it on Crunchyroll

2 Yakitate!! Japan (2004)

Adapted from a manga written and illustrated by Takashi Hashiguchi, Yakitate!! Japan is a game changer in the genre. Kazuma Azuma was six years old when he baked bread for the very first time, and he knew just then that his loaf of sourdough was going to change his life. Determined to create Japan's own unique national bread, he enrolls at a competitive baking academy and faces highly skilled rivals.

What Makes It So Addictive

Despite being an anime about food, Yakitate!! Japan is quite funny. Part whimsical, part drool-worthy, the series incorporates a lot of tropes like heartwarming friendships, detailed close-ups, and scientific creativity to make the episodes more immersive and interesting. Azuma, however, is the heart of the show. Watching him passionately create groundbreaking recipes and wowing panels and crowds feels ever-so-rewarding. Stream it on Funimation

1 March Comes in Like a Lion (2016)

Rei Kiriyama is a 17-year-old shogi player who left home and his family to live an isolated life in Tokyo. Despite the haunting visions of his past and a bad reputation in the game, he keeps moving. That is until he meets Akari, Hinata, and Momo Kawamoto, a trio of sisters living happily with their grandfather. Akari, the oldest of the three sisters, is determined to change Rei’s life around and help him heal from his trauma.

What Makes It So Addictive

March Comes in Like a Lion may seem like a warm fuzzy drama. And it is, for the most part. But the anime gets intensely strategic and psychological while exploring the main character's past. Though not featuring any sort of gore or violence, it touches upon some darker themes that may disturb you for days. But at the end of the day, the series lifts itself off the ground and teaches you to be hopeful and rediscover life’s beauty through kindness. Stream it on Crunchyroll

And if you're a fan of anime, we've assembled a video list of the most popular anime of all time below: