- Categories:
- Arts & Entertainment
- Tags:
- CulturalPop Culture
- Where:
- International
- Date change rule:
- Every April 15
- Holiday emoji:
- 🎌
National Anime Day animates our calendars every April 15, celebrating the captivating world of Japanese animation. From classic masterpieces to modern hits, anime has captivated global audiences with its unique storytelling and vibrant artistry. Dive into new series, rewatch old favorites, and connect with fellow fans online.
Want to sponsor National Anime Day? Learn how
Expected National Anime Day Deals
As National Anime Day approaches, fans can anticipate a wave of exciting promotions from retailers and streaming services. In past years, platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation (now largely merged with Crunchyroll) have offered discounted subscriptions or special content drops. Online stores such as Right Stuf Anime (now part of Crunchyroll Store), Hot Topic, and BoxLunch often feature sales on manga, figures, apparel, and merchandise. Local comic shops and specialty stores might host special events or offer discounts on anime-related products. Keep an eye on social media from brands like Bandai Namco and Good Smile Company for exclusive releases. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April 15 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Anime Day
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalAnimeDay. Share your favorite anime cosplays, fan art, or quick reviews of must-watch series.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalAnimeDay. Post visually stunning stills from your favorite anime, showcase your merchandise collection, or share watch party photos.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalAnimeDay. Join trending discussions about new releases, classic debates, or live-tweet your reactions to an anime marathon.
National Anime Day Hero
Osamu Tezuka
History of National Anime Day
Japan’s pop culture has gained immense popularity in the past few decades. The term ‘anime’ refers to Japanese cartoons and animations. Unlike the American style of animation, anime characters are less mobile, and more attention is given to panning and zooming to create a more dramatic effect. Another unique feature of Japanese anime is the large eyes of the characters.
Today, the Japanese anime industry includes more than 400 production companies. Japanese anime became popular in the 1960s when Mushi Productions was set up by Osamu Tezuka. He was a professional ‘Manga’ artist and animator. He brought several changes to the conventional style of Japanese animation. Today, he is popularly known as the Father of ‘Manga’. Japanese anime developed a massive fan base in the 90s when different T.V. series, video games, and comics became popular among children and teens in Japan.
National Anime Day is celebrated by Anime fans worldwide. The day was first celebrated in Tokyo in 1975. More than 700 anime fans participated in the event. Today, different conventions are set up for Japanese anime fans in Asia, the US, and the UK. People wear costumes of popular anime characters. Upcoming cartoons, video games, and ‘Manga’ comics are also released at these conventions. Virtual conventions have gained immense popularity in recent years. Anime fans celebrate this day on various social media platforms. They change their profile pictures into popular anime avatars and post pictures of iconic anime characters.
National Anime Day timeline
“Momotaro” becomes Japan's first full-length animated movie.
“Instant History” becomes the first anime series to run on television.
Osamu Tezuka opens an anime production company.
The Japanese cyberpunk movie “Akira” becomes an international success.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Anime Day
Local businesses can tap into National Anime Day by hosting themed events or offering special promotions. Restaurants could create anime-inspired menu items or host cosplay contests with prizes. Retail stores might feature discounts on manga, figures, or apparel, perhaps even setting up a dedicated anime section. Movie theaters could screen classic anime films or host marathons of popular series. Engaging with the local anime community through social media campaigns and partnerships with fan clubs can also drive significant interest.
National Anime Day FAQs
When is National Anime Day?
In 2027, National Anime Day arrives on Thursday, April 15, offering another chance to immerse yourself in the rich narratives and stunning visuals of anime. Prepare for new releases and revisiting beloved classics.
How popular is anime globally?
The global anime market is projected to grow substantially, driven by increasing demand for diverse content and expanding accessibility through streaming services. Its cultural impact is evident in fashion, music, and gaming across continents.
What is the difference between anime and cartoons?
The primary distinction lies in origin and cultural context. Anime often features specific visual tropes like large eyes and exaggerated expressions, alongside complex narratives and serialized formats. Western cartoons encompass a broader range of styles and often target different demographics.
What are the most popular anime genres?
Beyond the demographic-targeted genres, popular anime categories include Isekai (characters transported to another world), Magical Girl, Sports, and Horror. The breadth of genres ensures there’s an anime for nearly every taste, from lighthearted comedies to intense psychological thrillers.
National Anime Day Activities
Dress up as your favorite anime character
It doesn't matter if you are attending an anime con or not. You can still dress up as your favorite anime character and post your pictures online on your social media accounts. You can either buy your favorite anime character's outfit from an online store or make one yourself. Try experimenting with different accessories and props to make your costume appear more stunning and realistic.
Read some old-fashioned 'Manga' books
If you are a true Japanese anime fan, then you will surely enjoy reading some old-school 'Manga' books. You can either read them online or try getting them from your local library or bookstore. Try picking those books that were published before the 21st century. You will surely notice the difference in the illustrations, as the majority of classic books came with hand-drawn pictures.
Watch an anime movie
Today, numerous movie websites offer dubbed anime movies. The majority of movies on these sites are free to watch. Some require a nominal registration fee. You can opt for a cult anime movie or pick a classic anime show. The majority of content on these sites is available with English subtitles.
5 Facts About Japanese Manga That Will Blow Your Mind
'Manga' in Japanese
The literal meaning of ‘manga’ in Japanese is ‘comics’.
Comic craze
On average, a Japanese person spends $30 on anime comic books every year.
A magazine for kids
“Shônen Magazine” was Japan's first magazine for kids.
Girl power
In the late 1960s, female artists started working in the anime comic book industry.
Comic cafés
Japan has ‘Manga cafés’ where customers enjoy comics with tea.
Why We Love National Anime Day
We learn about the Japanese language and pop culture
Owing to the growing popularity of Japanese anime, tourism in Japan has grown significantly in recent years. And if you are a true fan of Japanese comics and cartoons, then you won't find it hard to pick up common phrases of the Japanese language. Similarly, you get familiar with those Japanese jokes and pop culture references that are hard to understand otherwise.
The works of senior Japanese artists get recognized
Every country is blessed with talented artists that are appreciated both locally and internationally. Through Japanese anime, people of other nations get an opportunity to learn about the works of those Japanese artists and illustrators who have contributed to the success of the Japanese art and entertainment industry.
You can meet and befriend anime fans with similar interests
If you are already a fan of Japanese anime, then by celebrating National Anime Day, you get a chance to meet and interact with other anime fans who are also obsessed with Japanese cartoons and comics. And by attending different types of conventions, where people are dressed up as their favorite anime characters, people can easily befriend 'Manga' fans with similar likings and interests.
Social Media Tips for National Anime Day
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