5 Anime Based on Non-Japanese Mythology

These few anime are based on non-Japanese mythology and folklore, which you can enjoy.

5 Anime Based on Non-Japanese Mythology

SUMMARY

  • Anime as a medium is vastly popular and well-known around the world.
  • The anime genre has numerous anime based on different folklore, but the majority revolve around Japanese history and mythology.
  • This list will introduce you to anime based on non-Japanese mythology which are severely underrated.
Show More
Featured Video

Anime is a widespread medium of amusement in the world, and since COVID, the popularity of anime has boosted tremendously. The general theme of anime centers on Japanese history, ethics, and culture. Uncountable anime follow the same theme, and the ones that are not based on Japanese mythology are rare.

Advertisement
Still from end of Season 1 of Vinland Saga
Still from end of Season 1 of Vinland Saga

Luckily, there are some series based on non-Japanese mythology. This series will offer you a change from usual while simultaneously engulfing you in a distinct culture than you have seen. This article will provide you with five different anime based on different mythologies.

1:Vinland Saga

Vinland Saga is one of the most well-crafted storylines and focuses on Thorfinn and his life as a child who lost his dad and wanted vengeance to a man who protects people around him. Each character in the story is written very well, and the animation of the series is also one of the best.

Advertisement
thorfinn
Thorfinn

The story’s theme is based on Norse mythology and draws direct references from many real-life individuals and battles fought in that era. One of the few anime that will change you as a person and make you a better individual who will strive for a better future.

Watch Vinland Saga on Crunchyroll.

2: The Mysterious Cities of Gold

The story is set in the 16th century when Esteban sets out to find his father while also on the lookout for the Seven Cities of Gold. The theme of the story is based on South American history.

Advertisement
The Mysterious Cities of Gold
The Mysterious Cities of Gold

Esteban is joined by several other people as they all get together to find the hidden treasures in the new world. The story is one of the oldest and was quite well-known back in the day, the world-building of the story is also one of the best you can come across.

Watch The Mysterious Cities of Gold on Amazon

3: Magi

The main characters of the series are Aladin, a young boy, and his traveling companion, Alibaba, who sets out on adventures. They clear out dungeons and sell the valuables to earn money; however, in one of the dungeons, he ends up learning something, which alters his fate forever.

Advertisement
Magi
Magi

The story is a cluster of One Thousand and One Nights, most notably the tales of Aladdin, Ali Baba, and Sinbad the Sailor. The anime also adds spice to Middle Eastern lore, and the overall watching experience is amazing.

Catch the journey of Aladin as he travels around the world on Crunchyroll.

4: Fruits Basket

If you are curious about Chinese mythology and are intrigued to learn about it while also enjoying it, then Fruits Basket is the perfect match for you. The story revolves around the Sohma family, who are Chinese zodiac animals.

Advertisement
Fruits Basket
Fruits Basket

The series does a very appealing job of explaining the mythology while also providing details about the zodiac animals and their history. Fruits Basket is also hailed by numerous fans as the best-ever romance.

You can watch Fruits Basket on Crunchyroll.

5: Trese

If you like horror and suspense anime, then Trese might be the best for you. The story takes place in Manila, where the criminals are backed up by supernatural powers who have been running amok in the city for a sustainable period now.

Advertisement
Trese
Trese

The series theme mixes Philippine horror mythology with dark, graphic storytelling. Alexandra Trese is the main character and would be going against these paranormal forces to save the city. But would she be able to prevail over them?

Watch the series on Netflix to know the answer.

Avatar

Written by Jiyad Shaikh

Articles Published: 291

Greetings! I'm a 19-year-old data science student who's deeply passionate about anime and manga. When I'm not crunching numbers, you can find me immersed in the world of AMV video editing, where I blend my love for storytelling with creativity. Join me on this exciting journey where data and anime collide!