Top 10 Must-Watch Anime for the Christmas Season

Get ready for Christmas 2023 with our list of the top 10 anime to watch during the holiday season. The anime industry has a wide variety of shows that cater to different preferences - from those best enjoyed solo to ones perfect for a family viewing.

Similarly, numerous anime shows and movies are ideal for watching during Christmas due to their lively and festive themes. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which ones are the best. Fortunately, we are here to assist you.

10. Buddy Daddies

Buddy Daddies is an anime series that kicks off with a highly enjoyable first episode. Kazuki unexpectedly crashes a Christmas party thrown by his mark, decked out as Santa. It's at this event that he meets Miri, a charming young girl who quickly becomes a key figure in his life.

The series also concludes with a Christmas episode, featuring Rei and Kazuki attending the Christmas Party at Miri’s school. While Buddy Daddies is not specifically a Christmas-themed anime, it offers everything that makes it a great option to explore this holiday season.

Streaming on: Crunchyroll

9. Tokyo Godfathers

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When it comes to Christmas-themed anime, Tokyo Godfathers is unmatched in its vibe. The film follows three homeless individuals who find an abandoned baby and a note hinting at her parents' identity. They then set out to find the ones who left her behind. Created by Satoshi Kon, known for dark fantasy elements, Tokyo Godfathers is a departure from his usual style, with a grounded story but still full of mind-bending plot twists.

Where to watch: Prime Video

8. Laid Back Camp

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Laid Back Camp is an anime that’s particularly relaxed and warm; what more do we expect from a Christmas anime?

Laid Back Camp follows high school student Rin Shima, who prefers solo camping. However, her world changes when she meets Nadeshiko Kagamihara, Aoi Inuyama, and Chiaki Ogaki and they embark on a journey to explore various camping locations in Japan.

The first season includes an episode called Christmas Camp, making Laid Back Camp a perfect choice for a cozy anime watching session with friends this holiday season.

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

7. Itsudatte My Santa!

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Itsudatte My Santa! is a hidden gem in the world of anime, bringing the magic of Christmas to life. The story revolves around Santa, a young boy who despises the holiday he was named after. Everything changes when Mai, a cheerful girl, enters his life with the mission to help him rediscover the joy of Christmas.

You might find Itsudatte My Santa! to be a bit silly at times, but once you embrace the characters' quirkiness, you'll be hooked. Additionally, the first episode covers the entire manga chapter, while the second episode introduces new characters and a fresh storyline for added enjoyment.

Streaming on: Crunchyroll

6. Yuri on Ice

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This anime has a sports theme and is set in a snowy environment with animation by MAPPA. Although not specifically based on the holidays, Yuri on Ice delivers a cool and wintry atmosphere.

The story revolves around a 23-year-old figure skater who puts his career on hold following a crushing loss in an international competition. His talent catches the eye of his idol, who decides to train him and help him make a comeback in the skating world.

If you are planning to binge-watch Yuri on Ice, grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a comfortably warm experience.

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

5. Winter Sonata

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This anime series is filled with heartwarming romance and is perfect for the holiday season. Set in a wintery backdrop, it is a must-watch for anyone craving a little romance during Christmas time.

Based on the K-drama Winter Sonata, the story follows Yoo Jin, who marries her childhood friend after the tragic loss of her love. But when she meets a boy who bears a striking resemblance to her lost love, her life takes an unexpected turn.

Where to watch: Prime Video

4. 5 Centimeters Per Second

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This is a heartwarming anime movie perfect for those who are in the mood to experience a good cry this winter. While the story may tug at your heartstrings, it will also leave you with plenty of moments to uplift your spirits.

Watch 5 Centimeters Per Second on Prime Video. It's a tale of Akari and Takaki's efforts to sustain their relationship despite the distance between them. The story follows their struggles to maintain their long-distance friendship, despite the challenges they face in seeing each other.

3. Spirited Away

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The film Spirited Away follows the story of a 10-year-old girl who discovers a world of deities and spirits during her family's move to a new home. However, complications arise when her parents are transformed into pigs while visiting an isolated amusement park. With its vibrant color palette, the movie exudes a holiday atmosphere and has contributed to the immense success of Studio Ghibli as a global phenomenon.

Where to watch: Netflix

2. The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya

The film adaptation of The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya is based on the events from the fourth volume of the light novel series. This sci-fi mystery movie has all the elements to keep you engrossed, with its unexpected plot twists and suspenseful turns.

Haruhi Suzumiya is the main character of the film and mysteriously disappears a few days before the SOS Brigade’s Christmas party. Surprisingly, only Kyon, the sole boy interested in her at school, notices her absence while everyone else begins to forget about her and the group she founded.

Streaming on: Crunchyroll

1. Love Hina Christmas Special: Silent Eve

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The story of Love Hina follows Keitaro Urashima, who makes a promise to a girl named Naru to attend the University of Tokyo together. As an adult, he forgets her name and decides to apply to the university in hopes of finding her. However, Keitaro's love story is filled with unexpected twists and turns, constantly keeping the two apart. Don't miss the heartwarming love confession in Love Hina Christmas Special: Silent Eve this holiday season.

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

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Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am excited about the upcoming Christmas season and the opportunity to watch some amazing anime. The list of top 10 anime for the Christmas season is a great resource for finding the perfect shows to watch during the holidays. I am particularly interested in Buddy Daddies, which seems like a fun and heartwarming series to watch with family and friends. The Christmas episode sounds especially festive and enjoyable.

I am also intrigued by Tokyo Godfathers, which is a departure from the usual dark fantasy elements of Satoshi Kon's work. The story of three homeless individuals finding an abandoned baby and setting out to find her parents sounds heartwarming and thought-provoking. The grounded story with mind-bending plot twists promises a unique and engaging viewing experience. Overall, I am excited to explore these anime recommendations and immerse myself in the magical world of anime during the Christmas season.