Drawing from urban legends and myths, creatures of the night are a common theme in anime. They appear in various roles, from love interests to fearsome enemies and even celebrated heroes.
Among these monsters, vampires stand out as one of the most interesting to viewers. Vampires are a mix of contradictions, promising intimacy and eternity while being isolated.
They’re scary yet beautiful, feeling eerily human. Their lives, even in darkness, beg to be explored. The complexity of vampires and the mysteries of the night keep inspiring fresh vampire stories.
But these anime have become timeless classics in their own right. Their terrifying allure is intertwined with a haunting beauty, their existence often mirroring the complexities of human emotions.
Despite their fearsome nature, vampires possess an uncanny humanity that draws viewers in, urging them to explore the depths of their existence even within the darkest of narratives.
1) JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure stands out as a hugely popular action anime worldwide. The story unfolds across various parts, each centering on a different member of the Joestar family.
Although vampires take the spotlight mainly in the first three parts, it’s Part 3: Stardust Crusaders that really made the series shine.
Stardust Crusaders follows Jotaro Kujo’s journey to take down the power-hungry vampire, Dio Brando. This quest catapulted the series to fame, with fans drawn to the intense battles and unique characters.
Even in the later parts of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, where vampires aren’t the main focus, the legacy of Jotaro and Dio looms large.
Their influence ripples through the series, leaving a lasting impact on the Joestar family’s adventures across generations.
After Stardust Crusaders, some fans argue that the best JoJo sagas are the ones that venture away from the vampire theme.
While vampires do make appearances in later parts, they’re not always at the forefront of the story. The series moves in new directions, exploring different supernatural elements and unique abilities known as Stands.
These later sagas focus on the descendants of the Joestar family facing off against a diverse range of adversaries, both human and otherworldly.
Even when vampires do show up in these later parts, the story often shifts to highlight other aspects of the Joestar family’s journey.
This allows for a rich and varied storytelling experience, with each saga offering its own brand of action, drama, and bizarre adventures.
Fans of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure can enjoy a wide range of stories beyond the vampire-centric beginnings of the series.
2) Bakemonogatari
Bakemonogatari is a standout anime known for its intricate storytelling and stunning visuals. It unfolds through different story arcs, each focusing on supernatural mysteries and the characters involved.
While it starts with spooky things like curses and ghosts, Bakemonogatari isn’t limited to just that. As the series progresses, it explores a variety of themes, from personal struggles to the complexities of relationships.
Although vampires make an appearance in one of its arcs, Bakemonogatari isn’t solely about them. It goes deeper into the characters’ lives, revealing their pasts, emotions, and what drives them.
Ultimately, Bakemonogatari offers a rich and immersive narrative experience that goes beyond its supernatural beginnings.
Anime fans appreciate its blend of mysteries and character-driven drama. Whether you’re intrigued by the vampire part or the broader themes, Bakemonogatari has something special to offer for everyone.
3) Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign
After a disease wiped out everyone older than thirteen in Yuichiro Hyakuya’s hometown, vampires took control, offering to care for the children in return for blood.
Hyakuya and his friends endured years of unfair treatment under their rule until they decided to break free.
Tragically, Hyakuya was the only survivor of their escape attempt, fueling his burning desire for revenge against the vampires.
Seraph of the End clicks with fans because it shares similarities with Attack on Titan. The series shines with its intense fight scenes set in humanity’s final stronghold, where Hyakuya and his comrades train to take on the vampires.
4) Hellsing Ultimate
Hellsing Ultimate is an animated retelling of the original Hellsing series. With longer episodes and upgraded animation, fans see it as a faithful adaptation of Alucard’s battles against rival vampire-hunting organizations.
This version stays true to the manga, making it a favorite among fans of the vampire hunter’s struggles.
Alucard’s tale is raw, filled with violence, and beautifully crafted. As a top-tier vampire, he openly embraces his passion for hunting other vampires, exuding unwavering confidence in his abilities.
Hellsing Ultimate attracts viewers right from the start, earning its place as one of the top vampire anime series out there.
5) Blood Blockade Battlefront
Hellsalem’s Lot is a gritty, mystical town where reality and other dimensions collide. Here, aliens, demons, and humans share the streets, but it’s a place where only the strongest survive.
In a bid to safeguard the city, the organization Libra battles against threats that endanger its citizens.
Enter Leonardo Watch, the latest recruit to Libra, who gains the power of the All-Seeing Eyes of God against his own wishes.
Blood Blockade Battlefront weaves a tale of betrayal and familial bonds. In the chaos of Hellsalem’s Lot, vampires and other creatures pose a threat not only to the city but also to Leonardo’s friends.
Amidst a cast of vibrant characters, the anime truly shines in its action scenes each one brilliantly animated and bursting with creativity.
6) Blood Lad
Blood Lad offers a delightful twist on the usual serious vampire anime. The story follows Staz Charlie Blood, a mighty vampire who adores humanity and proudly calls himself an otaku.
His world lights up when a human accidentally stumbles into the demon world but it turns out to be the best moment of his undead life.
Unfortunately, the human dies before Staz can even talk to her, so he goes on a quest to bring her back to life.
Being a comedy, Blood Lad has Staz attempting shortcuts and landing in all sorts of wacky scenarios. It’s a bit of a letdown that the anime only has 10 episodes, leaving many plot threads without much resolution.
Despite this, the show is still a blast to watch, with its fun and humorous moments keeping viewers entertained.
7) Rosario + Vampire
Rosario + Vampire brings a fun twist to vampire stories. It follows Tsukune Aono, a regular human who ends up in a school for monsters by accident.
He meets Moka Akashiya, a lovely vampire whose true form hides under a rosary that Tsukune wears. After discovering Moka’s secret, Tsukune explores all sorts of supernatural adventures. T
he anime mixes comedy, action, and romance as Tsukune deals with the challenges of attending a school full of monsters while keeping Moka’s vampire side under wraps.
Tsukune makes friends with other monster girls, each with their own quirks and powers. They take on different enemies, like rival monster groups and dark forces threatening the school.
Moka’s dual nature as a kind girl and a powerful vampire adds layers to her character, making things interesting with Tsukune and the rest of the gang.
8) The Monogatari Series
The main character of the Monogatari series used to be a vampire but still holds on to some of his superhuman traits.
Even though he’s linked to the vampire who cursed him, his main mission is to aid others facing supernatural, personal, and spiritual hurdles.
The Monogatari series stands out with its unique and amazing animation style, using shifts in aspect ratio, text on still frames, and a mix of photography and animation.
This memorable art, combined with the focus on characters helping others, propelled the series to immense popularity.
9) Strike the Blood
Strike the Blood’s central theme of vampires, adds an intriguing layer to the story. The anime revolves around Kojou Akatsuki, who unexpectedly becomes the Fourth Progenitor, one of the most powerful vampires ever known.
This newfound power thrusts him into a world of supernatural dangers, where he learns to control his abilities while protecting those he cares about.
Kojou’s journey as a vampire is at the core of Strike the Blood. He grapples with the responsibilities and consequences of his powers, all while trying to live a normal life.
Alongside him is Yukina Himeragi, a sword-shaman tasked with keeping an eye on him. They face a myriad of challenges, from battling other powerful vampires to uncovering dark secrets hidden within their city.
The vampire aspect of Strike the Blood adds an extra layer of intrigue and danger to the series. It explores themes of power, responsibility, and the struggles of balancing supernatural abilities with the desire to protect loved ones.
10) Vampire Knight
Yuki Cross and Zero Kiryu serve as prefects at an academy that opens its doors to vampire students after nightfall.
Their duty is to protect the daytime students and uphold the school’s reputation. However, things get complicated when Yuki, Zero, and the vampire students discover they are more intertwined than they ever imagined.
Vampire Knight presents a shojo-style twist on vampire tales, blending drama and romance. While fans have varying opinions on the love triangle in the series.
It remains one of the most recognized vampire-themed romances in anime. However, those who aren’t fans of the shojo genre’s tropes might not find the series to their liking.
11) Shiki
Shiki starts off quietly, but quickly turns into a medical horror and psychological thriller. The story revolves around efforts to cure vampirism and stop a murderous rampage in a small town.
Each night, the vampire threat grows, and the town’s doctor becomes increasingly indifferent to the residents’ fears. The sense of being watched intensifies as the story unfolds, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the series.
Shiki takes a methodical approach to its horror, letting the terror of each moment sink in before revealing the vampires and humanity at their darkest.
In the anime’s later episodes, viewers are faced with difficult-to-watch scenes that blur the lines between the two sides, illustrating how humans can be just as cruel as monsters.
12) Call of the Night
Call of the Night offers a fresh take on vampire stories, blending elements of romance, comedy, and horror.
The series follows Ko Yamori, a teenager who encounters a mysterious and attractive girl named Nazuna Nanakusa one night.
Little does Ko know, Nazuna is a vampire, and their chance meeting sets off a chain of supernatural events.
As Ko explores the world of vampires, he discovers a hidden society of creatures that operate in the shadows of the night.
Ko grapples with his feelings for Nazuna and the dangers that come with being involved in the vampire world.
Call of the Night takes its time to build tension and suspense, allowing the audience to experience the thrill and fear of each moment.
The vampire aspect adds an intriguing layer to the story, as Ko handles the complexities of a world where humans and vampires coexist, often with unforeseen consequences.
13) The Case Study of Vanitas
The Case Study of Vanitas is a supernatural anime that starts with a mix-up. Legend says the Book of Vanitas is a powerful tool for a vampire born under a blue moon to curse and destroy others of their kind.
But when vampire Noé Archiviste discovers the grimoire, he finds it in the hands of a human. Surprisingly, this human is using the book not for harm, but to cure vampires of dark influences.
The Case Study of Vanitas may have its lighter moments, but it thrives on misunderstandings that drive the plot and characters toward significant development.
14) Blood+
Saya Otonashi discovers her vampire heritage when a monster attacks her school one night. Guided by a mysterious man playing the cello and supported by her family.
Saya defeats the creature, awakening to her vampiric abilities. She then joins a demon-fighting organization to use her powers to protect others.
Blood+ is a thrilling tale centered on Saya’s past and unwavering resolve. The characters are amazing and with the series taking the time to explore their emotions and reactions to the events unfolding around them.
With its action-packed fights backed by a solid narrative, Blood+ delivers a compelling and satisfying story.
15) The Vexations Of A Shut-In Vampire Princess
The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess tells the story of Terakomari Gandesblood. She’s a girl from a noble family who suddenly finds herself in a leadership position, even though she’s not ready for it.
Komari has mostly lived as a hikikomori, explains the anime. This means she’s used to staying indoors and avoiding social situations.
She’s a vampire who doesn’t like drinking blood. This makes it hard for her to use magic like others of her kind.
Despite all this, if Komari wants to survive and do her job, she has to pretend she knows what she’s doing. She has to give convincing speeches for war, fight battles, and deal with powerful people who want to take advantage of her.
In a nutshell, the anime shows how Komari tries to navigate a world she’s not familiar with, all while keeping her true self hidden.
The Vexations of a Shut-In Vampire Princess is one of those anime that can split opinions. Some will really enjoy it, while others might not. The show bounces around between dark humor and serious drama, which can be tiring after a bit.
The harem aspect might not be for everyone, especially since the main character is chased pretty intensely by a love interest. However, there are some good things about the anime too.
First off, Komari is a great lead character. She’s a refreshing take on the usual vampire character. Vilhaze is also a highlight, being both entertaining and the best partner for Komari.
Although Vilhaze shifts from being the second main character to more of a supporting role as the season goes on, they still add a lot to the anime.
16) Undead Murder Farce
Undead Murder Farce might stretch the definition of a vampire anime since there’s just one vampire character.
But don’t let that deter you, Even though Carmilla is more of a side character, she’s mysterious and fascinating enough to make the anime worth watching.
What really makes this anime shine is its wild mix of monsters, including a clever spin on classic characters like Sherlock Holmes.
The story follows an unusual trio traveling the world, solving supernatural cases, and chasing their own goals.
Leading the pack is Aya Rindo, an immortal whose body is gone, leaving only her head. But don’t be fooled, her mind is as sharp as ever, maybe even sharper.
This anime is a monster mash of fun with unexpected twists on familiar figures, making it a recommended watch.
17) Vampire Dormitory
The Spring 2024 anime season is just starting, and there are a bunch of new shows trying to grab viewers’ attention.
It’s a bit early to say for sure, but it looks like Studio Blanc’s series might not end up as one of the most talked-about releases this season.
Shojo anime, aimed at young girls, often have a tough time getting noticed. Vampire Dormitory also explores the genres that aren’t super popular in the Western audience.
On top of that, the first episode didn’t make a big splash, which might turn off viewers who wanted to give it a shot.
Mito’s life is just a series of bad luck after bad luck. One day, she thinks about jumping off a bridge, but she only ends up slipping by mistake.
Luckily, she’s saved by a vampire named Ruka. He’s been searching for someone whose blood he can drink because it tastes better when they’re loved.
Ruka offers to take care of Mito, thinking she’s a guy, not a girl. This mistaken belief might cause some trouble down the line.
18) Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust
Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is a beloved sequel to the animated film Vampire Hunter D from 1985.
In both movies, we follow D, a dhampir with a special left hand, as he hunts down creatures of the night for rewards.
Fans adore both films, but Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust stands out with its intricate plot, featuring forbidden love and other hunters chasing after D’s target.
If you’re in the mood for an animated vampire movie, Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust is a stunning and action-packed choice.
It puts the spotlight on the often overlooked dhampir. The anime’s gothic style creates some truly breathtaking visuals and backgrounds.
19) Vampire in the Garden
In a distant winter, nearly immortal vampires began to overrun the world, swiftly toppling humanity from its place at the top of the food chain.
Faced with extinction, the last surviving humans huddled within the safety of a small city encased by towering walls. They waged a tireless war against the relentless vampire horde.
During a brutal vampire attack, Momo, a human soldier, crosses paths with Fiine, the queen of their formidable foes.
Witnessing Fiine’s attempt to save Momo’s closest friend from a vicious vampire, Momo finds himself drawn to her.
Following Fiine to her home, Momo discovers a shared love for music and a mutual longing to escape the ceaseless conflict.
Bound by their desire for freedom, Momo and Fiine goes on a daring journey towards a rumored paradise where humans and vampires coexist in harmony though its existence remains uncertain.
However, they soon become targets of both races, hunted relentlessly as they strive to reach their elusive sanctuary.
20) Phantom in the Twilight
Phantom in the Twilight unfolds in a world where the shadows hold secrets darker than night. Hdden from human eyes, creatures of the night lurk, including the mysterious and seductive vampires.
The story begins when Ton, a young woman with a fascination for the supernatural, stumbles upon a hidden cafe in the heart of London.
To her surprise, this cafe serves as a haven for supernatural beings, including vampires, who seek refuge from the world outside.
One fateful evening, Ton meets Vlad, a charming and mysterious vampire with a tragic past. Drawn to his mysterious charm, Ton finds herself entangled in a world of ancient secrets and hidden dangers.
As she explores Vlad’s world, she discovers a hidden society of vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural beings who coexist in the shadows of London.
United by their desire to protect their sanctuary, Ton and Vlad join forces with a group of extraordinary individuals.
Among them is Luke, a werewolf with a fierce loyalty to his pack, and Wayne, a powerful mage with a mysterious past.
They form an unlikely alliance, facing off against malevolent forces that threaten to disrupt the fragile balance between humans and the supernatural.
As Ton and her companions navigate the treacherous streets of London, they uncover dark conspiracies and ancient prophecies that could change the fate of both worlds.
21) Descendants of Darkness
Even after death, life is full of paperwork and criminals. Tsuzuki Asato is a 26-year-old, happy-go-lucky, and dorky shinigami (god of death).
His job is to make sure the dead stay dead and in their proper world. For over 70 years, he’s been stuck in the worst division with lousy pay and a habit of losing partners.
He’s teamed up with Kurosaki Hisoka, a serious, 16-year-old with a sharp tongue. They investigate cases and uncover the secrets of the serial killer Dr. Muraki Kazutaka.
As Tsuzuki and Hisoka grow closer, Tsuzuki’s dark past resurfaces, haunting him.
22) Visual Prison
Visual Prison follows the story of a world where vampires, known as Eves, exist alongside Musicarts. These Eves, with their supernatural powers, are a mysterious and alluring presence in the story.
Ange Yuki, our main character, finds himself entangled with Eves and Musicarts alike as he navigates the dangers of the Visual Prison.
The Eves, with their dark and allure, add an extra layer of intrigue and danger to Ange’s journey.
As Ange unravels the secrets of the Visual Prison, he discovers the true extent of the Eves’ power and their role in Musicarts.
With vampires lurking in the shadows, Visual Prison weaves a story of mystery, friendship, and the mystical attraction of the vampire world.
23) Owarimonogatari
In Owarimonogatari, plot revolves in a world where the supernatural lurks just beneath the surface, including vampires.
It follows the story of Koyomi Araragi, a high school student with a bit of a vampire problem. After being turned into a vampire and then cured.
He finds himself entangled in the mysteries of oddities, supernatural creatures and phenomena. As Koyomi navigates these mysteries, he encounters various characters, including the vampire known as Shinobu.
Shinobu is a powerful vampire who becomes both a companion and a source of complications for Koyomi.
The vampire aspect adds a layer of darkness and intrigue to Koyomi’s adventures. With each encounter, Koyomi finds the secrets of the supernatural world, all while grappling with the lingering effects of his own vampire past.
24) Mignon
Beneath the dazzling city lights lies a gritty world filled with the echoes of fists hitting flesh and the fervent cheers of a bloodthirsty crowd. Tough men battle in boxing rings for money, their fans clinging to hope for a chance at fortune.
Amidst this chaos, we meet Mignon, a young rising star in the brutal sport. For him, the only respite from the relentless ring and harsh reality is a hidden haven.
It’s the sanctuary of the mysterious underground doctor, Oh Young-One. In Young-One’s quiet infirmary, Mignon finds peace amidst the turmoil.
The doctor is gentle, his care a soothing balm for Mignon’s bruises, aches, and wounds earned beyond the boxing ropes. Yet, behind Young-One’s kindness lies a forbidden secret, one that could cost him everything.
In a moment of vulnerability, Young-One reveals his hidden truth to Mignon, a revelation that puts both their lives at risk.
Despite the doctor’s warnings to stay away for his safety, Mignon refuses to abandon the one person who makes him feel valued and alive.
25) Interviews With Monster Girls
In Interviews With Monster Girls, we’re introduced to a world where supernatural beings live among humans, each with their own quirks and challenges.
The story follows Tetsuo Takahashi, a biology teacher with a keen interest in these extraordinary creatures.
He goes on a mission to learn more about them, particularly the Demi-humans, individuals with special abilities and unique characteristics.
Among his students are the charming and shy vampire, Hikari Takanashi, who struggles to fit in with her bloodthirsty urges in a world of humans.
Despite her fearsome reputation, Hikari longs for acceptance and friendship. As Tetsuo conducts his interviews and learns about the daily lives of these Demi-humans, he forms a close bond with Hikari and the other students.
Through their interactions, the series delves into themes of acceptance, friendship, and the challenges of being different.
With its blend of humor, heartwarming moments, and insights into the struggles of being a Demi-human.
Interviews With Monster Girls invites viewers into a world where vampires and other supernatural beings navigate the complexities of everyday life.
Memes of the Day
Girls Rush
Ordinary to Alpha
The Ladies’ Associate
Kotowarenai Haha
Honorable Mentions
Classroom of the Elite
Classroom of the Elite is about a student who wants to improve a classroom of useless students into the best one in the school.
The story follows Kiyotaka Ayanokōji, a quiet and modest student who is bad at making friends but has incredible physical ability and unrivaled intelligence. He is a student of Class-D, which is where the school dumps its inferior students