7 Anime Classics to Watch on Netflix in January 2026

Netflix is starting the year strong with a lot of new and classic anime releases this month. The streaming service has a great library of older favorites, and they’re constantly adding to it. Here are a few of the classic anime series you should definitely check out.

I’m so excited – Netflix just added a bunch of awesome anime classics this January! Seven titles, actually – some are returning after being unavailable for a while, and others are brand new to the platform. I’ve put together a list of my top picks so you can dive in and enjoy them too!

7). Puella Magi Madoka Magica

After a long absence, Puella Magi Madoka Magica is back on Netflix, and it’s a great choice for a weekend binge. The complete story is contained within just 12 episodes, making it easily watchable in one sitting. While the story has continued in new movies (with another one coming out this year), the original series stands alone as a complete and unforgettable classic. It features one of the most powerful magical girls in anime and is a must-see for any fan of the genre.

6). Kamisama Kiss

If you’re looking for a charming romance anime on Netflix, check out Kamisama Kiss. The story follows a girl who, after becoming homeless due to her father’s debts, finds shelter at a shrine. There, she develops a surprising connection with a Yokai who lives there, and their relationship blossoms into a sweet romance. With the second season recently added to Netflix, now is a perfect time to start watching this beloved classic!

5). Sonic X

Sonic X was a surprising new animated version of the Sonic the Hedgehog story. While it had a mixed reception when it first aired as part of 4Kids Entertainment’s Fox Box, fans now view it more positively. All three seasons are now streaming on Netflix, completing the Metarex Saga, making it a great time to watch or revisit the series.

4). Gintama

After being available on other streaming services, the beloved anime Gintama is now on Netflix! This classic series is a must-watch for any anime fan, and Netflix is starting with 25 episodes featuring both Japanese and English audio. While that’s just a taste of the show’s full run, more episodes are expected to be added soon. It’s a perfect chance to discover why Gintama is so well-known for its hilarious action!

3). Detective Conan

Detective Conan is a long-running anime that, while popular internationally, hasn’t achieved the same level of success in the United States. It was initially released in the West as ā€œCase Closedā€ and faced challenges gaining traction. One of the series’ strengths is that the episodes are largely self-contained, making it easy to start watching at any point without needing prior knowledge of the overall story. The show primarily focuses on Conan solving different crimes, and it does so exceptionally well, making it a highly enjoyable watch.

2). Magic Knight Rayearth

After nearly 30 years, the beloved anime classic Magic Knight Rayearth is now available on Netflix. While fantasy anime about being transported to another world (known as isekai) are hugely popular today, Rayearth was one of the first to really take off with that concept. The series follows three girls who are magically transported to a mysterious fantasy world and must pilot giant robots to battle their enemies. With two seasons full of unexpected twists and turns, it’s easy to see why this show remains a classic – and with a reboot on the way, now is the perfect time to experience it.

1). One Piece

Even with so many options available on Netflix, One Piece remains a top choice for classic anime fans. With over 1,000 episodes spread across different story arcs, the upcoming new season of the live-action series—premiering in March—gives viewers even more reason to dive into this beloved anime.

Netflix is gradually improving the quality of older episodes, and recently added 51 classic episodes in HD remastered format. This includes the complete East Blue saga, meaning fans who enjoyed the live-action adaptation can now watch the original anime in its best visual quality.

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2026-01-21 01:14