Japanese Animation TV Ranking: Top Shows from May 2025

The latest Japanese Animation TV rankings reveal a competitive landscape for both animated and live-action series during the week of May 26 to June 1, 2025. *The Apothecary Diaries* has secured a respectable position at #4 with a 3.6% rating, showcasing its popularity amid a myriad of intriguing offerings. Interestingly, this week’s ratings also highlight a resurgence of traditional formats, particularly NHK’s *Anpan*, which aired on May 29 and achieved a remarkable 16.3% rating. As a new entry in the six-decade-old Renzoku Terebi Shōsetsu franchise, *Anpan* taps into the nostalgic vein of Japanese viewers by basing its narrative on the inspirational life of iconic manga creator Takashi Yanase, thereby combining cultural heritage with contemporary storytelling.

In addition to *Anpan*, other notable entries this week include the detective series *Ameku Takao no Suiri Karte*, which aired on May 27 and earned a commendable 5.6% rating. This live-action adaptation of Mikito Chinen’s novel series reflects the ongoing trend of integrating detective elements into Japanese pop culture, attracting viewers with intriguing plots. The broader television ratings demonstrate a blend of both anime and live-action formats captivating the audience, with established favorites such as *Sazae-san* and *Detective Conan* maintaining strong viewer engagement. As the trends continue to evolve, it is essential to monitor how these rankings may signal shifting audience preferences in forthcoming programming.

The ratings provided serve as a window into the viewing habits of households in Japan’s Kanto region, revealing not only which shows are resonating but also the broader implications for content producers. With formats like *Asadora* reviving historical narratives and increasingly creative adaptations emerging in serialized anime, the dynamic between traditional storytelling and modern entertainment continues to shape Japan’s television landscape. However, it is important to note that these figures reflect only the initial broadcasts, excluding audiences who engage with recorded content later, further complicating the true reach of any program. As viewers shift toward ultimate flexibility in consuming media, understanding the logistics and consequences of these ratings becomes critical for stakeholders in the ever-changing entertainment industry.

Summary

In the Japanese Animation TV Ranking for the week of May 26 to June 1, 2025, *The Apothecary Diaries* secured the #4 position with a 3.6% rating, while *Anpan*, a new live-action series inspired by the life of Anpanman creator Takashi Yanase, topped the ratings with a 16.3% for its episode aired on May 29. Another episode of *Anpan* garnered a 5.7% rating the following day. Additionally, *Ameku Takao no Suiri Karte*, based on a mystery medical novel series, achieved a 5.6% rating during its airing on May 27. Overall, the ratings showcase a diverse array of programs, with *Sazae-san* being the most viewed animated series of the week at 7.1%. The ratings reflect viewership in Japan’s Kanto region and do not account for recorded showings.