The winter 2026 anime season ended in Japan with a curious tie at the top. According to a poll of the best winter anime conducted on the AnimeAnime.jp portal, the series Jujutsu Kaisen and Sousou no Frieren shared the lead among the audience's favorites.
Even with only 115 participants , the vote brought together fans among teenagers and adults. Still, the result accurately reflects what dominated online discussions. On one side, intense battles and fast-paced action. On the other, a melancholic narrative with magic and world-building.
Ranking highlights the season's diversity
The top spot was split between Jujutsu Kaisen , an action series based on the manga by Gege Akutami, and Sousou no Frieren , a dramatic fantasy written by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe.
Next, there are some surprises and relevant continuations. Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? secured third place with its idol comedy premise. Meanwhile, Medalist maintained its strength with its sports-themed ice show.
Full list of the best anime of winter 2026
| Position | Anime | Observation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jujutsu Kaisen | Intense action, unpredictable combat, and high-level animation by MAPPA studio |
| 1 | Sousou no Frieren (Season 2) | A tie at the top with a focus on emotional storytelling and well-constructed magical battles |
| 3 | Tamon-kun Ima Docchi!? | Comedy idol who gained attention for leading a star's double life |
| 4 | Medalist (Season 2) | Sports drama set on ice with a consistent fan base |
| 5 | Oshi no Ko (Season 3) | A narrative about the behind-the-scenes world of the entertainment industry |
| 6 | Android wa Keiken Ninzuu ni Hairimasu ka?? | Part of the collective tie |
| 6 | Dead Account | Part of the collective tie |
| 6 | Gōmon Baito-kun no Nichijō | Part of the collective tie |
| 6 | Jigokuraku (Season 2) | Continuation of the action anime with supernatural elements |
| 6 | Seihantai na Kimi to Boku | Part of the collective tie |
The ranking continues with well-known titles and some less popular productions. Oshi no Ko appears in fifth position, reinforcing the continued interest in the hidden side of the entertainment industry.
The tie for sixth place includes works such as Jigokuraku , as well as Android wa Keiken Ninzuu ni Hairimasu ka??, Dead Account, Gōmon Baito-kun no Nichijō, and Seihantai na Kimi to Boku. This variety demonstrates how the season offered options for different audience profiles.
For more news and updated rankings of the best winter anime, keep following the world of anime at AnimeNew.