Yahoo! Japan has revealed the 2024 winners of the Yahoo! Japan Search Awards , which highlight the topics that saw the biggest increase in search volume compared to the previous year.
anime category , the big highlight of 2024 was MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES , which topped the rankings. Furthermore, the second season's opening theme song, "Bling-Bang-Bang-Born," went viral, further cementing the series' success. Below, check out the five most-searched anime between January 1st and October 1st, 2024.
5. BEYBLADE X
Based on Takara Tomy's famous toy franchise, BEYBLADE X revitalized interest in the series. With innovative battles and new characters, the anime managed to attract both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.
4. Chibi Maruko-chan
The classic Chibi Maruko-chan returned to the spotlight in 2024, especially after changing its main voice actress. A true icon of Japanese pop culture since the 1990s, the anime continues to win the hearts of fans old and new, cementing its place in the popular imagination.
3. The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto)
The adaptation of Natsu Hyuuga's light novel gained notoriety for its captivating narrative full of mysteries. The protagonist, Maomao, is a young apothecary who, after being taken to the imperial palace, begins to uncover secrets hidden behind the royal walls. The intriguing plot captured the audience's attention.
2. Kaiju No. 8
Inspired by Naoya Matsumoto's manga, this anime follows Kafka Hibino , an ordinary man who, after transforming into a kaiju (giant monster), becomes embroiled in an epic battle to protect humanity. With a plot full of twists and intense action, Kaiju No. 8 captivated both manga readers and new viewers.
1. MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES
Based on the manga, which concluded in July 2023, the anime stood out with its captivating animation and unique blend of magic and action comedy. However, the story follows Mash Burnedead, a young man with no magical abilities who must pretend to be a powerful wizard in a world where magic is everything. The explosive success attracted a dedicated fanbase.
Yahoo! Japan Search Awards in anime in 2024
The awards are held annually to recognize the topics that spark the most interest in Japan. Although based on a broad survey of data covering various categories, such as entertainment and pop culture, the results reflect trends and changing interests in Japanese society.
Therefore, while Google dominates globally as the largest search engine, Yahoo! Japan remains the most popular platform in Japan. Ultimately, this is due to its integration with local services, such as news and shopping, as well as its long adaptation to the country's cultural preferences.
Source: Official Website