Bleach, created by Tite Kubo, is a cornerstone of shonen anime, blending supernatural battles, intricate world-building, and compelling characters like Ichigo Kurosaki, the Soul Reaper. Its mix of intense sword fights, spiritual themes, and a balance of humor and drama has captivated fans since its 2004 debut. If you’re a Bleach enthusiast craving more anime with similar vibes—think epic battles, supernatural elements, strong character arcs, and rich lore—this list of 15 anime series will hit the mark. Each recommendation captures aspects of Bleach’s appeal, from soul-stirring action to emotional depth, while offering unique flavors to keep your watchlist fresh.
1. Naruto (2002–2007) & Naruto: Shippuden (2007–2017)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Like Bleach, Naruto follows a young hero, Naruto Uzumaki, with a hidden power (the Nine-Tails Fox) as he trains to become a ninja leader. The series shares Bleach’s blend of intense battles, rivalries (think Naruto vs. Sasuke, akin to Ichigo vs. Byakuya), and a sprawling world of clans and supernatural forces. Shippuden ramps up the stakes with darker themes and epic showdowns, much like Bleach’s Soul Society arc.
What’s Unique: Its focus on ninja culture and emotional bonds, with over 700 episodes, offers a deep dive into friendship and redemption.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix.
2. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (2019–Present)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Demon Slayer channels Bleach’s supernatural action with Tanjiro Kamado’s quest to slay demons and save his sister Nezuko. The breathtaking sword fights, powered by Breathing Techniques, echo Ichigo’s zanpakuto battles, while the Demon Slayer Corps parallels the Soul Reapers. Ufotable’s stunning animation elevates every clash.
What’s Unique: Its emotional family-driven story and jaw-dropping visuals make it a modern shonen masterpiece. Rated 8.49 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix.
3. Yu Yu Hakusho (1992–1994)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Created by Yoshihiro Togashi, Yu Yu Hakusho is a spiritual predecessor to Bleach. It follows Yusuke Urameshi, a delinquent turned Spirit Detective, battling demons across human and spirit worlds. The supernatural hierarchy and intense tournaments mirror Bleach’s Soul Society and Hueco Mundo arcs.
What’s Unique: Its blend of humor, heart, and gritty fights, plus memorable characters like Hiei and Kurama, make it a classic. Rated 8.46 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation.
4. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009–2010)
Why It’s Like Bleach: This epic follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric in a world of alchemy, battling homunculi and uncovering conspiracies. Like Bleach, it balances action, moral dilemmas, and a richly built world with a supernatural twist. The climactic battles rival Bleach’s Arrancar saga.
What’s Unique: Its tightly woven 64-episode story and deep philosophical themes set it apart. Rated 9.09 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu.
5. Jujutsu Kaisen (2020–Present)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Jujutsu Kaisen is a modern shonen gem where Yuji Itadori, like Ichigo, gains powers (hosting the demon Sukuna) and fights cursed spirits. The Jujutsu Sorcerers’ organization echoes the Soul Reapers, and the high-stakes battles with cursed techniques rival Bleach’s bankai showdowns.
What’s Unique: Its dark humor, stylish animation by MAPPA, and complex villains like Mahito make it a thrilling watch. Rated 8.65 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, HBO Max.
6. Hunter x Hunter (2011–2014)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Another Yoshihiro Togashi masterpiece, Hunter x Hunter follows Gon Freecss in a world of Hunters tackling dangerous missions. Its intricate power system (Nen) and epic arcs, like the Chimera Ant saga, mirror Bleach’s blend of strategy and raw action.
What’s Unique: Its genre versatility, from adventure to psychological drama, and deep character growth keep you hooked. Rated 9.04 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll.
7. Blue Exorcist (2011–Present)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Rin Okumura, son of Satan, becomes an exorcist to fight demons, much like Ichigo’s Soul Reaper journey. The anime’s supernatural battles and themes of identity and duty resonate with Bleach fans, especially in the Kyoto Saga’s intense fights.
What’s Unique: Its mix of demonic lore and heartfelt sibling bonds adds emotional depth. Rated 7.49 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix.
8. Soul Eater (2008–2009)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Set in a school for weapon-wielding students and their meisters, Soul Eater shares Bleach’s supernatural vibe and stylish battles. Maka and her scythe Soul face witches and kishin, with a gothic aesthetic akin to Bleach’s Soul Society.
What’s Unique: Its quirky humor and unique art style, blending spooky and vibrant tones, make it stand out. Rated 7.84 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Hulu, Funimation.
9. Black Clover (2017–2021)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Asta, a magic-less boy in a magical world, mirrors Ichigo’s underdog spirit. His journey to become the Wizard King involves epic battles and a squad-based system like the Soul Reapers. The anime’s high-energy fights echo Bleach’s intensity.
What’s Unique: Its relentless pacing and Asta’s never-give-up attitude make it a shonen crowd-pleaser. Rated 8.15 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation.
10. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (2014–2015)
Why It’s Like Bleach: This Ufotable adaptation of the Fate visual novel follows Shirou Emiya in the Holy Grail War, with summoned heroic spirits battling in spectacular fashion. The sword-based combat and supernatural lore mirror Bleach’s zanpakuto clashes.
What’s Unique: Its breathtaking animation and complex moral conflicts elevate the shonen formula. Rated 8.18 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll.
11. Tokyo Revengers (2021–Present)
Why It’s Like Bleach: While less supernatural, Tokyo Revengers captures Bleach’s themes of loyalty and redemption. Takemichi Hanagaki time-travels to save his friends from gang conflicts, with intense brawls and emotional stakes akin to Ichigo’s battles for his comrades.
What’s Unique: Its gritty delinquent drama and time-travel twist offer a fresh take on shonen intensity. Rated 7.96 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Disney+.
12. My Teen Romantic Comedy Yahari (2013–2020)
Why It’s Like Bleach: While not action-focused, this anime shares Bleach’s knack for character-driven storytelling. Hachiman Hikigaya’s cynical yet heartfelt journey through high school relationships echoes the camaraderie and growth of Ichigo’s crew.
What’s Unique: Its sharp dialogue and introspective take on friendship make it a surprising but fitting companion. Rated 8.00 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE.
13. Inuyasha (2000–2010)
Why It’s Like Bleach: This classic by Rumiko Takahashi follows Inuyasha, a half-demon, and Kagome in a feudal Japan filled with demons and sacred artifacts. The supernatural battles and romantic subplots mirror Bleach’s mix of action and heart.
What’s Unique: Its historical setting and blend of romance and adventure add a nostalgic charm. Rated 7.86 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu.
14. Gintama (2006–2021)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Gintama mixes samurai action with humor, much like Bleach’s balance of serious battles and comedic moments (think Ichigo’s banter with Rukia). Gintoki Sakata’s adventures in a sci-fi feudal Japan deliver epic fights and heartfelt arcs.
What’s Unique: Its genre-blending parody and emotional depth make it a one-of-a-kind shonen. Rated 8.94 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu.
15. Attack on Titan (2013–2023)
Why It’s Like Bleach: Eren Yeager’s fight against Titans in a dystopian world shares Bleach’s high-stakes battles and complex world-building. The Survey Corps’ camaraderie and Eren’s inner struggles echo Ichigo’s journey as a Soul Reaper.
What’s Unique: Its dark, political narrative and jaw-dropping plot twists set it apart as a modern classic. Rated 9.05 on MyAnimeList.
Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu.
Why These Anime Are Perfect for Bleach Fans
These 15 series capture the essence of Bleach through supernatural battles, intricate worlds, and characters who grow through adversity. From Demon Slayer’s stunning swordplay to Gintama’s heartfelt humor, each offers a unique spin on the shonen formula while echoing Bleach’s themes of duty, friendship, and epic confrontations. Whether you’re drawn to Ichigo’s bankai or the Soul Society’s lore, this list has something to keep you glued to the screen.
For more details, check MyAnimeList ratings or stream on platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, or Hulu. Which of these have you watched, or are there other anime you’d recommend for Bleach fans? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the shonen spirit alive!
Note: This list focuses on anime with similar action, supernatural, or character-driven elements, excluding direct Bleach sequels like Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War to keep the recommendations fresh.
