Anime Like Ao no Miburo: 10 Must-Watch Samurai and Historical Action Anime
If you enjoyed Ao no Miburo (Blue Miburo) for its intense samurai action, historical setting, and the drama of loyalty and honor, these anime will provide a similar experience. Each anime takes viewers into Japan’s storied past, where warriors navigate personal struggles, political intrigue, and high-stakes battles.
1. Rurouni Kenshin
Set in the Meiji era, Rurouni Kenshin tells the story of Kenshin Himura, a former assassin turned wandering swordsman, who seeks to protect people without killing. His journey is filled with complex characters, moral dilemmas, and intense sword fights, all set against a backdrop of Japan’s transition from feudal to modern society. The show’s exploration of redemption and justice through personal and societal change closely mirrors Ao no Miburo’s blend of action and historical reflection.
- Release Date: January 10, 1996
- Studio: Gallop, Studio Deen
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Historical
- MyAnimeList Link: Rurouni Kenshin
2. Peace Maker Kurogane
Peace Maker Kurogane follows young Tetsunosuke Ichimura, who joins the Shinsengumi to avenge his family’s death. Through his interactions with the samurai in the infamous police force, Tetsu learns the harsh realities of vengeance and duty. Like Ao no Miburo, this anime delves into the complexities of loyalty, courage, and sacrifice within a historical, samurai-filled Japan, providing both intense action and deep character development.
- Release Date: October 7, 2003
- Studio: Gonzo
- Genres: Action, Historical, Samurai
- MyAnimeList Link: Peace Maker Kurogane
3. Hakuouki
Hakuouki centers on the Shinsengumi’s journey, mixing real historical events with supernatural elements to explore the struggles of samurai bound by loyalty and honor. While the show includes supernatural twists, its focus on sacrifice, duty, and the darkness of the samurai lifestyle connects it closely with the themes in Ao no Miburo.
- Release Date: April 4, 2010
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Genres: Action, Drama, Samurai
- MyAnimeList Link: Hakuouki
4. Shigurui
Set during the Edo period, Shigurui is a dark, intense tale of two samurai rivals facing off in a deadly tournament. With unflinching depictions of violence, it presents a raw and gritty portrayal of samurai life. Fans of Ao no Miburo will appreciate the brutal realism and the way the anime challenges the romanticized ideals of the samurai.
- Release Date: July 19, 2007
- Studio: Madhouse
- Genres: Action, Historical, Martial Arts
- MyAnimeList Link: Shigurui
5. Chiruran: Nibun no Ichi
A lighthearted twist on the Shinsengumi, Chiruran: Nibun no Ichi showcases the everyday antics and personalities of famous samurai. While it doesn’t carry the same intensity as Ao no Miburo, this comedic approach to historical figures provides a fresh perspective on the legendary warriors of Japan. It’s a fun alternative for fans looking to see familiar characters in a lighter setting.
- Release Date: January 10, 2017
- Studio: LandQ Studios
- Genres: Comedy, Historical, Samurai
- MyAnimeList Link: Chiruran: Nibun no Ichi
6. Saraiya Goyou (House of Five Leaves)
In Saraiya Goyou, a reserved samurai named Akitsu Masanosuke becomes entangled with the Five Leaves, a mysterious group with questionable motives. This anime emphasizes character depth and introspection, focusing on moral gray areas rather than fast-paced action. Fans of Ao no Miburo’s reflective moments will appreciate this thoughtful and atmospheric take on samurai life.
- Release Date: April 16, 2010
- Studio: Manglobe
- Genres: Historical, Samurai, Slice of Life
- MyAnimeList Link: Saraiya Goyou
7. Angolmois: Record of Mongol Invasion
This anime tells the story of Japan’s defense against the Mongol invasion in the 13th century. Angolmois is filled with epic battles, exploring themes of loyalty, courage, and survival, making it a compelling choice for fans of Ao no Miburo’s action-packed historical setting. The series presents a gritty portrayal of war and the courage of the samurai defending their homeland.
- Release Date: July 11, 2018
- Studio: NAZ
- Genres: Action, Historical, Samurai
- MyAnimeList Link: Angolmois
8. Sword of the Stranger
This movie follows a nameless samurai who protects a young boy from hired killers. Known for breathtaking fight choreography and stunning visuals, Sword of the Stranger offers a high-stakes tale of loyalty and bravery. Its intense action sequences and commitment to traditional samurai themes make it a must-watch for fans of Ao no Miburo.
- Release Date: September 29, 2007
- Studio: Bones
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Historical
- MyAnimeList Link: Sword of the Stranger
9. Ryo
This short film, set during the Bakumatsu period, follows two boys on a journey for vengeance and justice. Despite its brief runtime, Ryo captures the essence of loyalty, courage, and the unforgiving nature of samurai life, providing an impactful viewing experience for fans of Ao no Miburo’s historical depth.
- Release Date: February 23, 2013
- Studio: NAZ
- Genres: Action, Drama, Historical
- MyAnimeList Link: Ryo
10. Samurai Champloo
A unique blend of traditional Edo-period Japan and modern hip-hop, Samurai Champloo follows the journey of two ronin and a young woman across Japan. While it’s stylistically different, the anime’s focus on loyalty, freedom, and the daily lives of wandering samurai will resonate with fans of Ao no Miburo.
- Release Date: May 20, 2004
- Studio: Manglobe
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Samurai
- MyAnimeList Link: Samurai Champloo
Final Thoughts
These anime explore the lives of samurai and the historical struggles that shaped Japan’s culture and values. Fans of Ao no Miburo will appreciate the mix of intense battles, moral conflicts, and the journey of warriors navigating honor, loyalty, and duty in these unforgettable series.
