15 Animes Similar to Tangled

Tangled resonates through its blend of adventure, self-discovery, and heartfelt character growth.

These underrated anime capture similar magic, focusing on underdog narratives, transformative journeys, and rich worldbuilding—often overlooked despite their brilliance.

1. Belle (2021)

• Streaming: Hulu, Apple TV
• Plot: Shy high schooler Suzu becomes global singing sensation “Belle” in a virtual world, embarking on a quest to uncover a mysterious avatar’s identity and reclaim her voice.
• Similarities: Like Rapunzel’s escape from isolation, Suzu’s virtual rebirth mirrors themes of self-actualization and courage. The lush animation and musical focus evoke Disney’s signature charm.
• Details: Film (121 min). Studio Chizu. MAL: 7.48. Nominated for 5 Annie Awards, including Best Independent Feature.

2. Snow White with the Red Hair (2015)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
• Plot: Herbalist Shirayuki flees her kingdom, forging a new life while aiding allies and confronting royal intrigue.
• Similarities: Shirayuki’s proactive resilience mirrors Rapunzel’s agency. The focus on kindness-over-force and slow-burn romance parallels Tangled’s emotional core.
• Details: 24 episodes. Studio Bones. MAL: 8.02.

3. Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit (2007)

• Streaming: Prime Video
• Plot: Warrior Balsa protects a prince harboring a water spirit, facing political conspiracies and supernatural threats.
• Similarities: Balsa’s protective role echoes Eugene’s loyalty, while the prince’s coming-of-age reflects Rapunzel’s growth. Mature themes and fluid action enhance its depth.
• Details: 26 episodes. Production I.G. MAL: 8.07.

4. Yona of the Dawn (2014)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll, Hulu
• Plot: Princess Yona flees a coup, seeking ancient warriors to reclaim her kingdom.
• Similarities: Yona’s evolution from sheltered royalty to leader mirrors Rapunzel’s journey. The blend of humor, romance, and adventure aligns with Tangled’s tone.
• Details: 24 episodes. Studio Pierrot. MAL: 8.23.

5. The Ancient Magus’ Bride (2017)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Plot: Chise, a self-sacrificing mage, navigates a magical world under the mentorship of the enigmatic Elias.
• Similarities: Chise’s emotional healing and discovery of self-worth parallel Rapunzel’s arc. Gothic-fantasy aesthetics enrich its unique charm.
• Details: 24 episodes. Studio Kafka. MAL: 7.94.

6. Akame ga Kill! (2014)

• Streaming: Hulu, Crunchyroll
• Plot: Country boy Tatsumi joins rebels to overthrow a corrupt empire, facing moral ambiguity and loss.
• Similarities: Subverts tropes like Tangled’s twist on princess narratives. Themes of sacrifice and found family resonate deeply.
• Details: 24 episodes. Studio White Fox. MAL: 7.48.

7. Black Clover (2017–2021)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll, Netflix
• Plot: Magicless Asta defies odds to become the Wizard King, rivaling his prodigious friend Yuno.
• Similarities: Asta’s underdog grit mirrors Rapunzel’s perseverance. The energetic, character-driven battles evoke Tangled’s dynamic spirit.
• Details: 170 episodes. Studio Pierrot. MAL: 7.55.

8. From the New World (2012)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Plot: In a dystopian utopia, children with psychic powers uncover dark truths about their society.
• Similarities: Gradual revelation of hidden powers parallels Rapunzel’s magical hair. Its moral complexity and worldbuilding depth rival Tangled’s narrative layers.
• Details: 25 episodes. Studio A-1 Pictures. MAL: 8.27.

9. Ergo Proxy (2006)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Plot: Investigator Re-l unravels conspiracies in a domed city, confronting android sentience and existential dread.
• Similarities: Philosophical depth and Re-l’s transformation from cynic to seeker echo Rapunzel’s curiosity. Visually stark yet introspective.
• Details: 23 episodes. Studio Manglobe. MAL: 7.85.

10. Somali and the Forest Spirit (2020)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Plot: A golem and human child traverse a monster-filled world, forging a poignant father-daughter bond.
• Similarities: The protective, evolving relationship mirrors Rapunzel and Eugene. Whimsical art contrasts with emotional weight.
• Details: 12 episodes. Studio Satelight. MAL: 7.58.

11. The Beast Player Erin (2009)

• Streaming: HiDive
• Plot: Erin bonds with mythical beasts while navigating political strife and personal loss.
• Similarities: Erin’s connection to nature and moral challenges reflect Rapunzel’s empathy. Slow-burn storytelling emphasizes growth.
• Details: 50 episodes. Studio Pierrot. MAL: 7.98.

12. Kemono no Souja Erin (2009)

• Streaming: HiDive
• Plot: Erin’s bond with divine beasts leads her through war and self-discovery.
• Similarities: Focus on empathy and resilience, akin to Rapunzel’s kindness. Rich worldbuilding and emotional depth.
• Details: 50 episodes. Production I.G. MAL: 8.15.

13. Scrapped Princess (2003)

• Streaming: No official streaming (DVD only)
• Plot: Pacifica, prophesied to destroy the world, flees with siblings while defying fate.
• Similarities: Pacifica’s defiance of destiny mirrors Rapunzel’s rebellion. Humor balances dark stakes.
• Details: 24 episodes. Studio Bones. MAL: 7.64.

14. Spice and Wolf (2008)

• Streaming: Funimation, Hulu
• Plot: Merchant Kraft Lawrence partners with wolf deity Holo, blending economics, romance, and adventure.
• Similarities: The evolving trust between Kraft and Holo parallels Rapunzel/Eugene. Focus on dialogue-driven growth over action.
• Details: 24 episodes. Studio Imagin. MAL: 8.40.

15. Arte (2020)

• Streaming: Crunchyroll
• Plot: Renaissance noblewoman Arte pursues art against sexism, mentored by a reclusive painter.
• Similarities: Arte’s pursuit of passion mirrors Rapunzel’s artistic spirit. Uplifting and visually refined.
• Details: 12 episodes. Seven Arcs. MAL: 7.37.

Why These Anime Resonate with Tangled Fans

These series prioritize character transformation and thematic depth, much like Rapunzel’s journey from isolation to empowerment. Lesser-known gems like Belle and From the New World offer unique animation styles and narrative risks, while Spice and Wolf and Yona of the Dawn balance romance and adventure with emotional sincerity. Each explores resilience against adversity—proving that underrated stories often hold the most magic.