Shaman King is a beloved shōnen series that blends spiritual combat, unconventional power systems, and heartfelt character growth. At its core, the anime tells the story of Yoh Asakura, an easygoing shaman who strives to become the Shaman King by communing with spirits, forming bonds, and defying expectations. What makes the series stand out is its mix of mystical battles, underdog determination, and subversion of typical shōnen tropes.
Yet, while Shaman King gained recognition, many similar anime with comparable themes of supernatural powers, spiritual bonds, and unique battle systems remain underrated. The following 15 anime deserve more attention, especially from fans seeking worlds where heart, growth, and unusual approaches to combat matter just as much as raw strength.
1. Kekkaishi (2006)
- Streaming: Hulu, Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 52
- MAL Rating: 7.5
- Studio: Sunrise
- Awards: Won the 52nd Shogakukan Manga Award for Shōnen
Plot: Yoshimori Sumimura and Tokine Yukimura protect their school grounds from supernatural intruders using barrier-based magic called “kekkai.”
Similarities: Like Shaman King, it features spirit-like entities, underdog protagonists, and unique power mechanics that emphasize strategy over brute force.
2. Ghost Hunt (2006)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 25
- MAL Rating: 7.6
- Studio: J.C. Staff
Plot: Mai Taniyama teams up with paranormal investigators to solve supernatural mysteries involving spirits and hauntings.
Similarities: The emphasis on spirits, exorcism, and unseen forces resonates with Shaman King’s exploration of shamanic power.
3. Mononoke (2007)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 8.4
- Studio: Toei Animation
Plot: The enigmatic Medicine Seller travels feudal Japan exorcising vengeful spirits using unique rituals.
Similarities: Both series highlight spiritual conflicts, but Mononoke adds a surreal, experimental art style and deep psychological themes.
4. Onmyō Taisenki (2004)
- Streaming: Not widely available (Japan DVD release)
- Episodes: 52
- MAL Rating: 6.9
- Studio: Sunrise
Plot: Young Riku Tachibana partners with a shikigami spirit to fight battles involving mystical artifacts and ancient spirits.
Similarities: Much like Yoh and Amidamaru, the human–spirit partnership drives the narrative and highlights growth through cooperation.
5. Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales (2006)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 11
- MAL Rating: 7.1
- Studio: Toei Animation
Plot: Anthology series exploring Japanese ghost stories and spiritual battles with a dramatic, supernatural lens.
Similarities: Fans of Shaman King’s cultural and folkloric spirit roots will find familiar territory here.
6. Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan (2010)
- Streaming: Hulu, Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 48 (across 2 seasons)
- MAL Rating: 7.6
- Studio: Studio Deen
Plot: Rikuo Nura, part human and part yōkai, reluctantly accepts his role as the leader of a powerful demon clan.
Similarities: Both series balance human life with spiritual battles and explore destiny, legacy, and reluctant heroes.
7. Shounen Onmyouji (2006)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.3
- Studio: Studio Deen
Plot: The grandson of legendary onmyōji Abe no Seimei trains to inherit spiritual powers while fighting demons.
Similarities: Shares the mentor–student bond and shamanic lore that Shaman King thrives on.
8. Mushibugyo (2013)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.0
- Studio: Seven Arcs
Plot: In Edo-era Japan, warriors battle giant insects threatening humanity.
Similarities: Combines historical fantasy with unusual battles and quirky yet determined characters.
9. Tokyo Majin (2007)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 14
- MAL Rating: 7.1
- Studio: Artland & AIC
Plot: High school students awaken supernatural powers to defend Tokyo against demons.
Similarities: Like Shaman King, it blends youthful camaraderie, spiritual battles, and hidden abilities with darker tones.
10. Black God (Kurokami) (2009)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 23
- MAL Rating: 7.0
- Studio: Sunrise
Plot: Keita, a computer programmer, becomes entangled in a supernatural battle involving “mototsumitama” spirits.
Similarities: Mirrors Shaman King’s partnership themes, where human and spirit powers combine in combat.
11. Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East (2013)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 25 (two seasons)
- MAL Rating: 7.2
- Studio: Studio Deen
Plot: Shino and Sosuke, survivors of a deadly plague, gain mystical powers linked to an ancient legend.
Similarities: Echoes themes of destiny, spirit contracts, and forming bonds to overcome powerful enemies.
12. Kiba (2006)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 51
- MAL Rating: 6.9
- Studio: Studio MADHOUSE
Plot: Zed, a restless boy, is transported to a new world where he partners with a “Shard Beast” to fight.
Similarities: Underdog hero with a spirit-like partner navigating tournaments and rivalries mirrors Shaman King’s structure.
13. Shigofumi (2008)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.3
- Studio: J.C. Staff
Plot: Fumika delivers letters from the dead to the living, unraveling emotional stories of regret and closure.
Similarities: While less battle-heavy, it shares Shaman King’s thematic focus on life, death, and spiritual connections.
14. Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits (2018)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Episodes: 26
- MAL Rating: 7.5
- Studio: Gonzo
Plot: Aoi, gifted with the ability to see spirits, is taken to the hidden realm of ayakashi and works off her grandfather’s debt.
Similarities: Spiritual relationships and human–spirit coexistence recall Shaman King’s unique partnerships.
15. C: The Money of Soul and Possibility Control (2011)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 11
- MAL Rating: 7.2
- Studio: Tatsunoko Production
Plot: Kimimaro is drawn into a mysterious realm where futures are wagered in battles using summoned avatars.
Similarities: Its unique battle system and high-stakes duels echo the inventive combat dynamics of Shaman King.
Why These Anime Work for Shaman King Fans
Each of these series, though underrated compared to mainstream shōnen giants, offers qualities that resonate with Shaman King’s charm: inventive power systems, underdog protagonists, and profound spiritual themes. Whether through the bonds between humans and spirits, unconventional battles requiring wit, or explorations of life and death, these anime provide the same mix of heart, mysticism, and thrilling storytelling. For fans who loved Yoh Asakura’s journey, these shows are the hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
