While every anime season has its highly anticipated newcomers and sequel seasons, it’s not uncommon for a previously unknown series to unexpectedly skyrocket in popularity if it’s good enough. Sometimes shows don’t live up to the hype, but often that leaves space for other shows to surprise viewers if given the chance.
Although plenty of shows and sequels are thriving this season, a number of anime have shocked viewers with how well done they’ve been so far. So here are four surprise hits of the Spring 2025 anime season you still have time to check out.
Anne Shirley
Where to watch: Crunchyroll
Anne Shirley is a Spring 2025 anime based on the novel and character, Anne of Green Gables, by L. M. Montgomery. The series follows Anne, a former orphan adopted by an elderly couple initially looking for a son.
Although many viewers were likely familiar with Anne of Green Gables, or had at least heard of her, to hear she was receiving an anime adaptation was quite surprising. Even more shocking is how good this series has been.
Not only is the animation beautiful, giving a Studio Ghibli-esque feel to the series, but its fun, humorous, and lighthearted nature is refreshing to see in a series about school-age characters. While it's fun for all ages, if you're watching anime with children, this is a perfect coming-of-age series to try.
mono
Where to watch: Crunchyroll
Although mono didn't have as much hype as many of the returning series this season, it's quickly proven itself as one to watch as the Spring season goes on. This anime centers around the Kofu Arakawa High School photography and cinema clubs, which are both in danger of shutting down. To prevent this, they merge into one: The Cinephoto Club.
This series is perfect for viewers who like more laid-back slice-of-life shows. Without a ton of drama or crazy action scenes, your enjoyment of the show truly hinges on how much you like the characters and story. Luckily, they're not hard to enjoy, and you'll quickly find yourselves rooting for their cause.
Kowloon Generic Romance
Where to watch: Crunchyroll
One of the most surprising anime on this list is Kowloon Generic Romance. It's one of those series that's exciting because of how unexpected it is, especially to those unfamiliar with the manga.
In this anime, Reiko Kujirai lives in Kowloon City, one of the few places in the future that still tries to cater to past nostalgia. As Reiko connects more with her coworker, Hajime Kudou, what viewers initially thought was a romance anime quickly reveals itself to be a dystopian mystery series instead.
This series already has a lot going for it with its unique character design, immersive backgrounds, and almost old-school anime feel. However, the unique premise pulls you in, unveiling a story that intertwines the present and the past in a compelling and gripping way.
Food for the Soul
Where to watch: Crunchyroll
While softer slice-of-life animes are always popular enough, it seems people are really leaning into the calmer series this Spring 2025 season. Food for the Soul is another series that still captivates viewers without gimmicks or extensive drama.
This one follows five university students who bond over their love of food and shared college experiences. It isn't loud or flashy. Instead, it's soft and warm, often mimicking the same feelings in viewers that a comforting meal might.
This series is not only cute, but it's relatable. It's the kind of watch that you can laugh along with, without feeling the pressure to pay excessive attention to because you're looking for plot twists or clues. If anything, you may find yourself craving a few new recipes instead.
When it comes to anime, everyone's preferences are different. However, when everyone is saying the same positive things about a show, it never hurts to check it out. While these weren't the most hyped releases at the beginning of the Spring 2025 anime season, they've all proven to be some of the surprise hits that everyone should be checking out.