Anime fans around the World voted on their favorite anime songs and the results are in! Japanese media, Asahi TV surveyed 1,740 people residing outside of Japan to rank their top anisongs. The top 20 were presented by Asahi TV’s General Election team on X. 

The results had to offer a fascinating glimpse into the international anime fandom taste, spanning from iconic classics, old Japanese anime lost to time, and some recent hot hits. A few of which have been featured on Otaku USA in the past.

The undisputed champion, taking the crown as the crowd favorite is A Cruel Angel’s Thesis from the influential Neon Genesis Evangelion. This song perfectly encapsulates the introspective and existential themes of the anime, with Yoko Takahashi’s soaring vocals leaving a lasting impression on fans worldwide for the last 29 years.

The list then takes a nostalgic turn, featuring veterans like “The Voltes V Song” and “Cha-La Head-Cha-la” from Dragon Ball Z. These high-energy anthems transport fans back to their childhood days, solidifying their place as timeless classics.

The last three spots were dominated by Attack on Titan theme songs. All three seasons are represented, signifying how impactful the series was for fans around the globe.

Check out the best 20 anime songs in the world below and see if your favorite anisong made the vote!

1. A Cruel Angel’s Thesis (Neon Genesis Evangelion)

A Cruel Angel’s Thesis sung by Yoko Takahashi is the most popular anime song across the globe. It is likely the most recognized song among fans and non-anime watchers alike. 

2. Idol (Oshi no Ko)

After its debut in 2023, Idol sung by Yoasobi spread like wildfire, topping even Japan’s Hot 100 charts for weeks. Now, the song has been streamed on YouTube over 470 million times and was released in English.

3. The Voltes V Song (Voltes V)

Probably the most surprising winner is the Voltres V theme song. Thanks to the locally-produced live-action series based on the 1970s anime, has pulled a huge following in the Philippines.

4. Unravel (Tokyo Ghoul)

According to Asahi TV, Unravel is so popular that almost all the foreigners who were interviewed could sing the opening even if they hadn’t seen the show.

5. Kick Back (Chainsaw Man)

Another easily recognized opening is Kick Back from Chainsaw Man. Many of the votes for this banger came from the US.

6. Blue Bird (Naruto Shippuden)

We all saw this coming.

7. SPECIALZ (Jujutsu Kaisen)

Jujutsu Kaisen has thrown viewers on an emotional rollercoaster ride as of late. The most votes for SPECIALZ by King Gnu come from Malaysia. 

8. We Are! (One Piece)

The US dominates the votes for We Are! By Hiroshi Kitadani.

9. Again (Fullmetal Alchemist)

Again by Yui held the top spot for all-time popular anime songs in 2022, so we are not surprised to see it featured in this ranking!

10. Ao no Sumika (Jujutsu Kaisen)

The emotional lyrics of Ao no Sumika can be understood by any viewer. Anyone need a tissue yet?

11. Samurai Heart [Some Like it Hot] (Gintama)

The JRock hit brings a feeling of nostalgia for many anime fans of the era. It’s easy to hear why so many of us worldwide love it!

12. Gurenge (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba)

We all know Gurenge by LiSA. But can you believe it’s been almost five years since release?

13. Cha-La Head-Cha-la (Dragon Ball Z)

Dragon Ball Z is universally loved and recognized globally but has a huge following across LATAM. Mexico, Peru, as well as Spain voted the most for this hit.

14 (Tie). Butter-Fly (Digimon Adventure)

Unsurprisingly, many foreigners watched Digimon when they were children.

14 (Tie). Silhouette (Naruto Shippuden)

KANA-BOON’s performance of Silhouette solidified popularity among fans.

16. Kaikai Kitan (Jujutsu Kaisen) 

Kaikai Kitan by Eve was one of the most-played Japanese songs overseas in 2021. Many foreigners love seeing real-life locations from the anime in Shibuya.

17. Tank! (Cowboy Bebop)

Cowboy Bebop fans showed their support for Tank! was written by Yoko Kanno, a famous anime songwriter, including those for the Macross series.

18. Akuma no Ko (Attack on Titan)

Last, but not least, Attack on Titan finished out the poll, taking the last three spots!

19. Shinzō wo Sasageyo (Attack on Titan)

20. Guren no Yumiya (Attack on Titan)

According to the poll, Guren no Yumiya was extremely popular in Saudi Arabia. 

Did your favorite anime songs make the cut?