Japanese Animation TV Ranking, May 18-24

What Happened

We're seeing a major shake-up in the Japanese Animation TV Ranking, with the latest update covering May 18-24. The top spot is still up for grabs, but what's got fans losing it is the return of two heavy-hitters to the top 10: That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime and Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3. This news is sending shockwaves through the anime community, with fans eagerly speculating about what's driving these shows' resurgence.

On May 23, Detective Conan took the top spot on NTV, while Chibi Maruko-chan followed close behind on Fuji TV the next day. But it's not just these veterans making waves - One Piece is still going strong on Fuji TV, and Wistoria: Wand and Sword S2 has snagged the top spot in the Spring 2026 Top Anime Rankings. It's clear that fans are hungry for a mix of old favorites and new blood.

The fact that That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime and Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3 are back in the top 10 is a testament to their enduring popularity - and a surprise to many, given the intense competition in the anime landscape. What's driving this resurgence? Is it the shows' unique blends of action, comedy, and heart, or something more?

Why Anime Fans Should Care

The return of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime and Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3 to the top 10 has real stakes for the anime community. These shows have dedicated fan bases, and their success can make or break the fortunes of their respective studios. For example, the success of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime could pave the way for more isekai anime adaptations, while Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3's success could cement its studio's reputation for producing high-quality fantasy series.

The fact that these shows are competing with newer series like Wistoria: Wand and Sword S2 and One Piece also highlights the intense competition in the anime landscape. Fans should care because the shows they love are constantly vying for attention and survival - and their support can make all the difference.

Key Highlights

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime and Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3* return to the top 10 in the Japanese Animation TV Ranking

Detective Conan and Chibi Maruko-chan* take top spots on NTV and Fuji TV, respectively

One Piece* remains a strong contender on Fuji TV

Wistoria: Wand and Sword S2* takes the top spot in the Spring 2026 Top Anime Rankings

* The anime community is abuzz with speculation about the shows' resurgence and what's driving it

AnimePulse Take 🔥

I think the return of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime and Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3 to the top 10 is a game-changer for the anime community. Honestly, it's a testament to the enduring power of these shows and their ability to captivate audiences. Here's the thing: these shows aren't just popular - they're also incredibly well-crafted, with unique blends of action, comedy, and heart that set them apart from the competition.

What Comes Next

Fans should keep a close eye on the upcoming episodes of That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime and Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3, as well as the continued performance of Wistoria: Wand and Sword S2 and One Piece. What will happen next in these shows, and how will they continue to evolve and captivate audiences?