Celebrate International Friendship Day with these must-watch anime on Crunchyroll

Every year we celebrate International Friendship Day, and it is the perfect time for anime fans to relax and watch some series with their friends. Crunchyroll offers a plethora of series that one could choose from, and in this article we will be talking about some titles that seem to have been made just for this occasion. Interestingly, in the world of anime, themes of friendship have always been one of the most recurring and compelling parts of the narrative.

While we have series that are known for intense action, emotional romance, and suspence but, what actually ends up leaving a lasting impact on viewers is the bond between characters. It could be any kind of dynamic, like being lifelong friends, rivals who started to grow into trusted allies, or maybe strangers who are destined to meet.

Anime series have a unique touch in the way of showcasing different kinds of relationships. Now, with International Friendship Day looking like a perfect opportunity to get together with your friends and go on a binge watching seassions of series that celebrate the meaning of companionship. Whether you are looking for a high-action series or are inclined to watch comedy, in this article we will be talking about 10 such anime series that perfectly capture the spirit of friendship.

10 friendship-focused anime to stream on

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1. Naruto Shippuden

• Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Shonen
• Number of episodes: 500
• Status: Finished

Naruto is one anime series that is extremely enjoyable to watch with friends. The story is about Naruto Uzumaki, and he has one goal in life. That is to become the Hokage, and his journy is to achieve his dream is highly inspiring, as he had to keep on facing dangerous enemies. While he was working toward making his goal happen, his childhood friend Sasuke Uchiha was taken away, and Naruto wanted to get him back.

Initially, they were not friends, but the journey of their relationship dynamic evolving is also interesting. This anime is undoubtedly long and cannot be finished in one sitting, but this series truly should not be skipped. Additionally, fans in India can also enjoy the newly released Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu dubs on Crunchyroll.

2. One Piece

• Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
• Number of episodes: 1,100+ (ongoing)
• Status: Ongoing

One Piece is yet another show that is extremely lengthy and cannot be watched in one setting, but the story of Monkey D. Luffy sailing across the Grand Line to get his hands on the treasure of Gol D. Roger is one that an anime fan should not skip. This series by Eiichiro Oda keeps on reinforcing the idea of finding your own kind of people, and sometimes the bond ends up being stronger than blood. Additionally, the Straw Hat Crew's adventures highlight how friendship can overcome impossible odds, making this show one of anime's greatest celebrations of camaraderie.

3. Fairy Tail

• Genre: Action, Fantasy, Adventure
• Number of episodes: 328
• Status: Finished

When an anime fan talks about the power of friendship, they end up talking about Fairy Tail. This anime has been using the theme of friends as part of the core narrative. There are moments where it feels like the heroes cannot escape from a critical situation, and that is when having allies who have their back makes the most impossible-sounding situation something they can win against.

With Natsu and Lucy being the main leads, this series keeps on introducing different kinds of friendship dynamics. Because, in the end, the story keeps on putting focus on the fact that protecting friends above all else is important; getting reminded about this will make it a wholesome viewing experience.

4. Dr. Stone

• Genre: Adventure, Science Fiction, Shonen
• Number of episodes: 60+ (continuing)
• Status: Ongoing

Thousands of years after humanity is mysteriously petrified, genius Senku Ishigami awakens. He makes it his goal to start rebuilding civilization with science. While he has a plan and knowledge to make it happen, the story reminds us that he manages to achieve his mission because he is aided by his loyal childhood friend Taiju and many new allies. While science drives the plot, friendship powers the mission.

5. Bocchi The Rock!

• Genre: Slice of Life, Music, Comedy
• Number of episodes: 12
• Status: Finished

Painfully shy guitarist Hitori Gotoh dreams of performing in a band but struggles to make friends until she unexpectedly joins Kessoku Band. This series beautifully illustrates how genuine friendships can transform someone's life. Through encouragement, patience, and shared passion, Bocchi gradually discovers confidence and happiness with her bandmates.

6. Fruits Basket

• Genre: Romance, Drama, Slice of Life, Supernatural
• Number of episodes: 63
• Status: Finished

After losing her mother, Tohru Honda begins living with the mysterious Soma family and slowly uncovers the emotional burdens each member carries. Although known for its emotional storytelling, Fruits Basket thrives because of the compassionate relationships Tohru builds. Her kindness helps broken people heal, proving that friendship can change lives even during the darkest moments.

7. Grand Blue Dreaming

• Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life
• Number of episodes: 24+ (continuing)
• Status: Ongoing

College freshman Iori Kitahara expects a peaceful seaside life but instead becomes part of an outrageous diving club filled with unforgettable personalities. Whether they're diving, partying, or getting into ridiculous situations, the cast shares hilarious chemistry throughout the series. It's the perfect comedy to enjoy alongside your own group of friends.

8. Gachiakuta

• Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy
• Number of episodes: Ongoing
• Status: Ongoing

After being falsely accused of murder, Rudo is thrown into the dangerous Pit, where he joins the mysterious Cleaners and fights to survive while uncovering the truth. Despite its darker setting, Gachiakuta showcases trust forged through hardship. Rudo's growing relationships with fellow Cleaners remind viewers that meaningful friendships often emerge during life's toughest challenges.

9. Pop Team Epic

• Genre: Comedy, Parody
• Number of episodes: 24
• Status: Finished

Pop Team Epic follows the story of Popuko and Pipimi, and this show is unpredictable from start to finish. It is completely packed with comedic moments, pop cultural references, and an overall bizarre style of storytelling. The way this duo shares a chaotic chemistry is why watching every episode is extremely entertaining. Additionally, all of their interactions and over-the-top behaviour are a perfect choice for those who just want to enjoy watching shows with friends where their aim is to enjoy some unconventional comedy.

10. Haikyu!!

• Genre: Sports, Comedy, Drama
• Number of episodes: 85
• Status: Finished

This anime is about Hinata, who has a big goal in his life to become one of the best volleyball players, and to achieve it, he joined Karasuno High. That is when he meets Tobio Kageyama. They were once rivals, but now that they are in the same school, the duo needs to work as a team, and in that journey they end up becoming close friends.

Haikyuu!! is one anime that proves that someone does not always become friends right away. But it is possible by ensuring that one forms trust, communicates openly, and respects each other. It is one anime that should not be skipped because it offers a fine example of how friendship can even grow through a sense of competition.

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Final thoughts

In conclusion, International Friendship Day is about ensuring that we appreciate those who have been standing beside us through all important parts of our lives. And anime is one genre that keeps on releasing shows that offer us the chance to enjoy such important relationships through unforgettable stories. Overall, these Crunchyroll titles are going to be a set of great choices to once again remind us why such connections matter. Because every experience feels even better when we just share it with friends.

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