A glass slipper, a kiss that breaks a curse, a glowing lantern. Disney princess movies have a way of making magic feel like it’s always in our reach. With its sweeping orchestras, meticulously imagined kingdoms, and heroines who dare to dream beyond their towers, these stories have captivated generations. And they’re not always about tiaras and true love. Disney princess movies are about courage, transformation, independence, and the belief that kindness can change the world.
That same sense of wonder and hope lives on in another medium, and it’s anime. The fantasy genre in anime is vast and varied, but tucked within it are sparkling gems that remind you of Disney’s most beloved stories. There are magical girls with secret powers, kingdoms on the brink of change, and heroines who grow into their strengths with every challenge. Some are whimsical and light, others are bold and bittersweet. But they’re all about magic and adventure.
Here are 10 magical fantasy anime series for fans of Disney movie princesses.
‘Fairy Musketeers’ (2006)
Souta, a gentle boy from the science-driven world of Erde, finds his life altered when a mysterious girl in a red hood alongside a talking wolf named Val. Akazukin and Val’s arrival marks the beginning of a journey that bridges two realms, Erge and Phandavale, and Souta is revealed to be the key to an ancient power that could help defeat the witch Cendrillon, who seeks to conquer both worlds.
Elegant Heroines and Whimsical Tales
Fairy Musketeers stands out because it embraces classic fairy tale tropes and reworks them into a high-stakes magical adventure. The aesthetic leans into lush, pastel-colored fantasy landscapes, complete with castles, enchanted woods, and spell-casting duels. Premiering in 2006 and animated by Madhouse, the series didn’t fare well globally, but is a favorite for fans who love their fantasy with a side of nostalgia.
‘Akazukin Chacha’ (1994)
Akazukin Chacha tells the story of Chacha, a red-hooded apprentice of the world’s greatest magician, Seravi. But despite her best efforts, her spells rarely work as intended. With her loyal friends Riiya, a werewolf boy with a big appetite, and Shiine, a rival magician with a crush, Chacha embarks on a series of misadventures spanning schoolyard antics and fighting bumbling villains.
A Certified Comfort Watch
The anime’s 74-episode run is filled with slapstick comedy, heartfelt friendships, and sparkly transformations. There’s also something irresistibly earnest about the series. It is chaotic, yes, but the pratfalls and the pun-heavy dialogue hides a story about growing into your power, even if you trip over your wand along the way. The animation is dated, but it’s pure ‘90s gold for fans of Disney princess movies.
‘Magic Knight Rayearth’ (1994)
During a field trip to Tokyo Towers, three junior high students – Hikaru Shidou, Umi Ryuuzaki, and Fuu Hououji – are suddenly transported to the mystical world of Cephiro, which is shaped by willpower and ruled by heart. The girls are summoned by Princess Emeraude, tasked with becoming Magic Knights, and saving the world from the dark priest Zagato.
Elemental Magic and Moral Twists
What begins as a classic “save the princess” quest slowly turns into something more complex, with the anime weaving in themes of sacrifice, autonomy, and the cost of destiny. Magic Knight Rayearth is a genre blender and fans love it. The art, courtesy of CLAMP, is elegant and expressive, with flowing capes and ornate armor, and the three leads are distinct and compelling. Overall, the 1994 anime was a hit in Japan and eventually gained a loyal international following.
‘Kaleido Star’ (2003)
Kaleido Star begins with Sora Naegino, a young Japanese girl with a passion for acrobats, arriving in America with a suitcase full of hope and a dream to perform on the Kaleido Stage, a dazzling circus-meets-theater spectacle known for its amazing acrobatics and extravagant costumes. But breaking into the elite troupe isn’t easy, so Sora trains, stumbles, faces physical setbacks, and evolves into a radiant star.
A Stage Where Magic Is Earned
Unlike many magical fantasy anime series, this one does not rely on spells or enchanted kingdoms. It demands attention through sheer artistry. The show’s theatrical aesthetic, with elaborate costumes, spotlight-lit stages, and performances that feel like fairy tales in motion, drive the narrative towards a genuinely graceful closure. Directed by Junichi Sato and animated by Gonzo, it’s worth checking out.
‘Mermaid Melody: Pichi Pichi Pitch’ (2003)
Lucia Nanami is no ordinary girl. She is the Mermaid Princess of the North Pacific Ocean, sent to the human world to retrieve a sacred pearl and protect her world from dark forces. But things get complicated when she falls for a human boy named Kaito, who does not know the truth about her identity.
Charming and Melodic
Across two seasons and 91 episodes, Mermaid Melody: Pichi Pichi Pitch mixes romance, underwater politics, and catchy pop ballads, turning them all into a magical girl adventure. The transformation sequences are glittery, the villains are delightfully over-the-top, and the songs, however frequent, are central to the show’s emotional arcs. Known for embracing its sparkle and sentiment, it is like a pop concert taking place on a lagoon.
‘Romeo × Juliet’ (2007)
Roughly based on Shakespeare’s original story of the same name, Romeo × Juliet is set on the floating continent of Neo Verona. It opens with Juliet Capulet living in hiding after her family was massacred by Lord Montague, a tyrant. Disguised as a masked vigilante called the Red Whirlwind, she fights for justice. When she meets Montague’s gentle son, Romeo, the two fall in love and the magical forces that bind them also begin to threaten them.
Tragic Tale Told With Beauty
Rebellion grows and ancient powers awaken, and the love between Juliet and Romeo becomes a catalyst for change. Spanning 24 episodes, the anime covers swordplay, aerial cities, and poetic melancholy. When compared to the source. It trades Verona for sky gardens and flying horses, but the romantic core remains intact. Here, Juliet is a warrior and leader instead of a passive damsel and Romeo’s strength balances the narrative. A bold and refreshing take.
‘Little Witch Academia’ (2017)
Little Witch Academia follows Akko Kagari, who does not come from a magical lineage, but that doesn’t stop her from enrolling at Luna Nova Magical Academy, a prestigious school for witches. Inspired by her childhood idol, Shiny Chariot, Akko dreams of becoming a witch who brings joy to others, but her journey isn’t so smooth. She struggles with spellwork, clashes with prodigy Diana Cavendish, and stumbles into ancient secrets tied to the future.
Messy and Magical Process of Becoming
With its vibrant, whimsical aesthetic and charismatic batch of characters, Little Witch Academia feels like a modern fairy tale in motion. It was originally released as a short film in 2013, but the franchise expanded into a full series by 2017. Studio Trigger’s animation is fluid, with elements like enchanted libraries and broom-flying sequences evoking wonder. The school setting offers a rich backdrop for magical mishaps, but there are also moments of growth and sincerity.
‘My Happy Marriage’ (2023)
Adapted from Akumi Agitogi’s light novels, My Happy Marriage centers on Miyo Saimori, who has lived a life of suffering. Ostracized by her noble family for lacking supernatural abilities, she’s been treated more like a servant than a daughter. When she’s married off to Kiyoka Kudou, a feared military commander known for being cold-hearted, she expects the same treatment. But as the two begin to understand each other, a gentle bond forms between Miyo and Kiyoka.
Same Magic and Romance as the World of Disney
My Happy Marriage is among the more subtle entries on the list. Weaving its fantasy elements into a slow-burning romance that not only feels grounded and ethereal but is also built on layers of trauma, vulnerability, and hope, is how it resonates with audiences. Miyo goes from being voiceless to empowered, and this transformation is handled with care. It’s a delicate watch for viewers who appreciate nuance and intrigue at the same time.
‘Princess Tutu’ (2002)
The protagonist of Princess Tutu, Ahiru, is a duck. Literally. But only until a mysterious pendant transforms her into a girl, and then into Princess Tutu, a magical ballerina tasked with restoring the shattered heart of a prince named Mytho. But this isn’t a straightforward story. It’s being manipulated by the ghostly author Drosselmeyer, who simply loves tragedy.
Ballet of Broken Hearts
Combining ballet, fantasy, and a meticulously crafted narrative, Princess Tutu deconstructs the tropes of classic fairy tales and is a true gem that deserves a spot on any Disney princess fan’s must-watch list. Why? The anime emphasizes Duck’s personal journey to self-discovery, but at the same time reminds you to choose kindness over everything else. The visuals are storybook-like, and the narration is enchanting as well.
‘Snow White with the Red Hair’ (2015)
In Snow White with the Red Hair, Shirayuki is a skilled apothecary with striking red hair. Her hair is so striking that Prince Raji of Tanbarun demands she become his concubine. But Shirayuki refuses to be claimed and escapes to the neighboring kingdom of Clarines, where she meets Prince Zen, a kind-hearted royal who values her independence.
Romance Rooted in Sincerity
Narratively simple, the anime sets itself apart with its grounded approach to the genre. The world is richly detailed and the romance between Shirayuki and Zen unfolds as Shirayuki earns a place in the palace as a court herbalist, and they navigate political intrigue together. Plus, their budding relationship mirrors the themes that make classics like Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella so beloved. The pacing is calm, and the tone is refreshingly earnest, making it worth checking out.
