
Anime has captured the hearts and minds of millions of fans around the globe, offering immersive storytelling, breathtaking animation, and characters that leave an indelible mark. But beyond the surface, there lies a realm of hidden references that add an extra layer of depth and intrigue to these beloved animated series.
These hidden gems in anime are like a thrilling treasure hunt for observant viewers, with clever connections and subtle nods to history, literature, and the anime universe. These hidden references in anime are not only a treat for fans but also a testament to the attention to detail and creativity of anime creators.
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10/10 Bertolt Almost Bites His Hand - Attack On Titan

When a few members of the Survey Corps are stranded in a lighthouse, surrounded by bloodthirsty Titans, Ymir shows her true self as she is the Jaw Titan. But she was not the only Titan there who was disguising herself as a traitor.
As later found out in the series, Bertolt and Reiner were hiding their identity as they were the Colossal and the Armored Titans, respectively. However, fans could've found out earlier on if they had noticed Bertolt nearly biting his hand in order to turn into a Titan.
9/10 Mob Reads One Punch Man - Mob Psycho 100

Mob Psycho 100 and One Punch Man are both exceptionally impactful and funny anime shows. Both these shows have been written by a single mangaka, ONE. And ONE made a few One Punch Man references in Mob Psycho 100.
In episode 2 of the series, Mob is in Reigen's office and is seen reading a manga. The characters in the manga are shown to be a bald guy who looks just like Saitama, and a guy with him, which resembles Genos. Plus, the wallpaper on Mob's phone is also of Saitama.
8/10 Saitama Technically Started The Hero Organization - One Punch Man

We see in the first episode of One Punch Man that Saitama fights a monster who is looking for a boy with a weird chin. Saitama takes the initiative and fights off the Monster. A few episodes later, we find out that the Hero Association was founded by the donation of a rich guy.
The picture of the rich guy that we get to see shows us that this he has the same chin as the boy, and he made the donation after a Hero saved his grandson. Well, the Caped Baldy deserves some more recognition, doesn't he?
7/10 Rock Lee's Hair Signify He Is A Ninja - Naruto

Despite Rock Lee's lack of certain talents, there is an undeniable truth that he embodies the essence of a true Ninja. However, it is not just his impressive skills that solidify his Ninja status; his distinct hairstyle holds a secret assurance.
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The glistening section of his hair, seemingly coincidental at first glance, actually reveals an extraordinary detail - it spells out the word 'NINJA,' further emphasizing his unwavering dedication to the ancient art of stealth and combat.
6/10 References To The Nguyen Van Lem Execution And World War 2 Bombardments - Hunter X Hunter

The Chimera Ants Arc was a significant turn of events in Hunter x Hunter. At the beginning of episode 134, the narrator talks about the atrocities that humans have delivered on humans and how humanity is even worse than the evil Chimera Ants.
The animated scenes show a roadside execution and heavy bombardments, referring to the Nguyen Van Lem execution and the World War 2 bombings, which shook the faith of humans in humanity.
5/10 A Scene Gives A Peek Into The Future Of Seita And Setsuko - Grave Of The Fireflies.

A Reddit user noticed the reference when Seita and Setsuko are sitting in front of the cave, the outside of the cave contains beams. The beams and the square-shaped cave resemble a photo frame that the Japanese use during funerals.
This hidden reference is a testament to the ultimate fate of Seita and Setsuko when Setsuko dies of malnutrition, and Seita dies of starvation. The series really made every viewer grieve for the unfortunate duo.
4/10 Uraraka's Flip Phone - My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia is not a series that is set in ancient times, hence it consists of characters using cell phones and most of the time, smartphones. However, Ochaco Uraraka does not use a smartphone. Instead, she uses a flip phone.
The reason being when her character is introduced, it is mentioned that she is poverty-stricken and her only aim is to earn enough money to give her parents a comfortable life. The cell phone is a prop that makes her story more credible.
3/10 Hints About Madhouse Studio's Next Project - Hunter X Hunter

In the final episode of Hunter x Hunter, the animation studio Madhouse gave fans a sneak peek of their upcoming project. They cleverly inserted a 'Next' magazine featuring Migi from Parasyte: The Maxim, hinting at their next work.
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This exciting cameo left viewers buzzing with anticipation for what Madhouse had in store for them. And as one can expect from Madhouse, Parasyte: The Maxim turned about to be a really successful project.
2/10 Stand Users Hunt From The Shadows - Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Diamond Is Unbreakable

In the first episode of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Diamond is Unbreakable, after Aqua Necklace escapes, Koichu looks into the crowd, and we catch a glimpse of other stand users: Rohan Kishibe, Keicho Nijimura, Okuyasu Nijimura, Toshikazu Hazamada, and Yukako Yamagishi.
These intriguing characters, with their unique abilities, hint at the thrilling adventures to come in this captivating series. The alliances that will be formed, the bonds that will break, everything was teased by this scene.
1/10 Light Waiting At The Doors Of Quindecim - Death Parade

Within the captivating realm of episode 11 in the anime series Death Parade, a remarkable sight unfolds before viewers' eyes. A character bearing a striking resemblance to the iconic Light Yagami from Death Note makes a notable appearance.
Death Parade, renowned for its exploration of Quindecim, a mysterious realm where the destinies of departed souls are determined, cleverly pays homage to its predecessor. The inclusion of Light Yagami within this ethereal setting serves as a clever nod to Death Note's conclusion, where the protagonist meets his demise.
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