Anime has long been synonymous with Japanese culture, captivating audiences worldwide with its diverse genres, unique storytelling, and vibrant art styles. While many anime series are set in Japan, reflecting the country’s traditions, society, and landscapes, there are also many outstanding anime that take place in alternative settings—ranging from fantasy worlds to foreign countries. Here is a list of the 10 best anime not set in Japan:

1.Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood –Set in the fictional country of Amestris, which resembles early 20th century Europe, this legendary series follows two brothers on their quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemy experiment.

2.Attack on Titan –In a world overrun by gigantic humanoid creatures known as Titans, humanity resides within massive walled cities. The story focuses on Eren Yeager and his friends who join the fight against the Titans.

3.Black Butler –Set in Victorian England, it chronicles the life of young nobleman Ciel Phantomhive and his demonic butler Sebastian Michaelis as they investigate various dark mysteries surrounding London’s underworld.

4.Baccano! –Taking place primarily during the early 1930s in America, this series intertwines several plots as immortal alchemists, mafia operatives, and other characters cross paths creating a non-linear storytelling experience.

5.Violet Evergarden –Located in a continent reminiscent of early 20th century Europe post-war, it tells the emotional tale of Violet Evergarden as she reintegrates into society after the war as an Auto Memory Doll writing letters for those unable to convey their feelings.

6.The Ancient Magus’ Bride –This story unfolds in an alternate version of our world where magic and mythical beings exist. It follows Chise Hatori in England, a young girl sold at an auction to a non-human mage named Elias.

7.Hetalia: Axis Powers –A comedic take on historical events and political relations between countries, anthropomorphized nations interact with each other based on their World War I and II alliances and rivalries.

8.Spice and Wolf –With settings that mimic a stylized medieval Europe, it narrates the journey of a traveling merchant named Kraft Lawrence and Holo the Wise Wolf deity as they venture through an era where trade is key to survival.

9.91 Days –Set during Prohibition-era America, this revenge drama follows Angelo Lagusa who seeks to infiltrate the mafia family responsible for his own family’s slaughter seven years prior.

10.Yona of the Dawn –Inspired by Korea during the Three Kingdoms period, this series revolves around Princess Yona who is forced to flee her castle home after her father’s murder and embarks on a quest to reclaim her kingdom with the help of her loyal companions.

These anime titles offer viewers an array of fantastical realms and historical periods different from contemporary Japan, showcasing how versatile and global anime storytelling can be.