Mao
MAO
Genres
- Mystery
- Supernatural
Tags
all 11- TimeHistorical79
- FantasyExorcism50
- Main CastFemale Protagonist50
- FantasyYoukai40
- Sci-FiTime Manipulation20
- FantasyIsekai20
- Main CastPrimarily Teen Cast20
- SceneSchool20
- DemographicShounen20
- TraitsDemons20
- Main CastMale Protagonist20
Genres: Mystery, Supernatural. Tags: Historical, Exorcism, Female Protagonist, Youkai, Time Manipulation, Isekai, Primarily Teen Cast, School, Shounen, Demons, Male Protagonist.
#4750
Ranked
#4443
Popularity
91
Favorites
12.2K
Members
#30
This Season
Rated TV
#92
This Season
Popular TV
Episode Progress
Available up to Episode 20
Available up to Episode 20 on Bilibili TV, Hulu, YouTube
- Premiered
- Spring 2026
- Aired
- Apr 1, 2026 –
- Studio
- Sunrise
Alternative Titles
jaマオ
thMAO หาญสู้พลิกชะตาอาถรรพณ์
Synopsis
Nanoka passes through a portal into the Taisho era, where exorcist Mao reluctantly rescues her from the jaws of a grotesque yokai. When Nanoka gets back to the present, she discovers she has some new, incredible abilities. She returns to the past looking for answers, only to get caught up in Mao's investigation of a series of gruesome murders. As her questions about herself multiply, Nanoka learns that Mao is cursed by a cat demon named Byoki—and so is his sword. If anyone but Mao attempts to wield it, they are doomed. But when Mao's life is in jeopardy, Nanoka picks up his blade and swings! (Source: VIZ Media)
Synopsis
Nanoka passes through a portal into the Taisho era, where exorcist Mao reluctantly rescues her from the jaws of a grotesque yokai. When Nanoka gets back to the present, she discovers she has some new, incredible abilities. She returns to the past looking for answers, only to get caught up in Mao's investigation of a series of gruesome murders. As her questions about herself multiply, Nanoka learns
Nanoka passes through a portal into the Taisho era, where exorcist Mao reluctantly rescues her from the jaws of a grotesque yokai. When Nanoka gets back to the present, she discovers she has some new, incredible abilities. She returns to the past looking for answers, only to get caught up in Mao's investigation of a series of gruesome murders. As her questions about herself multiply, Nanoka learns that Mao is cursed by a cat demon named Byoki—and so is his sword. If anyone but Mao attempts to wield it, they are doomed. But when Mao's life is in jeopardy, Nanoka picks up his blade and swings!
(Source: VIZ Media)
Read moreRead less
Nanoka passes through a portal into the Taisho era, where exorcist Mao reluctantly rescues her from the jaws of a grotesque yokai. When Nanoka gets back to the present, she discovers she has some new, incredible abilities. She returns to the past looking for answers, only to get caught up in Mao's investigation of a series of gruesome murders. As her questions about herself multiply, Nanoka learns
Nanoka passes through a portal into the Taisho era, where exorcist Mao reluctantly rescues her from the jaws of a grotesque yokai. When Nanoka gets back to the present, she discovers she has some new, incredible abilities. She returns to the past looking for answers, only to get caught up in Mao's investigation of a series of gruesome murders. As her questions about herself multiply, Nanoka learns that Mao is cursed by a cat demon named Byoki—and so is his sword. If anyone but Mao attempts to wield it, they are doomed. But when Mao's life is in jeopardy, Nanoka picks up his blade and swings! (Source: VIZ Media)
Where to Watch
Trailer
Platform Scores
MAL
7.01
AniList
66 / 100
Kitsu
68 / 100
AniList Trend
1,206
Episode Guide
Aired so far: 20 / 35
Main Story
20 / 35
57%
Latest Aired
Episode 20
Remaining
15 eps
20 / 35
Theme Songs
Public users tracking this
1
Status Breakdown
Tags
Shows how closely each tag relates to this animeRecommendations
10 recommendations
InuYasha
Rurouni Kenshin
Noragami
Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan
Ranma ½ (2024)
Daemons of the Shadow Realm
Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon
RIN-NE
Dororo
Hell Teacher: Jigoku Sensei Nube
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mao currently airing or finished?
Mao is currently airing and began its broadcast in the spring 2026 season. As an ongoing series, it continues to release new episodes throughout its 2026 run.
What is the story of Mao about?
Mao follows the story of a girl named Kiba, Nanoka who discovers she has supernatural abilities after traveling to the Taisho era. She teams up with an exorcist named Mao to investigate gruesome murders and uncover the mystery behind a curse placed upon him by a cat demon.
Who are the main characters in Mao?
The series focuses on the journey of Kiba, Nanoka and the exorcist Mao. They are joined by other significant characters including Hyakka and Kamon as they navigate historical mysteries.
Which studio is responsible for producing the Mao anime?
Mao is animated by the studio Sunrise. The production is directed by Satou, Teruo, with notable contributions from staff members such as Hishinuma, Yoshihito, Kakihara, Yuuko, Kanematsu, Shuu, and original creator Takahashi, Rumiko.
What anime should I watch if I like Mao?
If you enjoy the supernatural and historical themes found in Mao, fans often recommend watching InuYasha, Rurouni Kenshin, Noragami, Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan, and Ranma ½ (2024).
What are the opening and ending theme songs for Mao?
The opening theme for the series is titled "HEARTLOUD" by Kis-My-Ft2. The ending theme is titled "Juai (呪愛)" and is performed by TRUE.
Is Mao part of a larger franchise or does it have a specific watch order?
Mao is currently the first and only entry in its franchise. There is no required prequel or prior viewing necessary to understand the story, as it stands as a unique entry.
Information
- Type
- TV
- Status
- Airing
- Premiered
- Spring 2026
- Aired
- Apr 1, 2026 –
- Episodes
- 20
- Studio
- Sunrise
Alternative Titles
jaマオ
thMAO หาญสู้พลิกชะตาอาถรรพณ์
Discussion
Discussion