Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku

Hell's Paradise (also known as Jigokuraku) is a dark fantasy action anime set in Edo-period Japan.

The story centers on Gabimaru the Hollow, a legendary ninja assassin from Iwagakure who's infamous for being completely emotionless and unstoppable in combat. After a betrayal, he's captured and sentenced to death—but he repeatedly survives every execution attempt, seemingly unable to die.

A skilled executioner from the Yamada clan, Yamada Asaemon Sagiri, sees potential in him and offers a deal from the Shogun: Gabimaru can earn a full pardon (and freedom to reunite with his beloved wife, the one thing that gives him purpose) if he joins a dangerous expedition to a mysterious island called Shinsenkyo (or Kotaku), rumored to hold the Elixir of Life (an immortality-granting potion).

He's not alone—several other death row criminals are sent too, each paired with a Yamada Asaemon executioner as a monitor. The group must explore the island, which appears paradisiacal but is actually a deadly hellscape filled with monstrous creatures, bizarre plants, supernatural horrors, and other threats that have killed all previous expeditions.

The anime (produced by MAPPA) blends intense ninja action, brutal fights, horror elements, and themes of redemption, humanity, life/death, and the blurred line between paradise and hell. Season 1 aired in 2023, and Season 2 started in early 2026.

It's often praised for its stunning animation, gore, and character growth—especially Gabimaru's journey from hollow killer to someone fighting for something meaningful. If you like stuff like Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, or Demon Slayer but want something darker and more philosophical, it's a solid watch!