Discussion What would you say is an anime that isn’t meant to be enjoyed, but meant to be experienced?

Mushishi, I cannot say it is fun, but it is certainly a beautiful experience.

 

Shikibane Hime, SukaSuka, Legend of the Galactic Heroes (original, have not watched the remake yet), Code Geas, Psycho-Pass, 12 Kingdoms.

Tiger and Bunny for fun. Mai-Hime would have been in the running if they did not mess up the ending.

 

Youjo senki

 

High School DxD...

i'm like, why did i even watch this...

 

Probably Grave of the Fireflies

 

Back again to quote myself and add Mushishi, Kino’s Journey, Mawaru Penguindrum, and Mononoke to the list. They’re all very “moody” anime that set a specific tone that sticks with you after the series is done. If it’s not the story and setting, then it’s the visuals and music that gets you for the experience. Penguindrum especially got me because it starts out so bright and typical despite the bleak subject line (little sister dying of terminal illness) and maintains that palette while spiraling into symbolic zaniness and...melancholy.

I honestly have more manga to recommend that would fit these category but right, anime series only...

 

this is a sick, depressing story that i won't recommend to anyone

a depressing story that i recommend to people.

Spoiler: imho

(stereotypical east asian) frugality at the extreme - saving for the rainy day; but how do you judge it is pouring hard enough?

bought the original dvd, but lost it (lent it out but forgot to whom)

the anthem of the heart
breaking away from self-imposed shell.

 

If you haven't watched Ghost Hunt in the middle of the night, you haven't lived.

 

Kino no Tabi (2003) and Shinsekai Yori (as mentioned above). Like you, I'm not sure I would say I loved them, or consider them my favourites, but they left a deep impression on me.