No discussion of the Monogatari Series’ top characters is complete without Hitagi Senjougahara. Bakemonogatari introduces her as the "crab" arc—a girl who literally gave away her weight (and emotional trauma) to a deity. Her weaponized vocabulary, her stationary fetish, and her volcanic tsundere energy have never been better deployed than in this first season. Later arcs give her less screen time, cementing Bakemonogatari as the definitive Senjougahara story.
When ranking the Monogatari Series top visual moments, the "Starry Sky" scene from episode 12 of Bakemonogatari is invariably number one. This is the episode where Araragi and Senjougahara go on a date. For fifteen minutes, the surreal head-tilts and abstract backgrounds vanish, replaced by breathtaking, realistic skies and muted character animation. It is the quietest, most human moment in the franchise. No other entry—not Second Season, not Zoku Owarimonogatari—has managed to replicate the emotional impact of that single scene.
Furthermore, SHAFT’s direction in Bakemonogatari was innovative but not yet self-indulgent. Later seasons sometimes drown in endless monologues and neck-breaking head-tilts. Bakemonogatari uses these tools to enhance the narrative, not distract from it. The infamous "toothbrush scene" (Nisemonogatari) might be more famous (or infamous), but the pure visual poetry of Senjougahara holding a stapler to Araragi’s mouth is iconic for a reason.
The Monogatari series is a popular Japanese light novel series written by Nisio Isin and illustrated by Vaseraga. It has been adapted into several anime series, including Bakemonogatari.
Here's a brief overview:
What is the Monogatari series? The Monogatari series is a collection of Japanese light novels that focus on supernatural and psychological themes. The series explores the lives of high school students and their encounters with various supernatural entities.
What is Bakemonogatari? Bakemonogatari, also known as "Monster Tale," is the second season of the Monogatari series. It consists of 12 episodes and revolves around the story of Hitagi Senjougahara, a transfer student who becomes involved with Koyomi Araragi, the main protagonist.
Ranking and Popularity As for ranking, opinions may vary, but here's a general consensus:
Other notable titles in the Monogatari series: bakemonogatari the monogatari series top
Keep in mind that opinions on the best Monogatari series episode or season may vary depending on personal preferences. If you're new to the series, Bakemonogatari is an excellent starting point, but you may also want to consider watching Kizumonogatari, which serves as a prequel.
You're interested in the Monogatari series and think Bakemonogatari is one of the top ones!
The Monogatari series, written by Nisioisin and illustrated by Vaseraga, is a popular and critically acclaimed collection of Japanese light novels that have been adapted into several anime series, manga, and even a film.
Bakemonogatari, which translates to "Monster Story," is indeed one of the most well-known and beloved installments in the series. Released in 2008, it tells the story of Hitagi Senjougahara, a high school student who loses her right arm to a "monster," and her encounters with Koyomi Araragi, a transfer student who has his own experiences with supernatural creatures. No discussion of the Monogatari Series’ top characters
Many fans consider Bakemonogatari one of the best in the series due to its:
If you're looking for more recommendations within the Monogatari series, here are some other popular installments:
Are you interested in exploring more of the Monogatari series, or would you like some recommendations on where to start?