Top 25 Best Japanese Anime Films [Latest Update 2024] | Mytour

• IMDb Rating: 8.62/10
• Release Date: November 20, 2004
• Genre: Romance Anime, Fantasy
• Duration: 119 minutes
• Director: Hayao Miyazaki

'Howl’s Moving Castle' immerses audiences in a world blending the wartime era with magic. It follows Sophie, a young woman cursed to become an old lady. To break the curse, Sophie sets out on a journey and encounters a wizard's moving castle. There, she becomes a maid and gradually lifts the curse with the help of Howl and Calcifer - his heart.

This anime film carries a message of anti-war sentiment and reflects the impact of war on human life from various angles, particularly in portraying Howl, a powerful wizard who chooses not to partake in the war, contributing to the film's message of peace.

3. Anime Film: My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
• Release Date: April 16, 1988
• Genre:  Fantasy Anime
• Duration: 86 minutes
• Director: Hayao Miyazaki

“My Neighbor Totoro” (1988) is one of the anime films set in post-World War II Japan. The story revolves around the lives of two young sisters, Satsuki (11 years old) and Mei (4 years old), as they move to a small house in the countryside to be closer to the hospital where their mother is receiving treatment. Their lives take a magical turn when they discover mysterious creatures in the garden next to their house, including a large creature named Totoro.

The anime film “My Neighbor Totoro” conveys a message about the wonder of nature, family bonds, and the purity of childhood innocence, reminding audiences of their own childhood and helping them understand that simplicity and wonder often stem from the smallest, most fundamental things.

4. Romance Anime: 5 Centimeters Per Second

• IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
• Release Date: March 3, 2007
• Genre: Romantic Anime, Drama
• Duration: 65 minutes
• Director: Makoto Shinkai

“5 Centimeters Per Second” tells the love story of two main characters, Takaki and Akari, but sadly, their feelings are separated by space and time. The title “5 Centimeters Per Second” symbolizes the average speed of a cherry blossom falling to the ground. The film is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different stage in the characters' lives (from elementary school to adulthood). This helps viewers perceive changes in life and emotions over time.

Under the talented direction of Makoto Shinkai, “5 Centimeters Per Second” shows us that love sometimes cannot confront distance and time, and there are moments once passed, cannot be regained. The film realistically portrays the emotions of the main character and makes viewers reflect on the true meaning of love and loss.

5. Grave of Fireflies – Firefly's Tomb (1988)

• IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
• Release Date: April 16, 1988
• Genre: War Anime
• Duration: 93 minutes
• Director: Isao Takahata

“Grave of the Fireflies” (original title: “Mộ Đom Đóm”) is an anime film based on the novel of the same name by Akiyuki Nosaka. Set in the final stages of World War II in Japan, the film tells the touching story of the orphaned siblings Seita and Setsuko. With no relatives and nowhere to turn, the siblings struggle against hardship and the cold indifference of those around them. The image of Setsuko's death from starvation and Seita's pain has brought tears to many viewers.

“Grave of the Fireflies” is an emotionally charged work containing profound messages about war and the bond of family. The anime film not only portrays the dark side of war but also delves into the soul of the main character, depicting loss and the indelible scars left by war on the human spirit.

6. Outstanding Anime: The Wind Rises (2013)

• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
• Release Date: July 20, 2013
• Genre: Historical Anime
• Duration: 126 minutes
• Director: Hayao Miyazaki

“The Wind Rises” (original title: “Kaze Tachinu” or “Gió Nổi”) is an anime film that depicts the life of Jiro Horikosh, who has a deep passion for aviation. Despite being severely nearsighted and unable to become a pilot, he becomes an aeronautical engineer. He dedicates his youth and love to designing the finest fighter aircraft of World War II. However, his aircraft ultimately turns to ashes after Japan's defeat in the war. In the end, Jiro lives in solitude and regret after the loss of his love.

“The Wind Rises” offers profound insights into life, art, and dreams. It provides a lesson about pursuing one's passion and doing what one loves, even when life presents challenges and limitations. “The wind still blows, life must go on” is the main message that this anime film aims to convey to audiences.

7. A Letter To Momo (2011)

• IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
• Release Date: July 20, 2001
• Genre: Adventure Anime, Romance
• Duration: 126 minutes
• Director: Hiroyuki Okiura

“A Letter to Momo” is a Japanese anime film from 2011 directed by Hiroyuki Okiura. It follows the journey of Momo, an 11-year-old girl living through a difficult time after her father's accident and death. Before her father passes away, he leaves Momo a letter containing just two extremely cryptic characters. Furthermore, Momo's life becomes even more complicated when three supernatural beings, known as “yokai,” appear to protect her.

Each yokai has its own unique personality, and over time, Momo begins to realize that the presence of these three yokai is related to the hidden message behind the two characters in the letter her father left behind. And thus, Momo's journey to understand the meaning of these two characters begins...

8. Romantic Anime: Your Name (2016)

• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
• Release Date: July 3, 2016
• Genre: School Anime, Romance, Drama
• Duration: 107 minutes
• Director: Makoto Shinkai

“Your Name” (original title: “Kimi no Na wa.”) is an anime film revolving around two main characters, Taki and Mitsuha, two young individuals living in different places. However, through a mysterious phenomenon, they find themselves swapping bodies and lives, leading to humorous and heartfelt situations in their daily lives. Although initially puzzled by this occurrence, over time, they come to understand each other's lives better and develop an emotional connection despite never meeting face to face.

“Your Name” is an anime film worth watching not only for its stunning visuals and excellent music but also for its profound storyline and underlying spiritual message. This film has provided an emotionally charged cinematic experience and has been highly praised in the world of animated cinema.

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9. Ponyo - A remarkable anime film

• IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
• Release Date: 19/7/2008
• Genre: Romantic Anime, Adventure
• Duration: 103 minutes
• Director: Hayao Miyazaki

“Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea” is an anime film telling the story of the dream of becoming a real human of a goldfish girl named Brunhilde. The story begins when Brunhilde gets trapped in a glass jar while fleeing her father's kingdom and is washed ashore on a beach in Japan. Here, in a small and beautiful town, she meets a 5-year-old boy named Sousuke, and this encounter helps her escape from the jar and be called by the new name Ponyo by Sousuke.

Ponyo later develops affection for Sousuke and desires to become a human even more intensely. Meanwhile, Ponyo's father is trying every means to take her back to the sea and imprison her in his castle. Ponyo's sisters and she are determined to steal their father's treasure to become human. However, a terrible disaster occurs afterward.

One of the remarkable aspects of the anime film “Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea” is its beautiful imagery and animation. Additionally, the film delivers a message about friendship and family bonds. Ponyo's journey and her decision between life under the sea or life on land illustrate the significance of unity and sacrifice in love.

10. Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light – Firefly Forest

• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
• Release Date: 17/9/2011
• Genre: Romantic Anime
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Director: Takahiro Omori

“Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light” (original title: “Hotarubi no Mori e”) is a Japanese romantic anime film based on the manga of the same name by Yuki Midorikawa. The story revolves around the serendipitous encounter between Hotaru, a young girl, and Gin, the spirit of a young man living in a mysterious forest that only appears at night and disappears when daylight returns. Although they cannot directly touch each other because Gin will vanish if anyone touches him, they form a special bond and develop feelings for each other.

The beautiful and delicate graphics create a magical and romantic atmosphere for the film. The music by Makoto Yoshimori also enhances the audience's enchanting emotions. The story of “Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light” is a poignant tale of love and loneliness, depicting the agony of love due to interaction restrictions. Despite its short duration and few characters, this anime film delivers a profound and touching love story for viewers.

11. Anime Film One Piece – Pirate King

• IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
• Release Date: Year 1999
• Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, and Fantasy Anime
• Duration: 1078 episodes

One Piece is an anime series that follows the journey of a young boy, Monkey D. Luffy, and his pirate crew in search of treasure. Viewers experience a range of emotions from fun and excitement to touching moments throughout the episodes. Each character has a distinct personality but they all embody the spirit of teamwork, creating an unbeatable strength, which is also the message the series aims to convey to its audience.

Recently, on August 31st, the One Piece live-action adaptation was officially released to fans, receiving great success by capturing the original essence of the manga. Thanks to the hype surrounding the One Piece Live Action, some fans have started to buy and collect old One Piece volumes.

12. Demon Slayer – Kimetsu no Yaiba

• Release Date: Year 2019
• Genre: Action, Adventure, Mystery, and Supernatural
• Duration: 26 episodes
• Director: Haruo Sotozaki

Demon Slayer follows the story of Tanjiro Kamado, an orphaned boy living with his mother and four siblings. While on a charcoal-selling trip, he inadvertently discovers the existence of man-eating demons during a snowstorm. Unfortunately, Tanjiro's family is killed by demons, leaving only his younger sister Nezuko alive. They are helped by Tomioka Giyu to find the demon slayer corps and begin their journey to eradicate demons.

With its engaging plot, stunning visuals, and beautiful animation, Demon Slayer is an anime you shouldn't miss. The intense battle scenes captivate viewers, while the underlying message of family, friendship, and compassion resonates throughout the series.

13. Fruit Basket Anime – Breaking the Curse

• Release Date: Year 2021
• Genre: Romance, Drama, and Supernatural
• Duration: 26 episodes
• Director: Yoshihide Ibata

The Fruit Basket anime has two adaptations released in 2019 and 2021, but it's the first season that truly leaves a mark on viewers. The story follows Honda Toru, an orphaned girl, who accidentally encounters members of the Soma family. She learns they are cursed by the Chinese zodiac, meaning they transform into animals when touched by someone of the opposite sex. Toru helps ease their spirits with empathy and understanding.

Not only appearing in films, Fruit Basket also appears in various commercial products such as plush toys, wall calendars, keychains, clothing prints, study tools... This also demonstrates the fans' admiration for this series.

14. Childhood Anime: Doraemon – The Robotic Cat From the Future 

• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
• Release Date: Year 1973
• Genre: Adventure, Comedy, and Family
• Duration: 1787 episodes
• Author: Fujiko F. Fujio

Doraemon is a Japanese animated series closely associated with the childhood of the 70s and 80s generation, produced in 1973. It can be said that the Doraemon anime has become a classic, becoming a cultural icon in Japan and many places around the world.

The story revolves around Nobita, a clumsy but kind-hearted and well-meaning boy who is often teased by his friends and faces many troubles in life. Nobita receives help from the intelligent robotic cat from the future, Doraemon. From then on, many interesting and humorous situations have occurred, bringing viewers many moral values and good qualities. Additionally, you will be amazed by the gadgets of Doraemon that appear in the film, which are the inspiration for many modern inventions such as phones, instant cameras, music players, GPS devices, and voice-to-text converters...

15. Dragon Ball – The Seven Dragon Balls

• Release Date: 1986
• Genre: Action, Adventure, and Comedy
• Duration: 291 episodes
• Director: Daisuke Nishio

Dragon Ball is a famous Japanese anime series that has won several awards such as the 'Best Animated Film Award' at Nikkan Sports, the 'Best Story Award' at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and the 'Most Innovative Vision Award' at the Tokyo Anime Awards. In addition, the film's revenue exceeds 100 million USD, a feat not every animated film can achieve.

The story revolves around the epic quest for the seven Dragon Balls by the strongest warriors in the universe. The intense battles, perilous encounters, and arduous journey of the main characters and their friends evoke various emotions in the audience. The film emphasizes the spirit of cooperation, love, and fighting for a common purpose.

16. Anime Series: Dr. STONE

• Release Date: 2019
• Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, and Action
• Duration: 26 episodes
• Director: Shinya Iino

Dr. STONE is an anime series adapted from the manga of the same name, produced by TMS Entertainment, a renowned anime studio in Japan. If you're a fan of the science fiction genre, then this series won't disappoint you.

The story follows the journey of the main character, Senku, and his friends as they strive to rescue humanity from being petrified. Watching the series, you'll gain insights into science through Senku's experiments and inventions to advance the world from the Stone Age to a sophisticated civilization. The diverse cast of characters, coupled with captivating visuals, is a major plus for Dr. STONE. While it may not reach masterpiece status yet, Dr. STONE has its own allure, making it worth watching and deserving of being one of Japan's anime gems.

17. Anime: That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime

• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
• Release Date: 2018 – Season 1, 2021 – Season 2, 2023 – Season 3
• Genre: Isekai, Fantasy
• Duration: 48 episodes (Season 1 and 2)
• Director: Kikuchi Yasuhito

The anime 'That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime' follows the story of a man named Satoru Mikami, who is murdered and subsequently reincarnated as a slime (a blue-colored slimy monster) in a new world. This new slime is named Rimuru Tempest.

Rimuru swiftly develops special powers in this world, such as the ability to absorb and transform objects, as well as communicate with different species. He strives to build an egalitarian and harmonious society for both humans and monsters in this world. Along his journey, Rimuru establishes his own kingdom and encounters many friends and formidable adversaries.

18. Anime: Inuyasha – The Feudal Fairy Tale

• Release Date: Year 2000
• Genre: Time Travel, Action, Romance
• Duration: 193 episodes
• Director: Ikeda Masashi (1-54), Aoki Yasunao (55-167)

'Inuyasha – The Feudal Fairy Tale' is an anime and manga series that tells the journey of Kagome Higurashi, a high school student, as she is pulled into a well of time and led to the Sengoku world. Here, she meets Inuyasha, a half-yōkai (demon) half-human, and they embark on an adventure to find the Shikon Jewel, a gem with the power to turn dreams into reality.

Throughout their journey, Kagome, Inuyasha, and their companions must face numerous challenges and adversaries, especially Naraku, the mysterious and cruel enemy. The story also intertwines the relationships between the characters, with the bond between Kagome and Inuyasha growing stronger.

19. Anime: Jujutsu Kaisen – Sorcery Fight

• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
• Release Date: Year 2020
• Genre: Action, Supernatural, Mystery, Martial Arts
• Duration: 24 episodes (24 minutes/episode)
• Director: Sunghoo Park

'Jujutsu Kaisen' is an anime about Yuji Itadori, a high school student who accidentally discovers a cursed object. After opening the box, curses are released, and the world must confront the dark forces.

Later, Yuji joins the Jujutsu Tech organization, a group fighting against curses and monsters. Alongside his companions, Megumi Fushiguro and Nobara Kugisaki, they engage in battles with curses and search for the fingers of the demon king, Sukuna Ryomen.

20. Horror Anime: Another

• Release Date: Year 2012
• Genre: Horror, Mystery, School Psychological Thriller
• Duration: 12 episodes (24 minutes/episode)
• Director: Tsutomu Mizushima

'Another' is a horror and mystery anime about a bizarre curse occurring at a high school called Yomiyama. The story focuses on a transfer student named Kouichi Sakakibara, who discovers that his class is affected by a mysterious curse. Students in Class 3-3 have a classmate named Mei Misaki, but anyone who tries to meet Mei meets with accidents or dies in strange ways. Kouichi decides to investigate to solve the mystery and stop the chilling spread.

The tale unveils horrifying secrets, blending horror with mystery. 'Another' overpowers viewers with tension, suspense, and chilling events. Renowned for its meticulous creation of a dark ambiance, the film keeps secrets until its conclusion.

21. Anime: Am I Really The Strongest?

• Release Date: Year 2023
• Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Isekai
• Duration: 12 episodes
• Director: Shin Oonuma

This stands among the recent Isekai anime releases. It follows Haruto, a 20-year-old youth transported to another world where magic reigns supreme. However, due to glitches in magic power measurement, despite his superior strength, Haruto is deemed useless and abandoned by his parents at birth. Later, a noble family adopts him, renaming him Hart Zenfis. His magical prowess grows daily, but he wishes only to conceal it for a peaceful life, utilizing his immensely powerful magic solely to safeguard family and friends.

In a world where supernatural abilities reign supreme, the protagonist finds themselves utterly inadequate. Yet, through uncovering their true hidden power, they evolve into a true hero, battling dark forces and safeguarding the world from destruction. The series delivers a message of self-belief and exploration of the boundless potential we can achieve.

22. Anime: Avatar: The Last Airbender

• Release Date: Year 2008
• Genre: Action, Adventure, Mythological Fusion
• Duration: 61 episodes (22 minutes/episode)
• Directors: Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko

'Avatar: The Last Airbender' is an anime series depicting a complex world divided into four nations, each harnessing the power of one of the four elements: Water, Fire, Earth, and Air. Aang, an Airbender boy (capable of controlling air), is prophesied to be the Avatar, the only one who can master all four elements and bring balance to the world.

Aang's journey, alongside friends Katara and Sokka, is to learn to control the elements, confront the tyrannical Fire Nation, and prevent global war. Along the way, they encounter numerous allies and adversaries, facing various challenges and experiencing personal growth. The series conveys messages of peace, respect, and unity, with a complex storyline, rich characters, and stunning visuals.

23. Anime: All In One – The Strongest Sage with the Weakest Crest

• Release Date: Year 2008
• Genre: Action, Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
• Duration: 12 episodes (22 minutes/episode)
• Directors: Nagayama Nobuyoshi, Shibuya Ryousuke

'The Strongest Sage with the Weakest Crest' is an anime about Ryoma Takebayashi, an average middle-aged man from the modern world, suddenly reincarnated into another world with magical abilities. However, his magical power is incredibly weak, only able to control earth and stone.

Embarking on his journey, Ryoma utilizes knowledge from his previous world to create innovative magic. He opens a pet shop and finds support from others. The series revolves around Ryoma's adventure to become the strongest with his peculiar abilities. It's an anime combining humor, action, and magic in a world blending modernity and sorcery.

24. Anime: Your Lie In April – Tháng Tư Là Lời Nói Dối Của Em

• IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
• Release Date: Year 2016
• Genre: Music, Romance
• Duration: 22 episodes
• Director: Ishiguro Kyohei

'Your Lie in April' (Japanese: 'Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso') is an anime series about the story of Kousei Arima, a young piano prodigy stifled by a painful past. After meeting and befriending Miyazono Kaori, a spirited violinist, Kousei's life begins to change.

Kaori encourages Kousei to re-enter the world of music and helps him rediscover joy in music. They participate in music competitions and deliver emotionally charged performances. However, alongside the joy, the story also portrays their struggles with illness. Love and music bind these two individuals, awakening emotions and exploring the significance of life.

25. Anime: The Speciality of the Divine

• Release Date: Year 2019
• Genre: Mystery, Adventure, and Action
• Duration: 12 episodes (22 minutes/episode)
• Director: Takao Abo

'The Speciality of the Divine' (The Rising of the Shield Hero) is an anime series revolving around Naofumi Iwatani. He is an ordinary college student suddenly summoned into a parallel world along with three others, each representing a mystical object: sword, bow, and shield.

Naofumi assumes the role of the bearer of 'The Shield,' considered the weakest among the four objects. He is ostracized and looked down upon, forced to fight alone to protect the world from enemies. Along his journey, Naofumi finds companions in Raphtalia, a girl named Filo, and begins to explore the special powers and fight against the corrupt system of this world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anime

Above are the top 25 Japanese Anime series you shouldn't miss. These films not only offer entertainment but also impart valuable moral lessons. Choose and watch your favorite episode now, wish you relaxing moments with the series. And don't forget to follow other useful articles on the Mytour blog.