Anime allows imaginative freedom to portray love stories in unique visual splendor. Let's explore the finest romantic anime films that have touched the hearts of audiences worldwide. From sentimental school crushes to tragedy-defying romance, these beautifully animated tales of relationships, connections and emotions will speak to your soul.
Top 30+ Best Anime Romantic Movies
Before going into details of each anime love story movie separately, we have compiled a list of all the top 35 best romantic movies anime in the following table. You can jump to any song details by clicking its name from the following table.
| Sr. No. | Movie Name (Year) | IMDb Rating |
| 1 | 7.7 | |
| 2 | 5.5 | |
| 3 | 8.0 | |
| 4 | 6.8 | |
| 5 | 6.7 | |
| 6 | 6.8 | |
| 7 | 7.6 | |
| 8 | 6.9 | |
| 9 | 7.8 | |
| 10 | 6.4 | |
| 11 | 7.3 | |
| 12 | 7.1 | |
| 13 | 7.5 | |
| 14 | 8.4 | |
| 15 | 7.9 | |
| 16 | 7.3 | |
| 17 | 7.4 | |
| 18 | 7.8 | |
| 19 | 8.2 | |
| 20 | 8.0 | |
| 21 | 8.0 | |
| 22 | 8.4 | |
| 23 | 7.5 | |
| 24 | 7.6 | |
| 25 | 8.2 | |
| 26 | 7.8 | |
| 27 | 7.4 | |
| 28 | 7.4 | |
| 29 | 7.8 | |
| 30 | 7.5 | |
| 31 | 7.6 | |
| 32 | 7.2 | |
| 33 | 8.0 | |
| 34 | 7.5 | |
| 35 | 8.1 |
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1 - Suzume (2022)
- Main Cast: Nanoka Hara (Suzume), Hokuto Matsumura (Suzume's mother), Shun Oguri (Suzume's father)
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Release date: November 11, 2022
- Run Time: 116 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Revenue: $58 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: In theaters
Suzume follows a 17-year-old girl who must travel across Japan closing doors that are causing supernatural events. As she journeys, she encounters a mysterious young man who gives her a reason to keep moving forward. Director Makoto Shinkai delivers a poignant coming-of-age tale with stunning animation bringing Japanese scenery to life. The story balances small-town warmth with supernatural spectacle as Suzume crosses rural heartlands and abandoned cities on her quest.
Voice actress Nanoka Hara imbues Suzume with sincerity while dealing with fantastical events. The eventual bond between Suzume and the mysterious young man provides the heart of the film, suggesting hope can be found in connections between strangers. Their supernatural chemistry leads to love transcending hardships. Suzume continues Makoto Shinkai's track record of beautifully animated, emotionally resonant fantasy films centered on thoughtful coming-of-age stories.
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2 - Fireworks (2017)
- Main Cast: Suzu Hirose (Nazuna), Masaki Suda (Norimichi)
- Director: Akiyuki ShinbÅ
- Release date: August 18, 2017
- Run Time: 90 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 5.5
- Revenue: $3.2 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
The anime romance drama Fireworks follows teenagers Nazuna and Norimichi who run away together hoping to escape their painful lives, but things do not go as planned. Based on Shunji Iwai's live-action film Hana-Bi, Fireworks retains the bittersweet tone and melancholy of the original. Director Akiyuki ShinbÅ brings the anime adaptation to life through inventive nonlinear storytelling and stylish animation. The film frequently shifts between different timelines and possibilities as Nazuna and Norimichi repeat their runaway attempt in different ways.
These looping resets augment the themes of regret and seeking second chances. Stunning animation illustrates the fireworks itself in vivid detail against the night sky, complementing the explosive, short-lived emotions of adolescence. With dazzling visual artistry and a wistful tone, Fireworks delivers a poignant adolescent story of breaking free of troubled homes and pursuing fleeting connections.
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3 - Toradora! (2008&2009)
- Main Cast: Eri Kitamura (Aisaka Taiga), Yui Horie (Kawashima Ami), Yūko Kaida (Kushieda Minori), Ryūji Kaji (Ryūji Takasu)
- Director: Tatsuyuki Nagai
- Release date: October 1, 2008 – March 25, 2009
- Run Time: 25 episodes x 24 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Considered one of the finest romantic comedy anime series, Toradora! is beloved for its quirky characters, unpredictable plotting, and ultimately touching emotional story. It follows high schoolers Ryūji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka, who appear threatening but are actually kind-hearted once befriended. Deciding to help each other pursue their crushes, friendship and eventually affection spark between Ryūji and the fierce Taiga. Memorable side characters like the scheming Ami and lonely Minori round out the main cast.
Balance is crucial to Toradora! - between silly antics and teenage uncertainty, slowly developing romance and sudden twists. The series succeeds by committing to the characters' relatable emotional journeys. Toradora! indulges anime tropes playfully, but never loses sight of its character drama roots. Ryūji and Taiga's unfinished emotional arcs compel viewers to their bittersweet finale, cementing the anime's enduring popularity.
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4 - Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop (2020)
- Main Cast: Lynn (Yui Ogura), Cherry (Kana Hanazawa)
- Director: Kyohei Ishiguro
- Release date: May 22, 2020
- Run Time: 90 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Revenue: $1.3 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Netflix
The expressive anime film Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop conveys the unlikely connection between two shy adolescents through minimalist storytelling and metaphorical visuals. 17-year-old Cherry enjoys haiku poetry in his free time but struggles to communicate this openly. When Cherry and energetic classmate Smile meet at work, sparks alight between the seeming opposites. Animated sequences portray their inner voices and anxieties through wild imagery.
The concise script allows the charming leads' connection to develop with nuance, as their slow opening up over songs reveals endearing emotional gaps and insecurities beneath the surface impressions. Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop packages intimate character drama in playful, inventive animation. Its tasteful surreal flourishes and brevity convey the butterflies of young courtship in touching fashion.
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5 - A Whisker Away (2020)
- Main Cast: Mirai Shida (Miyo Muge Sasaki), Natsuki Hanae (Hinode)
- Director: Jun'ichi SatÅ, Tomotaka Shibayama
- Release date: June 18, 2020
- Run Time: 104 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 6.7
- Revenue: $4.2 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Netflix
The fantasy anime romance A Whisker Away captures the confusing emotions of middle school crushes through the metaphor of a girl temporarily transforming into a cat to be near her crush. Whimsical junior high student Miyo pseudonymously adopts many neighborhood cats to fill a lonely void. But her new classmate Hinode captures her heart. After obtaining a magic mask enabling her to become a cat, Miyo pursues Hinode while disguised as his pet.
Vibrant, stylized animation illustrates Miyo and Hinode's everyday lives, alternating between routine struggles and picturesque fantasy when Miyo enters the magical cat realm. Unfolding from Miyo's perspective, her furry tail pursuit of Hinode toes the line between romantic and unsettling. But the directors treat adolescent feelings seriously through the fantastical lens. A Whisker Away balances lighthearted moments with introspective themes regarding loneliness and identity.
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6 - Ride Your Wave (2019)
- Main Cast: Rina Kawaei (Hinako Mukaimizu), Ryôta Katayose (Minato Hinageshi), Kentaro Ito (Wasabi)
- Director: Masaaki Yuasa
- Release date: June 21, 2019
- Run Time: 95 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Revenue: $207.26K
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
The emotional romance anime movie Ride Your Wave explores love and grief through the story of college student Hinako and her passionate surfer boyfriend Minato, who dies unexpectedly. But when Hinako sings their favorite song, she magically reconnects with Minato through water. Animated with vibrant ocean visuals, it follows their supernatural romance as the couple struggles to let go. Voice actors Rina Kawaei and Ryôta Katayose capture the leads' chemistry and heartache.
Director Masaaki Yuasa highlights their small joys like beach visits and baths together through imaginative fantasy segments. While bittersweet, Ride Your Wave pays tribute to love transcending mortal bonds. The fantasy elements emphasize emotion over plot. Ride Your Wave captures loss through lyrical animation and grounded character drama for a unique anime romance.
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7 - Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (2020)
- Main Cast: Kaya Kiyohara (Josée), Taishi Nakagawa (Tsuneo), Chizuru Ikewaki (Kumiko)
- Director: Kotaro Tamura
- Release date: December 25, 2020
- Run Time: 99 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Revenue: $2.9 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Based on the novel by Seiko Tanabe, Josee, the Tiger and the Fish tells an emotional story of the relationship between Tsuneo and Josee, a disabled girl abandoned by her anonymous father. One day, Tsuneo encounters Josee's grandmother asking him to take Josee out of the house for a date. Though reluctant, Tsuneo is moved by Josee's spirit and sharp wit, gradually opening up his isolated heart to her.
They share experiences like painting fireworks and going to the aquarium, where Josee feels connected to the fish. But living in separate worlds may make their romance impossible. Nuanced acting performances bring empathy to the leads, with beautiful animation realizing Josee's vivid imagination and longing for the outside world beyond her wheelchair. Their relationship develops touching emotional honesty. Josee, the Tiger and the Fish presents disability and romance with realistic depth.
8 - The Place Promised in Our Early Days (2004)
- Main Cast: Hidetaka Yoshioka (Hiroki Fujisawa), Masato Hagiwara (Takuya Shirakawa), Yuka Nanri (Sayuri Sawatari)
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Release date: November 27, 2004
- Run Time: 91 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Revenue: $147.75K
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
The Place Promised in Our Early Days is a coming-of-age sci-fi romance anime film by acclaimed director Makoto Shinkai about two childhood friends striving to reconnect with their missing friend in a parallel universe with geopolitical tensions. Set in an alternate 1990s Japan divided between the Soviet-controlled North and US-aligned South, young students Hiroki and Takuya vow to build an aircraft that can enter the mysterious tower erected in Hokkaido that leads to another dimension. But their friend Sayuri disappears into the tower's light.
As adults, Hiroki works to fulfill their promise, seeking Sayuri while resisting militarization. Shinkai's trademark atmospheric animation visualizes escapism and loss amidst adolescent transitions. Scientific fantasy meshes with nostalgia for youth and idealism not yet eroded by adulthood. An introspective anti-war film, The Place Promised in Our Early Days explores interdimensional and interpersonal connections.
9 - Doukyusei: Classmates (2016)
- Main Cast: Tasuku Hatanaka (Hikaru Kusakabe), Toshiyuki Toyonaga (Rihito Sajo)
- Director: Shoko Nakamura
- Release date: February 20, 2016
- Run Time: 60 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Revenue: $66.32K
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, VRV, HiDive
Doukyusei: Classmates is a shounen-ai romance anime film focusing on budding feelings between modest music student Rihito and popular chorus club singer Hikaru. Though from different social circles, the boys bond through music practice sessions after school. As Rihito supports the outgoing Hikaru's singing, their friendship slowly grows into bashful attraction neither can define. On a rainy day when they must share an umbrella, intimacy finally blooms.
But openly dating challenges norms at school and home. Subtle voice acting and realistic dialogue convey the confusion of first love between the endearing characters. Careful direction devoted to small gestures and glances builds natural romantic tension. While touching on social pressures, Doukyusei ultimately celebrates innocent connection in adolescence with sensitivity. Its harmonious mix of music and romance struck a chord with fans.
10 - I've Always Liked You (2016)
- Main Cast: Natsuki Hanae (Yusuke Nakamura), Sara Takatsuki (An Onoya)
- Director: Tetsuya Yanagisawa
- Release date: April 16, 2016
- Run Time: 68 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Revenue: $166.5K
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, VRV, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
I've Always Liked You is part of the HoneyWorks anime movie series, focusing on childhood friends and musicians Yusuke and An who wrestle with love and ambition as high school students. Yusuke has long nursed a crush on An, who dreams of pursuing music in college. When An starts dating another guy, Yusuke faces his feelings for her just as their band hopes to perform live. As the friends find success sharing their music, Yusuke gradually admits his affection for An through small acts and encouragement, believing in their futures.
Low-key animation complements the realistic progression of the pair's relationship amidst individual aspirations. Rather than dramatic cliches, I've Always Liked You portrays adolescent romance with genuineness. Yusuke and An navigate awkwardness to define their changing connection on their own terms.
11 - Patema Inverted (2013)
- Main Cast: Yukiyo Fujii (Patema), Nobuhiko Okamoto (Age)
- Director: Yasuhiro Yoshiura
- Release date: November 9, 2013
- Run Time: 99 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Revenue: $1.3 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Tubi, Apple TV
A dystopian romantic anime film, Patema Inverted is about two youth from segregated societies meeting and discovering an inverted gravity that lets them cling to ceilings. Princess Patema lives underground, believing those on the surface will fall into the sky. When she accidentally ventures up and encounters student Age, their opposing gravities create impossible romance.
They must uncover the truth behind their divided worlds rejecting their love. Captivating visuals realize the gravity shifting as Patema and Age explore each others' realms. Fantasy elements enrich the Romeo-and-Juliet inspired story of forbidden connection. Patema Inverted examines societal barriers and prejudice through imaginative animation and a spirited cross-gravity relationship.
12 - The Princess and the Pilot (2011)
- Main Cast: Maaya Sakamoto (Princess Favin), Yoshimasa Hosoya (Charles Karino)
- Director: Jun Shishido
- Release date: October 1, 2011
- Run Time: 112 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Revenue: $1.7 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hoopla
The Princess and the Pilot is set in a fictional South American country embroiled in war, where pilot Charles Karino is tasked with transporting Princess Favia Safita Yendoya through perilous airspace to neutral territory for an arranged marriage. Anxious Favia's royal distance frustrates Charles, who narrowly maneuvers past aerial gunfights. But when they crash-land in the mountains, their survival depends on teamwork and rediscovering trust.
As they flee through the exotic environment, the princess and pilot ultimately forge an unbreakable bond transcending duty or background. Vibrant aerial action scenes amplify the high-flying escapism. But grounded character drama builds salient stakes that make the climactic flight together moving. Though briefly told, The Princess and the Pilot captures emotional growth through adversity with operatic sweep.
13 - The Night is Short, Walk on Girl (2017)
- Main Cast: Kana Hanazawa (The Girl), Gen Hoshino (The Boy)
- Director: Masaaki Yuasa
- Release date: April 7, 2017
- Run Time: 93 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Revenue: $274.33K
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
The Night is Short, Walk on Girl is a surreal coming-of-age tale recounting one alcohol-fueled night in the life of an earnest young woman known only as The Girl. After casually conversing with an enigmatic senior student called The Boy, The Girl plunges into an epic adventure across the dazzling nighttime environs of Kyoto that takes her on a journey of self-discovery. She encounters eclectic characters, mimes, and imaginary constructs as she chases a charmingly elusive friend through bookstores, bars, guerrilla theater, and beyond in a bacchanal blur.
Director Masaaki Yuasa employs inventive psychedelic animation influenced by avant-garde stage techniques. Digressions and fantasies abound, but emotional resonance centers the chaos. The Girl's quest speaks to youthful dreams, living authentically, and persisting determination.
14 - Kaguya-sama: Love is War (2019)
- Main Cast: Makoto Furukawa (Miyuki Shirogane), Konomi Kohara (Chika Fujiwara), RyÅta Suzuki (YÅ« Ishigami)
- Director: Mamoru Hatakeyama
- Release date: September 6, 2019
- Run Time: 120 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.4
- Revenue: $3.5 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu, Funimation
Kaguya-sama: Love is War is a popular romantic comedy movie recounting the fan favorite first season of the anime series, following two brilliant high schoolers determined to make the other confess love first. Regal Kaguya Shinomiya and studious Miyuki Shirogane lead the prestigious Shuchiin Academy's student council, concealing mutual attraction beneath their composed exteriors. What unfolds is an endlessly escalating psychological battle of wits and egos, involving intricate schemes to force the rival into a tearful love confession.
Played for laughs, the film amplifies their ostentatious mind games and repressed feelings for satirical effect. But sincere affection shines through the stubborn façades. With gorgeous animation, meta humor, and overdramatic rapport between the obstinate leads, Kaguya-sama captures romantic tension in all its hilarious absurdity.
15 - Millennium Actress (2002)
- Main Cast: Miyoko ShÅji (Chiyoko Fujiwara), Mami Koyama (Young Chiyoko), Fumiko Orikasa (Teenage Chiyoko)
- Director: Satoshi Kon
- Release date: September 14, 2002
- Run Time: 87 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.9
- Revenue: $1 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
Satoshi Kon's groundbreaking anime film Millennium Actress poignantly interweaves past and present, cinema and reality, through the life of legendary actress Chiyoko Fujiwara. When documentarian Genya Tachibana interviews the reclusive Chiyoko about her storied career from Japan's militarist 1930s through modern times, she recounts her films as if physically reliving her roles in layered flashbacks.
History and personal memories entwine with movie scenes as Chiyoko describes her lifelong devotion to a dissident artist and the films that defined her. Kon's visionary editing and illusionist perspectives pay tribute to the consuming passion of art while revealing Chiyoko's inner longing. Millennium Actress is an unconventional triumph merging artistic purpose and unfulfilled love into a collage of beauty, memory, and time.
16 - Voices of a Distant Star (2002)
- Main Cast: Sanae Kobayashi (Mikako Nagamine), Hideaki Anno (Noboru Terao)
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Release date: February 2, 2002
- Run Time: 25 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Blu-Ray, DVD
Voices of a Distant Star is an influential early 25-minute short work of acclaimed director Makoto Shinkai depicting mecha pilots Mikako Nagamine and Noboru Terao sending wistful text messages across space-time. When an alien invasion threatens humanity, student Mikako fights as a Tracer pilot light years from home where time passes slower due to relativistic space travel.
The only link left with her friend turned lover Noboru is brief, intermittent cell phone messages they relay across the widening gulf. Their restrained yet emotional exchanges convey the pain of growing apart when minutes feel like years. With gentle romance and gorgeous cosmic animation, Shinkai crafts an intimate story of longing and separation. This debut established his trademark visual style and sci-fi themes of youthful relationships overcome by vast distances.
17 - Tamako Love Story (2014)
- Main Cast: Aya Suzaki (Tamako Kitashirakawa), Toshiko Fujita (MochizÅ Ooji)
- Director: Naoko Yamada
- Release date: April 26, 2014
- Run Time: 83 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Revenue: $1.3 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Blu-Ray, DVD
A coming-of-age anime film wrapping up the Tamako Market series, Tamako Love Story follows mochi rice cake shop owner's daughter Tamako and her sweet but silent childhood friend MochizÅ as they navigate first love and their futures after high school. Too shy to confess, MochizÅ plans to study filmmaking far away from their hometown. But as Tamako joins a birdwatching club, she realizes her true feelings for humble MochizÅ and their uncertain parting ahead.
From Valentine's gifts to stolen glances, director Naoko Yamada delicately portrays the duo tip-toeing into mutual romance. Every subtle sentiment resonates through Yamada's naturalistic style. Tamako Love Story captures the bittersweet innocence of young romance with grace. Despite hard goodbyes, it suggests bonds of affection endure across distance.
18 - Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light (2011)
- Main Cast: Ayane Sakura (Hotaru Takegawa), Miyu Irino (Gin)
- Director: Takahiro Omori
- Release date: July 16, 2011
- Run Time: 45 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, VRV, HiDive
Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light is a hauntingly romantic 45-minute anime film about a six-year-old girl named Hotaru who gets lost in a forest where the ghosts of children reside. Encountering a masked ghost named Gin, they become friends but cannot touch. As the years pass, their promise keeps them returning to each other at the forest.
But as Hotaru ages nearer to adulthood, she realizes the sad truth that they came from different worlds. Fantastic elements amplify the innocent connection between outcast kids. Though their time is short, the forest magic lets them meet between realms. Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light portrays gentle love persisting beyond life's impermanence through fantastical storytelling.
19 - Howl's Moving Castle (2005)
- Main Cast: Chieko Baisho (Sophie), Takuya Kimura (Howl), Akihiro Miwa (Witch of the Waste)
- Director: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release date: November 20, 2004
- Run Time: 119 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.2
- Revenue: $235 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
Hayao Miyazaki's fantasy anime epic Howl's Moving Castle combines wizardry, whimsy and romance in a tale perfect for all ages. Sophie, an unassuming village hatter, has her youth and beauty stolen by the jealous Witch of the Waste. Seeking to break this curse, she finds refuge in the legged mobile castle of vain, charming wizard Howl who avoids commitment. Howl and Sophie grow closer as his magical haven shelters war refugees.
But binding secrets threaten their hope. Diana Wynyard and Christian Bale voice spirited Sophie and mercurial Howl with pathos. Miyazaki's rich visual imagination realizes Howl's steampunk castle and the magical kingdoms afoot with wonder. Howl's Moving Castle remains an imaginative fantasy on love's liberating power.
20 - I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (2018)
- Main Cast: Mahiro Takasugi (Haruki), Lynn (Sakura Yamauchi)
- Director: Shin'ichirô Ushijima
- Release date: September 1, 2018
- Run Time: 108 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Revenue: $900,473
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
I Want to Eat Your Pancreas is a poignant teenage romance drama exploring life, death, and cherishing the time we have. Stoic high schooler Haruki happens upon the diary of terminally ill, bubbly classmate Sakura. To repay him for uncovering her secret pancreatic illness, Sakura insists they spend her final months together living life to the fullest. Though initially put off by her forwardness, Haruki comes to appreciate Sakura's lust for life and desire to connect before time runs out.
Hand-drawn visual flourishes realize Sakura's fantasies. But the true emotional weight stems from the earnest characters speaking plainly about mortality. Their tragic inevitable farewell makes small moments together all the more precious. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas looks death in the eyes and celebrates living with those you love.
21 - Whisper of the Heart (1995)
- Main Cast: Yoko Honna (Shizuku Tsukishima), Issei Takahashi (Seiji Amasawa)
- Director: Yoshifumi KondÅ
- Release date: July 15, 1995
- Run Time: 111 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Revenue: $18 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
Studio Ghibli's anime gem Whisper of the Heart follows inquisitive Shizuku, who curiously follows the name Seiji Amasawa marked in library books, leading her to a boy with shared artistic passion. Entranced by Seiji's ambition and talent crafting violins, Shizuku resolves to pen her own novel before he leaves to study abroad.
Expanding from manga, director Yoshifumi KondÅ crafts a patient coming-of-age story, scoring Shizuku's changing outlook and feelings with emotional delicacy. John Denver's Country Roads recurs like a wistful anthem throughout. While gently paced, moments where Seiji plays violin for Shizuku resound with poetic romance. Whisper of the Heart remains an inspirational masterwork from Studio Ghibli about young love and chasing creativity.
22 - Your Name (2016)
- Main Cast: Ryunosuke Kamiki (Taki), Mone Kamishiraishi (Mitsuha)
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Release date: August 26, 2016
- Run Time: 107 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.4
- Revenue: $357 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu
Makoto Shinkai's runaway fantasy hit Your Name follows city boy Taki and rural girl Mitsuha, two teenagers mysteriously swapping bodies on random days. As their uncanny connection forces them to live alternate realities, they become invested in each other's lives and building a relationship. When a comet threatens Mitsuha's town, the pair race to meet and save its residents.
But a time-bending twist threatens their reunion. Vibrantly detailed animation contrasts Mitsuha's nostalgic hometown and Tokyo's kinetic modernity. The body-swap comedy gives way to metaphysical drama. Your Name ultimately explores the invisible threads between all people. Resonating hugely beyond the otaku niche, it became Japan's highest grossing film ever, cementing Shinkai as the anime's new master.
23 - The Garden of Words (2013)
- Main Cast: Miyu Irino (Takao), Kana Hanazawa (Yukino)
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Release date: May 31, 2013
- Run Time: 46 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Revenue: $230,210
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu
The Garden of Words is an unconventional 45-minute romantic drama from acclaimed director Makoto Shinkai focused on the relationship between Takao, a 15-year-old aspiring shoemaker, and Yukari, a mysterious older woman who skips work to drink and read in the Shinjuku Gyoen gardens during tranquil mornings. They form a bond through quiet companionship and sharing woes - Yukari's career isolation, Takao's being bullied.
As rainy season passes, their gardens encounters lead to courage to change their lives, however briefly intersecting. Shinkai's detail-oriented animation of rain, light, and nature complement this nuanced coming-of-age story grappling with purpose and human connection. The Garden of Words finds profundity in stillness. Its grounded leads and patient pacing make their subtle spiritual awakening together all the more affecting.
24 - 5 Centimeters per Second (2007)
- Main Cast: Kenji Mizuhashi (Takaki TÅno), Yoshimi KondÅ (Akari Shinohara)
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Release date: March 3, 2007
- Run Time: 63 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Revenue: $1.3 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
5 Centimeters Per Second is an atmospheric anime film directed by Makoto Shinkai following two childhood friends divided as their lives diverge into loneliness and failed loves. The story glimpses key moments in Takaki and Akari's relationship, from exchanged letters in the 1990s to a brief reunion in their 20s. The intervening years apart erode their closeness, though Takaki holds onto memories while taking a train to see Akari.
Gentle direction and contemplative voiceovers capture their growing disconnect as they journey separately into adulthood. Rhythmic trains underscore the passage of time driving them apart. Shinkai employs piercing imagery like cherry blossoms blowing in wind to reflect on transience. An emotional tone poem about accepting the fragility of first love, 5 Centimeters Per Second lingers with melancholy power.
25 - A Silent Voice (2016)
- Main Cast: Miyu Irino (Shoya Ishida), Saori Hayami (Shoko Nishimiya)
- Director: Naoko Yamada
- Release date: September 17, 2016
- Run Time: 130 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.2
- Revenue: $32 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Netflix
A Silent Voice is a poignant anime teen drama film grappling with redemption and forgiveness. Protagonist Shoya was a bully in elementary school, leading to his classmate Shoko, deaf from birth, leaving school. Alienated from peers, teenage Shoya regrets tormenting kind Shoko. He sets out determined to make amends, first learning sign language and then reconnecting with Shoko to rekindle a sincere friendship.
Through patience and compassion, Shoya works to heal deep wounds between them. Director Naoko Yamada sensitively handles themes of guilt, social stigma, suicide, and young romance with grace. Beautiful animation and locations capture their halting reunion. Rather than easy answers, A Silent Voice portrays why seeking connection again after harm matters most.
26 - The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)
- Main Cast: Riisa Naka (Makoto Konno), Mitsutaka Itakura (Chiaki Mamiya), Ayami Kakiuchi (Kazuko Yoshiyama)
- Director: Mamoru Hosoda
- Release date: July 15, 2006
- Run Time: 98 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Revenue: $18 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Apple TV
A quintessential anime sci-fi romance, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time follows ordinary teenager Makoto gaining the power to time leap and repeat parts of her day, hoping to change past regrets and redo lost opportunities. But she soon learns through failed experiments that altering fate and dodging consequences has a cost. The time travel metaphor complements Makoto's adolescent exploration of identity, confidence, and responsibility.
Director Mamoru Hosoda's lively animation and emotional voice acting make Makoto sympathetic and grounded. The story builds bittersweet life lessons around her supernatural time leaps. Makoto must accept transience and inevitability to evolve. Scholarly, funny and touching, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time captured hearts through relatable characters and fantasy.
27 - From Up on Poppy Hill (2013)
- Main Cast: Masami Nagasawa (Umi Matsuzaki), Junichi Okada (Shun Kazama)
- Director: Goro Miyazaki
- Release date: July 16, 2011
- Run Time: 91 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Revenue: $61 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu
Set in 1960s Japan, the historical anime drama From Up on Poppy Hill follows Umi Matsuzaki, a mature high schooler shouldering household burdens, and Shun Kazama, a writer for the school paper aiming to save a dilapidated clubhouse from demolition. They bond while Umi helps Shun organize protest efforts, in turn inspiring Umi's self-realization. Director Goro Miyazaki, son of Hayao Miyazaki, infuses the film with touching nuance and period details capturing fleeting adolescent days on the cusp of modernization.
As Umi finds her voice, From Up on Poppy Hill affectionately illustrates the tides of social change nurturing youth. Subtle character animation and warm backgrounds surrounding Poppy Hill create a wistful atmosphere. The story sincerely affirms simplicity and freedom make life meaningful.
28 - The Anthem of the Heart (2015)
- Main Cast: Yoshimasa Hosoya (Takumi Sakagami), Natsuki Hanae (Jun Naruse)
- Director: Tatsuyuki Nagai
- Release date: September 19, 2015
- Run Time: 120 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Revenue: $1.7 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Viewster
The Anthem of the Heart is a sensitive anime film following Jun Naruse, a girl incapable of speaking honestly after yelling hurtfully as a child. She observes life silently until invited to join a musical alongside kind classmate Daiki. As Jun opens her heart through songwriting with new friends, she discovers the lost voice of compassion.
Director Tatsuyuki Nagai tenderly builds Jun's gradual awakening via acts of empathy for fellow cast members struggling with loneliness, loss, and perfectionism. Jun's own sheltered interiority finds healthy expression. The Anthem of the Heart progresses through thoughtful character vignettes connected by harmonious themes of understanding oneself and others. Its empathetic renderings of social anxieties make Jun's musical journey to confidence inspiring.
29 - The Wind Rises (2014)
- Main Cast: Hideaki Anno (JirÅ Horikoshi), Miori Takimoto (Naoko Satomi), Hidetoshi Nishijima (HonjÅ), Masahiko Nishimura (Kurokawa), Stephen Alpert (Castorp), Morio Kazama (Satomi)
- Director: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release date: July 20, 2013
- Run Time: 126 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Revenue: $136.5 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
The Wind Rises is Studio Ghibli's final film, an emotionally nuanced biopic of WWII Japanese airplane engineer Jiro Horikoshi directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. Far-sighted dreamer Jiro imagines aviation's glorious future while grappling with his craft's destruction during war. He pursues pure engineering ideals despite growing militarism, while also longing after woman Naoko suffering tuberculosis.
Miyazaki conveys intertwining national and personal tumult with subtle details of aircraft and touching strains of opera. Real-life married couple Hideaki Anno and Miori Takimoto voice Jiro and Naoko with melancholy chemistry as their lofty love contends with death and reality's decay. At once lyrical ode and lament, The Wind Rises captures art's strive against history's tragic crosswinds.
30 - Summer Wars (2010)
- Main Cast: Michael Sinterniklaas (Kenji Koiso), Brina Palencia (Natsuki Shinohara)
- Director: Mamoru Hosoda
- Release date: August 1, 2009
- Run Time: 114 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Revenue: $1.7 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Funimation
The sci-fi anime film Summer Wars combines family drama with technological thriller as timid math prodigy Kenji accidentally unleashes an A.I. called Love Machine bent on causing worldwide chaos, during a summer trip to girlfriend Natsuki's family estate. With the A.I. hijacking infrastructure to rupture systems, Kenji races to stop its attacks. But connecting with Natsuki's relatives also builds his confidence.
Director Mamoru Hosoda crafts energetic setpieces as Kenji's math brilliance helps combat the digital threat. Domestic scenes root the film's heart through Natsuki's outsider grandmother. Summer Wars merges virtual reality's dangers with the strength of community in an exciting but thoughtful portrait of our wired future.
31 - Only Yesterday (1991)
- Main Cast: Yoko Honna (Taeko Okajima), Miki Imai (Young Taeko Okajima), ToshirÅ Yanagiba (Toshio Okajima), Yuriko Ishida (Naoko Okajima)
- Director: Isao Takahata
- Release date: July 20, 1991
- Run Time: 118 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Revenue: $2.2 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
Only Yesterday is an introspective coming-of-age anime film co-written by Hayao Miyazaki following 27-year-old Taeko taking a rural vacation, where memories of her youth in 1966 resurface, reminding her of innocent romance and the paths not chosen. As the parallel stories interweave, adult Taeko confronts the gap between her youthful hopes and modern restlessness.
Director Isao Takahata realized Only Yesterday with minimalist beauty, allowing emotion to emerge from details of everyday life and rural scenery. The concluding sunflower field where past and present intersect remains one of anime's most gorgeous scenes. Only Yesterday's mix of nostalgia and adult reckoning resonates across generations. Though quietly told, its wisdom about accepting growth lingers.
32 - The Cat Returns (2002)
- Main Cast: Chizuru Ikewaki (Haru), Yoshihiko Hakamada (Baron Humbert von Gikkingen), Tetsu Watanabe (Muta)
- Director: Hiroyuki Morita
- Release date: July 20, 2002
- Run Time: 75 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Revenue: $30 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu
The Cat Returns is a whimsical Ghibli fantasy about shy schoolgirl Haru who is whisked away to a magical kingdom after saving a cat prince, where she befriends dapper cat statuette Baron who helps her escape becoming the Cat King's bride. Haru's ordinary life becomes upended by the realm of talking felines. But Baron guides her on an adventure to the Cat Bureau office that opens Haru's eyes to her own self-doubt. Dreams and reality intermix in Haru's quest to return home, emphasized through the detailed cat city's fantastical stone bridges and buildings.
Director Hiroyuki Morita brings wit and adventure adapting this manga spin-off. While initially timid, Haru's defiant insistence on writing her own story inspires. The Baron character created by Aoi Hiiragi exudes gentlemanly charm. Together with the rotund Muta, their comedic interplay evokes classic movie detectives. Populated by eccentric cats and overturning assumptions, The Cat Returns captures Studio Ghibli's signature blend of fantasy, humor, and coming-of-age spirit with imagination to spare.
33 - Castle in the Sky (1986)
- Main Cast: Mayumi Tanaka (Princess Sheeta), Keiko Yokozawa (Pazu), Kotoe Hatsui (Dola)
- Director: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release date: August 2, 1986
- Run Time: 124 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Revenue: $2.5 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
Hayao Miyazaki's early signature adventure Castle in the Sky follows brave young Sheeta and her mysterious magic crystal amulet sought by sky pirates and the military alike. She escapes the airship Goliath to join resourceful miner Pazu as they search for the mythic floating island Laputa, once ravaged by its greatest invention - robot power sources that could spell civilization's end if misused again. Castle in the Sky mixes fantasy and sci-fi elements with environmentalist messages and charming lead chemistry.
Miyazaki's epic storytelling and trademark aerial action choreography burst with imagination. Airship and steampunk designs prove inventive. But Sheeta's integrity and Pazu's courage against corrupt adults give Castle poignancy. Miyazaki's films shine in envisioning young people's resilience and hope amidst struggle. Castle in the Sky also introduced the girl with magic charm trope revisited in Kiki's Delivery Service and future Miyazaki classics. A landmark marking Studio Ghibli's early artistic heights.
34 - Weathering with You (2020)
- Main Cast: Kotaro Daigo (Hodaka Morishima), Nana Mori (Hina Amano), Shun Oguri (Keisuke Suga)
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Release date: July 19, 2019
- Run Time: 112 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Revenue: $193 million
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: HBO Max, Funimation
Acclaimed anime director Makoto Shinkai delivers another tale of adolescent love defying fantastical adversity in Weathering with You. High school runaway Hodaka meets a girl named Hina who can pray the perpetual rain away over Tokyo, letting sunlight break through the overcast skies. As the teens grow closer while keeping her mystical ability secret, Hina's weather praying takes a dangerous toll. Dazzling animation contrasts the gray rainy city with radiant light whenever Hina parts the clouds, hinting at supernatural forces.
Shinkai portrays struggles of adolescent runaways through poetic imagery, buoyed by Hina's optimism. The bittersweet climax leaves Hina and Hodaka separated but preserves her sacrificial wish to end Japan's floods. Mythic elements amplify real struggles with economic precarity and climate change. An emotional escapist fantasy, Weathering with You touches on real societal fears through the lens of heroic young love and spirit triumphing over turmoil. Rapturously received, it cemented Shinkai as Japan's anime auteur.
35 - Clannad (2007&2009)
- Main Cast: Yuichi Nakamura (Tomoya Okazaki), Mai Nakahara (Nagisa Furukawa), Ayako Kawasumi (Ryou Fujibayashi)
- Director: Tatsuya Ishihara
- Release date: October 4, 2007 – March 27, 2009
- Run Time: 23 episodes x 24 minutes
- IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Dubbed Languages: English
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Crunchyroll, Netflix
The romance anime series Clannad follows kindhearted delinquent Tomoya, who finds purpose helping fragile Nagisa revive her school's drama club. In the face of tragedy, the pair grow closer through emotional support. After they graduate and marry, the later After Story part depicts adult life's joys and harsh tribulations. Clannad is adored for its heartrending emotional story spanning youth to adulthood. Tomoya and Nagisa's romance faces hurdles from her weak constitution to raising their child alone after she dies in childbirth.
Fantasy elements lend surreal tragedy, with the glowing orbs that appear representing wishes and bonds between people. But grounded moments like reciting lines together resonate strongest thanks to the authentic voice acting. Plaintive music by Jun Maeda matches melancholy visuals. Clannad fully immerses viewers in the pleasures and pains of ordinary life, becoming a tearjerker touchstone anime acclaimed for inspiring empathy and catharsis regarding loss.
DPM Top Picks
If we had to choose among all the movies mentioned above, our 7 go-to-watch romantic anime films are:
- Your Name (2016) - An imaginative body-swap anime exploring star-crossed connections.
- A Silent Voice (2016) - A poignant redemption story tackling disability, social stigma, and young romance.
- Whisper of the Heart (1995) - An endearing coming-of-age anime from Studio Ghibli about pursuing creative passions.
- 5 Centimeters Per Second (2007) - A melancholy anime film following young love and changing dreams.
- The Wind Rises (2014) - The bittersweet biopic of an aircraft engineer directed by the great Hayao Miyazaki.
- Millennium Actress (2002) - A uniquely layered film interweaving life, love, cinema and dreams.
- Howl's Moving Castle (2005) - A fantastical anime fairy tale from Studio Ghibli brimming with magic.
Final Verdict
Our curated selection highlights acclaimed romantic anime films spanning many genres and animation studios. From youthful first love to star-crossed connections, these beautiful anime movies tap into universally relatable experiences and emotions. Their imaginative animation and storytelling transport viewers into tender, poignant tales of relationships. We hope this list helps you discover profound anime love stories to sweep you off your feet.
FAQs
Q: Are these romantic anime movies suitable for all age groups?
It depends on the movie, but many on this list like Your Name and A Silent Voice are safe for teens and up or family viewing if parents approve. Some films like Fireworks contain more adult content.
Q: Can I watch these romantic anime movies with English subtitles or dubbed versions?
Yes, all films on our list have official English dubbed or subtitled versions available on various streaming and home media platforms.
Q: Are there any heartwarming and emotionally-driven romantic anime movies in this list?
Definitely, films like A Silent Voice, Your Name, 5 Centimeters Per Second, and The Wind Rises are renowned for their emotional impact and moving love stories.
Q: Can I watch these romantic anime movies on popular streaming platforms?
Many of these films are available on major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Crunchyroll, and Amazon Prime Video. Some may only be accessible through rental or purchase.
Q: What are some good anime romance series like Clannad?
Acclaimed romantic anime series similar to Clannad include Your Lie in April, Fruits Basket, Toradora, Golden Time, and Snow White with the Red Hair.
Q: Are Makoto Shinkai's anime films suitable for kids and teens?
Shinkai's anime films like Your Name and Weathering With You are largely safe for tweens and up. Some films like 5 Centimeters Per Second have more mature content.