The Japanese film industry has consistently produced cinematic masterpieces, captivating audiences worldwide with its storytelling finesse and unique perspectives. From the spellbinding worlds created by legendary directors like Hayao Miyazaki to the action-packed adventures of modern anime, these films span a range of genres and themes. Each entry in this list is a testament to the creativity, emotional depth, and artistic prowess that define Japanese cinema. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the success of these films and take a look at the reasons why they continue to enchant and engage audiences around the world. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten highest-grossing Japanese films of all time.
10. Weathering with You – Makoto Shinkai (2019) – $193,715,360
“Weathering with You” follows the captivating story of Hodaka, a determined high school boy who escapes to Tokyo in search of a new life. He encounters Hina, a young girl possessing the extraordinary ability to manipulate the weather. Set against the backdrop of a rain-soaked Tokyo, their lives become deeply intertwined as they face a wide range of challenges together. These challenges not only test their resilience but also lead them to discover the complex implications and responsibilities that come with Hina’s unique powers and the critical decisions they make. The film explores pressing themes of climate change and the resilience of youth in a world that often feels overwhelming and uncontrollable.
Makoto Shinkai’s creation stands as a visually stunning animation masterpiece, capturing both the striking beauty and the underlying melancholy of Tokyo’s cityscape with exceptional clarity and detail. The film’s success is largely attributed to its deeply relatable characters, whose emotional journey is portrayed with compelling depth and authenticity. Its use of fantasy elements with a grounding in realistic settings resonates powerfully with audiences, making it a significant and memorable contribution to the world of modern Japanese cinema. “Weathering with You” stands out due to its breathtaking animation techniques and heartfelt storytelling, appealing to a broad spectrum of viewers, ranging from avid anime enthusiasts to those new to the genre.
9. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 – Sunghoo Park (2021) – $196,290,952
“Jujutsu Kaisen 0,” directed by Sunghoo Park, tells the gripping story of Yuta Okkotsu, a troubled young boy burdened by a haunting curse that originates from his childhood friend’s tragic fate. Upon enrolling in the Tokyo Jujutsu High School, a specialized institution for those gifted in mystical arts, Yuta learns to harness and control his curse, transforming it into a tool for combat against malevolent supernatural entities. This film serves as a prequel to the widely celebrated “Jujutsu Kaisen” series, offering viewers a fresh and intriguing perspective on the world of Jujutsu sorcerers and the daunting battles they encounter in their duty to protect humanity.
Under the direction of Sunghoo Park, this adaptation of the manga comes to life with its dynamic animation, coupled with a narrative that masterfully balances thrilling, high-octane action sequences with the emotional growth of its characters. The film’s detailed animation and artistry further enhance the cinematic experience, bringing each character’s struggles and triumphs to life with remarkable clarity. “Jujutsu Kaisen 0” not only appeals to established fans of the original manga and series but also captivates newcomers. The film has garnered widespread acclaim for its engaging plot, visually stunning scenes, and its ability to tell a complex narrative, earning its place as one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time.
8. Ponyo – Hayao Miyazaki (2008) – $204,826,668
“Ponyo,” a film directed by Hayao Miyazaki, portrays the enchanting story of a young goldfish named Ponyo, who, filled with curiosity and wonder, hopes to experience the human world after forming an unlikely friendship with Sosuke, a compassionate five-year-old boy. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque seaside cliff, the narrative beautifully illustrates Ponyo’s desire to transform into a human, a wish that defies the natural order and triggers a series of extraordinary and magical events. Throughout the film, the deepening bond between Ponyo and Sosuke becomes a focal point, telling a captivating tale of friendship, determination, and the pursuit of dreams, which effortlessly captures the imagination and hearts of viewers of all ages.
Under the masterful direction of Hayao Miyazaki, “Ponyo” is celebrated for its vibrant and expressive animation, bringing to life a story that is as heartwarming as it is visually stunning. The film’s imaginative depiction of the underwater world, combined with the enchanting portrayal of the seaside community, showcases Miyazaki’s ability to create a world brimming with whimsy, wonder, and a touch of magic. It resonates profoundly with both children and adults, thanks to its memorable characters and the universal themes of love, perseverance, and the transformative power of friendship. “Ponyo” stands as a testament to Miyazaki’s unparalleled mastery in storytelling and animation, captivating audiences worldwide with its charm and fantasy.
7. Howl’s Moving Castle – Hayao Miyazaki (2004) – $237,536,126
“Howl’s Moving Castle,” another entry directed by Hayao Miyazaki, centers around the life of Sophie, an unassuming young hatmaker whose life takes an extraordinary turn when she is transformed into an elderly woman by a witch’s curse. This unexpected twist of fate propels her into a quest to reverse the spell, leading her to encounter the wizard Howl and his remarkable, ever-transforming moving castle. As Sophie ventures through this magical and tumultuous world, she meets a variety of unique and memorable characters and finds herself entangled in a brewing war that not only tests her newfound courage but also challenges her understanding of love, self-worth, and the true essence of beauty.
Renowned for its imaginative narrative and its visually stunning scenes that mesmerize viewers with their detail and creativity, “Howl’s Moving Castle” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in animation. The film masterfully creates a wide array of fantastical elements with a heartwarming, introspective journey, exploring complex themes such as the search for identity, the resilience of the human spirit, and the profound impact of war on individuals and societies. The enduring popularity of “Howl’s Moving Castle” can be attributed to its skillful blend of fantastical elements with universally relatable human emotions, solidifying its place as one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time.
6. One Piece Film Red – Goro Taniguchi (2022) – $246,570,000
“One Piece Film Red,” directed by Goro Taniguchi, presents a captivating addition to the One Piece universe by introducing Uta, acclaimed as the world’s most beloved singer, whose identity has remained a closely guarded secret until now. As Uta makes the momentous decision to reveal her true self at a grand and highly anticipated concert, her life soon crosses paths with the adventures of the famous Straw Hat Pirates, led by the charismatic and fearless Monkey D. Luffy. The story combines elements of music and high-seas adventure, gradually unraveling the layers of Uta’s mysterious past and her unexpected connection with Luffy, leading to a series of unforeseen developments and gripping confrontations.
Under the direction of Goro Taniguchi, “One Piece Film Red” distinguishes itself with its exceptional blend of music and action, all set within the beloved and iconic world of the “One Piece” series. The engaging and multi-layered storyline captivates both long-time enthusiasts of the franchise and newcomers alike, contributing to its impressive commercial success. This success reflects the timeless appeal and widespread popularity of the One Piece universe. “One Piece Film Red” excels not only in delivering exhilarating action sequences and memorable musical performances but also in adding meaningful depth and new dimensions to the expansive and ever-evolving world of One Piece.
5. The First Slam Dunk – Takehiko Inoue (2022) – $263,385,475
“The First Slam Dunk,” directed by Takehiko Inoue, breathes new life into the much-loved manga series “Slam Dunk,” with a focus on the protagonist, Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high school delinquent who unexpectedly discovers a passion for basketball. This animated film charts Sakuragi’s transformative journey from a raw and inexperienced player to a resolute and integral member of the Shohoku High School basketball team. Set against the competitive backdrop of high school sports, the film masterfully captures the trials and triumphs of the team. It explores themes of teamwork, perseverance, and personal growth.
Under the direction of Takehiko Inoue, the original creator of the “Slam Dunk” manga, this animated adaptation is filled with thrilling and dynamic basketball scenes, bringing a new dimension of emotional depth to the beloved story. The film’s success is largely due to its ability to remain faithful to the spirit of the manga while reimagining it with vibrant animation and a narrative that is both engaging and rich in character development. It appeals not only to fans who have cherished the original series but also to newcomers. “The First Slam Dunk” stands as a powerful testament to the enduring allure of sports stories, showcasing their unique capacity to inspire and motivate, earning its place as one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time.
4. Suzume – Makoto Shinkai (2022) – $324,185,112
“Suzume,” directed by Makoto Shinkai, takes place in a world where the sudden emergence of mysterious doors across Japan is linked to a series of mysterious and catastrophic events. The narrative centers on Suzume, a young girl whose life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters a man on a mission to close these ominous doors, which serve as portals to impending disasters and other worlds. As they embark on this perilous journey together, Suzume’s adventure transcends a mere quest, becoming a deeply personal odyssey of self-discovery. She confronts the shadows of her past and gradually uncovers her pivotal role in this world-spanning adventure. This film skillfully combines elements of fantasy with a poignant coming-of-age narrative.
Makoto Shinkai’s “Suzume” captivates audiences with its blend of breathtaking animation and a deeply compelling storyline. The film’s strength lies in its seamless integration of a fantastical world with the emotional depth of its characters, exploring themes of loss, personal growth, and the profound connections that bind us. Its commercial and critical success serves to further cement Shinkai’s reputation as a master storyteller in the world of animated film. “Suzume” is a narrative journey that resonates deeply with its viewers, leaving a lasting impact through its unique combination of stunning visuals and emotional depth.
3. Your Name. – Makoto Shinkai (2016) – $382,238,181
“Your Name.”, another entry directed by Makoto Shinkai, tells the story of two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, who find themselves inexplicably intertwined through a mysterious phenomenon that causes them to swap bodies. Mitsuha, living in a serene rural town, and Taki, residing in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, experience a drastic shift in their realities. As they begin to navigate through each other’s lives, a unique bond gradually forms between them, despite the physical distance. The film unfolds as they attempt to comprehend this bizarre connection and unravel the deeper, more complex mystery that draws them together, challenging the very notions of space and time.
Directed by Makoto Shinkai, “Your Name.” has charmed global audiences with its distinctive premise, visually stunning animation, and the profound emotional depth of its narrative. The film explores emotional themes of love, the workings of fate, and the invisible yet powerful connections that tie people together across distances and circumstances. Its overwhelming success is a clear testament to Shinkai’s exceptional ability to tell a deeply engaging, visually breathtaking, and emotionally rich story. “Your Name.” is a cultural phenomenon, resonating profoundly with a diverse and extensive audience and rightfully earning its place as one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time.
2. Spirited Away – Hayao Miyazaki (2001) – $395,580,000
“Spirited Away,” directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, follows the journey of Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who finds herself in a mystical and magical world while her family is in the midst of moving to a new town. This strange realm, brimming with gods, spirits, and an array of mysterious creatures, presents a vivid display of fantasy and wonder. Chihiro, caught in this enchanting yet dangerous world, finds work in a bathhouse catering to these supernatural beings, embarking on a daring quest to liberate both herself and her parents, who have undergone a startling transformation. Throughout the film, the narrative portrays a multifaceted story of personal growth, unwavering bravery, and the tough journey to reclaim one’s identity amidst bewildering circumstances.
Hayao Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away” is celebrated globally as a cinematic masterpiece, renowned for its deeply imaginative storytelling and visually stunning presentation. The film presents a mesmerizing world that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese folklore with the relatable perspective of a modern child, creating an immersive and fantastical experience for the viewer. It has earned worldwide acclaim, not only for its inventive plot and the profound depth of its characters but also for its exceptional visual artistry. The film’s widespread appeal transcends both age and cultural boundaries, positioning it as not merely a box office triumph but also as a significant and enduring piece of cinematic art that continues to inspire to this day.
1. Demon Slayer – Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train – Haruo Sotozaki (2022) – $507,127,293
“Demon Slayer – Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train,” directed by Haruo Sotozaki, effortlessly picks up from where the acclaimed television series left off, continuing the saga of the young and valiant demon slayers Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, and Inosuke as they embark on a crucial new mission. Aboard the mysterious Mugen Train, the protagonists join forces with the formidable Flame Hashira, Rengoku, to confront a menacing demon responsible for a series of mysterious disappearances. The film combines scenes of intense, high-stakes action with powerful emotional moments, capturing the characters’ external battles against demonic adversaries and their internal struggles with their own personal demons and fears.
Directed with a keen eye for detail and emotion by Haruo Sotozaki, this film adaptation of the hugely popular manga and anime series stands out due to its visually stunning animation and a storyline that grips the viewer from start to finish. “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train” has successfully captivated a global audience, shattering box office records and emerging as a cultural phenomenon. Its extraordinary success is largely attributed to its dynamic character development, which is carefully placed into the visually spectacular fight sequences and enhanced by the overall profound emotional depth of its narrative. The film is not just a mere continuation of a beloved series, but as a cinematic experience in its own right, resonating powerfully with both long-standing fans and newcomers alike, earning its place as one of the highest-grossing Japanese films of all time.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten highest-grossing Japanese films of all time:
- Weathering with You – Makoto Shinkai (2019) – $193,715,360
- Jujutsu Kaisen 0 – Sunghoo Park (2021) – $196,290,952
- Ponyo – Hayao Miyazaki (2008) – $204,826,668
- Howl’s Moving Castle – Hayao Miyazaki (2004) – $237,536,126
- One Piece Film Red – Goro Taniguchi (2022) – $246,570,000
- The First Slam Dunk – Takehiko Inoue (2022) – $263,385,475
- Suzume – Makoto Shinkai (2022) – $324,185,112
- Your Name. – Makoto Shinkai (2016) – $382,238,181
- Spirited Away – Hayao Miyazaki (2001) – $395,580,000
- Demon Slayer – Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train – Haruo Sotozaki (2022) – $507,127,293
