Anime movies have always delivered outstanding works in terms of animation, storytelling, and character development, all in two hours or less.
From classics such as Studio Ghibli’s movies to modern gems like Redline there’s no shortage of exceptional anime movies.
In particular, romance anime movies offer a unique blend of heartwarming tales and stunning visuals.
That’s why we’ve compiled the ultimate list of the best romance anime movies for you to enjoy at least once in your lifetime.
Table of Contents
25. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas
Released in 2018, I Want to Eat Your Pancreas is a movie that elicits mixed reactions, but it was a success nonetheless, especially for its tear-jerking scenes.
The story follows a shy high school student, Haruki Shiga, who discovers the secret diary of his classmate, Sakura Yamauchi, and learns of her terminal pancreatic disease.
Despite her grim reality, Sakura faces her illness with a positive attitude and a cheerful spirit. That’s why Haruki decides to support her and make her last moments of life as happy as possible.
While the movie may not have been well-received by everyone, it can still be appreciated by anime fans.
We’re not calling it a bad movie, but rather one that some would argue that it’s cliché and lacks narrative coherence compared to its initial premise.
24. Urusei Yatsura: Beautiful Dreamer
Beautiful Dreamer is a cult romance-comedy movie directed by the legendary director Mamoru Oshii.
The movie is set in the fictional world of Urusei Yatsura, but it’s entirely disconnected from the main series both for themes and plot.
Ataru and Lum are preparing for the student festival, but things start to feel strange as the days repeat and time seems to be frozen. They soon realize they are trapped in a dream, and although they are aware of it, they don’t know how to break free.
Beautiful Dreamer is a unique and atypical movie, shifting the focus from the classic romance and comedic themes of the main series to more psychological and dream-like elements.
But this is what makes it a timeless gem in Japanese animation. Mamoru Oshii once again delivers with this movie, as he always creates gold with everything he touches.
You can watch this movie without having watched the main series, but we still recommend you do so to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their relationship.
23. Her Blue Sky
Her Blue Sky is a movie released in 2019 that combines elements of music and romance.
It tells the story of Aoi and Akane, two sisters whose parents died in an accident 13 years prior. Akane gave up her dreams of moving to Tokyo to take care of her younger sister.
Years later, Aoi, who has a passion for music, is invited to perform at a music festival by a famous Enka singer. This leads her to cross paths with Shinnosuke, her sister’s former boyfriend, who has returned to town under mysterious circumstances.
This movie is a great choice for fans of sentimental movies with a strong emphasis on emotion and plot twists, and who also enjoy music subplots.
Although it may not be the most original or meaningful story, it should not be underestimated.
22. Weathering With You
Weathering With You is the latest movie directed by Makoto Shinkai, released in 2019.
The protagonist, Hodaka, moves to Tokyo from a small island during his junior year of high school, but he is met with financial struggles and non-stop rain, not exactly the best start.
But one day he meets Hina, a girl with the power to clear the sky and bring sunshine, and the two embark on a journey filled with love and adventure.
Weathering With You showcases once again Shinkai’s impressive technical skills with stunning animations and a memorable soundtrack.
Although the plot may be somewhat cliché, it’s still a good movie overall.
21. Tamako Love Story
Tamako Love Story is a fantastic blend of sentimentality, slice-of-life, and comedy, released in 2014.
The movie follows the story of Mochizu and Tamako, who have been best friends since they were born. Growing up, they spent countless hours playing together, and Mochizu eventually falls in love with Tamako.
As they approach their final year of high school, Mochizu decides to attend a university far away, and before he leaves, he decides to confess his feelings to Tamako.
Unfortunately, Tamako panics and rejects the boy, but as he sets out on his new journey, she begins to realize the depth of her own feelings. A race against time ensues as the girl tries to set things right.
Tamako Love Story is a fun and entertaining movie that will have you on the edge of your seat, wondering how it will all end and if they will manage to finally love each other, or everything will be lost.
A movie that has created a buzz in the media, loved by many but criticized by some. We’re talking about none other than Your Name, directed by Makoto Shinkai.
Mitsuha is a high school student who lives in a small town surrounded by mountains and longs to live in Tokyo. On the other hand, Taki is a student who lives in the busy city of Tokyo.
One day, they both dream of swapping bodies and living each other’s lives. But is it just a dream?
If you’re looking for a romantic movie with stunning animation, showcasing the contrast between city and countryside life with a touch of the supernatural, then Your Name is a great choice.
The love story between Mitsuha and Taki is engaging, creating a strong contrast, and manages to be unique in its own way.
If you haven’t watched it yet and have only heard about its massive popularity, now may be the perfect time to watch it and decide for yourself if you like it or not.
Belle is a newly released movie that was directed by MamoruHosoda, known for producing masterpieces such as Mirai and The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.
The movie follows the story of Suzu, a 17-year-old high school student who feels trapped in her small rural village. She finds solace in the virtual reality world of U, where she can express her passion for singing.
Here she becomes Belle, and then embarks on a journey filled with love and adventure after meeting a mysterious dragon.
Belle is an innovative story that shines in its technical aspects, with stunning animation, special effects, and a fantastic soundtrack. Give it a chance if you haven’t already.
18. Only Yesterday
Only Yesterday is a beautifully crafted movie that was released in 1991, with a stunning graphic style that is still impressive today.
This movie is a true representation of the slice-of-life genre and follows the story of Taeko, a young woman in her 30s who has always lived in the city.
While vacationing in the countryside with relatives, she begins to reminisce about her past and the events that took place 20 years earlier, when she was just 10 years old.
The movie alternates between these two realities, creating a captivating and interwoven story. It tells a complete story of a lifetime in just two hours and manages to be both poignant and entertaining at the same time.
As Taeko grows up and faces the challenges of adulthood, we also see her fall in love and navigate the complexities of relationships and life.
This movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves a well-crafted and emotionally impactful story.
17. Ride Your Wave
Ride Your Wave is a 2019 movie that showcases stunning animations, an excellent character design, and breathtaking aquatic landscapes.
Hinako moves back to her hometown in Chiba to attend college and finds solace in surfing, which helps her overcome her fears.
But one summer night, a fire breaks out in her apartment complex due to smuggled fireworks and she is rescued by Minato, a firefighter.
The two suddenly fall in love as they passes more time together surfing.
This movie is a true gem that deserves recognition for its tropical settings and a captivating romance, so don’t miss it for no reason, trust us.
16. The Garden of Words
A 2013 movie that can be described as stunning, both in terms of its breathtaking animation and its powerful themes and plot. It’s truly a hidden gem that you should watch if you haven’t already.
Takao is a young student who is training to become a shoemaker. One day, while skipping school to find inspiration in a garden, he meets Yukino, an older woman.
Over time, the two continue to meet, with each encounter always taking place only on rainy days. But as they grow closer, they must decide what their future holds as the rainy season comes to an end.
Garden of Words is a hidden gem of Japanese animation that is often overlooked but full of meaning and emotion. The animation and setting are both outstanding and are worth a watch alone for that.
15. 5 Cm per Second
Five Centimeters Per Second, directed by Makoto Shinkai, is a poignant movie about the passionate relationship between two main characters, with their bond tested by distance and the inevitable passage of time.
This movie is divided into three parallel stories, each centered around the characters of Akari and Takaki, who have been in love since childhood but are unable to fully realize their love due to life’s events.
Each story represents a different stage in their lives, from childhood to adolescence to adulthood.
The movie carries a clear message, one that resonates deeply with the viewer: love is fleeting, and opportunities lost may lead to regret.
We consider this movie one of the best of Makoto Shinkai’s productions, thanks to its strong message and its ability to evoke strong emotions from the audience.
14. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a captivating and entertaining movie that explores the themes of time travel and personal growth with one of the best dominant female leads in romance.
Makoto Konno, a high school student, gains the ability to leap in time after a strange accident in the science lab.
Initially using her newfound power for small, selfish reasons, Makoto soon realizes that her actions have far-reaching consequences and she must come to terms with the weight of her decisions.
The movie balances comedy, romance, and light-hearted moments with thought-provoking psychological themes, making it an enjoyable and meaningful experience.
With its parallel storylines and engaging plot, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is a true masterpiece of moviemaking that should not be missed.
Unfortunately, its romance component isn’t that important but rather is another factor that will contribute to Makoto’s incredible character development.
13. Josee, The Tiger and the Fish
Josee, The Tiger and The Fish is a touching romance movie that was released in 2020.
The movie follows the story of Tsuneo, a college student, who meets Kimiko, a girl with cerebral palsy who can’t use her legs.
The two begin to see each other more frequently and as Kimiko opens up to the world, their feelings start to grow.
This movie is exceptional, brimming with heart-wrenching drama and poignant emotion. The relationship between Tsuneo and Kimiko is portrayed as genuine and wholesome, and it serves as the focal point of the narrative.
This movie puts a strong emphasis on human psychology, making it an insightful and impactful watch, but that’s exactly its strength.
Violet Evergarden The Movie is the continuation of the 2018 animated series and picks up where it left off. It’s highly recommended to watch the first series before watching this movie to fully understand and appreciate the story.
Set several years after the end of the Great War, Violet continues her journey of self-discovery through letter writing in a rapidly modernizing world.
But unexpected events will challenge her as she continues to explore her emotions.
The movie takes all that made the animated series great and raises the bar even higher, delivering stunning animation, a well-crafted story with no plot holes, and superb character development.
Violet Evergarden The Movie is a must-watch for fans of the series and those who appreciate outstanding animation and storytelling. We’ll never get tired of recommending this stunning work.
11. From up on Poppy Hill
From Up on Poppy Hill is another production from Studio Ghibli released in 2011.
It’s a heartwarming love story set during the economic boom of Japan in 1963 after World War II. The movie stars Umi Komatsuzaki, a student in the port city of Yokohama who falls in love with Shun’ya Kazama.
But through getting to know each other, the two will discover a shared secret from their past as their love story progress.
This movie is rich in meaning, with a complex and beautifully crafted love story between Umi and Shun’ya.
It’s a timeless production that will always be remembered as a classic in the anime world. You should watch it if you haven’t already.
10. Laputa – Castle in the Sky
Laputa: Castle in the Sky, follows the journey of Pazu and Sheeta as they search for the mythical flying fortress of Laputa.
Along the way, they encounter a crew of eccentric air pirates led by Mama Dola, who are also in pursuit of the legendary treasures hidden on the enchanted island.
With Colonel Muska and his army hot on their trail, Pazu and Sheeta must work together to save their homeland and uncover the powerful secret weapon hidden in Laputa.
The romance subplot between Pazu and Sheeta is one of the most iconic and memorable in the fantasy genre, as it’s this movie gem.
Laputa: Castle in the Sky is one of the hallmarks of Studio Ghibli’s timeless classics and will always be.
9. Macross: Do You Remember Love
In 1984, Macross: Do You Remember Love? was released, summarizing the events of the first Macross anime series with several improvements.
The story begins with humanity completing a space airship, based on an alien wreck named Macross.
However, when they attempt to launch it, they are attacked by the alien race Zentradi and the surviving humans embark on the ship to escape Earth. This sets off a war against the unknown threat.
Macross: Do You Remember Love? is essentially the animated series, but with added details and some plot changes.
This movie is a visual masterpiece that makeslove its main theme and manages to convey it within two hours or less.
It’s highly recommended to watch it after the main series to fully appreciate it, which we easily consider one of the most original ever.
8. The Night is Short, Walk on Girl
The Night is Short, Walk on Girl is a 2017 award-winning movie that combines elements of comedy, sentimentality, and supernatural.
A student at Kyoto University falls in love with his younger classmate and finds ways to run into her, pretending that every time their encounters are coincidental.
During a party, the boy sits next to the girl and the night becomes a series of exciting events and even supernatural encounters as they start to change clubs.
This movie boasts a unique visual style and is a standout among its peers.
The moviemakers’ choice to not name the two main characters, instead referring to them as The Girl with the Black Hair and The Senpai, adds a personal and innovative touch that helps viewers identify with the characters.
7. Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl
Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl is a movie that continues the story of “Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai,” which is considered one of the best romance series under many categories.
The plot takes place after the events of the series and delves deeper into the mystery of Shoko’s character and her relationship with the main character, Sakuta.
But attention, it’s essential to watch the series first in order to fully understand the movie.
However, if you have not watched it yet, we highly recommend doing so as it’s one of the best romantic series available, with one of the best cool MC in romance anime.
And fortunately, the movie manages to uphold the same level of quality as the series.
6. Whisper of the Heart
Whisper of the Heart is a 1995 Studio Ghibli movie that belongs to the sentimental and slice-of-life genre. It takes place in Tama, a rural suburb of Tokyo, and is set in the same year it was released.
The movie follows Shizuku, a 14-year-old girl with a love for reading and a dream of becoming a writer.
One summer, she visits the library and realizes that the books she is borrowing are the same ones that a boy named Seiji Amasawa has taken.
Curious, Shizuku sets out to find Seiji, daydreaming about him.
Whisper of the Heart is a great classic of Japanese romance movie that’s not to be missed.
Its love story is captivating and the direction does an excellent job of showcasing life in 1990s Japan.
5. A Silent Voice
A Silent Voice is an impactful romance movie that tells the story of Shouya Ishida and Shouko Nishimiya, two high school students who had tumultuous relationship in their elementary school years.
Shouya, who was responsible for bullying Shouko due to her deafness, seeks to apologize in high school and make amends for his past actions.
The two eventually become friends, but their relationship is threatened by their own issues and lingering emotional scars.
This movie is highly recommended for those who are just starting to watch anime, especially those who like romance anime with a depressed MC trope.
The movie has a strong focus on the psychology and personal growth of its characters and includes several surprising plot twists.
A must-watch for anyone who enjoys meaningful, thought-provoking movies with well-developed characters.
4. Howl’s Moving Castle
It’s impossible to leave out one of Studio Ghibli’s best productions in a list like this. Howl’s Moving Castle boasts a captivating and unique setting that will stick in everyone’s mind forever.
The story is set in a fictional kingdom that combines the best of magic and 20th-century technology and is currently at war with another kingdom.
Here the protagonist, Sophie, meets the wizard Howl, a young and charming man. The two will live adventures that you can only dream of.
This movie is characterized by a strong anti-war message, supernatural elements, and a touching romance with a grown-up couple.
There’s no denying it, Howl’s Moving Castle is a true masterpiece directed by Hayao Miyazaki and we have no hesitation in calling it one of the best anime movies of all time.
3. In This Corner of the World
In This Corner of the World is a 2018 award-winning movie that captures the story of a family struggling to rebuild their lives in a world shattered by war.
The main character, Suzu Urano, is a cheerful and honest young woman who marries Hojo, a naval officer.
With the best of intentions, Suzu is excited about starting a new life with Hojo and his family. After leaving her hometown, she begins to adjust to life in Kure, a small rural town. However, things quickly take a turn for the worse.
This movie is definitely one of the best romance anime, with some excellent animation and graphics, but the real highlight is its powerful message.
In This Corner of the World highlights the devastating effects of war on innocent people, who want to have a normal life filled with love but can’t.
It follows the journey of Hotaru, a young girl who gets lost in the countryside and meets Gin, a yokai with human-like qualities.
Despite the Mountain God’s curse forbidding Gin from touching humans or he willdisappear, the two form a close bond that goes beyond love.
The relationship between the two is at the heart of the story, showing how they can love each other without physical touch.
Although the ending may be sad, this movie is still a beautiful romance movie full of emotional moments. But that’s exactly why we’ve included it on our list of the best romance anime with a sad ending.
The movie follows the journey of a young boy named Jiro who aspires to become an airplane pilot, but his nearsightedness makes it an impossible dream.
However, he meets the famous Italian aircraft designer Giovanni Caproni in his dreams and realizes that his true purpose is to build airplanes, not fly them.
As Jiro grows up, he follows his passion and becomes a successful airplane designer, and he also meets and falls in love with his beloved wife.
The movie follows Jiro’s life and his realization of his dream, combined with the dramatic relationship between Jiro and his wife as a married couple.
The Wind Rises is a touching story about the purpose of life and the power of dreams, and its romantic elements are sure to stay with you long after the movie is over.
Passionate about Japanese culture for years, serial devourer of manga, anime, and videogames that have now become part of my routine.
My favorite series? Goodnight Punpun and One Piece.
