The romance genre in anime movies offers stories that address various aspects of human relationships, from friendships that blossom into love to relationships that are limited by circumstances.
Each movie on this list has a unique story with eye-pleasing visuals and characters that leave a lasting impression. Here are ten romance anime movies that are worth watching.
10. Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop (2021)
Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop (Cider no You ni Kotoba ga Wakiagaru) tells the story of the meeting of two teenagers with contrasting characters. Cherry is a quiet young man who is more comfortable expressing his thoughts through haiku, while Smile is a cheerful girl who covers her insecurities with masks. When the two meet by chance, they begin to build a relationship that grows through communication and togetherness.
The movie features a bright summer atmosphere with colorful animations and settings that depict everyday life. The interaction between Cherry and Smile develops naturally, showing how emotional connections can form from simple conversations. Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop presents a light yet memorable story, capturing the awkward and warm feelings of a teenager's journey of self-discovery.
9. Hello World (2019)
Hello World combines elements of romance with science fiction that is unique and full of surprises. Set in Kyoto in 2027, the movie follows Naomi Katagaki, a high school student who one day meets a version of herself from the future. The adult Naomi warns her about something that will happen to Ruri Ichigyo, a girl she is close to. Over time, Naomi begins to understand the connection between herself, Ruri, and the events that will change their lives.
With a different concept of time travel than usual, Hello World brings the audience into a story filled with elements of surprise and emotional conflict. The relationship between Naomi and Ruri develops in unusual ways, creating an interesting narrative to follow. The futuristic visuals and exploration of technology in the story add to its appeal, making it an interesting choice for romance fans with a touch of science fiction.
8. Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (2020)
Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (Josee to Tora to Sakana-tachi) presents a romance story with a realistic approach. It follows Tsuneo, a college student who aspires to study abroad, and Josee, a girl in a wheelchair who has a unique perspective on the world. Initially, their relationship is full of differences, but over time, they begin to understand each other and find common ground in their dreams.
With a touching story and strong dialog, Josee, The Tiger and the Fish shows how relationships can blossom from simple interactions. The movie depicts the characters' journey in facing life's challenges, building trust, and finding the courage to move forward. With stunning visuals and supportive music, this movie provides an emotional viewing experience.
7. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (2018)
I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (Kimi no Suizou wo Tabetai) presents a touching story of how one encounter can change a person's life. Sakura Yamauchi, a girl secretly battling a terminal illness, is in a relationship with Haruki Shiga, a quiet student who accidentally learns her secret. Their relationship develops over time, giving both of them unforgettable experiences.
Despite its school setting, the story focuses not only on lighthearted romance, but also on how one person can give meaning to another's life. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas conveys messages about courage, loss, and how to face reality in an honest and emotional way.
6. Cardcaptor Sakura Movie 2: The Sealed Card (2000)
As an epilogue to the series Cardcaptor Sakura, Cardcaptor Sakura Movie 2: The Sealed Card (Gekijouban Kādokyaputā Sakura: Fuuin Sareta Kādo) presents the culmination of the emotional journey between Sakura Kinomoto and Syaoran Li. Set one year after the end of the series, the movie features Sakura's final challenge in facing the unsealed Clow Card, as well as her courage to express her feelings to Syaoran.
Aside from being the finale of the main series, the movie also acts as a prequel to Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear CardIt's a story that connects the story to the sequel that comes after it. With CLAMP's signature fantasy elements and strong emotional moments, The Sealed Card becomes an important part of Sakura's character development.
5. Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
From Studio Ghibli, Howl's Moving Castle (Howl no Ugoku Shiro) presents a fantasy story with a slowly developing romance. Sophie, a girl cursed to be an old woman, meets Howl, an eccentric wizard who lives in a walking castle. As they travel, a unique and mysterious relationship forms between the two.
With a world rich in imagination and interesting characters, Howl's Moving Castle features a story full of adventure and self-reflection. It highlights how relationships can flourish through trust and courage, without losing the magical element that is the main attraction.
4. Your Name. (2016)
Directed by Makoto Shinkai, Your Name. (Kimi no Na wa.) tells the story of two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, who one day experience a strange phenomenon where they swap bodies for no apparent reason. While trying to understand what is happening, their relationship develops, and feelings begin to grow between them.
With superb animation and emotional storytelling, Your Name. presents a story that is not only heartfelt, but also filled with elements of mystery and surprise. It explores themes of destiny, accidental encounters, and the attempt to connect two different worlds.
3. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)
Combining science fiction and romance, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo) follows Makoto Konno, a schoolgirl who discovers the ability to jump through time. At first, she uses her power to avoid minor problems, but over time she begins to see the larger consequences of every decision she makes.
With a light yet emotional narrative, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time shows how the choices one makes can have a profound impact on his or her life and those around him or her. The story is a reflective journey with relatable characters and relationships that develop naturally.
2. Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light (2011)
Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light (Hotarubi no Mori e) presents a romance filled with beauty and melancholy. Hotaru, a little girl, gets lost in the forest and meets Gin, a spirit that humans cannot touch. Over time, their feelings develop, but this relationship is limited by the rules of different worlds.
With a simple yet profound storytelling style, Into the Forest of Fireflies' Light displays a relationship rooted in trust and sincerity.
1. The Garden of Words (2013)
Directed by Makoto Shinkai, The Garden of Words (Kotonoha no Niwa) tells the story of the meeting of Takao, a student who dreams of becoming a shoemaker, and Yukino, a woman who is going through a difficult time. They often meet in the park on rainy days without a plan, forming a relationship that brings peace to both of them in the midst of their busy lives.
With detailed visuals and a calm atmosphere, The Garden of Words presents a story that develops in a subtle yet meaningful way. It explores the themes of loneliness, the search for purpose, and how a brief encounter can leave a profound impact on one's life.
Each romance anime movie on this list presents a memorable story with unique emotions, characters, and visuals. From heartwarming to moving, they are all worth watching and enjoying.
