W2TCH

999 Essential Japanese Films Collection

998 titles

Default order ↑PopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox office
  1. 201Lullaby of the Earth posterLullaby of the EarthMovie · 1976 · 111mAn orphaned girl, raised in sheltered simplicity by her elderly relative, experiences a harsh awakening after her grandmother's death. She is abruptly confronted with the cruelty, avarice, and deceit that define the world beyond her isolated life.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.1
  2. 202Mount Hakkoda posterMount HakkodaMovie · 1977 · 169mIn the winter of 1902, two infantry regiments – a total of 210 soldiers – ascended Mount Hakkoda. The expedition was undertaken by the Imperial Japanese Army as part of preparations for a potential conflict with Russia.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
  3. 203Randen: The Comings and Goings on a Kyoto Tram posterRanden: The Comings and Goings on a Kyoto TramMovie · 2019 · 114mHiraoka Eisei, a writer in Kamakura researching supernatural tales, is drawn back to memories of his wife's hometown. There, Ogura Kako, a reserved local woman, is asked to help a Tokyo actor learn Kyoto speech patterns. Following the lesson, he asks her to show him around Arashiyama.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.5
  4. 204Hakuchi: The Innocent posterHakuchi: The InnocentMovie · 1999 · 146mIn a world where World War II continues relentlessly, Japan is devastated by constant nighttime bombings. The sole structure remaining is the Media Station, a broadcasting hub that controls all entertainment in the country.Stream onPlex ChannelPlexIMDb 6.8TMDB 5.8
  5. 205Something Like It posterSomething Like ItMovie · 1981 · 103mShintoto, a rising star in the traditional Japanese storytelling art of rakugo, experiences a positive moment with his first sexual encounter at a local brothel. He then begins dating the attractive sex worker he meets there, while also attracting the attention of a younger fan of rakugo. However, Shintoto's optimistic life soon takes an unexpected turn.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.0
  6. 206The Shiranui Sea posterThe Shiranui SeaMovie · 1975 · 150mIn the 1950s and 1960s, the waters surrounding Minamata, Japan, became severely polluted with mercury from a Chisso Corporation chemical plant. This toxic substance built up in seafood from the Yatsushiro Sea. Consequently, people who ate the local fish and shellfish developed Minamata disease. Thousands of residents around the bay suffered death and disabilities as a result. The marine environment was also greatly harmed.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  7. 207Red Peony Gambler: Here to Kill You posterRed Peony Gambler: Here to Kill YouMovie · 1971 · 93mThis, the seventh installment in the acclaimed Hibotan Bakuto series, follows Oryu the Red Peony years after her father's death, as she continues her journey of self-discovery. While traveling, she encounters villagers whose lives are ruined by pollution from a nearby factory. An agreement is made, but Oryu must intervene when the factory owner and corrupt politicians break their promises and betray the villagers.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.3
  8. 208The Room posterThe RoomMovie · 1992 · 92mA reserved killer seeks a place to live. A reserved real estate agent leads him through post-economic collapse Tokyo, to the city's ruins, searching for a specific room.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.1
  9. 209Furuyashiki: A Japanese Village posterFuruyashiki: A Japanese VillageMovie · 1982 · 210mThis is Ogawa Productions' first significant film from their Yamagata period. While initially planning to film Magino Village -A Tale, the filmmakers were captivated by a village high in the mountains when severe weather threatened the crops. Their focus shifted from the effects of weather and geography on the harvest to the "life history" of Furuyashiki Village. Ogawa simultaneously revisits his artistic origins by experimenting with science film conventions and explores a remote, local setting to reflect on the nation and the state of village life in Japan. From this secluded vantage point in the Japanese mountains, Ogawa portrays a village grappling with the aftermath of World War II and fighting for survival as its children leave for the cities.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.5
  10. 210Aido: Slave of Love posterAido: Slave of LoveMovie · 1969 · 105mAido is a beautiful woman burdened by an overwhelming sexual desire. Following an affair with a student, she becomes involved in a series of other relationships, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality.IMDb 6.6TMDB 9.5
  11. 211A Certain Killer posterA Certain KillerMovie · 1967 · 82mAfter the war, a veteran finds himself working in a restaurant. He then takes on dangerous work as a contract killer for the yakuza.Stream onARROWAmazon VideoYouTubeIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6
  12. 212The Wind Rises posterThe Wind RisesMovie · 2013 · 126m · Drama, Animation, RomanceDriven by a lifelong passion for flying, Japanese aviation engineer Jiro Horikoshi built a distinguished career, most notably designing the A-6M fighter plane used during World War II.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8
  13. 213The Tale of The Princess Kaguya posterThe Tale of The Princess KaguyaMovie · 2013 · 137m · Animation, Drama, FantasyA bamboo cutter and his wife discover a tiny girl inside a bamboo stalk. She grows quickly into a beautiful young woman, captivating everyone she meets. However, she eventually faces a predetermined destiny.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1
  14. 214Woman in Witness Protection posterWoman in Witness ProtectionMovie · 1997 · 131mBiwako, a vain middle-aged actress, enters witness protection after witnessing a brutal murder. Protected by two dedicated police officers, she tries to balance her career, her reputation, and her personal life while preparing to testify in court.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.2TMDB 5.9
  15. 215Rise, Fair Sun posterRise, Fair SunMovie · 1973 · 130mIn this Japanese film, a farmer and the people of his village fight to protect their pristine homeland from developers, but their efforts are ultimately futile.IMDb 7.7
  16. 216Sex Hunter: Wet Target posterSex Hunter: Wet TargetMovie · 1972 · 69mImprisoned, Okamoto receives news of his sister Natsuko's death. She was brutally attacked by U.S. soldiers during a drunken outing and later died. Driven by grief and rage, Okamoto escapes from jail to seek revenge on those responsible for her death. His investigation reveals a far more disturbing truth than he could have anticipated.IMDb 5.9TMDB 3.0
  17. 217Admiral Yamamoto posterAdmiral YamamotoMovie · 1968 · 130mWhen Japan allies with Nazi Germany and fascist Italy, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto becomes the head of the Japanese fleet. As war becomes inevitable, Yamamoto believes the only chance for victory is a surprise attack on the American fleet at Pearl Harbor. The attack succeeds in damaging the fleet, but doesn't destroy it. Now, Yamamoto must lead the Japanese navy into a war with increasingly slim odds of success.IMDb 6.8TMDB 8.3
  18. 218Sumo Do, Sumo Don't posterSumo Do, Sumo Don'tMovie · 1992 · 105mShuhei, a college senior, is forced by a professor to join the university's sumo team under threat of blackmail. He finds unexpected support from a collection of unconventional teammates. Together, they must overcome their differences and compete to defeat their rivals, or risk the team's disbandment and their own disgrace.Stream onMUBIFilm Movement Plus Amazon ChannelFilm Movement PlusIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
  19. 219Taro the Dragon Boy posterTaro the Dragon BoyMovie · 1979 · 75mInspired by Japanese art and silk screens, *Taro, The Dragon Boy* is an animated film exploring Japanese mythology and culture. It follows Taro, a young boy on a journey to a faraway lake. His mission: to save his mother, who has been transformed into a dragon.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.5
  20. 220Zero Focus posterZero FocusMovie · 2009 · 131mThree women in post-war Japan become entangled in a murder mystery after a newlywed husband vanishes.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2
  21. 221Original Sin posterOriginal SinMovie · 1992 · 117mThis film, adapted from a novel by Bo Nishimura, tells the story of a married woman having an affair with a 22-year-old man. She is the wife of an estate agent.Stream onEternal FamilyMidnight Pulp Amazon ChannelIMDb 6.8TMDB 4.7
  22. 222Live Today, Die Tomorrow! posterLive Today, Die Tomorrow!Movie · 1970 · 120mMichio Yamada, a recent graduate, arrives in Tokyo for a government-sponsored job as a fruit packer in a department store. He takes a gun from an American base and kills several people. The story then shifts to Yamada's childhood, revealing he was born to a troubled family: a father with questionable morals and a mother lacking strength. As a child, Yamada endures poverty and witnesses the rape of his sister.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9
  23. 223The Family Game posterThe Family GameMovie · 1983 · 107mThis film satirizes a typical Japanese family: the detached salaryman father, the resigned homemaker mother, the academically accomplished older son, and the irresponsible younger son who requires a tutor. When a charismatic tutor arrives – played by Matsuda Yusaku – he unexpectedly unravels the entire family dynamic.Stream onAmazon VideoIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
  24. 224Tora-san, the Matchmaker posterTora-san, the MatchmakerMovie · 1979 · 107mTora-san unexpectedly assists a woman who has fled her wedding.IMDb 6.5TMDB 8.5
  25. 225Song of the Spring PonyMovie · 1985 · 108mHoshino Bunzo dedicates his life to protecting Keiji, his orphaned grandson who became paralyzed in infancy. When a new teacher, Sonoda Keiko, arrives at school, she encourages Keiji to return to his studies. After a two-year absence, Keiji attempts to resume classes but struggles to continue. The students organize an exhibition of Keiji's paintings at the village shrine to uplift him. Overjoyed, Keiji gifts his artwork to the children and Keiko, including a painting titled "Spring Pony." When "Spring Pony" wins a prize in a national competition, it marks a hopeful turning point for Keiji and his family.TMDB 7.0
  26. 226Samurai Rebellion posterSamurai RebellionMovie · 1967 · 121m · Drama, History, ActionSet in feudal Japan, the mother of a young lord's heir is kidnapped by her husband's powerful and controlling father. This forces the husband into a difficult choice: accept the injustice or risk the anger of those in power who control his family's fate. With his father, a respected samurai, he must navigate a world of honor and loyalty to try to bring his family back together and challenge traditional societal norms. The film features stunning visuals that immerse audiences in ancient Japan, and its intricate relationships keep viewers engaged until the conclusion.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 8.3TMDB 8.2
  27. 227The Blue Light posterThe Blue LightMovie · 2003 · 116mSeventeen-year-old Shuichi Kushimori lives a peaceful life with his mother and stepsister. His estranged stepfather unexpectedly returns after a long absence and quickly becomes consumed by alcohol. He begins abusing his ex-wife and daughter. When he starts making unwanted advances towards Shuichi’s stepsister, Shuichi feels he must intervene.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.4
  28. 228Red Lion posterRed LionMovie · 1969 · 117mJapan, February 1868. With the Tokugawa shogunate weakening and the Emperor Meiji gaining strength, Gonzo, a soldier in the Restoration Army, returns to his hometown of Sawando to declare the end of oppression.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4
  29. 229Violated Angels posterViolated AngelsMovie · 1967 · 56m · Horror, DramaWakamatsu's film examines a disturbing series of crimes committed by a young man at a Chicago nurses' home, exploring the dark motivations behind his actions. The movie offers a stark look at the disturbing aspects of masculinity that drove these brutal acts of mutilation and murder. It avoids sensationalism, instead focusing on the devastating consequences for victims, their families, and society. The film presents an unflinching portrayal of a deeply troubled individual and the psychological forces behind his violence, prompting viewers to consider the complex links between sexual desire, mental illness, and brutality.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1
  30. 230Crayon Shin-chan: The Adult Empire Strikes Back posterCrayon Shin-chan: The Adult Empire Strikes BackMovie · 2001 · 90m · Animation, Comedy, AdventureWhen the adults of Kasukabe suddenly abandon their duties to experience a nostalgic 20th-century expo, it falls to Shin-chan to rescue them.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.2
  31. 231Intentions of Murder posterIntentions of MurderMovie · 1964 · 150m · DramaThis film tells the story of a woman who is increasingly bothered by unwanted attention from a young man with emotional problems. Her relationship with her Japanese librarian partner feels stagnant, leaving her wanting more. When a charming but damaged person appears, offering a chance at a better life, she struggles with whether to stay with her partner or embrace this new opportunity. The movie explores love, trust, and the difficulties of relationships, presenting a realistic and personal look at how far people will go to find happiness.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.0
  32. 232Departures posterDeparturesMovie · 2008 · 130m · DramaDaigo, a cellist, loses his job with the orchestra and moves back to his hometown with his wife to save money. He believes he's interviewing for a travel agency position, but instead finds himself applying to be an assistant at a funeral home.Stream onPlex ChannelPlexFandango At HomeIMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8
  33. 233Asako I & II posterAsako I & IIMovie · 2018 · 120m · Drama, RomanceAsako lives in Osaka and falls in love with Baku, a carefree individual. He vanishes unexpectedly one day. Two years later, Asako is living in Tokyo when she meets Ryohei. He bears a striking resemblance to Baku, yet possesses a vastly different personality.Stream onMUBIPhiloMUBI Amazon ChannelIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
  34. 234Coquille posterCoquilleMovie · 1999 · 95mAt a ten-year reunion, a man and a woman reconnect. Though older, seeing him sparks a flood of memories from their first love. Her feelings for him, undimmed by marriage and motherhood, are sustained by a gift he gave her – a white shell – and a line from a Jean Cocteau poem: "My ears are shells, fondly hearing the sound of the sea..." She divorces her husband, returns to her hometown, and opens a bar called "Coquille," meaning "shell." Unbeknownst to them, unforeseen circumstances are about to bring them together again.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.8
  35. 235The Wife of Seishu Hanaoka posterThe Wife of Seishu HanaokaMovie · 1967 · 99mThis is the unsettling true story of a pioneering doctor who performs the first surgery using general anesthesia. He finds himself the object of intense affection from the women in his life, who eagerly offer themselves as patients for his groundbreaking, and often risky, experiments.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.3
  36. 236Farewell to the Land posterFarewell to the LandMovie · 1982 · 134mIn Kashima, Yukio, a former farmer now working as a dump truck driver, is deeply troubled. He's haunted by the accidental drowning of his two young sons, their names tattooed on his back as a constant reminder. Adding to his pain is a strained relationship with his younger brother, who lives a more conventional life in Tokyo. Yukio has become isolated, battling addiction and struggling with everyone around him – family, friends, and coworkers alike.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.1
  37. 237No More Easy Life posterNo More Easy LifeMovie · 1979 · 112mIn 1970s Japan, Mariko navigates the typical life of a college student – juggling relationships and work over her studies. She's caught between a past love, a charismatic but emotionally distant boyfriend, and a new person who is considerate but occasionally self-centered. Ultimately, she must decide whether to commit to one of them or forge her own path.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0
  38. 238Tokyo Bordello posterTokyo BordelloMovie · 1987 · 127mA disgraced businessman sells his daughter, Hisano, into a brothel in Yoshiwara, Tokyo's most famous red-light district. The brothel owner believes she has the potential to become a highly sought-after performer, attracting wealthy clientele. However, after months of training, Hisano attempts to escape Yoshiwara just before her debut.Stream onFilm Movement Plus Amazon ChannelFilm Movement PlusKanopyIMDb 6.5TMDB 5.0
  39. 239Dodes'ka-den posterDodes'ka-denMovie · 1970 · 140m · DramaThis film follows a diverse group of people struggling to survive in a harsh Tokyo slum. Facing immense difficulties, they find strength in their individual hopes: a father and son seeking a better life, a young woman battling abuse while longing for freedom, and a boy who imagines a different future as a trolley conductor. The movie shows how dreams and the desire to live can fuel people's strength when confronted with poverty and hardship.Stream onHBO MaxCriterion ChannelHBO Max Amazon ChannelIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  40. 240Maborosi posterMaborosiMovie · 1995 · 110m · DramaA young woman's life is shattered by a sudden tragedy, leaving her lost and alone. The film follows her as she navigates grief and isolation, confronting the sudden and lasting changes life can bring. She struggles to understand her new reality, battling loneliness and searching for meaning in a world that feels unfamiliar. This is a story about resilience and the enduring hope found even in despair.Stream onOVIDKanopyIMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4
  41. 241Adrenaline Drive posterAdrenaline DriveMovie · 1999 · 112mA gas leak causes an explosion at a yakuza hideout, leaving a shy nurse and a rental car clerk with a briefcase full of cash. They decide to run away, sparking a cross-country chase.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.1
  42. 242Young Thugs: Nostalgia posterYoung Thugs: NostalgiaMovie · 1998 · 94mTakashi Miike's "Nostalgia" is a film deeply personal to the director. It explores the home and school life of a young boy, where violence and dysfunction intertwine with humor and affection. While containing moments of the unexpected intensity Miike is known for, "Nostalgia" primarily focuses on a child's transition from a world of imagination to embracing the next phase of life. It’s a moving and surprising vision, distinctly Miike's own.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.2
  43. 243Moment of Demon posterMoment of DemonMovie · 1985 · 114mHaunted by his secret desires, a young man abandons his studies and leaves home. He settles into a modest apartment, takes a modest job, and begins a relationship. His mother then unexpectedly appears, unable to resist her own hidden feelings.IMDb 6.1TMDB 4.8
  44. 244Ain't No Tomorrows posterAin't No TomorrowsMovie · 2008 · 79mSeventeen-year-old Hiruma is driven by a strong desire for sexual experience and focuses his attention on Anpai, a classmate with a larger build. Meanwhile, Tomono, a frail and isolated student, is deeply involved in a relationship with their married teacher.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4
  45. 245Villain posterVillainMovie · 2010 · 139mShimizu Yuichi, a shy and lonely day laborer, seeks connection through phone dating and fleeting encounters with women seeking financial support. His life is upended when he's implicated in the murder of Ishibashi Yoshino, a woman he previously met. After being rejected by playboy Masuo Keijo, Yoshino confronts and taunts Yuichi, a troubled loner.Stream onHuluAmazon VideoFandango At HomeIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6
  46. 246Minamata: The Victims and Their World posterMinamata: The Victims and Their WorldMovie · 1971 · 123mThis is the first film in a series of independent documentaries by Tsuchimoto focusing on the mercury poisoning incident in Minamata, Japan.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1
  47. 247Summer in Sanrizuka posterSummer in SanrizukaMovie · 1968 · 108mIn 1968, Ogawa established Ogawa Productions in Sanrizuka, a district chosen for its location on the site of the new Narita International Airport. He specifically chose the village of Heta, known for its radical stance. Some farmers quickly sold their land, while others strongly protested, gaining national support from various social movements. These protestors clashed with riot police deployed to protect surveyors mapping out the airport. *Summer in Sanrizuka* captures the film's chaotic energy, reflecting the intense passions and actions of those on the ground.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.3
  48. 248Captive's Island posterCaptive's IslandMovie · 1966 · 87mA young man returns to the island reform school that held him captive, driven by a desire to get revenge on the guard who abused him. His plans for retribution are complicated when he meets an enigmatic and captivating young woman.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5
  49. 249Red Angel posterRed AngelMovie · 1966 · 95m · War, Drama, RomanceIn 1939, young and compassionate army nurse Sakura Nishi is working in the chaotic field hospitals of China during the Sino-Japanese war, assisting Dr. Okabe amidst overwhelming crowds. She witnesses the unprecedented scale of amputations and, driven by empathy, offers emotional support to soldiers facing impossible situations, including providing comfort to a man who has lost both arms and no hope of returning home. Sakura and Dr. Okabe develop a deep emotional connection that goes beyond their professional relationship. Despite his struggles with morphine addiction, her love for him leads her to follow him to the front lines, illustrating the strength of human emotion during wartime. This story explores the psychological toll of war, portraying how compassion and empathy can offer a profound difference amidst devastation and loss.Stream onPhiloARROWFandor Amazon ChannelIMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6
  50. 250Who's Camus Anyway? posterWho's Camus Anyway?Movie · 2005 · 115mA quirky group of students sets out to make a film. However, when their leading actor unexpectedly leaves, the clever cast members begin to blur the lines between fiction and reality, finding themselves embroiled in murder, deceit, and unexpected romance.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.2
  51. 251Our Little Sister posterOur Little SisterMovie · 2015 · 127m · DramaFollowing their father's passing, three adult sisters take in their teenage half-sister. They invite her to live with them.Stream onAmazon VideoSpectrum On DemandFandango At HomeIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6
  52. 252Happy Hour posterHappy HourMovie · 2015 · 317m · DramaFour women in their thirties reconsider their relationships – with partners and themselves – following a surprising discovery about one of their marriages. This revelation prompts each woman to confront a fundamental question: "Am I living the life I truly want?"IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
  53. 253Villon's Wife posterVillon's WifeMovie · 2009 · 114mSet in postwar Tokyo, this compelling period drama explores the relationship between a woman and her gifted but troubled writer husband. Inspired by a semi-autobiographical 1947 novel by Osamu Dazai, the film focuses on the wife's enduring love for him, rather than on his own self-destructive tendencies.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6
  54. 254Cut posterCutMovie · 2011 · 133mShuji, a determined young filmmaker, clashes with Japanese society. He discovers his brother, a loan shark who financed his films, was executed by the yakuza for failing to pay back money.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.1
  55. 255Secret posterSecretMovie · 1999 · 119m · Drama, FantasyThis drama follows a man as he deals with the unbelievable aftermath of a car accident. His wife dies, but his young daughter survives – and his wife's consciousness appears to have moved into his daughter’s body. This strange situation challenges him to understand grief, identity, and love as he adjusts to this new reality. The family must confront profound questions about themselves and their relationships as they navigate this extraordinary event together.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8
  56. 256August: Scent of Eros posterAugust: Scent of ErosMovie · 1972 · 73mA department store worker is robbed of her cash register by a young man. She is haunted by the memory of his unusual eyes, and years later, she unexpectedly sees him again. Driven by this lingering impression, she begins to pursue him.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.0
  57. 257Ballad of Orin posterBallad of OrinMovie · 1977 · 118mA blind musician journeys from place to place, facing cruelty and hardship at every turn, even as the world around her rapidly modernizes.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1
  58. 258School Days with a Pig posterSchool Days with a PigMovie · 2008 · 109mDuring a class discussion, a teacher proposes a unique project: the students will raise a pig together, with the eventual goal of eating it when it reaches maturity.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.3
  59. 259Nobody Knows posterNobody KnowsMovie · 2004 · 141m · DramaIn a small Tokyo apartment, twelve-year-old Akira is left to care for his younger siblings after their mother departs with no word of return.Stream onAMC+PhiloSundance NowIMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0
  60. 260Her Love Boils Bathwater posterHer Love Boils BathwaterMovie · 2016 · 125m · DramaWhen a woman receives a terminal cancer diagnosis with only months to live, she's forced to confront a lifetime of unfinished business. The news prompts a profound shift as she prioritizes completing everything she needs to do before it's too late.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4
  61. 261Still Walking posterStill WalkingMovie · 2008 · 114m · Drama, FamilyA family comes together for a traditional ceremony, the meaning of which is revealed slowly.Stream onAMC+PhiloSundance NowIMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8
  62. 262Distance posterDistanceMovie · 2001 · 132m · DramaThree years after a cult's unsuccessful chemical attack on Tokyo and their mass suicide, the families of those affected reunite at the cult's old headquarters by a lake. They gather to mark the anniversary of their loved ones' deaths.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6
  63. 263Lying to Mom posterLying to MomMovie · 2018 · 133mKoichi Suzuki is a 30-year-old man who lives as a shut-in, completely dependent on his mother. His life is carefully managed by her constant care. When she discovers Koichi has died by suicide, the overwhelming shock causes her to faint and lose her memory of that day.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5
  64. 264Casting Blossoms to the Sky posterCasting Blossoms to the SkyMovie · 2012 · 160mFollowing the devastating 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, a journalist travels to Nagaoka, a city already scarred by a World War II air raid and earlier earthquakes. While reporting on the disaster's impact, she connects with the city's residents and discovers a stage play penned by a mysterious student of her former boyfriend.Stream onFandorAsianCrushOVIDIMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9
  65. 265The Egoists posterThe EgoistsMovie · 2011 · 136mIn Tokyo's Kabukicho red-light district, Kazu assaults a bar and then kidnaps Machiko, a pole dancer he's been infatuated with, taking her back to his hometown. They start a life together, but their pasts soon catch up, threatening their newfound happiness.Stream onYouTubeGoogle Play MoviesIMDb 5.7TMDB 4.1
  66. 266Air Doll posterAir DollMovie · 2009 · 112m · Drama, FantasyOne day, a life-size inflatable sex doll unexpectedly comes to life. Unbeknownst to her owner, she wanders into town and falls in love with Junichi. She begins dating him and gets a job at the same store where he works. Everything appears ideal until an unforeseen event occurs.Stream onAmazon Prime VideoEternal FamilyOVIDIMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0
  67. 267Non-ko posterNon-koMovie · 2008 · 105mNonko, a struggling actress in Tokyo, returns to her family's Shinto shrine as a divorced woman in her mid-30s to help with household duties. Her father is perpetually angry, while her mother attempts to mediate. Her sister, already a mother, delivers a harsh assessment: "It's all over for her."IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3
  68. 268The Buried Forest posterThe Buried ForestMovie · 2005 · 93mIn a rural setting, three high school girls create narratives inspired by their surroundings: a mountainous landscape and a wild, overgrown forest nearby.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4
  69. 269A Class to Remember II posterA Class to Remember IIMovie · 1996 · 122mThe story centers on a teacher and their students at Ryubetsu Handicapped High School.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0
  70. 270Kiki's Delivery Service posterKiki's Delivery ServiceMovie · 1989 · 103m · Animation, Family, FantasyA young witch begins her training with a year in a new community. While learning to fit in, she finds a way to become independent by using her magic to start an air courier business, delivering packages quickly. The film explores independence, friendship, and self-discovery as she faces challenges and successes in a world where magic is common.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8
  71. 271Demon Pond posterDemon PondMovie · 1979 · 124mA traveler finds himself drawn to a remote village struggling with a severe drought. He soon discovers the village is steeped in myth, mystery, and magic, centered around spirits living in a nearby pond. These spirits control the lives of the villagers, including the intertwined fates of two lovers, Akira and Yuri.Stream onAmazon VideoFandango At HomeApple TV StoreIMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
  72. 272Playful White Fingers posterPlayful White FingersMovie · 1972 · 75mA young woman develops feelings for a thief who is subsequently arrested. Determined to stay connected to him, she forms unexpected relationships with his former girlfriend and his cellmate.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.4
  73. 273This Country’s Sky posterThis Country’s SkyMovie · 2015 · 130mTokyo, 1945. Years of war and relentless bombing have devastated the city, leaving its people impoverished and weary. Nineteen-year-old Satoko and her mother struggle to survive, holding down meager jobs and battling constant hunger. The arrival of a displaced aunt offers only another burden. As Satoko navigates the complexities of adulthood, she finds herself increasingly drawn to the only available man in their community. This understated film centers on one woman's quiet fight for survival during a pivotal time in her life.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.4
  74. 274Sleeping Man posterSleeping ManMovie · 1996 · 103mFollowing a mountain accident, Takuji has been in a coma. His neighbors look after him, facing unexpected developments with each passing day.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.6
  75. 275The Iron Crown posterThe Iron CrownMovie · 1972 · 91mAfter her husband leaves her for a younger woman, a woman seeks revenge by repeatedly calling the couple late at night, disrupting their peace.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.6
  76. 276A Trap posterA TrapMovie · 1965 · 111mTo save her brother from a murder charge, a young woman named Kiriko journeys from Kyushu to Tokyo to hire Japan's best lawyer. Her hopes are dashed when he refuses the case due to her lack of money. Determined to exact revenge, Kiriko becomes a bar hostess in Tokyo, plotting to punish the lawyer. The situation becomes more complicated with a new murder and the involvement of an investigating reporter.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1
  77. 277Feel the Wind posterFeel the WindMovie · 2009 · 133mHaiji, a talented runner sidelined by a previous injury, reconnects with Kakeru, another former elite runner who stopped competing due to a disagreement. Their encounter reignites their passion for running, leading Haiji to aim for the legendary Hakone Ekiden, a grueling long-distance relay race. The team requires ten members, so Haiji and Kakeru recruit eight others, some with no prior running experience. Through rigorous training, this unlikely group forges a strong bond built on shared determination and a belief in their ability to achieve something extraordinary.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3
  78. 278The Sea Is Watching posterThe Sea Is WatchingMovie · 2002 · 119mO-Shin, a young woman working in a brothel, helps a samurai escape his enemies one night. Despite warnings from her coworkers, especially Kikuno and the brothel owner, O-Shin falls in love with the samurai.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.7
  79. 279The Youth Killer posterThe Youth KillerMovie · 1976 · 121mDespite his parents' support in the family business, Jun feels suffocated by their affection. This resentment flares when they forbid him from seeing his girlfriend, escalating the growing conflict.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3
  80. 280Wet Lips posterWet LipsMovie · 1972 · 75mA sex worker and the man she's involved with flee after killing her pimp.IMDb 5.2TMDB 4.8
  81. 281Himiko posterHimikoMovie · 1974 · 100mThis film re-examines the traditional story of the Sun Goddess, believed to be the founder of Japanese society, using a contemporary historical perspective.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9
  82. 282Time and Tide posterTime and TideMovie · 1983 · 97m"Jidaiya," an antique shop, actually deals in time. A woman enters the shop with a cat.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.5
  83. 283Silence posterSilenceMovie · 1971 · 129m · Drama, HistoryIn 17th-century Japan, two Jesuit priests undertake a risky mission to spread their faith in a country deeply rooted in tradition. They encounter hostility, religious persecution, and cultural obstacles that test their friendship and resolve. Despite these challenges, the priests are determined to find their mentor, who has disappeared within Japan. As they journey through unfamiliar lands and meet both helpful and dangerous people, they must confront the sacrifices required by their faith and find the strength to continue. The story examines spirituality, perseverance, and the difficulties of cultural exchange during a time when new ideas clashed with old beliefs. Set against a backdrop of a turbulent era, it explores the enduring power of faith and the potential for understanding in a changing world.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2
  84. 284Vengeance for Sale posterVengeance for SaleMovie · 2002 · 88mIn a society where revenge is legal, some people require assistance with their acts of vengeance. Sanada Hiroyuki plays Sukeroku the Helper, a laid-back yakuza who provides this service. Returning to his hometown for a visit to his mother's grave, he encounters a dangerous ronin harboring a secret that draws him into a personal vendetta.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4
  85. 285Kamikaze Taxi posterKamikaze TaxiMovie · 1995 · 169mA young yakuza soldier seeks vengeance after his girlfriend, a prostitute, dies following a meeting with a powerful Japanese politician known for torture. He launches a deadly mission to kill his bosses and the politician. Along the way, he finds an unlikely ally in a taxi driver who recently returned to Japan from South America and is struggling with poverty and discrimination.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.2
  86. 286Vacation posterVacationMovie · 2008 · 115mPrison guards who work in death row facilities live with the constant presence of death every day.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9
  87. 287Miyuki posterMiyukiMovie · 1983 · 97mIMDb 6.6TMDB 8.0
  88. 288Teacher and Three Children posterTeacher and Three ChildrenMovie · 2008 · 118mAt 95, the director filmed the movie in his native Ishiuchi, Hiroshima. The story centers on a teacher from his childhood.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.0
  89. 289The Incident posterThe IncidentMovie · 1978 · 138mThe body of Sakai Hatsuko, a 23-year-old woman, was discovered in a forest, having been killed with a knife. Weeks later, 19-year-old shipyard worker Ueda Hiroshi is arrested and accused of the murder. His trial reveals a complicated narrative.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3
  90. 290Portrait of the Wind posterPortrait of the WindMovie · 2005 · 97mPortrait of the Wind follows Tamio Murase, a photographer who returns home to run his family's business after his father's death. At the studio, he meets Ayako, and they quickly develop a romantic connection. The film initially focuses on their developing relationship, and soon they become a committed couple, with Ayako becoming pregnant.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.5
  91. 291The Bullet Train posterThe Bullet TrainMovie · 1975 · 152m · Action, Crime, DramaA high-speed bullet train in Japan is targeted by a ruthless enemy who has planted a time bomb. The bomb is set to detonate if the train's speed falls below 80 km/h, forcing it to maintain maximum velocity. Police and bomb squad race against time to find those responsible and disarm the device. The train crew struggles to cope with the danger as the world holds its breath in a desperate race against the clock.Stream onMidnight PulpCineverse Amazon ChannelDarkroomIMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8
  92. 292A Class to Remember posterA Class to RememberMovie · 1993 · 128mA grumpy but ultimately kind high school teacher leads night classes for adult students in a low-income area, a community often overlooked by mainstream Japan.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.5
  93. 293Mental posterMentalMovie · 2008 · 135mMENTAL is a documentary that offers an intimate look inside a Japanese outpatient mental health clinic. Using a cinéma vérité approach, the film follows patients, doctors, staff, volunteers, and home helpers. It tackles the taboo surrounding mental illness in Japan, revealing the raw experiences of individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts, poverty, shame, anxiety, and fear of social isolation.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8
  94. 294Station posterStationMovie · 1981 · 132mA detective becomes intensely focused on solving the case of a serial killer who specifically targets police officers.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1
  95. 295Tracked posterTrackedMovie · 1985 · 124mA fugitive falls in love with the woman sheltering him. Their romance complicates his chances of escaping the consequences of his crimes, and puts them both in the path of relentless detectives.Stream onCriterion ChannelIMDb 6.6TMDB 5.2
  96. 296Bound for the Fields, the Mountains, and the Seacoast posterBound for the Fields, the Mountains, and the SeacoastMovie · 1986 · 135mIn the intensely nationalistic atmosphere before World War II, a defiant teenager starts at a new school in a quiet town by the Inland Sea. He clashes with the school's top bully, who becomes interested in his older stepsister. When they discover she is being sold into a brothel to resolve her father’s debts, the two boys reluctantly team up to save her.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.7
  97. 297The Secret World of Arrietty posterThe Secret World of ArriettyMovie · 2010 · 94m · Fantasy, Animation, FamilyArrietty, a 14-year-old Borrower, lives a quiet life with her family, building a home from things they take from the human world. Their peaceful existence is disrupted when a boy discovers Arrietty.Stream onHBO MaxHBO Max Amazon ChannelAmazon VideoIMDb 7.6TMDB 7.7
  98. 298Dearest posterDearestMovie · 2012 · 111mAfter her death, Eiji's wife asked that her ashes be scattered in the ocean near her hometown. He also discovers a letter she wrote to him, left at the post office before she passed away.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8
  99. 299Grass Labyrinth posterGrass LabyrinthMovie · 1979 · 42mHaunted by a childhood lullaby his mother sang, Akira, approaching adulthood, becomes determined to discover its origins. He unexpectedly enters a time warp where his past and present collide. In this strange realm, he encounters a captivating woman, possibly a witch, who is lost within the confusing corridors of her mansion – a reflection of Akira's own disorientation through time and, perhaps, his subconscious.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  100. 300Tora-san's Dream-Come-True posterTora-san's Dream-Come-TrueMovie · 1972 · 98mTora-san visits his family and discovers a haughty professor has taken over his room. The professor and Tora-san then find themselves competing for Chiyo's attention.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.6