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If you’re not aware, Japanese stories are everywhere online, and Netflix is a great way to access them. There are tons of Japanese stories on Netflix, anything from an emotional drama to nail-biting thrillers, and most even have English subtitles. Whether you’re looking to explore more of Japanese culture or looking to binge-watch a new show, this curated list will not disappoint.
Movies You Must Not Forget About:
A Silent Voice (2016)
An emotional anime film about redemption and forgiveness, about a boy trying to make amends after bullying a deaf girl.
Your Eyes Tell (2020)
A touching love story about a blind woman and an ex-boxer; it is about healing, second chances, and perseverance.
The Fable (2019)
An action-comedy about a legendary hitman trying to live a normal life, but struggles to escape his violent past.
37 Seconds (2019)
An inspiring coming-of-age film about a young woman with cerebral palsy who chases her dream of being a manga artist.
In This Corner of the World (2016)
A Beautiful depiction of WWII Hiroshima, in an illustrated anime, illustrating the resilience of ordinary people in an extraordinary time.
Tuna Girl (2020)
This lighthearted romantic comedy is about a woman adapting to life in a seaside town and quickly discovers love in
Fullmetal Alchemist (2017)
An adaptation of the beloved anime series, following two brothers practicing alchemy who are searching for the elusive Philosopher’s Stone.
River’s Edge (2018)
A gritty teen drama that tackles peer pressure and secrets, with a look at the dark side of youth relationships.
Mother (2010)
A taut thriller about a woman who kidnaps a child she believes is being abused, raising disturbing ethical questions.
Little Miss Sumo (2018)
A short documentary that depicts a woman who is paving the way for other women in the male-dominated world of sumo wrestling.
The best Japanese series streaming on Netflix
Alice in Borderland (2020-2025)
A science fiction survival thriller where friends are stuck in a deserted Tokyo and are forced into games that could kill them.
Midnight diner: Tokyo stories (2009-2019)
A beautiful anthology of stories, late at night, at a small restaurant in Tokyo.
Samurai Gourmet (2017)
A wonderful series about a retiree who rediscovered life and joy through food.
Good Morning Call (2016-2017)
A light romantic comedy about a high school girl who unexpectedly shares an apartment with an attractive boy.
99.9: Criminal lawyer (2016-2018)
A clever twist on legal dramas that approaches cases with almost impossible odds.
With only a limited selection of films and television series coming out of Japan in many countries, here are some more great options available on Netflix.
Mind (2017)
An intense psychological drama about a group of school girls stuck in a weird room.
The Naked Director (2019 – 2021)
A daring biographical show about a notorious figure in Japan’s adult entertainment industry.
Atelier (2015)
A drama about ambition, creativity, and personal evolution that takes place in the fashion world of a luxury lingerie brand.
Million Yen Women (2017)
A suspenseful story about a struggling writer whose solitary life takes a turn when five mysterious women suddenly start living with him.
Hibana: Spark (2016)
A drama based on the world of Japanese stand-up comedy and the struggles of two aspiring comedians.
Final Thoughts
It is a great time to be a fan of Japanese films and television, and with a service like Netflix, anyone around the world can now watch their content. Whether you are in the mood for a tear-jerker romance, an edge-of-your-seat thriller, or a feel-good documentary, with these titles, you will have no problem getting started in exploring the expansive history of storytelling from Japan.
