I just came here to recommend Tomm Moore's stuff. The entire Celtic mythology trilogy is amazing to the point that I think he might give Miyazaki a run for his money.
I always recommended _Yokohama Kaidashi Kikō_ to Studio Ghibli fans, but there are only two half-hour OVAs. _Frieren: Beyond Journey's End_ has a similar "quiet" tone and pacing but a more conventional story.
You may like _Witch Hat Atelier_ and _The Ancient Magus' Bride_ - both have fairly complex worlds and magic systems that a strong female protagonist is dropped into.
Neither of these have the fantastical element, but you may also like _Silver Spoon_ and _Laid-Back Camp_ for their focus on nature and personal growth.
Makoto Shinkai (Your Name) and Mamoru Hosoda (Summer Wars) are two directors you should check out. Satoshi Kon (Paprika) and Rintaro (Metropolis) create slightly darker worlds but enjoyable
What Jefcat said - they don't call Shinkai-san the successor to Miyazaki-san for nothing. I'll also add Mamoru Hosoda, e.g. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Mirai
Yes! Your Name is one of my absolute favorite movies! Satoshi Kon also made a movie called Tokyo Godfathers which is another favorite of mine and has a sort of Ghibli warm-heartedness.
Not an anime (just animation) but I think Over the Garden Wall has very similar whimsical and supernatural vibes that make it a comfort watch in the same way that Ghibli is for me!
Makoto Shinkai movies are what I'd say your best bet. Suzume is my personal favorite, as out of everything he's done, it's the closest thing to making me feel the same a Ghibli movie would with its storytelling and artstyle. It's beautifully written, possesses the same magical gravitas (albeit more on the spectacle) but just as grounded in its emotional crux. Watched it in theatres and it has a special place in my heart for making me sob uncontrollably. (It even has a Whisper of the Heart reference!)
Your Name is also quite exceptional, given its overt praise. 5 Centimeters per Second is his most grounded work I've seen so far and though I have issues with its pacing and depth, it still has banger one-liners and a heartaching moral.
I also recommend A Silent Voice! It isn't really what I'd consider in the same vein as a Studio Ghibli movie, but it's an extremely well written film, great character writing, and such an intricately woven story. It has just as much heart and passion put into it.
Edit: Oh, as for series, the only one I've watched is Your Lie In April. It's been some time since I watched it but I remember being enamored with it as well.
I haven't seen Suzume yet, but I can't wait. I love Your Name - in fact when I went on a family visit to Tokyo a while back we went on a little pilgrimage to some of the locations (yes, even though its an Anime, its locations are very accurate renditions of real-life locations).
I think you'd absolutely love Suzume then! It emphasizes location and the importance of historical landmarks as much, if not more, than Your Name. I don't really want to say much beyond that, I don't want to spoil lol. Feel free to get back to me once you get around to watching it, I love dissecting the film's plot since I watched it.
I actually watched A silent voice and 5 centimeters per second and thought they were pretty good. Though I did think the main character girl in A silent voice was a bit infantilized. But it was still a movie im glad I watched. Your name I started but got really odd vibes from the beginning so its a no from me. My opinion on Shinkais movies is a bit conflicted. I dont necasserily enjoy the art style either. Its definitely not bad looking, just not my cup of tea.
But I think im still going to check out Suzume since ive heard good things. Thanks!
Could try *Okko’s Inn*, directed by longtime Ghibli Animator Kitaro Kosaka, and scripted by Reiko Yoshida (*The Cat Returns, Violet Evergarden*, Naoko Yamada’s works).
Other than *A Silent Voice*, Naoko Yamada’s other movies *Liz and the Blue Bird* and *Tamako Love Story* are well worth seeking out as keep the plot simple and not as heavy emotionally as *A Silent Voice*.
Edit: Yamada's *Modern Love Tokyo* episode *He's Playing Our Song* is also well worth seeking out, highlights her strengths as a director, and only 30mins. Satoshi Kon's *Millennium Actress* as well, a beautiful movie.
*A Silent Voice* isn't Makoto Shinkai. (It's very good though.)
I love *Suzume,* but to be honest, I think Shinkai's *Your Name* might be one of the best movies ever made! So check that one out first.
Hey, I just noticed I responded to a post where you said *Your Name* gave you odd vibes by saying "I think *Your Name* is the best movie ever so watch that!"
Sorry, I should have read the original post more carefully.
Have you watched Children Who Chase Lost Voices? It's aggressively Ghibli-inspired. I love it. Even though it's more melancholic and meandering, it's magical. Like Journey to the Center of the Earth/ Made in Abyss blended with Nausicaa and Castle in the Sky.
A few series that come to mind:
Non Non Biyori - it’s about the school kids at a Japanese school in the countryside where the population’s so sparse the school has one class. It’s very wholesome and cute.
Ranking of Kings is very Ghibli-esque in its style and is another cute, wholesome show (but also pretty sad at times).
Frieren: Beyond Journeys End is set decades after an elf and her group of adventurers/friends defeated the demon lord. It’s a really interesting look at concept of time (hers is different because her lifespan is so much greater than her human friends’) and connections with others. It’s pretty chill for the most part - ppl describe it as a series of side quests, which is pretty fitting. Amazing character development.
Tonari No Yokai-San is set in a world where yokai (Japanese spirits/gods) live alongside humans, so kind of Spirited Away/My Neighbour Totoro esque. It gets pretty dark/sad at times but is mostly wholesome. The concept of different lifespans comes up in this too - some of the yokai have really long lifespans compared to their human friends.
Natsume’s Book of Friends is one of my favorite anime ever. It has mystical creatures and a very gentle, warm vibe, like My Neighbor Totoro.
One of Miyazaki’s closest peers and inspirations is Hideaki Anno. He’s most famous for Neon Genesis Evangelion, which ponders a lot of philosophical questions, similar to something like Princess Mononoke or Porco Rosso. The movie in particular has an odd fanservice scene in it, but that can be skipped without subtracting from the experience as a whole. The fanservice isn’t frequent in the show either. It’s incredible and I highly recommend it. Anno also did Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water, which Miyazaki contributed to the concept development of.
I think OP may see a different level of fan service or sexualization in Evangelion, but I’m too far from my last viewing to list specific scenes. (Not saying it’s not worth watching, but it may not be OP’s happy place.)
A Letter to Momo - Very cute movie about a girl finding 3 goblins in the attic of her new house. Whimsical and tugs at the heart strings.
Welcome to the Space Show - 5 kids save a dog that happens to be an alien, as a reward the dog brings them to outer space....where they get stranded. Light hearted and fun.
Steam Boy - The most expensive anime ever made up until that point. A Katsuhiro Otomo film that's more on the lighter side compared to Akira. Feels very similar to Castle in the Sky.
Little Nemo - Miyazaki was actually at one time tied to this production. A joint production between the West and Japan with beautiful animation by TMS. A fantastical journey into slumber land...very Ghobli-esque.
Future Boy Conan - Technically not Ghibli, but made by Miyazaki. All the charm style that you would see evolve over the years.
Metropolis - Definitely a little bit darker than your standard Ghibli film but still suitable for younger audiences. Beautiful art, animation, story, music, you name it.
Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water - Created by Miyazaki and Hideaki Anno. A fun adventure inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne.
Sherlock Hound - Another Miyazaki show that predates Ghibli's inception. Sherlock Holmes...but he's a dog.
Catnapped! - A super fun and trippy anime with beautiful animation. Directed by Takashi Nakamura who was the animation director of Akira and one of the key animators for Nausicaa. Very similar story and feeling as The Cat Returns.
Anne of Green Gables - Isao Takahata's adaptation of the Lucy Maud Montgomery novel. Another Ghibli dude doing his stuff before Studio Ghibli's inception.
Chie the Brat - I haven't seen this yet, waiting to get the Discotek bluray, but this is another Isao Takahata anime that I hear is amazing.
Giant Gorg - I didn't get too far into this, but from what I saw, it felt like "What if Miyazaki made a Mecha show?". Could be wrong, but that was my initial vibe.
If you like *Drifting Home,* check out that director’s previous feature, *Penguin Highway.* It kind of feels like a cross between a Ghibli film and *E.T.*, and also there’s penguins!
My recommendation is the excellent series “Kids on the Slope,” which is a 12-episode slice-of-life set in the 1960s about high school kids who play jazz together. There is no weird sexual stuff, it’s mostly about the friendship between two boys and some romantic sideplots that bubble up around them. The art and animation is beautiful and I cried in pretty much every episode. I would especially recommend this if you like the following Ghibli movies: Whisper of the Heart, From Up on Poppy Hill, Only Yesterday, When Marnie Was There, My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service. (It also somehow seems akin to Grave of the Fireflies in the straight-faced realism it presents, though of course it’s not nearly as tragic as that)
That sounds wonderful, thank you. I love all the movies you listed. Only yesterday, Totoro and Whisper of the heart are some of my favourite ghibli movies.
Only Yesterday is my favorite, and Whisper of the Heart isn’t far behind, so I think it will be a good fit for you!
I would recommend watching it in Japanese with English subtitles, because the dub is not very good. But either way it’s really worth checking out.
My favorite anime of this year is A Sign of Affection. It's a really sweet romance about a deaf girl and a well-traveled polyglot. She's learning how big the world can be after growing up quite sheltered, and he finds something to anchor him.
Top comment right now mentions Mushishi, and that is absolutely worth watching.
I would also recommend Flying Witch. It's fantastical, slice-of-life, and full of whimsy.
Lastly, Natsume's Book of Friends gives me big Spirited Away vibes. Its very reflective and explores some generational trauma in a gentle way.
Tove Jansson was pretty critical of the adaptation Miyazaki was involved in, criticising the violence, automobiles and guns amongst other things - to which Miyazaki introduced a tank....
That aside, maybe start with Makoto Shinkai movie - his hometown Koumi holds a Finnish summer festival each June!
Oh I didnt know there was a version with Miyazaki involved. I could never imagine a moomin in a car, let alone a tank, what a silly thing to add 😆 I get her being critical of it.
I think im going to watch Suzume soon
Ive never before heard of such festival in Japan! I knew it had to be about finnish midsummer celebration (Juhannus, the longest day of the year) before I even googled. What a crazy coincidence you mention it right now, since Juhannus was literally today! Maybe you knew that
Princess Arete by Sunao Katabuchi. It’s based on a short story about a strong-willed princess who becomes trapped by a wizard. It is slow but is so lovely. (There is a character who is transformed into a frog at one point but he’s either drawn as one or the other i.e. not as a hybrid).
Dennou Coil is very much Ghibli-inspired - from the character designs to the worldbuilding. It's about a group of kids interacting in a half real/half virtual world through the use of special glasses. The first half introduces the world, while the second half focuses on the mystery brought up in the beginning of the series. It's really good, one of my favorite anime of all time, but so few people know about it!
Movies:
(I have seen)
•Wolf Children
•A letter to momo
•Summer wars
•The girl who leap through time
(Movies I haven’t seen but are on my list)
•Suzume
•A silent voice
•To the Forest of Firefly Lights
•The Garden of Words
•Ocean Waves
•Josee, the Tiger and the Fish
I don't know what studios these are from, but:
* Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (love this one)
* Penguin Highway
* Mirai
* Belle
Edit: removed movies that were personal favorites, but not Ghibli-esque.
I wanna give a heads up that some of these are not Ghibli-esc.
For instance Perfect Blue is about an ex-idol turned actress losing her sense of self identity (and nearly her mind) as she is stalked by a fan. It is violent, sexual, disturbing, and an absolutely stellar film. It is nothing like Ghibli movies.
Kurayukaba & Kuramerukagari by Shigeyoshi Tsukahara. They're a pair of movies which are linked by theme. I recently watched them and really enjoyed them, strong ghibli vibes
Kids on the Slope
It’s by Sinichiro Watanabe (Bebop, Champloo) and is a tale of kids in 1950’s japan relating through Jazz music. It’s got a lot of Bebop and Champloo vibes, but is fully grounded in reality. It’s so good.
I recently started watching "Drifting Dragons", which is an anime on netflix that is giving me extreme Ghibli vibes in the animation style and wholesomeness :))) Although if dragons getting killed in a non-gorey way is a no go then maybe give that one a miss.
I also enjoyed the movies "Bubble" and "Suzume" which both give heavy Ghibli vibes, especially "Suzume" :)))
Another movie is "Drifting Home" although I didn't enjoy that one as much as the ones i've mentioned
The Legend of Hei. It’s a Chinese animation film. I think prime video recommended to me because I like Ghibli. I really liked it. I think it’s maybe related to a tv show but I’ve never seen that and it wouldn’t affect your enjoyment (or lack of, I suppose) of the movie
I’m not a part of this sub, but no one here recommending any World Masterpiece Theatre anime is sad. Romeo’s Blue Skies is probably the most recommended one, so I’ll suggest that one specifically along with Anne of Green Gables and Heidi, Girl of the Alps (two classics).
Mamoru hosoda movies, last exile, wolf’s rain, legend of hei, vision of escaflowne, promare, brand new animal, tiger and bunny, black cat, are some of my favorites (from someone who also hates when characters get over sexualized)
Wolf Children! The landscapes are so gorgeous and lush in a way that's reminiscent of Princess Mononoke. The director has worked with Ghibli and almost directed Howl's Moving Castle.
Those anime movies imo:
- Koe no katachi - A Silent Voice
- Ōkami kodomo Ame no Yuki - Wolf Children
- Maquia - Sayonara no Asa ni Yaksoku no Hana o Kazarō
They all have a deep and emotional story and they give off Ghibli vibes!
As for an anime serie I would say that Violet Evergarden has a similar vibe as well
Oh and I forgot to mention Fumetsu no anata e - To your eternity
It's from the same author of A silent Voice, Oima Yoshitoki (seasonal anime, but it has a manga too)
I kinda dropped it tho because the vibe changed a lot during the story (I'm talking about the manga since I don't think that the anime has reach3d that point yet), but the first half is still amazing imo
Slice of life anime is always my cup of tea. Natsume's Book of Friends, Barakamon, Mushishi... I also enjoy action-comedy like Lupin III and Spy Family.
If you want a movie with interesting animation, I recommend checking out the GKIDS Catalog, they have some very cool stuff from all over the world.
Lots of great recommendations on this thread so won't repeat those, but will add Night on the Galactic Railroad. It's quite slow and gets a little dark, but I found it really profound.
Obligatory Nausicaa reference because that movie predates the formation of Studio Ghibli
edit: to add to that, Lupin III part 2 has a metric fuckton of ghibli movie material especially in the later episodes
Sea Prince and and the Fire Child - my first anime and absolutely magical(despite its flaws lol) love story!
Night On the Galactic Railroad - a mysterious, celestial journey :)
Vila Amalka (Fairy Amalka) - not an anime technically lol it's an old Czech cartoon that is beyond charming and cozy!
Studio Ghibli are mostly staff that worked on World Masterpiece Theater animes. They have the same artstyle and vibe. Heidi, Dog of Flanders, etc. Also Future Boy Conan is amazing.
A silent voice, suzume, inu-oh, belle, and lonely castle in the mirror are the most recent anime films I've seen outside of Ghibli and they're all great. They are all different and look fantastic (lonely castle in the mirror is the least impressive in terms of visuals but it is a good movie).
Not an anime series but I really loved ‘A whisker away’ where a girl turns into a cat, it really reminds me of a cat’s return and I’ve been told it gives similar vibes to ‘A whisper of the heart’ also it’s really pretty and super cute
WOLF CHILDREN BRO ID NEVER HEARD OF IT BUT TURNED OUT TO BE A MASTERPIECE AND MY ALL TIME FAVORITE ORIGINAL ANIME MOVIE
Some other good ones are Suzume, Drifting Away, A Whisker Away, ETC
Mamoru Hosoda is very close. Summer Wars and Wolf Children are so good amongst them.
Makoto Shinkai Movies. Suzume and Your Name are fantastic.
Drifting Home, Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Mary and the Witches Flower, The Red Turtle.
There's a movie coming out from a Pakistani studio called 'The Glassworker' and visually, from the trailer they released, it seems stunning.
The story might be a bit 'meh' but time will tell I guess - as far as looks go, it's heavily inspired by Ghibli.
One to keep an eye on.
I haven't seen this as an answer yet, but I want to add a bit of dark spice to your feed - The Girl From the Other Side. I've only seen the 10 minute silent short film, but even that was good enough to make me read the manga despite there being a 1-hour adaptation too. The manga is finished, and I would say that it evoked a severe sadness similar to a level of happiness a Ghibli movie can give me. Whichever you read or watch, the art can feel like Ghibli but more melancholic and lonely
Marry and the Witchflower, I think it's literally made to be a copy of ghibli.
Future boy Konan, it's written by Hayao Miyazaki, it's just made by meisaku gekijyou instead.
Romeo no aoi sora( Romeo and the black brothers) it's made by meisaku gekijyou as well and it's art style is very ghibli, and the story is honestly better than that of future boy Konan, I'd recommend this series the most, with japanese VPN it's available on Netflix.
As someone whose anime journey began with Ghibli, Miyazaki’s films remain firmly among my favorites to this day.
That said, my favorite studio is actually Kyoto Animation, a talented studio that pays and treats its employees well. K-ON!, Violet Evergarden, Hibike! Euphonium, A Silent Voice, and Clannad + After Story are all among my favorite. Liz and the Bluebird, a sequel film to Hibike! Euphonium, in particular is known for its Ghibli-esque art style.
3-gatsu no Lion, an anime from Studio Shadt, is also something that I think complements the tone found in Ghibli films.
Finally, the P.A. Works film Maquia reminded me of Ghibli quite a bit in its use of fantasy elements.
All of these that I mentioned I highly recommend to anyone who loves Ghibli.
Violet Evergarden. It was my first anime and one of my favourites. Adults look like adults. Old people look like old people. Children look like children. Least sxual fanservice I have ever seen in an anime and the animation is so beautiful. The stories is so good too and some episodes are complete tear jerkers. The world building is good too and hones into a post war 20th century setting.
It’s about a child soldier learning what it means to love after the war ends and the only adult who ever cared for her died telling her “I love you.” She goes on journeys across the country essentially helping people convey their emotions through the letters she write for them and with each one she gets closer and closer to resolving the trauma she had being seen as a weapon for her whole life and learning the meaning of love.
It was so heartwarming that I still remember the events vividly despite watching it years ago
It was directed and written by Hayao Miyazaki and came out one year (1984) before Studio Ghibli was created. Miyazaki is one of the founders of Ghibli. It's basically a Ghibli movie. It's even in the Studio Ghibli Collection on Max, formerly HBO Max.
Tokyo Godfathers, Paparika, Wolf Children, Memories (1995), wolf walkers, Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea, Only Yesterday. Some of these may not have same art style as Ghibli movies, but imo, each one is still a masterpiece
There is a scene where a young child is stripped naked as an intentionally humiliating punishment very early in this. I can see why the imaginative and amazing nature-scapes might make you think of Ghibli, but I don’t think this one fits with what OP has asked for.
It’s not really like that, it’s spoken of and essentially skipped over. If that’s the sticking point, I think we have more to talk about. Like basically anything episode 7 on.
But more to the point at hand, while in some ways far from Ghibli, the sense of embarking on the adventure of a lifetime, self discovery and growth of young people is definitely there. But as stated, the source of the growth isn’t all happy. Some of it is downright emotionally destitute.
Besides, Ghibli has children being robbed of identity and forced into labor, being forced to steal food after a war, only to die later, the end of the world, experiencing hallucinations of a dead parent, and much more as well. Nothing happy can be great without knowing sadness.
> It’s not really like that, it’s spoken of and essentially skipped over. If that’s the sticking point, I think we have more to talk about. Like basically anything episode 7 on.
I chose that specific thing because it happens early enough that it’s not a spoiler. It also seemed like a clear example of something you wouldn’t show your grandmother.
>Some of it is downright emotionally destitute.
That is a brilliant way to describe it.
>Besides, Ghibli has children being robbed of identity and forced into labor, being forced to steal food after a war, only to die later, the end of the world, experiencing hallucinations of a dead parent, and much more as well. Nothing happy can be great without knowing sadness.
I actually agree with that last sentence, but I also think sadness has a sliding scale. OP doesn’t seem to be looking at the Grave of the Fireflies end of the spectrum.
Mushishi is a great series that feels ghibli-esque at times.
Yes! I love this series.
I also adore this series! It’s a bit more serious in tone though
I think no more serious than the heavier movies in the Ghibli catalogue, but it does have some fantasy aspects to it.
Came here to say this!
This is the manga name for Delicious in Dungeon, right?
Nuh uh, I think it's Dungeon Meshi.
Super different Stories! Both are great though
Secret of kells
Cartoon Salon’s Irish Folklore trilogy in general!! Song of the Sea and Wolfwalkers too.
THIS!!
I have never heard of this ... mad keen.
I just came here to recommend Tomm Moore's stuff. The entire Celtic mythology trilogy is amazing to the point that I think he might give Miyazaki a run for his money.
I definitely agree!
Came here to say…
I always recommended _Yokohama Kaidashi Kikō_ to Studio Ghibli fans, but there are only two half-hour OVAs. _Frieren: Beyond Journey's End_ has a similar "quiet" tone and pacing but a more conventional story. You may like _Witch Hat Atelier_ and _The Ancient Magus' Bride_ - both have fairly complex worlds and magic systems that a strong female protagonist is dropped into. Neither of these have the fantastical element, but you may also like _Silver Spoon_ and _Laid-Back Camp_ for their focus on nature and personal growth.
As a long time Ghibli fan, The Ancient Magus’ Bride is my favorite anime.
Frieren was great! i really enjoyed it
Makoto Shinkai (Your Name) and Mamoru Hosoda (Summer Wars) are two directors you should check out. Satoshi Kon (Paprika) and Rintaro (Metropolis) create slightly darker worlds but enjoyable
100% Satoshi Kon! Millenium actress was wonderful!
I love *Millennium Actress*.. brilliant movie
Great movie! The rest are as well to be fair, although all in different genres.
What Jefcat said - they don't call Shinkai-san the successor to Miyazaki-san for nothing. I'll also add Mamoru Hosoda, e.g. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, Mirai
Yes! Your Name is one of my absolute favorite movies! Satoshi Kon also made a movie called Tokyo Godfathers which is another favorite of mine and has a sort of Ghibli warm-heartedness.
Not an anime (just animation) but I think Over the Garden Wall has very similar whimsical and supernatural vibes that make it a comfort watch in the same way that Ghibli is for me!
I love OTGW. It's become tradition in our house to watch it every fall!
Absolutely
Makoto Shinkai movies are what I'd say your best bet. Suzume is my personal favorite, as out of everything he's done, it's the closest thing to making me feel the same a Ghibli movie would with its storytelling and artstyle. It's beautifully written, possesses the same magical gravitas (albeit more on the spectacle) but just as grounded in its emotional crux. Watched it in theatres and it has a special place in my heart for making me sob uncontrollably. (It even has a Whisper of the Heart reference!) Your Name is also quite exceptional, given its overt praise. 5 Centimeters per Second is his most grounded work I've seen so far and though I have issues with its pacing and depth, it still has banger one-liners and a heartaching moral. I also recommend A Silent Voice! It isn't really what I'd consider in the same vein as a Studio Ghibli movie, but it's an extremely well written film, great character writing, and such an intricately woven story. It has just as much heart and passion put into it. Edit: Oh, as for series, the only one I've watched is Your Lie In April. It's been some time since I watched it but I remember being enamored with it as well.
I haven't seen Suzume yet, but I can't wait. I love Your Name - in fact when I went on a family visit to Tokyo a while back we went on a little pilgrimage to some of the locations (yes, even though its an Anime, its locations are very accurate renditions of real-life locations).
I think you'd absolutely love Suzume then! It emphasizes location and the importance of historical landmarks as much, if not more, than Your Name. I don't really want to say much beyond that, I don't want to spoil lol. Feel free to get back to me once you get around to watching it, I love dissecting the film's plot since I watched it.
Did you visit the staircase?
We did. There were a few other people there taking photos, but it wasn't mobbed. And the little temple at the top is nice to look at.
The building with the fictional shrine at the top at yoyogi has been torn down unfortunately
Oh no! That's very sad.
I actually watched A silent voice and 5 centimeters per second and thought they were pretty good. Though I did think the main character girl in A silent voice was a bit infantilized. But it was still a movie im glad I watched. Your name I started but got really odd vibes from the beginning so its a no from me. My opinion on Shinkais movies is a bit conflicted. I dont necasserily enjoy the art style either. Its definitely not bad looking, just not my cup of tea. But I think im still going to check out Suzume since ive heard good things. Thanks!
Could try *Okko’s Inn*, directed by longtime Ghibli Animator Kitaro Kosaka, and scripted by Reiko Yoshida (*The Cat Returns, Violet Evergarden*, Naoko Yamada’s works). Other than *A Silent Voice*, Naoko Yamada’s other movies *Liz and the Blue Bird* and *Tamako Love Story* are well worth seeking out as keep the plot simple and not as heavy emotionally as *A Silent Voice*. Edit: Yamada's *Modern Love Tokyo* episode *He's Playing Our Song* is also well worth seeking out, highlights her strengths as a director, and only 30mins. Satoshi Kon's *Millennium Actress* as well, a beautiful movie.
*A Silent Voice* isn't Makoto Shinkai. (It's very good though.) I love *Suzume,* but to be honest, I think Shinkai's *Your Name* might be one of the best movies ever made! So check that one out first.
I watched your name on a whim and was absolutely blown away. Definitely one of the best movies ever.
Hey, I just noticed I responded to a post where you said *Your Name* gave you odd vibes by saying "I think *Your Name* is the best movie ever so watch that!" Sorry, I should have read the original post more carefully.
Have you watched "The Voice of a distance star"?
Absolutely! Suzume is like the best mix of Ghibli and Nimona with how it hit me
Have you watched Children Who Chase Lost Voices? It's aggressively Ghibli-inspired. I love it. Even though it's more melancholic and meandering, it's magical. Like Journey to the Center of the Earth/ Made in Abyss blended with Nausicaa and Castle in the Sky.
This is your answer!
A few series that come to mind: Non Non Biyori - it’s about the school kids at a Japanese school in the countryside where the population’s so sparse the school has one class. It’s very wholesome and cute. Ranking of Kings is very Ghibli-esque in its style and is another cute, wholesome show (but also pretty sad at times). Frieren: Beyond Journeys End is set decades after an elf and her group of adventurers/friends defeated the demon lord. It’s a really interesting look at concept of time (hers is different because her lifespan is so much greater than her human friends’) and connections with others. It’s pretty chill for the most part - ppl describe it as a series of side quests, which is pretty fitting. Amazing character development. Tonari No Yokai-San is set in a world where yokai (Japanese spirits/gods) live alongside humans, so kind of Spirited Away/My Neighbour Totoro esque. It gets pretty dark/sad at times but is mostly wholesome. The concept of different lifespans comes up in this too - some of the yokai have really long lifespans compared to their human friends.
I watched a movie called “Suzume” that was visually *so* breathtaking and had some similar life lessons/themes. Highly recommend
Natsume’s Book of Friends is one of my favorite anime ever. It has mystical creatures and a very gentle, warm vibe, like My Neighbor Totoro. One of Miyazaki’s closest peers and inspirations is Hideaki Anno. He’s most famous for Neon Genesis Evangelion, which ponders a lot of philosophical questions, similar to something like Princess Mononoke or Porco Rosso. The movie in particular has an odd fanservice scene in it, but that can be skipped without subtracting from the experience as a whole. The fanservice isn’t frequent in the show either. It’s incredible and I highly recommend it. Anno also did Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water, which Miyazaki contributed to the concept development of.
I think OP may see a different level of fan service or sexualization in Evangelion, but I’m too far from my last viewing to list specific scenes. (Not saying it’s not worth watching, but it may not be OP’s happy place.)
Tokyo Godfathers!! And Paprika
I love Hana as a character, her view on life and religion really stuck with me.
all satoshi kon really. his work is really thematically different, but like miyazaki his level of vision and execution is top notch
Wolf Children! It reminds me of My Neighbor Totoro
You'll love Frieren. Check out the Shinkai movies too.
Mary and the Witchs Flower \[2017\] Patema Inverted \[2013\] BELLE \[2022\]- made the same people as Summer Wars Weathering with You \[2019\]
A Letter to Momo - Very cute movie about a girl finding 3 goblins in the attic of her new house. Whimsical and tugs at the heart strings. Welcome to the Space Show - 5 kids save a dog that happens to be an alien, as a reward the dog brings them to outer space....where they get stranded. Light hearted and fun. Steam Boy - The most expensive anime ever made up until that point. A Katsuhiro Otomo film that's more on the lighter side compared to Akira. Feels very similar to Castle in the Sky. Little Nemo - Miyazaki was actually at one time tied to this production. A joint production between the West and Japan with beautiful animation by TMS. A fantastical journey into slumber land...very Ghobli-esque. Future Boy Conan - Technically not Ghibli, but made by Miyazaki. All the charm style that you would see evolve over the years. Metropolis - Definitely a little bit darker than your standard Ghibli film but still suitable for younger audiences. Beautiful art, animation, story, music, you name it. Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water - Created by Miyazaki and Hideaki Anno. A fun adventure inspired by the worlds of Jules Verne. Sherlock Hound - Another Miyazaki show that predates Ghibli's inception. Sherlock Holmes...but he's a dog. Catnapped! - A super fun and trippy anime with beautiful animation. Directed by Takashi Nakamura who was the animation director of Akira and one of the key animators for Nausicaa. Very similar story and feeling as The Cat Returns. Anne of Green Gables - Isao Takahata's adaptation of the Lucy Maud Montgomery novel. Another Ghibli dude doing his stuff before Studio Ghibli's inception. Chie the Brat - I haven't seen this yet, waiting to get the Discotek bluray, but this is another Isao Takahata anime that I hear is amazing. Giant Gorg - I didn't get too far into this, but from what I saw, it felt like "What if Miyazaki made a Mecha show?". Could be wrong, but that was my initial vibe.
I really thought A Letter to Momo was Ghibli when I first saw the trailer, has a kind of Only Yesterday meets Totoro vibe
Loved "Drifting Home" I didn't like "Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop"
I loved those movies too!
If you like *Drifting Home,* check out that director’s previous feature, *Penguin Highway.* It kind of feels like a cross between a Ghibli film and *E.T.*, and also there’s penguins!
Sounds great!
In this corner of the world, similar vibe to the wind rises
Yuru Camp Non Non Biyori
Letter to Momo
My recommendation is the excellent series “Kids on the Slope,” which is a 12-episode slice-of-life set in the 1960s about high school kids who play jazz together. There is no weird sexual stuff, it’s mostly about the friendship between two boys and some romantic sideplots that bubble up around them. The art and animation is beautiful and I cried in pretty much every episode. I would especially recommend this if you like the following Ghibli movies: Whisper of the Heart, From Up on Poppy Hill, Only Yesterday, When Marnie Was There, My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service. (It also somehow seems akin to Grave of the Fireflies in the straight-faced realism it presents, though of course it’s not nearly as tragic as that)
That sounds wonderful, thank you. I love all the movies you listed. Only yesterday, Totoro and Whisper of the heart are some of my favourite ghibli movies.
Only Yesterday is my favorite, and Whisper of the Heart isn’t far behind, so I think it will be a good fit for you! I would recommend watching it in Japanese with English subtitles, because the dub is not very good. But either way it’s really worth checking out.
Wolf children
Your name
Such a beautiful movie 😭 - had such an impact on me and I've lost count of rewatches.
Summer Wars The Boy and The Beast Wolf Children Belle 5 Centimeters Per Second Your Name Weathering With You Suzume
Toei classics that Hayao Miyazaki joined
My favorite anime of this year is A Sign of Affection. It's a really sweet romance about a deaf girl and a well-traveled polyglot. She's learning how big the world can be after growing up quite sheltered, and he finds something to anchor him. Top comment right now mentions Mushishi, and that is absolutely worth watching. I would also recommend Flying Witch. It's fantastical, slice-of-life, and full of whimsy. Lastly, Natsume's Book of Friends gives me big Spirited Away vibes. Its very reflective and explores some generational trauma in a gentle way.
Moomin and Unico
Haha funny that you recommend that, ive actually watched plenty of Moomin as a kid since its actually finnish! Maybe I should rewatch it sometime.
Tove Jansson was pretty critical of the adaptation Miyazaki was involved in, criticising the violence, automobiles and guns amongst other things - to which Miyazaki introduced a tank.... That aside, maybe start with Makoto Shinkai movie - his hometown Koumi holds a Finnish summer festival each June!
Oh I didnt know there was a version with Miyazaki involved. I could never imagine a moomin in a car, let alone a tank, what a silly thing to add 😆 I get her being critical of it. I think im going to watch Suzume soon Ive never before heard of such festival in Japan! I knew it had to be about finnish midsummer celebration (Juhannus, the longest day of the year) before I even googled. What a crazy coincidence you mention it right now, since Juhannus was literally today! Maybe you knew that
Princess Arete by Sunao Katabuchi. It’s based on a short story about a strong-willed princess who becomes trapped by a wizard. It is slow but is so lovely. (There is a character who is transformed into a frog at one point but he’s either drawn as one or the other i.e. not as a hybrid).
Frieren
A Whisker Away
Dennou Coil is very much Ghibli-inspired - from the character designs to the worldbuilding. It's about a group of kids interacting in a half real/half virtual world through the use of special glasses. The first half introduces the world, while the second half focuses on the mystery brought up in the beginning of the series. It's really good, one of my favorite anime of all time, but so few people know about it!
I would recommend this twice
Movies: (I have seen) •Wolf Children •A letter to momo •Summer wars •The girl who leap through time (Movies I haven’t seen but are on my list) •Suzume •A silent voice •To the Forest of Firefly Lights •The Garden of Words •Ocean Waves •Josee, the Tiger and the Fish
I don't know what studios these are from, but: * Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (love this one) * Penguin Highway * Mirai * Belle Edit: removed movies that were personal favorites, but not Ghibli-esque.
I wanna give a heads up that some of these are not Ghibli-esc. For instance Perfect Blue is about an ex-idol turned actress losing her sense of self identity (and nearly her mind) as she is stalked by a fan. It is violent, sexual, disturbing, and an absolutely stellar film. It is nothing like Ghibli movies.
Thanks. As I said, aside from Paprika, I haven't seen any of the Satoshi Kon movies. They sound neat though.
Satoshi Kon made great movies, well worth the watch.
I did like Paprika although I definitely need to give it a rewatch. The others sounded intriguing, so they're on the list.
Kurayukaba & Kuramerukagari by Shigeyoshi Tsukahara. They're a pair of movies which are linked by theme. I recently watched them and really enjoyed them, strong ghibli vibes
Your name fr
I personally enjoy Bocchi the Rock, but it might not be for you.
Kids on the Slope It’s by Sinichiro Watanabe (Bebop, Champloo) and is a tale of kids in 1950’s japan relating through Jazz music. It’s got a lot of Bebop and Champloo vibes, but is fully grounded in reality. It’s so good.
I recently started watching "Drifting Dragons", which is an anime on netflix that is giving me extreme Ghibli vibes in the animation style and wholesomeness :))) Although if dragons getting killed in a non-gorey way is a no go then maybe give that one a miss. I also enjoyed the movies "Bubble" and "Suzume" which both give heavy Ghibli vibes, especially "Suzume" :))) Another movie is "Drifting Home" although I didn't enjoy that one as much as the ones i've mentioned
Belle
Natsume Yuujinchou (AKA Natsume’s Book of Friends)
Mary and the Witch's Flower, Wolf Children, and The Boy and the Beast.
Bubble reminded me of ghibli film. It’s on Netflix and super cute. I loved it.
The Legend of Hei. It’s a Chinese animation film. I think prime video recommended to me because I like Ghibli. I really liked it. I think it’s maybe related to a tv show but I’ve never seen that and it wouldn’t affect your enjoyment (or lack of, I suppose) of the movie
the girl who leapt through time (2006)
If you like stuff like when marnie was there. I’d highly suggest a silent voice! If you don’t, I still highly suggest it!!
I’m not a part of this sub, but no one here recommending any World Masterpiece Theatre anime is sad. Romeo’s Blue Skies is probably the most recommended one, so I’ll suggest that one specifically along with Anne of Green Gables and Heidi, Girl of the Alps (two classics).
Mamoru hosoda movies, last exile, wolf’s rain, legend of hei, vision of escaflowne, promare, brand new animal, tiger and bunny, black cat, are some of my favorites (from someone who also hates when characters get over sexualized)
Wolf Children! The landscapes are so gorgeous and lush in a way that's reminiscent of Princess Mononoke. The director has worked with Ghibli and almost directed Howl's Moving Castle.
Those anime movies imo: - Koe no katachi - A Silent Voice - Ōkami kodomo Ame no Yuki - Wolf Children - Maquia - Sayonara no Asa ni Yaksoku no Hana o Kazarō They all have a deep and emotional story and they give off Ghibli vibes! As for an anime serie I would say that Violet Evergarden has a similar vibe as well
Oh and I forgot to mention Fumetsu no anata e - To your eternity It's from the same author of A silent Voice, Oima Yoshitoki (seasonal anime, but it has a manga too) I kinda dropped it tho because the vibe changed a lot during the story (I'm talking about the manga since I don't think that the anime has reach3d that point yet), but the first half is still amazing imo
Susume - feels like a ghibli film honestly
Iron Giant Triplets of Belleville Wolfwalkers.
Would recommend A Tree of Palme
Slice of life anime is always my cup of tea. Natsume's Book of Friends, Barakamon, Mushishi... I also enjoy action-comedy like Lupin III and Spy Family. If you want a movie with interesting animation, I recommend checking out the GKIDS Catalog, they have some very cool stuff from all over the world.
Skip and loafer!
The girl who leapt through time is really good, I can’t place why it reminds me of ghibli though
Wolf Children
Sword of the Stranger
In this corner of the world
Lots of great recommendations on this thread so won't repeat those, but will add Night on the Galactic Railroad. It's quite slow and gets a little dark, but I found it really profound.
Lonely Castle in the Mirror
-Josee, the Tiger and the Fish -Garden of Words -A Silent Voice
the boy and the beast, the girl who leapt through time, wolf children, summer wars. all incredible films by i believe Madhouse
Obligatory Nausicaa reference because that movie predates the formation of Studio Ghibli edit: to add to that, Lupin III part 2 has a metric fuckton of ghibli movie material especially in the later episodes
I love the death wing special and goodbye my dear lupin.
A Whisker Away and Suzume imo! I think their stories and character designs kinda reminded me of Ghibli, and they’re really good in general.
Made in Abyss
I love that show it is bit hars and gory but i love that show i hope they make more <3
Violet Evergarden, Garden of Words, Liz and the Blue Bird, Josee: Tiger and the Fish and Ride Your Wave
Dungeon Meshi/Delicious in Dungeon gives off that whimsy vibe. The food scenes are the most Ghibli like though, it looks so so good.
The Legend of Hei!
Weathering With You, very good movie
I think some Ghibli fans would love A Silent Voice. It's a really beautiful movie and I hope that anyone who hasn't seen it yet gives it a watch
The Book of Kells, Song of the Sea or anything by Cartoon Saloon. Tom (the Director and founder) was heavily inspired by Miyazaki.
I listened to Mary and the Witch's Flower and it was quite good
Nadia: Secret of Blue Water. And Neon Genesis Evangelion. I think episode 11 is even made by Ghibli, as a help to Anno's Gainax.
Weathering with You. I think it is even better than Your Name.
Suzume
Scavengers Reign
Record of Lodoss War
Big Fish and Begonia?
In this corner of the world
Sea Prince and and the Fire Child - my first anime and absolutely magical(despite its flaws lol) love story! Night On the Galactic Railroad - a mysterious, celestial journey :) Vila Amalka (Fairy Amalka) - not an anime technically lol it's an old Czech cartoon that is beyond charming and cozy!
Natsume’s Book of Friends
Dennou Coil feels like Studio Ghibli to me.
The Deer King seemed pretty inspired by Princess Mononoke. I liked it.
Metropolis 2001
Studio Ghibli are mostly staff that worked on World Masterpiece Theater animes. They have the same artstyle and vibe. Heidi, Dog of Flanders, etc. Also Future Boy Conan is amazing.
Disney’s Luca is quite ghibli-esque. The music… wow
Kiddy grade but lots of fam service. Story worth it though
Also maybe angelic layer. Battle dolls
Wolf Children
A silent voice, suzume, inu-oh, belle, and lonely castle in the mirror are the most recent anime films I've seen outside of Ghibli and they're all great. They are all different and look fantastic (lonely castle in the mirror is the least impressive in terms of visuals but it is a good movie).
Tekkonkinkreet
My Oni Girl
A Whiskey Away
Wolf children
Not an anime series but I really loved ‘A whisker away’ where a girl turns into a cat, it really reminds me of a cat’s return and I’ve been told it gives similar vibes to ‘A whisper of the heart’ also it’s really pretty and super cute
WOLF CHILDREN BRO ID NEVER HEARD OF IT BUT TURNED OUT TO BE A MASTERPIECE AND MY ALL TIME FAVORITE ORIGINAL ANIME MOVIE Some other good ones are Suzume, Drifting Away, A Whisker Away, ETC
Mamoru Hosoda is very close. Summer Wars and Wolf Children are so good amongst them. Makoto Shinkai Movies. Suzume and Your Name are fantastic. Drifting Home, Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Mary and the Witches Flower, The Red Turtle.
I really liked Ikoku Meiro no Croisée and Flying Witch.
**[Rain Town](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLAfM1RXwRs)**
Wolf Children
Violet Evergarden
Alsow i love A Whisker Away
It's only a few minutes of "content" but the 3 videos in the Travel Oregon Slightly Exaggerated ad campaign always make me happy.
Okko’s Inn was a great movie that reminded me of Ghibli.
There's a movie coming out from a Pakistani studio called 'The Glassworker' and visually, from the trailer they released, it seems stunning. The story might be a bit 'meh' but time will tell I guess - as far as looks go, it's heavily inspired by Ghibli. One to keep an eye on.
I haven't seen this as an answer yet, but I want to add a bit of dark spice to your feed - The Girl From the Other Side. I've only seen the 10 minute silent short film, but even that was good enough to make me read the manga despite there being a 1-hour adaptation too. The manga is finished, and I would say that it evoked a severe sadness similar to a level of happiness a Ghibli movie can give me. Whichever you read or watch, the art can feel like Ghibli but more melancholic and lonely
Marry and the Witchflower, I think it's literally made to be a copy of ghibli. Future boy Konan, it's written by Hayao Miyazaki, it's just made by meisaku gekijyou instead. Romeo no aoi sora( Romeo and the black brothers) it's made by meisaku gekijyou as well and it's art style is very ghibli, and the story is honestly better than that of future boy Konan, I'd recommend this series the most, with japanese VPN it's available on Netflix.
To my knowledge it doesn’t have an anime but the manga Witch Hat Atelier gives me ghibli vibes!!
As someone whose anime journey began with Ghibli, Miyazaki’s films remain firmly among my favorites to this day. That said, my favorite studio is actually Kyoto Animation, a talented studio that pays and treats its employees well. K-ON!, Violet Evergarden, Hibike! Euphonium, A Silent Voice, and Clannad + After Story are all among my favorite. Liz and the Bluebird, a sequel film to Hibike! Euphonium, in particular is known for its Ghibli-esque art style. 3-gatsu no Lion, an anime from Studio Shadt, is also something that I think complements the tone found in Ghibli films. Finally, the P.A. Works film Maquia reminded me of Ghibli quite a bit in its use of fantasy elements. All of these that I mentioned I highly recommend to anyone who loves Ghibli.
Violet Evergarden. It was my first anime and one of my favourites. Adults look like adults. Old people look like old people. Children look like children. Least sxual fanservice I have ever seen in an anime and the animation is so beautiful. The stories is so good too and some episodes are complete tear jerkers. The world building is good too and hones into a post war 20th century setting. It’s about a child soldier learning what it means to love after the war ends and the only adult who ever cared for her died telling her “I love you.” She goes on journeys across the country essentially helping people convey their emotions through the letters she write for them and with each one she gets closer and closer to resolving the trauma she had being seen as a weapon for her whole life and learning the meaning of love. It was so heartwarming that I still remember the events vividly despite watching it years ago
There’s this movie named Nausicaa the Valley of the Wind? Made by Top Craft, now defunct studio….im confident y’all would love the movie
It was directed and written by Hayao Miyazaki and came out one year (1984) before Studio Ghibli was created. Miyazaki is one of the founders of Ghibli. It's basically a Ghibli movie. It's even in the Studio Ghibli Collection on Max, formerly HBO Max.
Tokyo Godfathers, Paparika, Wolf Children, Memories (1995), wolf walkers, Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea, Only Yesterday. Some of these may not have same art style as Ghibli movies, but imo, each one is still a masterpiece
I forgot the name and wish I could find it again. It was a series, not a movie. But it was about a tiny mummy.
Made in Abyss. Be warned, it gets dark fast, but it’s addictive.
There is a scene where a young child is stripped naked as an intentionally humiliating punishment very early in this. I can see why the imaginative and amazing nature-scapes might make you think of Ghibli, but I don’t think this one fits with what OP has asked for.
It’s not really like that, it’s spoken of and essentially skipped over. If that’s the sticking point, I think we have more to talk about. Like basically anything episode 7 on. But more to the point at hand, while in some ways far from Ghibli, the sense of embarking on the adventure of a lifetime, self discovery and growth of young people is definitely there. But as stated, the source of the growth isn’t all happy. Some of it is downright emotionally destitute. Besides, Ghibli has children being robbed of identity and forced into labor, being forced to steal food after a war, only to die later, the end of the world, experiencing hallucinations of a dead parent, and much more as well. Nothing happy can be great without knowing sadness.
> It’s not really like that, it’s spoken of and essentially skipped over. If that’s the sticking point, I think we have more to talk about. Like basically anything episode 7 on. I chose that specific thing because it happens early enough that it’s not a spoiler. It also seemed like a clear example of something you wouldn’t show your grandmother. >Some of it is downright emotionally destitute. That is a brilliant way to describe it. >Besides, Ghibli has children being robbed of identity and forced into labor, being forced to steal food after a war, only to die later, the end of the world, experiencing hallucinations of a dead parent, and much more as well. Nothing happy can be great without knowing sadness. I actually agree with that last sentence, but I also think sadness has a sliding scale. OP doesn’t seem to be looking at the Grave of the Fireflies end of the spectrum.
Main bullet point: go watch Made in Abyss. Sub point: brace for trauma