Best romance anime 2026

 Not to be outdone by Korean dramas, here are the best romantic films ever made in Japan! If you're a fan of romantic Korean dramas, you should also try these equally heart-pounding Japanese romantic films.  In terms of quality, Japanese films boast stunning visuals, touching storylines, and performances guaranteed to leave you wanting more.

 So, if you're bored and looking for something new to watch from the Land of the Rising Sun, here are Jaka's recommendations for the best Japanese romantic films, guaranteed to make you cry.  Get your tissues ready and check out the list!

 1.  One Week Friends (2017)

 This movie is based on Matcha Hazuki's manga and anime and tells the story of Yuki Hase, a girl who wants to be friends with Kaori Fujimiya, a girl with a unique condition: she forgets her friends every Monday. Yuki's struggle to establish a relationship with Kaori will leave you feeling both moved and frustrated at the same time.

 2.  You Lie in April (2016)

 The story of Arima Kousei, a talented pianist who loses his will to live after his mother dies, is the focus of this movie. His life changes when he meets Kaori Miyazono, a passionate violinist.  This film combines elements of love, loss, and music in one touching package.

 3.  Wolf Girl and Black Prince (2016)

 Erika Shinohara lies about having a boyfriend to look cool in front of her friends.  But things go awry when she appoints Kyouta Sata, a popular boy at school, to pretend to be her boyfriend.  Kyouta agrees, but with an unexpected condition!  This film is full of romantic comedy and emotional conflict.

 4.  Orange (2015)

 Naho Takamiya receives a letter from her future self asking her to save her classmate, Kakeru.  This story about regret, time, and second chances will make you reflect and cry.

 5.  Heroine Disqualified (2015)

 Hatori believes he is destined to be with his childhood friend, Rita.  However, Rita ends up dating a different girl because fate has other ideas. For high school students, this love triangle is full of humor and relatable emotions. 6.  The Blue Spring Ride Futaba wants to change herself to be accepted in her new high school environment.  She accidentally meets Kou, a boy she used to like, but who has changed drastically.  This film explores change, self-acceptance, and first love.

 7.  L-DK (2014)

 Aoi lives alone in an apartment when her parents move.  Shuusei, the popular boy at school, moves in with her and becomes her neighbor. A cliché love story, but still heart-pounding!

 8.  Jinx!!!  (2013)

 Different and singular! Ji-Ho, an exchange student from Korea, tries to bring together two new friends who like each other but are too embarrassed to confess.  With a touch of Korean culture, this film presents a sweet, fresh and touching story.

 9.  Love at First Sight (2012) Tsubaki, a shy girl who is good at hairstyling but lacks confidence, meets Kyota, a popular and playboy boy.  Their relationship blossoms into a serious one after what began as a casual fling. Perfect for those who love "bad boy turns good" stories!

 10.  From Me to You (2010)

 Kuronuma is often bullied because of his intimidating appearance.  But when Shota, the most popular boy, comes up to him, everything changes. Self-acceptance and how love can change everything are the themes of this story. Other Romantic Japanese Movies That Are No Less Heartbreaking!

 11.  I Give My First Love to You (2009)

Takuma, suffering from a chronic illness, chooses to distance himself from Mayu, the girl he loves.  This heartbreaking film shows how true love cannot be stopped by anything, not even a limited lifespan.

 12.  Be There for You (2004) Takumi raises his child alone after his wife dies.  But one day, a woman resembling his wife appears in the forest.  A magical and deeply touching story of love and family.

 13.  Let Me Eat Your Pancreas (2017)

 Despite its horror-sounding title, this film is actually one of the saddest and most romantic.  When he discovers Sakura's secret, the shy Haruki slowly opens up. Their story develops into a deep connection—until a tear-jerking ending.

 14.  My Tomorrow, Your Yesterday (2016)

 Emi, a mysterious girl who turns out to be living in a retrograde timeline, attracts Takatoshi. Surprises, turns, and philosophical questions about love and time abound in this movie. 15.  Heavenly Forest (2006)

 Makoto, a photography enthusiast, meets Shizuru, a unique girl who falls in love with him.  But their love triangle and decisions make this story's ending incredibly heartbreaking.  Another film with a slow-burn story that will leave you thinking after watching it.

 Bonus: Best Romantic Anime Recommendations!

 You can watch equally heartbreaking love stories in anime, as well as in movies! From tear-jerking to sweet and funny, Japanese romantic anime boasts extraordinary storytelling.

 You can check out our recommendations in Jaka's other article specifically discussing the Best Romance Anime!

 Final thoughts That's the list of the best Japanese romantic films of all time that should be on your watch list.  From stories of teenage love, friendship, to romance with a touch of fantasy, each has its own unique way of touching your heart.

 So, which film will you watch first tonight?