Top 20 Japanese Movies & Series on Netflix (with English subtitles)

Japanese stories can feel like warm conversations, they are gentle, honest and full of feeling. If you do not speak Japanese, don’t worry, Netflix offers English subtitles on many top films and series, so everyone can enjoy them.

How We chose the picks

I chose titles that are easy to follow, loved by fans, and often available on Netflix The list mixes family dramas, thrilling action, and beautiful anime. This gives you calm stories to relax with and bold shows to keep you awake at night.

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Top highlights Watch

Start with a family drama for a slow, honest start. Then try a thriller for excitement, and finish with anime for strong visuals. Look for titles like Rurouni KenshinJujutsu KaisenViolet Evergarden Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead, Drifting Home and Alice in Borderland These shows often include English subtitle options and are friendly to new viewers.

Simple watching tips

Turn on English subtitles in the Netflix player. If you like an actor or director, use the “More like this” button to find similar shows. For anime, read a short description before the first episode — some stories are long and others are quick.

Why these work for learners

Many Japanese films use clear emotions and visual storytelling. When language is new, pictures and music help you feel the story. Watch with a friend and pause to discuss scenes — it will help you understand more.

Where to check availability

Netflix changes its library by region. If a title is missing, try searching Netflix or use a tracker like FlixPatrol to see if it appears in your country.

Top 20 picks (quick notes)

1. Alice in Borderland — High-stakes survival drama, very tense.
2. Jujutsu Kaisen — Energetic anime with great fights.
3. Rurouni Kenshin — Live-action samurai films with strong action.
4. Violet Evergarden — Beautiful, emotional anime about healing.
5. Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead — Fun, upbeat zombie anime.
6. Drifting Home — Animated film about friendship and memory.
7. The Naked Director — Wild, dramatic series based on real life.
8. Terrace House — Calm reality show about everyday people.
9. Midnight Diner – Tokyo Stories — Quiet, food-focused stories from Tokyo.
10. Shoplifters — Heartfelt family drama (award-winning).
11. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa) — Stunning animated romance film.
12. One Piece (Live-Action) — Big adventure, now in live-action.
13. Erased (Boku dake ga Inai Machi) — Mystery with time travel and heart.
14. Parasyte -the maxim– — Dark, thoughtful sci-fi anime.
15. Kakegurui — Intense high-school gambling drama.
16. Great Pretender — Smooth heist anime with humor.
17. Aggretsuko — Short, funny episodes about work life.
18. Rilakkuma and Kaoru — Slow, cosy stop-motion about friendship.
19. Ōoku: The Inner Chambers — Historical drama with a unique twist.
20. Death Note (anime) — Classic psychological thriller anime.

These top picks are a gentle, exciting way to explore Japanese cinema. Open Netflix turn on subtitles, and let the stories take you to new places. Enjoy the ride, one episode at a time.