09 Best Ghibli-Like Anime Series For Every Miyazaki Fans

The best Ghibli-like anime series bring with them the grandeur of a Miyazaki feature, but are extended and then condensed into an episodic TV medium. However, this is an impossible feat due to Miyazaki’s penchant for the traditional animation technique known as “Manga Eiga,” with “Eiga” meaning movie in Japanese and the word alluding to the degree of detail in each frame of animation resembling the panels of a manga in motion. Thomas Lamarre, a prominent anime scholar, has done substantial research on this idea.

Although Ghibli films use the full animation style of manga eiga, as opposed to the restricted animation technique used by Tezuka Osamu and Astro Boy, there are distinct Ghibli structures and plots that carry over to numerous anime programs. Nature, environmental awareness, pre-adolescent innocence, and other topics are frequently explored in Ghibli films. In terms of animation, while no series can perfectly reproduce Ghibli’s work, there are still efforts to make limited-style animation as attractive as possible, as seen by methods like “Sakuga,” which denotes a moment of heightened animation quality during a crucial sequence.

Studio Ghibli films are known for their enchanting stories, breathtaking animation, and heartwarming characters. If you’re a fan of Hayao Miyazaki and his team’s work, you’re probably always on the lookout for something similar to fill the void between viewings of your favorites. Luckily, there are quite a few anime series out there that capture the essence of Ghibli magic.

Here are 09 Best Ghibli-Like Anime Series For Every Miyazaki Fans:

1. Kotaro Lives Alone

Kotaro Lives Alone is a beautiful anime series that captures the essence of innocence and resilience in a way that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The story follows Kotaro, a four-year-old boy who, due to unfortunate circumstances, ends up living alone in an apartment building. Despite his young age, Kotaro navigates his new life with remarkable maturity and determination. By making friends with the building’s residents and forming a heartwarming bond with the overworked salaryman Sato.

Kotaro’s lack of cynicism and worldly experience allows him to see the world in a way that adults often forget. He approaches everything with curiosity and wonder, reminding us of the beauty and magic that can be found in everyday life. While Kotaro puts on a brave face, the series doesn’t shy away from showing his moments of vulnerability and grief. His tears are raw and real, reminding us of the fragility and sensitivity that lie beneath his cheerful exterior.

2. Fruits Basket

Fruits Basket is an anime that seamlessly blends lighthearted moments with profound themes, creating a story that both entertains and resonates deeply. Tohru Honda, our optimistic protagonist, finds herself living with the Sohma family, harboring a peculiar secret: the Sohmas transform into animals of the Zodiac when touched by the opposite sex. This quirky premise sets the stage for a heartwarming journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and embracing found family.

Beyond the fantastical element, Fruits Basket shines in its exploration of complex emotions. Each Sohma character carries the weight of past traumas and family burdens, manifesting in their animal transformations and interpersonal struggles. Tohru, with her unwavering kindness and emotional intelligence, acts as a catalyst for healing, gently guiding the Sohmas towards confronting their pain and accepting themselves. The series tackles issues like abuse, neglect, and societal expectations with nuance and sensitivity, never shying away from the rawness of human experience.

Fruits Basket is a ghibli-like masterclass in balancing humor and vulnerability. The witty dialogue and slapstick humor provide comedic relief, while the emotional depth of the characters keeps you invested in their growth. The animation, especially in the 2019 version, is stunning, capturing the beauty of both nature and the characters’ inner turmoil. This delicate balance, coupled with the series’ relatable themes, makes Fruits Basket a timeless classic that deserves a place on every anime fan’s watchlist.

3. Chihayafuru

Chihayafuru is a masterpiece that transcends the realm of sports anime, weaving a tapestry of intricate narratives and deeply relatable characters. It’s a testament to the power of human passion and the unwavering spirit of competition.

At its core, Chihayafuru is a love letter to the ancient Japanese card game, Hyakunin Isshu karuta. The series meticulously captures the essence of the game, from the lightning-fast reflexes required to snatch cards to the profound emotional resonance evoked by the poems inscribed on them. The anime doesn’t shy away from the technical aspects of karuta, but rather, infuses them with a sense of awe and wonder, making even the most seasoned viewers appreciate the game’s depth and beauty.

But Chihayafuru is far more than just a sports anime. It’s a symphony of aspirations, where each character’s journey resonates with the audience’s own hopes and dreams. Chihaya’s unwavering determination to become the Queen of Karuta is infectious, inspiring viewers to chase their own passions with relentless fervor.

4. Barakamon

It’s a delightful anime that follows Seishuu Handa, a hotshot calligrapher who gets exiled to the countryside after punching a famous rival. There, he encounters a vibrant cast of characters, including a group of energetic children who take him under their wing.

The heart of Barakamon lies in Seishuu’s interactions with the children. Naru, the self-proclaimed “Boss” of the group, is a whirlwind of energy and mischief, constantly pulling Seishuu out of his comfort zone and reminding him of the simple joys of life. The other children, each with their own unique personalities, add to the charm of the show.

Seishuu’s journey in Barakamon is one of self-discovery. Away from the pressures of city life, he rediscovers his love for calligraphy in the beauty of the countryside. The anime beautifully showcases the art of calligraphy, making it both visually appealing and intellectually stimulating.

5. The Ancient Magus’

The Ancient Magus’ Bride truly shines in its captivating cast of characters, each woven into the narrative with intricate personalities. From the protagonists to the supporting players, the series offers a tapestry of individuals who feel both fantastical and deeply relatable. The central protagonist, Chise, is a young girl burdened by misfortune. However, she never loses her resilience and curiosity. As she becomes Elias’ apprentice, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unlocking her own magical potential and learning to navigate the wondrous world of magic.

The supporting cast further enriches the narrative with their unique personalities and roles. The formidable mage Lindel, the enigmatic Ashen Eye, and the mischievous Ariel each add depth and intrigue to the world of The Ancient Magus’ Bride. What truly elevates the cast is their depth and complexity. They grapple with internal struggles, past traumas, and conflicting desires, making them feel real and relatable despite their fantastical elements. Additionally, the relationships between the characters are beautifully portrayed, evolving and maturing throughout the series.

6. Violet Evergarden

Violet Evergarden, the Auto-Memories Doll who travels the world, not with a sword in hand, but with words on her tongue and ink on her fingers. The image of her, clad in her elegant blue uniform, traversing breathtaking landscapes with a determined yet melancholic gaze, is as evocative as it is poignant.

Violet’s journey is one of healing, both for herself and others. Haunted by the ghosts of her past as a soldier, she seeks redemption by helping people express their emotions through the power of written words. From the desolate battlefields of Leidenschaftlich to the bustling streets of Leidenschaft, she encounters individuals struggling with grief, love, and the complexities of human connection.

Through her unwavering dedication and emotional intelligence, Violet unlocks the depths of their hearts, weaving tales of joy, sorrow, and everything in between. Each letter she pens becomes a bridge, connecting souls across miles and bridging the chasm between unspoken feelings and heartfelt expression.

7. Natsume’s Book of Friends

Natsume’s Book of Friends is a beautiful anime that delves into the captivating world of yokai, those mischievous and fascinating Japanese spirits. Following the story of Natsume Takashi, a boy cursed with the ability to see yokai, the series offers a heartwarming and engaging exploration of friendship, acceptance, and finding one’s place in the world.

Unlike many depictions of yokai, Natsume’s Book of Friends portrays them in a multifaceted light. Some are mischievous, some vengeful, but many find themselves trapped in unfortunate circumstances, misunderstood by humans and burdened by past grievances. Natsume’s gentle nature and empathetic spirit bridge the gap between the human and yokai worlds, allowing him to see beyond their surface and understand their stories.

8. Mushishi

Ginko, our ever-stoic protagonist, traverses the mystical landscapes of late feudal Japan as a “Mushishi,” someone who studies and interacts with Mushi – strange, elemental beings that exist beyond the boundaries of human understanding. These Mushi can influence the natural world in fascinating and often mysterious ways, sometimes causing harm or discomfort to humans.

Unlike folklore’s typical portrayals of the supernatural, Mushi are neither inherently good nor evil. They simply are. The series eschews traditional monster-of-the-week narratives, delving instead into the complex relationships between these enigmatic beings and humans. Ginko acts as a mediator, understanding the delicate balance between the two worlds and helping humans cope with the challenges.

Each episode of Mushishi is a self-contained poem, with breathtaking visuals that depict the beauty and serenity. And the natural world alongside moments of haunting mystery and surreal wonder. The animation, while not flashy, is exquisitely detailed and perfectly captures the nuanced emotions and subtle interactions.

9. Lupin III

Lupin III, particularly the first series and the film The Castle of Cagliostro, holds a special place in Hayao Miyazaki’s legacy, showcasing his early talent and setting the stage for his future Studio Ghibli masterpieces. His influence on the Lupin III franchise is undeniable and adds a unique charm to these entries.

Prior to founding Studio Ghibli, Miyazaki directed several episodes of the original Lupin III TV series alongside Isao Takahata. He brought his signature animation style, with its focus on dynamic action, fluid character movements, and expressive backgrounds. To the world of Lupin and his gang.

Though filled with high-octane heists and comedic mayhem, the Lupin III stories under Miyazaki’s direction delve deeper than pure entertainment. He injects themes of anti-establishment rebellion, environmentalism, and the pursuit of freedom. It echos the ideas that would later blossom in his Ghibli films.

These are just a few of the many great anime series out there that are similar to Studio Ghibli films.

Let your Ghibli-loving heart guide you and explore series that resonate with your favorite Ghibli themes and emotions. Get more movie-related suggestions from HERE.

Happy watching!