1st of December marks ‘Eiga no Hi’, or Film Day, in Japan, a celebration of the country’s rich cinematic history and its global influence. To mark this occasion, I thought it would be lovely to talk about Japanese films and series in this month’s blog. Whether you enjoy soothing dramas, heartfelt stories, or beautifully crafted animations, Japanese cinema has a way of touching the heart.
So please come along with me as we take a little journey into the world of Japanese cinema together!
A Short Introduction to Japanese Cinema
Japanese film has a long history, stretching from the internationally acclaimed works of Akira Kurosawa to today’s vibrant mix of drama, anime, comedy, and contemporary cinema.
From Studio Ghibli’s enchanting worlds to the delicate realism of modern dramas, Japanese cinema offers something for every mood - whether you’re after something gentle and reflective or bold and thought-provoking. Today, Japanese series and films continue to gain global recognition, with many titles becoming favourites among UK viewers.
Watching Japanese Films Series in the UK
Fortunately, it has become much easier to enjoy Japanese stories from abroad. Several UK streaming platforms have a great selection:
Netflix
A wide range of Japanese dramas, anime, and reality shows. Popular for its original Japanese titles and high-quality adaptations.
Amazon Prime Video
A growing collection of contemporary Japanese films along with classic titles.
BBC iPlayer
Occasionally offers documentaries or special cultural programmes related to Japan.
BFI Player
A great place to explore classic Japanese cinema, including films from Kurosawa, Ozu, and Mizoguchi - famous Japanese filmmakers.
Crunchyroll
A go-to platform for anime lovers, with both new series and timeless favourites.
Whatever platform you prefer, there’s always something new to discover.
What Makes Japanese Storytelling Unique?
Japanese films and series stand out for their emotional depth and gentle pace. Even fast-moving thrillers often take time to explore the inner lives of characters. Some key traits include:
A Sense of Quietness and Space: Many Japanese films leave room for silence. This allows the characters’ feelings to breathe, and viewers to experience the story in their own way.
Food as Comfort and Connection: Meals are often central to the narrative. Cooking and eating together reflect care, family bonds, and simple happiness.
A Deep Connection to the Seasons: Cherry blossoms, summer festivals, autumn leaves, winter snow - each season brings a different emotion to the screen.
Soft but Meaningful Emotions: Rather than dramatic twists, stories often unfold through gradual, sincere moments. There is beauty in restraint.
This gentle, reflective style is something many of us grew up with, and I always feel happy when international viewers appreciate it too.
Staff Recommendations
To make this blog more personal, I asked my bosses and colleagues one simple question:
‘What Japanese film or series would you recommend and why?’
Jez recommends: Tokyo Swindler - ‘A sharp, exciting drama that shows the clever tricks and fast pace of life in Tokyo.’
Hiromi recommends: Your Name. - ‘Beautiful animation, full of emotion, outstanding soundtrack.’
Naomi recommends: Godzilla minus one - ‘Not just a monster film, but a deeply human one.’
Ayako recommends: Attack on Titan - ‘Once you start, it’s impossible to stop watching’
Yuki recommends Jujutsu Taisen - 'A mix of dark fantasy and humour with amazing fight scenes — it’s addictive and full of energy.'
Chihiro recommends: Princes Monononke - 'Simply one of my favourites. A beautiful and powerful Ghibli film about nature and humanity.'
Excellent recommendations! You might just have discovered a hidden gem you’ve never heard of?
Bring a Touch of Japan into Your Home
As you watch these films and series, you may notice the presence of beautiful tableware, soft textiles, and simple household items that appear in Japanese homes. These small details create a warm atmosphere that many of us cherish.
If you’d like to bring a little of that feeling into your own space, The Japanese Shop offers carefully selected Japanese tableware, kimonos, stationery, and other items that reflect the same craftsmanship and aesthetic seen in these films. Each piece is chosen with care, and I hope they bring a bit of everyday joy to your home. Please feel free to visit our website or showroom to explore our collection.
(Our showroom in Harrogate)
Film Day in Japan always feels like a quiet reminder to pause, make a warm drink, and enjoy a good story. And since it’s common in the UK to gather around the TV during the festive season, why don’t you make some time to discover a new Japanese film or series for a peaceful winter evening.
Whether you choose a soft slice-of-life drama or a beautifully crafted film that lingers long after the credits fade, Japanese cinema has a gentle way of comforting the soul. With so many wonderful titles now available in the UK, I hope you find a story this December that brings a little extra warmth to your home.