Discover the Ultimate List of the Best Anime Openings of All Time!

The initial sequences play a vital role in establishing the plot. Essentially, they present the key themes or foundations of the story and acquaint the audience with its narrative flow.

While they might not seem the most captivating aspects of the film, they hold significant weight and can often determine a viewer’s initial opinion, as they play a crucial role in setting the tone.

To make a fair assessment of a film, one should not solely base their judgment on its initial scenes. A more accurate approach would be to revisit those scenes once you’ve finished watching the entire movie, because it’s quite common for opening sequences to conceal subtle hints and carry deeper significance that may only become apparent later in the story.

Keep reading to find out the 30 best anime openings of all time!

30. Stand By Me Doraemon (2014)

This anime is the first 3D computer anime!

Only 7 episodes were picked for the anime movie, but it can be enjoyed by both adults and children.

As a cinephile, I found myself captivated from the very beginning as the movie opened with a shot of a young boy peacefully slumbering. With an almost imperceptible transition, this tranquil scene morphed into a dream sequence where he was roused by his friend’s voice. In this fantasy realm, I watched him effortlessly ascend to the skies before being abruptly awoken by his colossal, statue-like mother, signaling it was time for school.

29. Lupin The 3rd: The Castle Of Cagliostro (1979)

This anime film is also known as the first anime movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki!

Initially, the movie begins with two individuals making a hurried exit from a casino, laden with sacks of cash. Given their frantic dash and leaps, it’s evident that this film is a blend of action and humor. As they flee in a vehicle overflowing with money, their visages are hard to discern.

28. The Secret World of Arrietty (2010)

The movie you’re referring to is the debut directorial work of Hiromasa Yone Bayashi, and it’s inspired by the book titled “The Borrowers” written by Mary Norton.

The opening scenes have a quite nostalgic vibe.

The movie opens with a clear blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds, accompanied by the text “A summer I’ll never forget.” At this point, the narrator isn’t visible yet, but we can see the bustling city and its busy streets filled with vehicles. It’s possible to spot the narrator driving in one of those cars, along with his elderly mother, and then gazing at what seems to be his childhood house.

27. Porco Rosso (1992)

In a different wording, the classic animation film by Miyazaki, titled “Porco Rosso”, offers an amusing journey through 1930s Italy, where the swine-human hero saves the day from pirate attacks.

The concept originates from “The Age of the Flying Boat,” a three-piece watercolor comic series, published in 1989.

Initially, we find Porco Rosso, a former Italian WWI fighter pilot ace, peacefully lounging in a secluded Adriatic Sea bay. A voice summons him for aid, and he responds positively. This independent bounty hunter swiftly sets sail to rescue a group of schoolchildren from pirates, but with a catch – he doesn’t work for free!

26. In This Corner Of The World (2016)

During World War II, Hiroshima serves as the backdrop for an animated war-themed movie that mirrors a comic book of the same title.

This movie, often recognized as “Kono sekai no katasumi ni,” was penned and sketched by the talented Fumiyo Kōno – an anti-war filmmaker.

In the tranquil beginning, a young girl named Suzu prepares to set sail with a townsfolk companion, delivering seaweed to Futaba. As it turns out, she’s stepping in for her ailing older brother. Towards the end of these initial scenes, we observe Suzu walking through a bustling marketplace on her own.

25. Barefoot Gen (1983)

This Japanese comic book series, titled by Keiji Nakazawa, is based on his personal account of surviving the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.

In the initial sequences, it’s 1945, and the backdrop is wartime destruction. The scenes depict an aircraft unleashing bombs onto residential areas under cover of darkness. These early segments of the anime serve to illustrate the complex relationship between Japan and America as well.

This work serves as a potent anti-war message, offering a haunting portrayal of how the atomic bombings impacted the lives of the Japanese populace.

24. To the Forest of Firefly Lights (2011)

In my experience, an anime I’ve come to appreciate, often referred to as “Into the Forest Where the Spirit Lives,” is a captivating tale by Yuki Midorikawa. This story unfolds around a young girl who finds herself developing feelings for a forest spirit.

The initial sequences present a stunning, yet foggy forest adorned with flowers and webby spider threads. Here we meet our protagonist, Hotaru, who is setting off somewhere. She bids farewell to her mother and remains at the bus stop, pondering on someone she encountered there as a child of six. Subsequently, she recounts the tale of becoming lost in a forest, only to be saved by a spirit.

23. Tekkonkinkreet (2006)

This movie, often referred to as “Black & White”, is inspired by a Japanese comic book series that was both created and illustrated by Taiyo Matsumoto.

The plot is about 2 boys that defend Treasure Town from Yakuza.

Initially, the opening sequences seem leisurely, but they soon pick up speed and become quite frenetic, making it challenging to keep pace. Despite the initial poetic titles, we’re introduced to a pair of orphans, affectionately referred to as the Cats. One of them is contemplating a match, realizing its potential for fire. Subsequently, the viewpoint shifts to that of a bird, revealing it darting swiftly through the urban landscape.

22. From Up On The Poppy Hill (2011)

Set in 1963 Yokohama, Japan, this animated film by Goro Miyazaki tells the story of Umi Matsuzaki.

The movie begins with captivating images depicting the serene Japanese landscape. Subsequently, we see Umi stirring from sleep, tidying up, and preparing breakfast. Although the atmosphere is initially cheerful, it becomes somber as we observe her placing a glass of water beside a photo of someone who has passed away.

This anime conveys a theme of exalting vitality and enthusiasm, while simultaneously honoring the departed and preserving their essence through remembrance.

21. The Wind Rises (2013)

In this animated historical drama by Hayao Miyazaki, we delve into the life story of Jiro Horikoshi, a skilled engineer responsible for designing Japanese fighter aircraft during World War II.

In the realm of cinema, I found myself immediately immersed in a captivating narrative that begins with a glimpse of a young dreamer peacefully asleep. As if guided by an invisible hand, my consciousness was swept away to traverse the boy’s vivid dreams. I saw him treading effortlessly on the edge of a rooftop, and before long, found myself alongside him as he boarded his magical flying machine.

Next, he takes off in a playful flight over towns and waterways. Above him emerges a peculiar plane bearing a black cross and advanced tech reminiscent of fish. They assault him, damaging his craft. A moment later, he finds himself awakening from a fall.

20. The Place Promised In Our Early Days (2004)

The entirety of this captivating Japanese animated movie – from script to screen, direction, production, and cinematography – was masterfully handled by the skillful hand of Makoto Shinkai.

In this movie, the story takes place in a different post-war world, with Japan split into two regions: the northern part known as “The Union,” and the southern region governed by the United States.

Initially, a bustling train station fills the screen, yet one man journeys solo. The scene subtly conveys his solitude, with subsequent shots depicting him treading alone once more. As events unfold, it appears he’s visiting a cemetery, and there’s an impression of a girl dashing towards him in his thoughts.

19. A Whisker Away (2020)

Titled “A Whisker Away,” this Japanese animated series blends elements of romance and fantasy, telling the story of a human girl who, in times of distress, transforms herself into a cat.

The opening scenes are quite mysterious and dreamlike.

Initially, there’s a dark screen with captions that read “I wish to assist you. I yearn for you to say, ‘I love you.’“. The scene shifts, giving a perspective from their feet, gradually moving upwards to reveal towering, formless cats. Subsequently, it transforms and we witness a small girl strolling through a foggy street, inquiring about her location.

18. Memories (1995)

As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but share my excitement about an animated science fiction anthology film that Katsuhiro Otomo, a renowned figure in the industry, has taken the reins as executive producer. This captivating production is woven from three distinct sci-fi tales – “Magnetic Rose,” “Stink Bomb,” and “Tokyo” – each inspired by one of his thought-provoking short manga stories.

Initially in the opening scene, brief flashes of contrasting visuals – structures, timepieces, and equipment – are shown, providing an overall impression of the location. Through clever editing, specific details are left for viewers to decipher themselves.

Next, the scene transitions to reveal scenes of outer space, malfunctioning machinery, and a spacecraft called “Corona.” The overall atmosphere is rather grim and futuristically bleak.

17. Ghost In The Shell (1995)

The “Ghost in the Shell” franchise hails from Japan and falls under the genre of cyberpunk. It was initially conceived as a manga series by the talented author, Masamune Shirow.

In a world that’s only a stone’s throw away from the present, where corporations have woven their webs across the globe, connecting every corner with digital and visual cables, but where nations and ethnicities still thrive – unaltered by the relentless march of technology… That’s the intriguing backdrop for this movie. The story unfolds from there in a way that leaves you wanting more.

16. Howl’s Moving Castle

In another offering from Studio Ghibli, we find ourselves immersed in an enchanting animated tale that opens with a drifting fortress in the heart of a foggy meadow, hinting at a post-apocalyptic landscape.

The scene then cuts to a city crowded with houses and trains that produce black smoke.

In this movie, the story unfolds within a fantastical realm that blends magic with technology from the early 20th century. The narrative carries powerful themes against war and pollution.

15. Cowboy Bebop: The Movie (2001)

The adult-oriented science fiction animation from Japan is a cinematic adaptation of the 1998 anime series with the same title, penned by the pseudonymous author Hajime Yatate.

The story revolves around enigmatic terrorists plotting to wipe out Earth’s population on Mars by means of an unidentified disease, and a group of bounty hunters aboard the spaceship Bebop, who are determined to thwart this impending attack before it happens.

In the initial sequences, we’re introduced to the enigmatic character, Spike, followed closely by a swift change of focus to a daring armed heist in a store.

14. The Witcher: Nightmare Of The Wolf (2021)

This adult animated dark fantasy film serves as a spin-off of the Netflix series The Witcher.

In the opening scenes, we can see the story is set in the forest, during the full moon.

From various vantage points, we follow the storyline: peering at it via the keen eyes of a raven perched above, watching the carriage below; seeing it through the frightened eyes of those huddled within the carriage’s confines. The background melody takes on a life of its own, becoming another character, crooning hauntingly, and then, suddenly, the view shifts to reveal a monster in hot pursuit.

13. Sword Of The Stranger (2007)

This is an animated jidaigeki-chanbara adventure film produced by Bones and released by Shochiku.

In the initial sequences, the perspective shifts to that of the narrator, revealing them in a frantic dash through the woods, heading straight for a temple ablaze.

At the outset, the story unfolds from the narrators’ viewpoint, showcasing them sprinting wildly through the forest, making a beeline towards a blazing temple.

As a dedicated cinephile, I find myself immersed in a scene where the perspective shifts, offering a glimpse of a youngster alongside an elderly gentleman and a loyal canine companion. The old man then issues a command for the child to depart, while he takes it upon himself to verify if any souls still dwell within the sacred temple walls.

12. Akira (1988)

Akira is a Japanese-made, animated sci-fi action movie, helmed by director Katsuhiro Otomo, with screenplay contributions from Otomo and Izo Hashimoto.

The initial sequences give us a glimpse of a bleak, futuristic map, accompanied by titles that introduce the storyline. This tale unfolds in the year 2019, 31 years following World War III, in a post-apocalyptic version of Tokyo, referred to as Neo Tokyo.

The depicted streets appear filthy and deserted, yet they lead into a potentially perilous-looking subterranean tavern, as a character makes their way inside.

11. Mind Game (2004)

Mind Game is a unique, full-length animated movie from Japan, adapted from the comic book series of the same name by Robi Nishi. Many people believe that this animation could potentially be one of the least recognized gems in Japanese filmmaking.

Initially, the setting is gloomy and unsettling as we witness a man driving in search of an individual. Mysteriously, another person is seen running erratically, while a young lady appears to be fleeing from someone or something. Later, Myon finds herself trapped with one leg caught in a train track, as the scene abruptly shifts focus.

10. Your Name (2016)

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’ve just come across another captivating masterpiece from the realm of Japanese animation – a romantic fantasy film penned and brought to life by the visionary hands of Makoto Shinkai.

In a striking start, the scenes unfold with breathtaking beauty, revealing the azure sky peeking through fluffy clouds and golden sunbeams cascading down. At a certain point, an object appears to be descending from the heavens. As the narrative shifts, we find ourselves following Taki Tachibana and Mitsuha Miyamizu, the two central characters.

9. Weathering With You (2019)

The highly-watched anime romantic fantasy movie from Japan, titled thus by Makoto Shinkai, was a significant hit in 2019.

Initially, we’re presented with a dismal, drizzling Tokyo landscape. Subsequently, the narrative shifts to reveal Hodaka and Hina within a hospital setting. From there, they unfurl a hidden tale of theirs.

8. Pokémon The Movie: Secrets Of The Jungle (2020)

This movie is the 23rd installment in the Pokémon universe, created under the supervision of Satoshi Tajiri’s Pokémon media brand and produced by OLM.

Rather than using CGI animation, this film returns to the series’ traditional 2D art style.

The initial sequence introduces the breathtaking landscape of the Okoya Forest, home to the legendary Pokémon Zarude. Here, Zarude discovers a baby boy who had mysteriously arrived on the coast in a cradle. Despite opposition from other Pokémons, Zarude decides to raise this child as his own.

7. Ponyo On The Cliff By The Sea (2008)

This Japanese animated fantasy movie is the eighth film Hayao Miyazaki directed for Studio Ghibli, making it his tenth overall production.

The story revolves around a five-year-old boy named Sosuke and a young goldfish princess who yearns to transform into a human after developing feelings for him.

The opening scenes of this anime depict an abundant underwater world teeming with vibrant colors. We also witness a wizard, perched atop his submarine, sprinkling magic potions into the sea. The scene then shifts to show us a mischievous character, Ponyo, scolding her siblings and attempting to sneak away while they aren’t looking.

6. Princess Mononoke (1997)

In the late Muromachi era of Japan, this animated historical fantasy is brought to life by the talented animators at Studio Ghibli.

At the outset of this new Hayao Miyazaki anime, we witness a young Prince Ashitaka valiantly defending his village against a colossal demon boar. Despite vanquishing the monstrous beast, he sustains an injury on his arm that later proves to be infectious.

This movie could be Hayao Miyazaki’s most politically-charged work yet, reflecting the ongoing wars and ethnic strife in the former Yugoslavia.

5. Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind (1984)

Before Studio Ghibli’s official establishment in 1985, Hayao Miyazaki had already created an anti-war animated film, influenced by the real-life disaster of Minamata Bay. In this event, a chemical factory persistently discharged methylmercury into the bay, leading to severe mercury poisoning among both humans and animals.

The story centers on Princess Nausicaä, a peaceful figure, who vigorously strives to halt the impending destruction of not just two warring nations, but also their ailing planet.

Initially, we find ourselves peeking into a desolate, post-apocalyptic landscape, where Princess Kushana ventures forth. Her attire includes a safety suit, as she gingerly plucks a sample from a potentially hazardous plant variety.

The storyline suggests that, despite the world being plagued by terrible violence and illness, it remains salvageable.

4. Paprika (2006)

The world of dreams can show us one’s deepest desires, memories, and aspirations.

In simple terms, this captivating animated science fiction mystery-thriller was crafted by the skilled hands of director Satoshi Kon. It’s inspired by a book written by Yasutaka Tsutsui that shares the same title.

Stepping into the theater, I found myself captivated from the very start by the peculiar spectacle unfolding on stage: a miniature car parked center ring, from which emerges a harried clown. As he extricates himself from his confined space, he addresses the circus troupe, and with that, the performance begins in earnest.

The audience is transfixed as we watch this whimsical parade of acrobatics, juggling, and tricks unfold. However, the mood shifts dramatically when a mysterious man accosts the clown, alleging treachery among the circus ranks. The tension escalates during a dazzling magic trick gone awry, with the same enigmatic figure finding himself imprisoned in a cage.

Just as the audience surges toward him, ready to exact vengeance, we are jolted awake by the realization that this entire scene was not merely a performance but a vivid portrayal of a patient’s dreams and fears. The cinematic experience leaves us questioning the boundaries between reality and illusion – a thought-provoking exploration indeed!

3. Spirited Away (2001)

Studio Ghibli never ceases to amaze.

The enchanting animated movie “Spirited Away,” originally titled “Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi,” was crafted by Hayao Miyazaki and is inspired by his friend Seiji Okuda’s ten-year-old daughter, who serves as the film’s associate producer.

The story centers around Chihiro, a girl similar in age, and her experiences following her entry into a realm governed by deities, sorceresses, and ethereal beings who transform humans into animals.

The narrative opens with a scene depicting a bouquet of pink blossoms and a card saying “Good luck, Chihiro. I hope we meet again.” This setting is revealed to be seen through Chihiro’s perspective, as she lies in the back seat of her parents’ car, en route to her new school.

The tale contains numerous subtle symbolic representations, including concerns about maturing, economic systems like capitalism, potential references to child labor, and perhaps hints at child exploitation.

2. Perfect Blue (1997)

This is an animated psychological thriller from Japan, created by director Satoshi Kon. It’s adapted from a novel with the same name, penned by Yoshikazu Takeuchi.

The story centers on a popular singer whose sanity gradually unravels as she encounters an overzealous admirer and appears to be haunted by a figure from her past.

The initial sequences depict a crowd anticipating a performance, as well as a gathering of men discussing the lead character, Mima. They comment on her voice, singing style, and a vague gossip that has been circulating. In the following scene, we observe a troubled Mima being coerced to perform, only seconds before she hides her inner turmoil and leaps onto the stage with apparent enthusiasm.

This truly powerful and starting thriller shows us dreadful aspects of surveillance culture.

1. Grave Of The Fireflies (1988)

In my opinion, the breathtakingly poignant Studio Ghibli animation I recently watched was a cinematic interpretation of Akiyuki Nosaka’s 1967 short story with the same title. It’s an emotional journey that deeply resonated with me.

In the heart of World War II Japan, I find myself drawn into a compelling narrative centered around two resilient orphans – a courageous young boy and his tenderhearted little sister. Together, they navigate the harsh realities of survival amidst the tumultuous backdrop of war.

Initially, the sequences presented are heart-wrenchingly impactful. They depict a soldier narrating his own tale, focusing on the fateful night he met his end. Later, the scene suddenly shifts to him observing a homeless individual in tattered clothing lying on the street. The passersby either express revulsion towards him or choose to overlook him entirely.

Amongst other things, this anime is extremely important because it emphasizes the value of life.

2025-06-06 23:48