Discover 12 Must-Watch Adventure Anime Movies That Will Take You on Epic Journeys!

Discover the world of anime, primarily recognized for its captivating animated series that have fueled the genre’s widespread popularity. However, it’s essential not to overlook the wealth of anime films, some of which are regarded as timeless masterpieces and artistic triumphs. These movies may not receive the same level of fame as their television counterparts, but they merit our attention and hold a significant place in animation history. This compilation of anime films will delve into adventures, offering you the 12 best movies featuring characters embarking on thrilling, action-packed journeys. The list is presented in random order, with the primary emphasis being on adventure as the central plot rather than ranking these works based on quality. Enjoy your journey!

1. Spirited Away

Original Release: July 20, 2001
Running Time: 125 minutes

In a Nutshell: Chihiro and her parents find themselves in a new city due to their move. Trying to save time during this transition, they take a shortcut that leads them astray, stumbling upon a building with an unusual tunnel. Despite Chihiro’s reluctance, her parents enter the tunnel, eventually discovering what seems like an abandoned village. Curiosity gets the better of them, and they explore further, finding a restaurant where they decide to dine. Chihiro separates from her family to keep exploring. As twilight deepens, a peculiar young man named Haku emerges, instructing Chihiro to depart before the area becomes completely dark.

You should definitely watch Spirited Away, as its title hints at a spiritual adventure that goes beyond the ordinary. The main character, Chihiro, embarks on an extraordinary journey when her parents are transformed into pigs and she must find a way to save them. This captivating tale is filled with magic and wonder, making it a must-see for anyone who enjoys a heartwarming story. We highly recommend Spirited Away.

2. Pokémon: The First Movie

Original Release: July 18, 1998
Running Time: 75 minutes

The story revolves around an enigmatic island where archaeologists unearthed a fossilized eyelash from the elusive Mew, the world’s rarest Pokémon. Scientists then attempted to clone this discovery, creating Mewtwo for Team Rocket’s leader, Giovanni. However, the clone, unlike what they expected, refused to be their test subject. It wreaked havoc in the lab and unleashed its immense power, leading to the deaths of everyone present. Subsequently, it orchestrated a large-scale tournament to gather renowned trainers such as Ash, Misty, Brock, and more. The aim? To capture their Pokémon, clone them, and ultimately achieve global domination.

Reasons to catch it: Each Pokémon film is a unique adventure, but we chose to feature the original one as well because it was an outstanding movie and because it was incredibly popular. The introduction of Mewtwo into the storyline was handled masterfully, making the first Pokémon an adventure that no Pokémon fan will ever forget.

3. Porco Rosso

Original Release: July 18, 1992
Running Time: 94 minutes

Topic Overview: Marco Pagot, born in 1893, is a highly skilled pilot for the Regia Aeronautica who undergoes a life-threatening encounter during the First World War. Remarkably surviving this ordeal, he emerged with a disfigured visage that resembles a pig’s snout.

Instead of pursuing aeronautics and social life, particularly his affection for Gina, a hotel owner on an Adriatic island known for smugglers captivated by her singing talent and beauty, he decides to settle along the Dalmatian coast. To make a living, he engages in battles against air pirates using his Savoia S.21 monoplane seaplane (also known as “Folgore” after installing the same-named engine), which he painted red, earning him the nickname “Red Pig.

If you’re a fan of action-filled adventures at sea, then Porco Rosso, another masterpiece by Miyazaki, is definitely worth watching. You’ll be treated to pilots, airplanes, pirates, and an array of fascinating characters in a thrilling journey that you’ll find captivating from start to finish.

4. Princess Mononoke

Original Run: July 12, 1997
Running Time: 133 minutes

This narrative unfolds during the Muromachi era in ancient Japan, specifically among the secluded Emishi people residing north of Honshū. The protagonist, Prince Ashitaka, finds himself afflicted by a curse following his encounter with Naggo – once a boar god, now a demonic beast – whom he had slain. This supernatural force animates Ashitaka’s arm but also causes it to decay. A village shaman prophesies Ashitaka’s impending death and advises him to journey westward in search of the source of nature’s wrath, hoping to uncover the secret behind his own curse.

Why I Can’t Wait for You to Watch it: I can confidently say that “Princess Mononoke” will undoubtedly find its place on this list. For me, it’s one of the masterpieces from Miyazaki’s repertoire, a film that stands out as exceptional and deserves your attention without question. The adventure it offers is nothing short of breathtaking, and the journey it takes you on is as captivating as it is visually stunning.

5. Ocean Waves

Original Release: May 5, 1993
Running Time: 72 minutes

The story revolves around Rikako Muto, a student who’s recently moved from Tokyo to Kōchi, a coastal city, due to her parents’ divorce. Rikako is both attractive and intelligent, excelling in academics as well as sports. Yet, she struggles to fit into the social dynamics of her new school. Taku Morisaki and Yutaka Matsuno, old friends from high school, coincidentally attend the same school. It’s Taku who starts noticing the newcomer, Rikako, quite keenly.

Here’s why you shouldn’t miss Ocean Waves: Much like other films on this list, Ocean Waves demonstrates that everyday life can be as captivating as any fantasy tale. It’s not about sorcery or peculiar beings; instead, it delves into the relatable experiences of adolescence, love, friendships, and human nature. In essence, it offers a compelling narrative on how our own lives can spin tales that are nothing short of extraordinary.

6. The Cat Returns

Original Release: July 20, 2002
Running Time: 75 minutes

Main topic: Haru, a 17-year-old high school girl with self-doubts, feels out of place among her peers. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she saves a talking cat named Loon from being hit by a truck during a walk home with her friend Hiromi. Loon is no ordinary feline; he’s the prince of the cat kingdom. The cats now owe Haru a favor, and they begin to bestow gifts upon her at night. Impressed by her bravery, the King of Cats invites her to his kingdom where she will be expected to marry Prince Loon. The movie follows Haru as she embarks on an odyssey of growing up from adolescence into adulthood.

Here’s why you shouldn’t miss it: The enchanting film, The Cat Returns, showcases the exceptional talent that makes Studio Ghibli Japan’s leading anime studio in film production. Although not directed by Miyazaki, this captivating tale embodies the distinctive Ghibli style, making it a stunning piece of art and deserving of its place on our recommended list.

7. Bubble

Original Release: February 10, 2022
Running Time: 100 minutes

The narrative unfolds in Tokyo, where the skies have been taken over by peculiar floating orbs. On one particular day, Hibiki, a youthful parkour enthusiast within these bubbles, and Uta, an enigmatic girl, come across a sound that only they can hear.

Why you might want to watch Bubble: Initially unsure about Bubble? So were we, but let us assure you that this one-of-a-kind narrative is so extraordinary that it’s a must-see. That’s why we’ve included it on our list – it offers an unparalleled story and adventure that you won’t find anywhere else.

8. Howl’s Moving Castle

Original Release: September 5, 2004
Running Time: 119 minutes

The story revolves around an 18-year-old girl named Sophie who works at her late father’s store. In a turn of events, she crosses paths with a secretive wizard called Howl during a pursuit. Moved by compassion, he takes her in. However, the envious Witch of the Waste, smitten with Howl, grows resentful of Sophie’s growing connection with him. To exact revenge, she casts a spell on Sophie, turning her into an old woman. Unable to disclose this metamorphosis to her family and fearing their reaction, she confines herself at home before fleeing.

In the mountainous region, she encounters a bewitched straw man whom she endearingly nicknames Turnip. This meeting ultimately leads her to Howl’s mobile castle. Upon entering and discovering its unhealthy conditions, she crosses paths with the fire demon, Calcifer. He is responsible for moving the castle and deduces that the woman has fallen under a curse. In exchange for lifting the spell, he requests Sophie’s assistance in order to dissolve the bond between him and Howl.

Here’s why you shouldn’t miss it: True to form, this collection features numerous works of Miyazaki, a director renowned for his exceptional storytelling. His films are always captivating journeys that transport us into enchanting realms. “Howl’s Moving Castle” is another masterpiece from the talented artist, an adventure that you must experience (or re-experience if you’ve already watched it).

9. Digimon Adventure: Last Evolution Kizuna

Original Release: February 21, 2020
Running Time: 94 minutes

The final chapter in the epic tale of the original DigiDestined, titled “Kizuna“, was a feature-length anime movie that served as a poignant farewell to a series that has captivated generations. Boasting enhanced animation, a reworked soundtrack, and a deeply moving narrative, “Kizuna” provided a bittersweet conclusion to a 20-year journey. As the DigiDestined banded together with their digital companions one last time to thwart the enigmatic Eosmon, who was abducting DigiDestined souls globally, they found themselves confronting the reality that their time with their Digimon partners was drawing to a close as they grew up.

Here’s why you shouldn’t miss out: “Last Adventure Kizuna” might primarily appeal to “Digimon” enthusiasts, but it’s a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted conclusion. Over two decades in the making, this film brings an epic saga to a close, leaving its mark on not one, but multiple generations. The original DigiDestined characters embark on a poignant final journey, and we can confirm that the series successfully delivers on both storytelling and emotional depth.

10. Castle in the Sky

Original Release: August 2, 1986
Running Time: 124 minutes

The plot revolves around: A group of sky-pirates known as the “Dora Band” raid a floating fortress in search of a magical stone, which is in the possession of a young woman named Sheeta, who is held captive. After managing to escape, Sheeta lands near a boy her age named Pazu. They soon discover they share a common interest: an elusive island called Laputa, which is said to float in the sky. Pazu’s father had caught a glimpse of it before his death, but others dismissed his claim. However, Sheeta possesses a stone that guides them towards this island. As the pirates and a secret agent named Muska backed by an army fleet pursue them, the two children aid each other in their quest to reach Laputa before they do. Muska seeks to exploit the young girl for his ambitions of ruling these territories.

Recommendation: Watching Castle in the Sky is like embarking on an unforgettable journey, a testament to Hayao Miyazaki’s storytelling prowess. Despite recurring themes, Miyazaki manages to make each tale distinct, and Castle in the Sky beautifully illustrates this capability. The narrative is enchanting and evocative, making it a worthy addition to any list of must-watch films.

11. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

Original Release: March 11, 1984
Running Time: 117 minutes

Topic: A millennium has elapsed since the collapse of industrial civilization during the “Seven Days of Fire”, a devastating interplanetary conflict. Humans are making do in scattered settlements, facing threats from the ever-expanding Fukai, a colossal forest whose spores are lethal to most life forms. This dense jungle is guarded by titanic insects that have evolved within this environment. The ‘ômu’ are its chief inhabitants, distinguished by their massive size and sensitivity. The Valley of the Wind is a tiny agricultural realm shielded from spores and Fukai by sea breezes.

The wreckage of a colossal Tolmec Empire vessel, damaged by insects following an unfortunate pit-stop in a toxic forest, unsettles him deeply. Upon discovering the contents within this ship, the Tolmec military invaded the valley, slayed King Jill and abducted his daughter Nausicaä.

Here’s why you should watch it: Nausicaä, the last tale from Studio Ghibli on our list, truly earns its place here. Similar to all Miyazaki films, Nausicaä offers a unique and enchanting journey that transcends physical adventure into a deeper metaphorical realm. The visuals, as with any Miyazaki work, are breathtakingly beautiful, making this film a must-watch regardless of whether you’re seeking pure adventure or not.

12. Wolf Children

Original Release: June 25, 2012
Running Time: 117 minutes

The story revolves around Hana, an 19-year-old college student, who encounters a boy she develops feelings for on campus. He confides in her that he’s a wolfwere, the sole surviving member of the once-existing Japanese wolf lineage. Despite this, they continue their relationship. When Hana discovers she is expecting, she avoids seeing him out of concern that their child might be born with the wolfwereness.

Nine months down the line, I welcome my daughter Yuki (snow) into our world on a wintery day, and exactly a year after, her little brother Ame (rain) arrives under the drizzle. Sadly, soon after the birth of my son, his father vanishes in search for me. Heartbroken, I learn of her accidental demise while she was gathering food for our family during a hunt. Overwhelmed with grief but determined, I take on the challenge of raising these children alone – a daunting task, given they have the ability to transform into wolves.

After their landlord at the condo they reside in threatens eviction due to suspicions about forbidden pets and social workers inquire about unvaccinated children, Hana chooses to relocate to the countryside, offering a trouble-free upbringing for her kids and considering whether to live as humans or wolves.

Reason to watch: Unlike typical action-packed adventures with villains, Wolf Children is a symbolic exploration of life’s challenges and uniqueness. It offers an exciting perspective on the characters’ experiences, yet we recommend it for its poignant and heartwarming narrative. Moreover, it illustrates how even everyday hardships can be transformative journeys, making life an adventure in its own right.

2025-06-01 07:15