Looking for a fun way to learn Japanese while avoiding tedious study methods?
Why not try learning while watching some great Japanese movies on Netflix?
Of course, we all know that movies can’t replace textbook language learning, but they offer an entertaining approach to improving your skills, familiarizing yourself with Japanese culture, and maintaining motivation.
We want to share some Japanese movies available on Netflix for language learners and to provide guidance on using these movies effectively for language learning. Regardless of your Japanese level, this list has something for everyone. So, prepare some popcorn, relax, and join us in discovering Japanese media while boosting your Japanese abilities!
Top 5 Japanese Films on Netflix for Language Learners
1.) Your Name (君の名は)
- IMDb rating: 8.4
- Released: 2016
- Director: Makoto Shinkai
- Genre: Animation, Drama, Fantasy
Your Name is a beautifully animated romantic fantasy that follows the story of two teenagers who swap bodies and must navigate each other’s lives. As they grow closer, they uncover the truth behind their mysterious connection.
The film is visually stunning and will not only keep your attention but stir your emotions. Although it has fantasy elements, it is essentially a “slice-of-life” drama, so it’s great for learning Japanese, as it is set in modern-day Japan and uses everyday language.
2.) Shoplifters (万引き家族)
- IMDb rating: 7.9
- Released: 2018
- Director: Hirokazu Koreeda
- Genre: Crime, Drama
Shoplifters is a thought-provoking drama about a family of small-time criminals who adopt a neglected little girl. As they face various challenges, they reveal the true meaning of family and love.
The critically acclaimed film is an excellent choice to expand your Japanese vocabulary and understanding of contemporary social issues in Japan.
3.) Departures (おくりびと)
- IMDb rating: 8.0/10
- Released: 2008
- Director: Yojiro Takita
- Genre: Drama, Music
Departures is a heartwarming drama about a young cellist who returns to his hometown after a failed career. He unexpectedly starts work in a funeral home and discovers purpose and meaning in his work and life.
Winner of the 2009 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, Departures is not only a great movie to use to practice your Japanese language skills, but you can also get a glimpse into traditional Japanese funeral customs.
4.) Like Father, Like Son (そして父になる)
- IMDb rating: 7.8
- Released: 2013
- Director: Hirokazu Koreeda
- Genre: Drama
Like Father, Like Son tells the story of two families who discover that their six-year-old sons were switched at birth. As they grapple with the shocking revelation, they must decide whether to swap their children back and face the emotional consequences.
The drama offers insight into Japanese family values and can help you with conversational Japanese skills, as there is a lot of great family-centered dialogue.
5.) Our Little Sister (海街diary)
- IMDb rating: 7.5/10
- Released: 2015
- Director: Hirokazu Koreeda
- Genre: Drama
In Japanese, the title of Our Little Sister is Umimachi Diary, which means “seaside town diary.” The movie is a family drama about three sisters who live together in Kamakura, a coastal town near Tokyo. When their estranged half-sister Suzu comes to live with them after their father’s death, the four sisters gradually form a bond and navigate the complexities of their relationships with each other and with their deceased parents.
The language is easy to follow as it is set near Tokyo, and covers everyday vocabulary and grammar, as well as some great insight into some of the culture of small Japanese towns.
If none of these movies are to your taste, there are tons more to choose from on Netflix! Just visit their official Japanese page to find movies and TV dramas of different genres. Of course, Netflix isn’t the only option for Japanese movies, make sure to check out Wikipedia’s extensive list of Japanese films in 50 different categories or the list of Japanese movies ranked by language difficulty.
Now that you have some movies in Japanese to watch, it’s time to learn the best way to utilize them to help you improve your Japanese.
Tips for Learning Japanese through Netflix
Increase vocabulary: If you know what the movie will be about, take some time to research related words and expressions before watching. This will help you be more prepared for the language in the movie and will help you cement new vocab when you hear it. While watching, don’t be afraid to pause often and look up any unknown words or idioms you aren’t familiar with. When you hear repeated words and phrases in context, they will really sink in and you’ll be surprised how much you can remember!
Practice listening skills: If you have some Japanese knowledge or want to level up your listening skills, try turning off the English subtitles to enter “hard mode.” However, don’t feel pressured to do this immediately – subtitles can still be helpful in learning new vocabulary and grammar. The key is to stay engaged and interested in the content, which will encourage you to keep improving. If you get stuck on a word or phrase, don’t be afraid to go back and listen a few more times to get an ear for new words and expressions.
Improve pronunciation and speaking: Try shadowing your favorite character or scene. This just means repeating the words that the characters are saying immediately after they do. By repeating lines and imitating the accent, you’ll quickly pick up nuances in Japanese pronunciation without even realizing it. Make sure to select a character who speaks in your target accent to maximize practice benefits.
Understand Japanese culture: No matter what movie you watch, you are sure to run into different parts of Japanese culture and customs that might be new to you. This is a chance to learn about Japanese traditions and how they are linked to the language. Treat this as an opportunity to learn more about the fascinating and unique ways of Japanese culture.
Japanese movies offer a wealth of learning opportunities. So head over to Netflix and explore some Japanese films to boost your language skills in no time!
