20 Most Famous TV Anime on HBO Max in Japan in 2024

30-Best-TV-Anime-on-HBO-max-yo-stream-in-2023-in-Japan

Anime on HBO Max has become a favorite for fans globally, featuring a blend of classic and contemporary masterpieces that appeal across different regions. As someone who enjoys it, I’ve thoroughly explored HBO Max’s library in Japan. I can confidently say that it’s not just about quantity; the quality of anime on this platform is unparalleled.

I understand the struggle of watching the platform in geo-restricted countries. However, don’t worry! You don’t need to search for how to watch HBO Max in Japan, now because a VPN like ExpressVPN is all you need.

As I answer what are the best anime shows on HBO Max, sit back, relax, and let me guide you through a handpicked selection that will redefine your anime-watching experience and you will also get an answer to your question.


Best Anime on HBO Max to Stream in Japan

If you’re looking for the best Anime on HBO Max, to stream on your holidays, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re searching for the thrills of shonen action or the heartwarming moments of a slice-of-life, HBO Max offers a curated list that caters to various tastes. You will find the list below, including the ones coming in 2024.

But before diving into our top picks, it’s crucial to note that geo-restrictions shouldn’t hinder your anime experience. By using one of the best VPN for HBO Max, you can access the platform from any corner of the globe and enjoy uninterrupted streaming.


Ninja Kamui (2024 -)

ninja-kamui-in-Japan

  • Director: Sunghoo Park
  • Writer:
  • Cast: Kenjirô Tsuda, Kazuhiro Yamaji, Atsushi Ono
  • IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
  • No. of Seasons: 1
  • Runtime: 111 minutes
  • Japanese Title:
  • Release Year: 2019
  • Trailer: N/A

In “Ninja Kamui,” former elite ninja Joe Higan finds himself a target after abandoning his violent past and escaping to rural America to lead a peaceful life. As assassins from his former clan close in, seeking retribution for his perceived betrayal, Joe must navigate a dangerous world where his past and present collide.

Fighting to protect his family, Joe is forced to confront his own skills and morals, questioning what it truly means to be free from the shadows of his former life.


Promare (2019)

Promare-in-Japan

  • Director: Hiroyuki Imaishi
  • Writer: Kazuki Nakashima
  • Cast: Kenichi Matsuyama, Taichi Saotome, Ayane Sakura
  • IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
  • No. of Seasons: N/A
  • Runtime: 111 minutes
  • Japanese Title: プロメア
  • Release Year: 2019
  • Trailer: Promare

“Promare” unfolds in a futuristic world where a group of mutants known as the Burnish possess the power to control flames, causing widespread panic and destruction. The story follows Galo Thymos, a brash and brave firefighter with the Burning Rescue team, who is dedicated to stopping the fiery threats.

Promare is a high-octane adventure that reinterprets superhero through the lens of anime, making it a standout choice for those searching for what anime is on HBO Max.


Housing Complex C (2022 – )

housing-complex-c-in-Japan

  • Director: Yuji Nara
  • Writer: Amphibian
  • Cast: Mutsumi Tamura, Kaori Mizuhashi
  • IMDb Rating: 6.0/10
  • No. of Seasons: 1
  • Runtime: 26m
  • Japanese Title: C Danshi
  • Release Year: 2022
  • Trailer: N/A

“Housing Complex C” centers around Kimi, a young resident of a quirky housing complex where things quickly turn sinister. As unexplained events and horrific visions plague the community, Kimi and her neighbors uncover a curse linked to dark, ancestral secrets of the complex.


Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

Nausicaä-of-the-valley-of-the-wind-in-Japan

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Cast: Sumi Shimamoto, Goro Naya, Yoji Matsuda
  • IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
  • No. of Seasons: N/A
  • Runtime: 117 minutes
  • Japanese Title: 風の谷のナウシカ
  • Release Year: 1984
  • Trailer: Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

In a post-apocalyptic world covered by toxic forests and gigantic insects, Nausicaä, a compassionate young princess, struggles to prevent two warring nations from destroying themselves and their dying planet.


Castle in the Sky (1986)

Castle-in-the-Sky-in-Japan

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Cast: Keiko Yokozawa, Mayumi Tanaka, Minori Terada
  • IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
  • No. of Seasons: N/A
  • Runtime: 124 minutes
  • Japanese Title: 天空の城ラピュタ
  • Release Year: 1986
  • Trailer: Castle in the Sky

This film follows the adventures of a young boy and girl attempting to keep a magical crystal from the hands of military agents while they search for a legendary floating castle. This is the top movie, marking its place as a significant addition to the best romance anime on HBO Max.


Death Note (2006 – 2007)

Death-Note-Television-in-Japan

  • Director: Tetsurō Araki
  • Writer: Tsugumi Ohba (original manga), Takeshi Obata (original manga)
  • Cast: Mamoru Miyano, Brad Swaile, Kappei Yamaguchi
  • IMDb Rating: 8.9/10
  • No. of Seasons: 1
  • Runtime: Approximately 23 minutes per episode
  • Japanese Title: デスノート
  • Release Year: 2006
  • Trailer: Death Note

“Death Note” follows high school student Light Yagami, who discovers a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes. As Light sets out to rid the world of criminals, he becomes entangled in a deadly game of cat and mouse with a brilliant detective known only as L.

One of the best HBO Max shows in Japan to watch with your family.


Samurai Jack

samurai-jack-in-Japan

  • Director: Genndy Tartakovsky
  • Writer: Genndy Tartakovsky
  • Cast: Phil LaMarr, Mako, Kevin Michael Richardson
  • IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
  • No. of Seasons: 5
  • Runtime: Approximately 22 minutes per episode
  • Japanese Title: サムライジャック
  • Release Year: 2001
  • Trailer: Samurai Jack

“Samurai Jack” is about a young samurai cast into the future by the evil shape-shifting wizard Aku. Throughout the series, Jack embarks on a quest to travel back in time and defeat Aku before he can take over the world. The series is celebrated for its visually striking animation and epic storytelling.

Take advantage of the HBO Max free trial to explore an extensive library of top-tier movies and series at no initial cost. The trial is not available for users now, but if the offer is again made available by the streaming platform, you can enjoy it.


The Night is Short, Walk on Girl

The-Night-Is-Short-Walk-on-Girl-in-Japan

  • Director: Masaaki Yuasa
  • Writer: Tomihiko Morimi (original novel), Makoto Ueda (screenplay)
  • Cast: Gen Hoshino, Kana Hanazawa, Hiroshi Kamiya
  • IMDb Rating: 7.6
  • Runtime: 93 minutes
  • Japanese Title: 夜は短し歩けよ乙女
  • Release Year: 2017
  • Trailer: The Night is Short, Walk on Girl

This animated film tracks one night in Kyoto as a black-haired girl known as “The Girl with Black Hair” experiences a series of surreal adventures while out drinking. As the night unfolds, she encounters an eclectic array of individuals, each adding to her philosophical journey on this bizarre, romantic night.

This is one of the best HBO Max anime in Japan.


Howl’s Moving Castle

howls-moving-castle-in-Japan

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Writer: Hayao Miyazaki (screenplay), Diana Wynne Jones (novel)
  • Cast: Chieko Baisho, Takuya Kimura, Akihiro Miwa
  • IMDb Rating: 8.2
  • No. of Seasons:
  • Runtime: 119 minutes
  • Japanese Title: ハウルの動く城
  • Release Year: 2004
  • Trailer: Howl’s Moving Castle

“Howl’s Moving Castle” stands out as the HBO Max anime selection as a unique storytells of Sophie, a young girl cursed with an old woman’s body by a spiteful witch. Her only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard named Howl and his companions in his legged, walking castle.

As Sophie adapts to her new life, she becomes entangled in a war between kingdoms and a magical transformation that will change her destiny. It’s a perfect example of good anime on HBO Max that has stood the test of time.

Explore more tailored options through my curated lists of popular anime on HBO Max in Japan.


Spirited Away (2001)

spirited-away-in-Japan

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Cast: Suzanne Pleshette, Miyu Irino, Daveigh Chase
  • IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
  • Runtime: 2h 5m
  • Japanese Title: Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi
  • Release Year: 2001
  • Trailer: Spirited Away

“Spirited Away” is an enchanting film that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, this Oscar-winning masterpiece follows the story of Chihiro, a young girl who finds herself in a mystical world filled with spirits.

Chihiro embarks on a transformative journey of bravery and self-discovery as she works to free her parents from a curse that has turned them into pigs.

It stands as one of the good anime on HBO Max, a magical experience that transcends the boundaries of animation.

Check out the quick guide on how much is HBO Max, and subscribe to the platform in Japan to enjoy the anime!


Princess Mononoke (1997)

princess-mononoke-in-Japan

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Cast: Yuriko Ishida, Billy Crudup, Yôji Matsuda
  • IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
  • Runtime: 2h 14m
  • Japanese Title:もののけ姫
  • Release Year: 2001
  • Trailer: Princess Mononoke

“Princess Mononoke” is a remarkable film from Studio Ghibli, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Set in a fantasy version of Japan, it portrays the struggle between the forces of nature and human industry.

The film follows Ashitaka, a prince stricken by a curse, as he finds himself in the middle of a war between forest spirits and the humans of Iron Town.

Are you thinking how to find anime on HBO Max? Well, this curated list helps you to find the best anime on the platform!

The mvoie is available on HBO Max in both Dubbed anime on HBO Max and subtitled versions, offering a versatile viewing experience for fans.


My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

my-neighbor-totoro-in-Japan

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Cast: Hitoshi Takagi, Shigesato Itoi, Noriko Hidaka
  • IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
  • Runtime: 2h 14m
  • Japanese Title: Tonari no Totoro
  • Release Year: 1988
  • Trailer: My Neighbor Totoro

“My Neighbor Totoro” is an enchanting and timeless film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. This beloved classic follows the adventures of two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who encounter the magical forest spirit Totoro in the woods near their new home.

The film celebrates childhood wonder, familial bonds, and the beauty of the natural world. It has touched the hearts of audiences around the globe and stands as a shining example of the family-friendly genre on HBO Max.

Apart from these, do you want to watch something interesting? Well, you can check out my list of the best Documentaries on HBO Max.


Weathering With You (2019)

Weathering away with you-in-Japan

  • Director: Makoto Shinkai
  • Writer: Makoto Shinkai
  • Cast: Kotaro Daigo, Sakura Kiryu, Nana Mori
  • IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
  • Runtime: 1h 52m
  • Japanese Title: Tenki no Ko
  • Release Year: 2019
  • Trailer: Weathering With You

Weathering With You” is a visually spectacular film directed by Makoto Shinkai that offers an enthralling tale of love, fate, and the power of weather. The narrative centers around a high school boy named Hodaka who moves to Tokyo and meets Hina, a young woman with the extraordinary ability to manipulate the weather.

For those looking for a touch of romance anime on HBO Max, this selection is charming, ensuring that you’ll find a story that resonates with your emotions.


Ride Your Wave (2019)

ride-your-wave-in-Japan

  • Director: Masaaki Yuasa
  • Writer: Reiko Yoshida
  • Cast: Ryôta Katayose, Kentaro Ito, Rina Kawaei
  • IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
  • Runtime: 1h 35m
  • Japanese Title: Kimi to, Nami ni Noretara
  • Release Year: 2019
  • Trailer: Ride Your Wave

Ride Your Wave” is a poignant and beautifully animated film by director Masaaki Yuasa that captures the themes of love, loss, and moving forward.

The story follows Hinako, a surfer, who, after a tragic loss, finds a connection to her late boyfriend Minato through the ocean that brought them together. The film resonates with a powerful message about coping with grief and holding onto cherished memories.

This show is full of drama and adventure and is one of the best anime to watch on HBO Max in Japan on a weekend with your kids and family, you won’t be disappointed while watching it.


When Marnie Was There (2014)

when-marine-was-there-in-Japan

  • Director: Hiromasa Yonebayashi
  • Writer: Joan G. Robinson
  • Cast: Kasumi Arimura, Sara Takatsuki, Ryôko Moriyama
  • IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
  • Runtime: 1h 43m
  • Japanese Title: Omoide no Mānī
  • Release Year: 2014
  • Trailer: When Marnie Was There

When Marnie Was There,” produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, is an emotionally charged film that explores friendship and self-discovery.

The story centers on Anna, a young girl who encounters a mysterious girl named Marnie during her stay in the countryside for health reasons. As their friendship deepens, Anna learns more about Marnie’s past, leading to a series of revelations that profoundly impact her life.

This is one of the most interesting and best anime on HBO Max to watch in Japan.


Primal (2019)

primal-in-Japan

  • Director: Genndy Tartakovsky
  • Writer: Genndy Tartakovsky
  • Cast: Aaron LaPlante, Jon Olson, Tom Kenny
  • IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
  • No. of Seasons: 2 seasons
  • Runtime: 22m
  • Japanese Title: Primal
  • Release Year: 2019
  • Trailer: Primal

Genndy Tartakovsky’s latest story follows a primitive at the start of life as he makes an odd bond with a nearly extinct monster. Tartakovsky is the imaginative creator of the Emmy® trophy series Samurai Jack.

The miniseries is a picture that comes to life, relying exclusively on music and visual imagery to convey the narrative of two unexpected partners as they travel through a perilous environment, with suspense, sadness, exhilaration, love, and terror, all without a word of the conversation.


Adventure Time (2010-2018)

adventure-time-in-Japan

  • Director: Bong Hee Han
  • Writer: Pendleton Ward
  • Cast: John DiMaggio, Hynden Walch, Jeremy Shada
  • IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
  • No. of Seasons: 10 seasons
  • Runtime: 11m
  • Japanese Title: Adventure Time
  • Release Year: 2010
  • Trailer: Adventure Time

“Adventure Time” is an animated series that masterfully mixes fantasy, humor, and heartfelt moments. The show takes viewers through the magical Land of Ooo, where Finn the Human and Jake the Dog encounter various characters and embark on numerous quests.

The series is known for its creative storytelling, eccentric characters, and the ability to appeal to a wide audience, blending childlike wonder with mature themes.

The best anime on HBO Max to watch in Japan.


Rick and Morty (2013)

rick-and-morty-in-Japan

  • Director: Wesley Archer
  • Writer: Dan Harmon
  • Cast: Chris Parnell, Justin Roiland, Dan Harmon
  • IMDb Rating: 9.1/10
  • No. of Seasons: 6 seasons
  • Runtime: 23m
  • Japanese Title: Rick and Morty
  • Release Year: 2013
  • Trailer: Rick and Morty

“Rick and Morty” is an animated series with critical acclaim for its inventive storytelling and humor. The show follows Rick, a genius scientist with a penchant for alcohol, and his grandson Morty, as they go on wild adventures across the multiverse. This is, without a doubt, the best HBO anime series.

The series is known for its satirical approach to science fiction, its dark comedy, and its philosophical themes.

This show is everyone’s favorite and it’s hands-on the best super-hit show to watch in Japan.


Smiling Friends (2020)

smiling-friends-in-Japan

  • Director: Michael Cusack
  • Writer: Michael Cusack
  • Cast: Zach Hadel, Michael Cusack, Joshua Tomar
  • IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
  • No. of Seasons: 2 seasons
  • Runtime: 12m
  • Japanese Title: Smiling Friends
  • Release Year: 2020
  • Trailer: Smiling Friends

“Smiling Friends,” a modest organization committed to making the world happier, gets a simple request to help a woman’s miserable son smile once.

They assign the duty to Charlie and Pim, but the work proves to be more difficult than it appears. At the same time, Allan explores the Smiling Friends workplace for his misplaced bit of cheese. This is one of the best anime shows to watch on HBO Max in Japan. It’s definitely worth watching.


Ponyo (2018)

ponyo-in-Japan

  • Director: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Writer: Hayao Miyazaki
  • Cast: Cate Blanchett, Liam Neeson, Yûki Amami
  • IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
  • Runtime: 1h 41m
  • Japanese Title: Ponyo
  • Release Year: 2018
  • Trailer: Ponyo

Sosuke, a 5-year-old sailor’s son, lives on a seaside cliff with his mom Lisa. One unlucky day, he discovers a lovely goldfish stuck in a jar on the shore and calls her Ponyo after saving her.

She is, however, no average fish. Ponyo, the child of a strong wizard and a sea god, uses her dad’s magic to change her into a young girl and finds love with Sosuke, but her use of such great sorcery produces a hazardous imbalance in the universe.

Moreover, whether you’re into thrillers or romances, the roundup of the best HBO Max movies in Japan has something for everyone. So, check out the list.


Reddit’s Choice: Must-Watch Anime on HBO Max

HBO Max is a great streaming service with a wide variety of content, including a curated selection of anime. Users on Reddit discussed anime recommendations and availability on HBO Max.

For those new to anime, I recommend the popular Studio Ghibli films. If you’re looking for a wider selection of anime like My Neighbor Totoro, The Iron Giant, and Smiling Friends, HBO Max is your best bet.


Popular Guides For Max On Streamingrant:


Conclusion

With each passing year, anime becomes increasingly popular throughout the world; as a result, non-anime streaming providers such as Netflix and HBO Max have expanded their catalog. Along with a good range of films and HBO Max series, the streaming platform provides a good collection of Japanese entertainment.

I hope you loved my guide on the best anime on HBO Max in Japan. Keep checking this list as I will update the new titles monthly.  Moreover, do not forget to subscribe to a VPN such as ExpressVPN, as it is essential in bypassing the geo-restrictions. Enjoy!

Harris Edwards

Harris Edwards

Harris Edwards is a talented writer who loves exploring the world of online entertainment. He writes about streaming TV shows, movies, and sports, helping people enjoy their favorite entertainment from anywhere. Harris knows all about the latest in streaming services and what people like to watch. His articles are great for anyone looking to get more out of their online entertainment experience.


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