10 Enchanting Fantasy Films Set in Japan

Description: Akira Kurosawa's epic tale of two peasants who become embroiled in a princess's escape from enemy forces, often cited as an influence on George Lucas's Star Wars, showcases a fantastical journey through feudal Japan.

Fact: It was one of the first films to use the "widescreen" format in Japan, enhancing the epic feel of the story.

Description: This anime film blends historical Japan with supernatural elements, following a ninja named Jubei who battles demonic creatures and corrupt samurai.

Fact: It was one of the first anime films to gain widespread international acclaim and has influenced many Western films and video games.

Description: This Studio Ghibli film tells the story of tanuki (raccoon dogs) who use their shape-shifting abilities to fight against urban development in their forest. It's a whimsical yet poignant look at Japanese folklore and environmental issues.

Fact: The film uses traditional Japanese folklore creatures and was praised for its environmental message and unique animation style.

Description: This Studio Ghibli masterpiece tells the story of Ashitaka, a young warrior who encounters the forest spirit Princess Mononoke, as he battles to save his village from a curse. The film's setting in feudal Japan, combined with its environmental themes, makes it a quintessential fantasy film about Japan.

Fact: It was the first anime film to win the Best Picture award at the Japanese Academy Awards. Hayao Miyazaki spent 16 years conceptualizing the story.

Description: Chihiro's journey through a magical bathhouse for spirits, where she must save her parents turned into pigs, is a timeless tale of courage and self-discovery set in a fantastical version of Japan.

Fact: It became the highest-grossing film in Japanese history at the time of its release and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Description: A young boy is chosen as the "Kirin Rider" to lead an army of yokai (supernatural creatures) against an evil spirit threatening Japan. This film is a vibrant celebration of Japanese folklore.

Fact: It features over 100 different yokai, many of which are based on traditional Japanese folklore.

Description: This Studio Ghibli film reimagines the ancient Japanese folktale of a bamboo cutter who finds a tiny girl in a bamboo stalk, who grows into a beautiful princess. The film's delicate watercolor style and exploration of human emotions make it a unique fantasy experience.

Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and uses a distinctive art style inspired by traditional Japanese painting.

Description: While not strictly fantasy, this film about a blind masseur and swordsman, Zatoichi, often delves into the supernatural and mythical elements of Japanese culture, making it a fitting inclusion.

Fact: The character of Zatoichi became a cultural icon in Japan, spawning numerous sequels and even a TV series.

Description: Set in the Heian period, this film follows Abe no Seimei, a legendary onmyoji (yin-yang master), as he battles supernatural forces. Its blend of historical drama with fantasy elements showcases Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Fact: It was one of the most expensive Japanese films ever made at the time, with a budget of over $10 million.

Description: A young boy, Kyuta, enters a parallel world where he is taken in by a beast named Kumatetsu. Together, they navigate the complexities of their relationship and the mystical world around them.

Fact: It was the highest-grossing Japanese film in Japan in 2015 and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.