If you loved the emotional depth and mysterious allure of The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes (2022), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same blend of romance, fantasy, and bittersweet storytelling. Whether you're drawn to its haunting atmosphere or its poignant themes of love and loss, these recommendations will keep you captivated.

The Place Promised in Our Early Days (2004)
Description: A sci-fi romance that delves into themes of separation, longing, and the power of promises, set against a backdrop of an alternate history Japan.
Fact: This was the debut film of director Makoto Shinkai, who later gained fame for 'Your Name.' The film's visual style and emotional tone set the foundation for his future works.


Josee, the Tiger and the Fish (2020)
Description: A romantic drama that follows the relationship between a young man and a wheelchair-bound woman, exploring themes of love, independence, and personal growth.
Fact: The film is based on a short story by Seiko Tanabe, which was previously adapted into a live-action film in


Belle (2021)
Description: A modern retelling of 'Beauty and the Beast' set in a virtual world, blending themes of identity, connection, and the power of music to heal.
Fact: The film features a mix of 2D and 3D animation, creating a visually stunning experience that contrasts the real and virtual worlds.


Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011)
Description: An adventure-filled story that explores themes of loss, discovery, and the journey to find meaning in a mysterious and enchanting world.
Fact: The film draws inspiration from classic adventure stories and features a richly detailed world that blends fantasy with emotional storytelling.


The Anthem of the Heart (2015)
Description: A touching story about emotional healing and self-expression, where a girl who has lost her voice finds solace in music and connection with others.
Fact: The film was produced by the same studio behind 'Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day' and shares a similar emotional depth and focus on personal growth.


Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018)
Description: A heartfelt narrative about the bonds between a mother and her adopted child, set in a fantastical world where time moves differently for different races.
Fact: This was the directorial debut of Mari Okada, a renowned screenwriter known for her emotionally charged scripts in anime.


Penguin Highway (2018)
Description: A coming-of-age story with a touch of mystery and fantasy, where a young boy investigates the sudden appearance of penguins in his town, leading to unexpected discoveries.
Fact: The film is based on a novel by Tomihiko Morimi, who also wrote 'The Night is Short, Walk on Girl,' and shares a similar blend of realism and fantasy.


Ride Your Wave (2019)
Description: A poignant tale of love and loss, where the protagonist navigates grief and finds strength through memories and the presence of a loved one in unexpected ways.
Fact: The film's director, Masaaki Yuasa, is known for his unique visual style and storytelling, which often blends reality with surreal elements.


Weathering with You (2019)
Description: A beautifully animated film that blends romance with supernatural elements, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the impact of personal choices on the world.
Fact: The film features a cameo appearance of characters from the director's previous work, 'Your Name.' It also became the first IMAX animated film released in Japan.


The Wonderland (2019)
Description: A whimsical adventure that follows a young girl's journey through a magical world, filled with wonder, self-discovery, and the importance of believing in oneself.
Fact: The film is based on a novel by Sachiko Kashiwaba and features a vibrant, colorful animation style that brings its fantastical world to life.
