The Ultimate Guide to Makoto Shinkai Movies List : Watch in Order or By Popularity?

Makoto Shinkai Movies List : Makoto Shinkai is a name that resonates deeply within the world of anime. His films are renowned not only for their stunning, hand-drawn animation but also for their deeply emotional and philosophical narratives. His films tackle universal themes like love, loss, and the passage of time, often set against beautifully detailed backgrounds that immerse viewers into a dreamlike world. Over the years, Shinkai has built a loyal following, and fans often debate the best starting point for someone new to his works.

Should you watch his films in chronological order to witness his growth as a filmmaker, or should you dive into the most popular ones to experience the best of what he has to offer? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at Makoto Shinkai’s movies both in chronological order and ranked by popularity. Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time fan, this guide will help you choose which movie to watch next.

Makoto Shinkai Movies in Chronological Order

Shinkai’s filmography is relatively small but filled with cinematic gems. Watching his films in chronological order allows you to see his evolution as a director, from his early work that started with limited resources to his current big-budget projects that have captured audiences around the world. Below is a chronological list of his films:

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1. Voices of a Distant Star (2002) – A Poignant Story of Love Across Space and Time

Shinkai’s directorial debut, Voices of a Distant Star, tells the story of two lovers separated by the vast expanse of space. The film follows a young couple, Mikako and Noboru, whose relationship faces the challenge of time and distance as Mikako is sent on a space mission. This 25-minute film was created almost entirely by Shinkai alone, showcasing his early ability to convey deep emotional weight despite the limitations of animation. The themes of isolation, love, and the passage of time are evident even in this early work, and they would become central motifs in many of his future films.

2. The Place Promised in Our Early Days (2004) – A Tale of Friendship and Separation

In his second feature, The Place Promised in Our Early Days, Shinkai delves into a more complex narrative involving alternate history, love, and friendship. Set in a world where Japan is divided into two nations after World War II, the film follows three friends who share a dream of reaching a mysterious tower. As the characters grow older, their paths diverge, and the film explores the impact of war, separation, and unrequited love. This film marks a transition to a more mature, sophisticated style of storytelling while maintaining the emotional resonance Shinkai is known for.

3. 5 Centimeters per Second (2007) – An Emotional Exploration of Love and Distance

Perhaps one of Shinkai’s most beloved works, 5 Centimeters per Second is a deeply melancholic tale of two childhood friends, Takaki and Akari, who are separated by distance and time. The film explores the fragility of relationships and how the passage of time can change even the strongest of bonds. Known for its breathtaking visuals and hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, 5 Centimeters per Second captures the essence of longing, love, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. This film also solidified Shinkai’s reputation for visually stunning landscapes, a signature of his later works.

4. Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011) – A Fantasy Adventure About Loss and Discovery

In Children Who Chase Lost Voices, Shinkai ventures into the realm of fantasy with an adventurous, otherworldly narrative. The film follows a young girl, Asuna, who embarks on a journey to a mysterious land in search of a way to bring back a loved one. With elements of fantasy and exploration, this film stands apart from Shinkai’s more grounded works. However, it still delves into themes of grief, loss, and the yearning to reconnect with what’s lost—subjects Shinkai often explores. The film features breathtaking landscapes, making it a visual feast, and showcases his growth as a storyteller and animator.

5. The Garden of Words (2013) – A Visually Stunning Short Film About an Unlikely Bond

The Garden of Words is one of Shinkai’s shorter films, clocking in at just under an hour. It tells the story of a 15-year-old boy, Takao, and a mysterious woman, Yukari, who meet regularly in a Japanese garden on rainy days. The film explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the emotional bonds that can form between strangers. What stands out about this film is not just its story, but its gorgeous animation, which features incredibly detailed depictions of rain-soaked gardens and cityscapes. The film is a meditation on the delicate, fleeting nature of relationships and the internal struggles people face.

6. Your Name (2016) – The Global Sensation About Love and Fate

Your Name was a worldwide phenomenon that brought Makoto Shinkai’s work to an international audience. The film tells the story of two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously swap bodies and learn to navigate each other’s lives. As they grow closer, they uncover a deeper connection that transcends time and space. Your Name is a beautiful exploration of fate, longing, and love, blending romance with science fiction. Its stunning animation, emotional depth, and unforgettable soundtrack turned it into one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time. If you’re new to Shinkai’s work, this is the film that will likely leave the most lasting impression.

7. Weathering With You (2019) – A Magical Story About Climate and Sacrifice

Following the success of Your Name, Shinkai released Weathering With You, a film that blends romance with environmental themes. The film follows Hodaka, a runaway teenager who meets a girl named Hina, who has the ability to control the weather. As their relationship develops, the film explores themes of sacrifice, love, and the balance between personal desires and the greater good. With its exploration of climate change, Weathering With You feels timely, and it continues Shinkai’s trend of combining fantastical elements with real-world issues. The film’s animation and soundtrack, once again, stand out as highlights.

8. Suzume (2022) – A Journey of Closure and Self-Discovery

Shinkai’s latest offering, Suzume, is a journey of self-discovery that blends fantasy with the deeply personal. The film follows a young girl, Suzume, who embarks on a journey to close mysterious doors that are causing destruction across Japan. As she uncovers the truth about the doors and her own past, Suzume’s story becomes one of healing and closure. While still featuring Shinkai’s signature beautiful animation, the film marks a departure from his usual themes of romance to focus on personal growth and emotional resilience.

Read Also: Makoto Shinkai: His Movies, Best Works, and What’s Next in 2025

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The Best Makoto Shinkai Movies List (Ranked by Popularity)

While all of Shinkai’s films have their own merits, some have resonated more deeply with audiences worldwide. Below is a ranking of his best films based on popularity, critical acclaim, and cultural impact.

Your Name (2016)

Undoubtedly Shinkai’s most popular and internationally successful film, Your Name captivated audiences with its emotional depth, stunning animation, and beautifully woven narrative of love and fate. It quickly became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of the highest-grossing anime films of all time.

Weathering With You (2019)

Following the success of Your Name, Weathering With You also made a massive impact on global audiences. With its exploration of love, sacrifice, and climate change, the film captivated both anime fans and newcomers to the genre, further cementing Shinkai’s place as one of the best anime directors of his generation.

5 Centimeters per Second (2007)

5 Centimeters per Second is often regarded as one of the most emotionally resonant anime films ever made. Its exploration of the difficulties of maintaining love over distance and time, paired with its melancholic atmosphere, makes it a timeless classic in the anime world.

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Conclusion

Makoto Shinkai’s films are more than just beautifully animated stories—they are emotional journeys that speak to universal experiences of love, loss, and self-discovery. Whether you choose to watch his films in chronological order or by popularity, each movie offers a unique perspective on the human condition. From his early works like Voices of a Distant Star to his more recent hits like Suzume, Shinkai’s evolution as a director is evident in every frame. So, whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time fan, there’s no wrong way to dive into his incredible cinematic world.