If you’re anything like us, we have grown up watching a lot of iconic anime! Whether it was action, adventure, shoujo (romance), or something a little more magical, if we can be honest, these anime tv shows and films have made their way to our top favourites of all time.

As the cherry blossom season is coming in full swing, and with Chi, Nicole, and Anna flying off to Japan next weekend, we’ve asked our staff to recommend their top anime picks. No worries, we won’t give out any spoilers!

Death Note, recommended by Chi

This psychological thriller anime is still one of the top rated series of all time, so much so that Netflix has its own live action adaptation of it! This psychological thriller follows Light Yagami, a high school student who discovers a notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. Intoxicated with his new power, he begins to eliminate those he deems unworthy of life. Spicy. This TV series is 37-episodes long, and definitely made me feel a thought-provoking range of emotions.

Fun fact: This anime inspired our Yagami Pearl Drop Stud!

Spirited Away, recommended by Isa

This one’s a cult-favourite, beloved even by those that don’t necessarily watch anime often. Spirited Away is an enchanting movie following a young girl named Chihiro who finds herself trapped in a magical world of spirits and monsters at an abandoned amusement park. As she tries to find her way back home, she must navigate the strange and dangerous world around her. Rated 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, you definitely mustn't miss out on this one! Its nostalgic Japanese setting and emotionally resonant story is beautiful, and will remind you of your solo adventures as a kid.

Fun fact: This anime also inspired our Chihiro Flower Stud!

Samurai Champloo, recommended by Sam

If you like action and adventure, this anime series will be right up your alley! Samurai Champloo combines elements of historical fiction with hip-hop culture. Blending historical fiction with hip-hop culture, the show features a trio of unlikely heroes - a samurai, a rogue, and a young girl - as they embark on a journey across feudal Japan in search of the samurai who smells of sunflowers. With stunning animation and a killer soundtrack, this series is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!

Black Butler, recommended by Anna

Black Butler is a gothic and stylish anime that follows a young noble boy named Ciel Phantomhive, who makes a deal with a demon butler to help him avenge his parents' death. Together, they navigate the treacherous underworld of Victorian England in search of answers. This dark masterpiece has complex characters, an intricate plot, and explores themes of justice, revenge, and loyalty. Even after rewatching it, this anime is still one of my favorites - a nostalgic favorite from my childhood that I enjoyed watching with my siblings.

Arrietty - recommended by Gia

Arriety is another Studio Ghibli that’s captured the hearts internationally. This heartwarming yet underrated movie follows a tiny borrower named Arrietty and her family, who live beneath the floorboards of a human home. When a human boy named Shawn discovers Arrietty's world, the two form an unlikely friendship that will change both of their lives forever. It’s got a beautiful story with stunning animations, a must-watch movie that is sure to tug at your heartstrings.

Kimi no Na wa (Your Name), recommended by Nicole

"Your Name" (also known as "Kimi no Na Wa") is a stunning anime film that has gained popularity worldwide! The movie follows the story of Taki and Mitsuha, two teenagers who find themselves mysteriously swapping bodies. They embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind their connection, forming a powerful bond that transcends time and space. This anime movie has captured our hearts and we highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't yet had the chance to watch it!

There we have it, a few of our staff's favorite anime shows and movies! It was really hard for everyone to pick a single favourite anime, but whether you're in the mood for something thrilling, magical, romantic, or heartwarming, these anime series and movies are definitely worth checking out. Share your own favorite anime shows and movies with us via socials @skinstudioj_!

Read more: