10 Japanese Slice of Life Films that Touch Because Their Simple Stories Are So Close to Life

Kapanlagi.com - Japanese films are known for their unique storytelling approach, especially in the slice of life genre. This genre highlights small moments in daily life, such as family, friendship, love, loss, and hope, but packaged in a very touching way.

Unlike action or fantasy genres filled with major conflicts, slice of life films invite the audience to reflect through gentle dialogues, calm cinematography, and stories that feel very real. These films often become the top choice for viewers who want to experience emotional journeys without going through excessive dramatization.

In recent years, several Japanese slice of life films have become top recommendations from many entertainment media. Here are 10 of the best films from this genre that have touched many viewers' hearts, arranged chronologically based on their stories and themes.

1. DEPARTURES (2008)

This film follows Daigo, a cello player who becomes a funeral director after losing his job. Although it discusses death, the film brings peace and understanding about the importance of honoring the end of someone's life.

With a blend of music, subtle humor, and strong depictions of Japanese culture, DEPARTURES offers a spiritual experience that is rarely found. This film won an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.

2. STILL WALKING (2009)

This Japanese slice of life film is astonishing (credit:asianwiki)

This story focuses on the Yokoyama family gathering to commemorate their deceased eldest son. This meeting brings forth various emotions and differences among family members.

Natural cinematography and a slow pace make every conversation meaningful. The film touches on issues of regret and intergenerational relationships.

3. OUR LITTLE SISTER (2015)

This Japanese slice of life film is astonishing (credit:asianwiki)

Three adult sisters invite their younger half-sister, whom they have just met, to live with them in their grandmother's house. The story highlights the process of rebuilding a family from scratch, with sincerity and warmth.

The coastal village setting provides a calm atmosphere that enhances the emotions between the characters. The relationships among these women reflect a love that grows slowly but strongly.

4. LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON (2013)

This Japanese slice of life film is stunning (credit:asianwiki)

This film tells the story of two families who discover that their children were switched at birth. A moral dilemma arises: is blood relation more important than the emotional bonds that have already formed?

Through a deep psychological approach, this film forces the audience to rethink the role of parents. It also won an award at the Cannes Film Festival.

5. SWEET BEAN (2015)

This Japanese slice of life film is stunning (credit:asianwiki)

Sentaro manages a small, quiet dorayaki shop until an old woman named Tokue comes and changes everything. Tokue brings skills and enthusiasm that make the shop lively.

However, Tokue's past slowly unfolds and touches the heart. Sweet Bean shows that everyone has wounds, but also the strength to bring happiness.

6. HER LOVE BOILS BATHWATER (2016)

This Japanese slice of life film is stunning (credit:asianwiki)

Sachino is a single mother who works hard managing a public bathhouse. After being diagnosed with a serious illness, she struggles to arrange her child's life and pass on happiness.

This film is filled with laughter, tears, and a strong message about a mother's love. The plot is simple yet the emotions are very powerful.

7. LITTLE FOREST (2014)

This Japanese slice of life film is stunning (credit:asianwiki)

Ichiko returns to the village to live independently after being disappointed with the big city. She plants, cooks, and lives according to the seasons.

This film is divided into two parts (summer/autumn and winter/spring). Each scene shows the intimacy of humans with nature in a very soothing way.

8. SHINO CAN'T SAY HER OWN NAME (2018)

This Japanese slice of life film is astonishing (credit:asianwiki)

Shino, a high school student, struggles to pronounce vowels which makes it difficult for her to socialize. She meets Kayo, an eccentric girl who loves music but cannot read notes.

They form a band and build their self-confidence. This film shows how two "different" people can save each other.

9. SHOPLIFTERS (2018)

This Japanese slice of life film is astonishing (credit:asianwiki)

A group of poor people lives together and steals necessities. They are not blood relatives, but they form a bond stronger than many formal families.

This film questions the definition of family and social justice. Koreeda's work won the Palme d'Or at Cannes.

10. A LONG GOODBYE (2019)

This Japanese slice of life film is astonishing (credit:asianwiki)

Shohei, a wise school principal, announces that he has Alzheimer's. This film shows his family's reactions and how they continue to love him even as he slowly forgets.

With a slow pace and gentle dialogue, this film invites us to understand this disease without excessive dramatization. The story is relevant and inspiring.

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(kpl/vna)