Recommendations for Japanese Anime Based on True Stories, Full of Emotion

Japanese anime often carries deep and emotional stories, some of which are based on true events. These works tell the personal experiences of the writers or highlight historical events that touch the heart, inviting viewers to feel the strong emotions from real-life stories full of struggle and sacrifice.

Each title we selected has a story that is very close to reality, with many characters influenced by real-life experiences. From world wars, personal tragedies, to struggles for survival, these anime present such strong emotions. Some are even based on the creator's experiences expressed in animated works, providing a deeper personal touch.

Here are recommendations for Japanese anime based on true stories and full of emotions that you shouldn't miss.

1. Grave of the Fireflies

Film Poster Illustration (Image by myanimelist)

Grave of the Fireflies is one of the most emotional anime based on a true story. This film is adapted from the semi-autobiographical novel by Nosaka Akiyuki that tells the story of his childhood experiences during World War II. In this story, we follow the journey of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, who struggle to survive after their city is bombed and they lose their parents.

This tale vividly illustrates the impact of war on the lives of innocent people and touches the hearts of its viewers with extraordinary emotional depth.

2. The Wind Rises

Film Poster Illustration (Image by myanimelist)

Created by Hayao Miyazaki, The Wind Rises tells the life story of Jiro Horikoshi, an aviation engineer who designed the Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter aircraft during World War II. Although it contains fictional elements, the story is heavily influenced by Jiro's real experiences as an aircraft designer.

The film offers insights into love, sacrifice, and ambition, and showcases the significant impact of technology on the history of war. It is a blend of biography and fiction, paying tribute to the spirit and work of Jiro Horikoshi.

3. In This Corner of the World

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In This Corner of the World depicts the lives of the residents of Kure and Hiroshima during World War II, inspired by true events even though the main character, Suzu Urano, is a fictional character. Manga artist Fumiyo Kouno conducted extensive research to create a realistic portrayal, using military archives and testimonies from survivors of the war.

Although fictional, this anime is very realistic in depicting the daily struggles of survival amidst destruction. It is a tribute to the people who lived during wartime and how they continued their lives even in extremely difficult circumstances.

4. Welcome to the NHK

Film Poster Illustration (Image by myanimelist)

Based on the real-life experiences of its author, Tatsuhiko Takimoto, Welcome to the NHK tells the story of a hikikomori, Satou Tatsuhiro, who isolates himself at home due to his fear of the outside world. Takimoto himself struggled with depression and social anxiety, which is reflected in the character of Satou. This anime provides a deep insight into the life of a hikikomori and the mental challenges faced by many.

The main character, trapped in social anxiety and depression, illustrates an individual's struggle to confront a world that feels so terrifying.

5. Anohana

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Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day tells the story of a group of friends who must confront feelings of regret and loss after the death of one of their friends, Menma. This story is inspired by the experiences of its screenwriter, Mari Okada, who felt deep regret over a falling out with a childhood friend that was never mended before they passed away.

The anime touches the heart regarding loss, regret, and the importance of expressing feelings before it's too late. It is a story about how broken relationships can reconnect even after time has passed.

6. Millennium Actress

Film Poster Illustration (Image by myanimelist)

Millennium Actress is an anime inspired by the combined experiences of several legendary Japanese actresses, particularly Setsuko Hara and Hideko Takamine. Although not a direct biography, the film is a tribute to the long careers of actresses who have traversed various eras of Japanese cinema.

The film depicts the journey of a fictional actress who experiences many events and roles that reflect the colorful journey of real-life careers. This work presents a profound homage to Japanese cinema and its actresses and actors who have made history.

7. Golden Kamuy

Film Poster Illustration (Image by myanimelist)

Golden Kamuy is based on real historical elements, particularly regarding the Russo-Japanese War, Ainu culture, and several events in Japanese history. This anime incorporates many historical elements that provoke the audience's knowledge about lesser-known historical facts of Japan.

By blending adventure elements and a deep narrative, this anime offers both entertainment and education about Japan's past, which is filled with conflict and struggle.

8. Barefoot Gen

Film Poster Illustration (Image by myanimelist)

Barefoot Gen is an anime based on the life experiences of Keiji Nakazawa, who survived the atomic bomb in Hiroshima. This story depicts the tragedy experienced by Gen Nakaoka, who lost his family due to the atomic bomb explosion.

By portraying very emotional and tragic scenes, this anime conveys the horrific impact of war and the destruction caused by weapons of mass destruction.

9. My Neighbor Totoro

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My Neighbor Totoro is inspired by Hayao Miyazaki's personal experiences of spending his childhood with his mother who was suffering from tuberculosis. In this film, those experiences are depicted through the story of two sisters, Mei and Satsuki, who care for their sick mother.

Although this is a fantasy film, the emotional elements and Miyazaki's childhood memories have a profound impact on the story, which has become one of Studio Ghibli's classic films.

10. The Battle of Surabaya

Film Poster Illustration (Image by myanimelist)

The Battle of Surabaya is an Indonesian animated film inspired by the battle of Surabaya on November 10, 1945, a significant event in the history of Indonesia's independence. Although the main character, Musa, is fictional, the events depicted in this film are very real.

The story follows the struggle of a young courier involved in a major battle, illustrating how the youth of Indonesia fought for independence.

(kpl/khs)