Why Spirited Away Still Captivates Japan After 24 Years

It ’s been nearly a quarter-century since Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away first enchanted audiences, but Japan ’s fascination with this animated classic shows no signs of fading. The latest rental figures for 2025 reveal that, even with a constant stream of new anime films, this beloved story remains the nation’s favorite comfort movie. The numbers speak for themselves, highlighting a deep-rooted affection that’s as strong as ever.

Spirited Away Dominates 2025 Rental Rankings

Despite the rapid pace of the anime industry, with fresh titles like Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle and Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc hitting screens every month, Japanese viewers keep returning to Chihiro’s unforgettable journey. According to data from one of the country’s largest rental chains, Spirited Away is still the most-rented Studio Ghibli film in 2025. It continues to outperform both recent blockbusters and high-definition re-releases, holding onto its crown as the undisputed champion of Ghibli’s catalog.

This isn’t just speculation—these rankings are based on comprehensive sales and rental data from over 900 stores nationwide. The top ten list for the year includes a mix of new hits and timeless favorites, but Spirited Away stands out, securing its place among the most-watched movies in Japan. It’s not just a film; it’s a tradition, with families, teens, and adults alike finding comfort and nostalgia in its magical world.

Classic Ghibli Films Outshine Modern Anime

Spirited Away isn’t the only Ghibli masterpiece making waves in 2025. My Neighbor Totoro and Princess Mononoke also rank among the year’s most-rented titles, surpassing many of the latest anime releases. Even as new movies with massive marketing campaigns and cutting-edge animation debut, these classics continue to draw in viewers of all ages.

Hayao Miyazaki’s recent film, The Boy and the Heron, also holds a strong position in the rankings, following its Oscar win in 2024. Yet, it’s the older Ghibli films that truly dominate, proving that their appeal transcends generations. Princess Mononoke, once Japan’s highest-grossing movie, still commands attention, while Totoro remains a beloved symbol of warmth and wonder.

Ghibli’s Enduring Legacy in Japanese Culture

For many, Spirited Away is more than just a movie—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Parents introduce it to their children, teenagers rediscover its magic, and adults revisit it when they need a dose of nostalgia or comfort. Each viewing feels like a return to something familiar and extraordinary, a reminder of why this film is considered a masterpiece.

With high ratings and continued popularity on streaming platforms, Spirited Away and its fellow Ghibli classics have become fixtures in Japanese households. Their stories, characters, and emotional depth have left a lasting mark, shaping the way generations experience animation. Even as new trends emerge, these films remain at the heart of Japan’s cinematic identity, cherished and celebrated year after year.