Have you been feeling nostalgic lately? Because I sure have. There’s something undeniably special about retro anime movies. The music and the old household items and design of the buildings are so nostalgic and remind me of my childhood.
As someone who cherishes quiet, tender moments in anime, I wanted to share a small collection of retro films that made me feel nostalgic and happy. Whether you’re new to retro anime or a longtime viewer of nostalgic tales, I hope this list brings you the same comfort it brought me.
1- Whisper of the heart (1995)
The story follows a 14-year-old girl named Shizuku Tsukishima, a curious student with a passion for reading and writing poetry. The film gently captures the simple, meaningful moments of her daily life at school and home. Along the way, she meets Seiji Amasawa, a boy with a dream of becoming a violin maker. Seiji hopes to travel to Italy to master his craft and follow his passion. Inspired by his determination, Shizuku decides to chase a goal of her own, to write a storybook and discover where her own talents might lead her.
My favourite scene in the movie is when Shizuku and Seiji sing “Take Me Home, Country Roads” together. It felt so pure, like a quiet promise between two dreamers. The retro vibes in the library, the city rooftops and also in Shizuku house, everything reminded me of the 90s. It’s a beautiful reminder to chase your dreams, even when you’re unsure, and to cherish the people who inspire you along the way.
2- From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)
Although this movie was released in 2011, it beautifully captures the spirit of Japan’s 1960s era. From traditional homes and retro seaside scenery to vintage school uniforms, old harbor streets, and themes of student activism, every detail reflects the charm of that time. It’s these nostalgic touches that give the film its timeless feel.
Umi Matsuzaki lives in a boarding house managed by her family, where she takes care of daily tasks like preparing meals and looking after the boarders. When she’s not at home, she attends the local high school.
With the upcoming Olympic games approaching, a beloved old clubhouse is scheduled for demolition to make way for a new modern building. In response, much of the student body unites, working tirelessly to save the historic space. Umi soon joins the cause, helping the school’s newspaper club spread the word. Along the way, she grows close to Shun Kazama, a spirited boy with a mysterious past. As their friendship deepens and they begin searching for clues about Shun’s origins, the two discover they might have more in common than they ever expected.
My favourite scene in the movie is when all the students came together to clean up the clubhouse. The retro vibes of the 1960s seaside town were beautifully presented. The old-school streets, vintage music, and beautiful Yokohama felt like stepping into a mesmerising forgotten memory. I’m glad I watched this movie. I didn’t know much about Japan’s history and I’ve learned something new.
3- Only Yesterday (1991)
The story follows 27-year-old Taeko Okajima, a woman who has spent her entire life in Tokyo. Taking a break from work, she decides to visit family in the countryside and help them during the harvest season. Throughout her trip, Taeko finds herself reflecting on memories from her childhood. Some were joyful, others were bittersweet. During her stay, she meets a kind young farmer named Toshio, and the two form a meaningful friendship that quietly shapes her journey.
My favourite scene in the movie is when the adult Taeko remembers her childhood crush and realizes how those innocent feelings still linger quietly in her heart.The retro vibes of the country farm fields were so amazing. I enjoyed watching the process of harvesting the safflower and all the work goes behind it until the product arrives to the market. It’s a gentle reminder that our childhood selves never really leave us. And sometimes, we need to revisit them to truly understand who we are now.
4- Ocean Waves / I Can Hear the Sea (1993)
Ocean Waves is a high school love story set in the quiet seaside town of Kochi, Japan. Best friends Morisaki Taku and Matsuno Yutaka find their friendship tested when a new girl, Muto Rikako, transfers from Tokyo. Distant and reserved, Rikako avoids joining group activities and is soon labeled a snob by her classmates. Matsuno quickly develops a crush on her, which makes things complicated when Taku and Rikako begin spending more time together. As rumors swirl around the school, Taku insists there’s nothing between them. But unspoken feelings and misunderstandings slowly complicate their bond. It’s a bittersweet story with gentle pacing and raw, honest emotions.
My favourite scene in the movie is when Taku decides to stand up for himself at the end, after all the trouble he went through. He stayed kind even when things got messy.The retro scene in the school, the subway, and the hotel were really beautiful. It reminded me how young hearts can be reckless, messy, and unfair but kindness always leaves a mark.
5- My Neighbors the Yamadas (1999)
This film flows like a collection of family moments. It’s a lighthearted slice-of-life that celebrates the simple, imperfect, and loving quirks of a family life. With its beautiful watercolor-style animation, it feels like a storybook softly brought to life perfect for a peaceful, cozy afternoon escape.
My favourite scene in the movie is when The hilarious scene where the whole family forgets to pick up the daughter from school it felt so real and charmingly chaotic.
The soft, watercolor-style visuals are like a cozy storybook, there’s something nostalgic about this type of hand-drawn animation. The gentle humor and simple family moments made me smile all the way through. It’s a sweet reminder that even in life’s messiest, silliest moments, love holds a family together and everyone has their flaws. WE have to learn to accept them to live peacefully together.
And there you have it, a total of five dreamy retro anime movies. Each one reminded me of simpler times. I’d love to hear from you too. What nostalgic anime movie would you add to this cozy little list? Maybe one you watched years ago and still think about, or a hidden gem you feel deserves more love. Drop your favorites in the comments, and who knows… maybe they’ll make it into a part two someday. Thank you for reading.
If you’re wondering where to watch any of these movies, just click here to find out!