Watching Studio Ghibli Films in English: Top Picks and How to Stream Them

Studio Ghibli films are loved by fans around the world for their beautiful animation, engaging stories, and deep connection to Japanese culture and nature.

By watching Ghibli films in English dubbed versions, English-speaking viewers will be able to enjoy the charm of Ghibli's films in a familiar way.

In this article, we will introduce Ghibli films recommended for viewing in English and how to watch them, and explain how to enjoy the world of Ghibli to the fullest. We hope you will find it useful.

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How to enjoy Ghibli movies dubbed in English

Ghibli films draw viewers into their unique worlds through rich stories and fascinating characters.

With the English dubbed versions of Ghibli films, even those unfamiliar with Japanese will be able to experience the depth of the films beyond the barriers of different languages.

Here is a detailed explanation of how to enjoy Ghibli films with English dubbing.

Enjoy it easily on Netflix! How to Watch Ghibli Movies

Starting in 2020, Netflix began streaming 21 Studio Ghibli feature films worldwide except Japan and the United States (as of October 2024, 23 films are available). This has made it possible for many people to enjoy Ghibli films regardless of language or generation.

For example, popular films such as My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away are now available with English dubbing and multilingual subtitles.

This makes the Ghibli worldview more accessible to people around the world.

To watch a movie, simply go to Netflix, search for the movie you want to watch, and click to start watching.

You can also enjoy Ghibli movies at home or on the go on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.

However, Ghibli films are not offered on Netflix in Japan or the United States.

In the U.S., Studio Ghibli films are available on Max.

If you wish to watch them in the U.S., use Max!

Enjoy Ghibli movies on North American DVD and Blu-ray!

North American versions of DVDs and Blu-rays are a great way to enjoy Ghibli films in high quality.

The discs include English dubbing and subtitles, so even those who do not understand Japanese can enjoy Ghibli films to the fullest.

Some films have extensive bonus features, such as behind-the-scenes footage of the production or interviews with the voice actors, making this a great option for Ghibli fans.

Discs can be easily purchased online or at brick-and-mortar stores.

The Blu-ray versions of Ghibli's films are especially beautifully animated in high-resolution, making them more vivid and appealing to viewers.

However, North American edition discs may not be available in all regions, so you need to check in advance.

Rent and Watch Ghibli Movies on North American DVDs and Blu-rays

Renting and watching Ghibli movies on North American DVDs and Blu-rays is a recommended way to enjoy Ghibli's masterpieces while keeping costs down.

Renting is an ideal option, especially if you are considering purchasing a film but want to try it out, or if you only want to watch it once.

In addition to low cost, the advantage of renting is easy accessibility.

You can easily rent a disc from an online rental service or in a store and simply return it after watching it, saving space and allowing you to enjoy the movie without adding to your collection.

Rental discs also include English dubbed versions and multilingual subtitles, making it easier for overseas viewers who are new to Ghibli films to understand the story and characters.

In some cases, bonus videos are included, allowing viewers to enjoy behind-the-scenes footage of the film's production in addition to the full-length movie.

Top 3 Ghibli Movies That Are Easy to Watch for People from Overseas

Studio Ghibli films are loved around the world, but some films strongly reflect Japanese culture and customs, which can be a bit difficult for foreign viewers.

Therefore, below we introduce the TOP 3 Ghibli films that are particularly easy for foreign viewers to enjoy.

We have carefully selected films that can be shared across language barriers and that can be enjoyed to the fullest even in English dubbed versions!

Even first-time viewers of Ghibli films can enjoy these films with ease.

1. My Neighbor Totoro

'TheMy Neighbor Totoro' (My Neighbor Totoro) was released in 1988.

It is loved by many as Studio Ghibli's masterpiece.

The story is simple and heartwarming: two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, move to a country house for their ailing mother, where they meet Totoro, a mysterious creature of the forest.

The film's themes of coexistence with nature and family ties make it an enjoyable film, especially for international viewers, without feeling any cultural barriers.

Totoro is an innocent and gentle character despite his huge body, and the film depicts the sisters' growth in their daily lives through encounters and adventures with him.

Particular highlights include scenes of Totoro, Satsuki and Mei flying together and the mysterious cat bus.

Fantastical elements color Ghibli's distinctive fantasy world, making it enjoyable for children and adults alike.

The beauty of nature and the nostalgic Japanese countryside also add to the visual appeal.

The universal themes of the film resonate with foreign viewers without any language barriers, and the English dubbed version of the film conveys the emotion of the story well.

2. Spirited Away

'TheSpirited Away(Spirited Away) is a 2001 Studio Ghibli film and a masterpiece by Academy Award-winning director Hayao Miyazaki.

The film begins with a 10-year-old girl, Chihiro, who wanders into a mysterious world where her parents are turned into pigs.

It is an adventure story in which she is deprived of her name in the other world and works as “Sen” to find a way to restore her parents to their original state.

The main attraction for international viewers will be the original worldview and complex characters.

Although the story is influenced by Japanese mythology and culture, the theme of adventure in another world is universal and can be shared across cultures.

In addition, Chihiro's journey of growth and self-discovery provides a strong message to viewers, making it a film that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

One of the highlights of the film is its setting in a luxurious hot spring inn.

Here, a diverse array of deities and spirits make appearances, and the colorful backdrops and unique art style are visually captivating.

The scenes featuring unique characters such as Kaonashi and Yubaba are especially memorable moments for many viewers.

In addition, the quiet and beautiful visual expressions unique to Ghibli, such as train journeys and flying scenes, probably further enhance the film's appeal.

The English dubbed version of Spirited Away has not lost any of its fantastic worldview and has deeply moved foreign viewers as well.

The film touches on Japanese culture while depicting universal themes, making it a film that many people can enjoy.

3. Kiki's Delivery Service

Kiki's Delivery Service is a 1989 Studio Ghibli film about Kiki, a 13-year-old apprentice witch who begins living in a new town to become independent.

Kiki uses her magic to start her own delivery service, but grows up facing various difficulties.

The theme of the film is the process of young people growing up and finding their place in the world, and it is something that children and adults of all ages can relate to.

One of the highlights of the film is the scene where Kiki flies through the sky on a broomstick.

The sight of Kiki flying freely across the expansive sky and beautiful cityscape is visually exhilarating and draws the audience into the story.

In addition, the design of the city is European in style, creating a perfect harmony between the real world and fantasy elements.

Another major attraction of the film is the interaction with the unique and warm characters who support Kiki, such as Gigi the black cat and the bakery couple.

Kiki's troubles, setbacks, and the way she overcomes them will make anyone want to cheer her on.

The English dubbed version of Kiki's Delivery Service delivers a warm and touching story that is well told and enjoyable for viewers.

With its upbeat message and story of Kiki's growth, this is a great film for people of all ages.

Our Special Pick: Grave of the Fireflies

'TheGrave of the Fireflies(Grave of the Fireflies), directed by Isao Takahata, was released by Studio Ghibli in 1988.

Set in Japan during World War II, it is a moving story about the tragedy of war.

The film follows Seita, the older brother, and Setsuko, the younger sister, as they try to survive and face the harsh reality of losing their family to the war.

It is a powerful depiction of the cruelty of war, the strength of humanity, and the bond between brother and sister, and is one of the most profound and moving of Ghibli films.

For international viewers, the film is appreciated for its understanding of the reality of war and for its deep emotional resonance.

Although set against the backdrop of Japan's war experience, the tragedy of war is a common theme in all countries, and the film depicts a universal message of the loss of family and life that war brings.

The highlight of the film is the strong bond between brother and sister and their desperate attempts to survive in the harsh environment caused by war.

In particular, Setsuko's faith in her brother and her innocence will strike a chord with viewers.

Another characteristic of the work is its strong depiction of the realism of war, even though it is animated, and it contains many visually and emotionally shocking scenes.

Grave of the Fireflies is unique among Ghibli films and has a heavy theme that will stay with you long after you have finished watching it.

Even in the English dubbed version, the emotion and message remain the same, and the tragedy of war is deeply felt in this film.

Japanese Culture and Traditions behind Ghibli Films

The rich culture and traditions of Japan are woven throughout Ghibli films.

The film's setting and storyline reflect a strong sense of coexistence with nature, history, and values, and many of the films are visually stunning and moving.

They add depth to the stories and provide an opportunity to sense the cultural background and ideas of Japan, rather than just entertainment.

Exposure to Japanese culture and attitudes toward nature through Ghibli films will help you better understand the themes of the stories and the actions of the characters, further enriching your viewing experience.

Depiction of the Japanese Countryside and Nature (My Neighbor Totoro)

My Neighbor Totoro depicts the beautiful scenery of the Japanese countryside and its harmony with nature, strongly reflecting one of Hayao Miyazaki's characteristic themes of coexistence with nature.

The story takes place in the idyllic Japanese countryside.

The vast countryside, old wooden houses, and lush green forests depicted in the film will make audiences feel nostalgic and at peace.

This depiction is influenced by Miyazaki's own childhood memories of the landscape and Japanese satoyama culture, and nature plays an important role in the film as part of the story, not just a backdrop.

The sprawling fields and forests surrounding the new house that Satsuki and Mei move into, as well as the mysterious forest where they meet Totoro, symbolize the wonder and adventure of being in nature.

The scenes of the girls waiting for their father at the bus stop on a rainy day and growing trees with Totoro emphasize the beauty and power of nature and will leave a lasting visual impression.

Furthermore, while the movie does not depict urban conveniences at all, it realistically depicts traditional rural life, such as living with well water and firewood.

You will be able to feel an aspect of the good old Japanese way of living with nature and rediscover the importance of nature.

The depiction of traditional Japanese countryside and nature symbolizes the overall theme of the work, “living in harmony with nature,” and delivers a profound message to the audience.

Shinto and Mythological Influences (Spirited Away)

Spirited Away is a film in which the influence of Japanese Shintoism and mythology is strongly felt.

The onsen ryokan, the setting of the film, is depicted as a place where gods and spirits visit and heal their tiredness, based on the Shinto concept of “eight million gods.

The idea that nature and all things are inhabited by gods is strongly reflected in the background of the story.

Particularly striking is the scene of the polluted river god.

The scene in which Chihiro helps the river god to cleanse himself symbolizes the concept of “purification” in Shintoism, depicting the restoration and cleanliness of nature.

This is connected to the contemporary theme of environmental pollution and its purification, and conveys a strong message to the audience.

The deprivation of Chihiro's name as “Sen” also relates to the theme of the power of names, which is common in Japanese mythology and folklore.

Names represent a person's identity and existence, and by reclaiming her name, Chihiro is able to reclaim herself.

Thus, the process of Chihiro's rediscovery of self in the story is rooted in mythological elements.

Messages to the Environment and Nature behind Ghibli Films

Woven into the fabric of Ghibli films is a profound message about nature and the environment.

The power and beauty of nature and its coexistence with humans are key themes in the stories.

Throughout the films, the preciousness of nature and the need to protect it are emphasized, and many films make viewers think about environmental issues and harmony with nature.

Thus, audiences can not only enjoy them as mere fantasies, but also gain a new perspective on nature. Let us now take a closer look!

Symbiosis with Nature and Environmental Issues (Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Princess Mononoke)

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Princess Mononoke are two of the Ghibli films that focus on nature and environmental issues.

They strongly depict the symbiosis between humans and nature and the effects of environmental destruction.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind examines the power of nature and man's responsibility toward it through a battle between a poisonous forest called the ‘Sea of Decay,’ created by the destruction of the environment by mankind, and the giant insects that inhabit it.

Nausicaä acts to restore nature and to achieve human coexistence, but the story also depicts the conflict between the forces that view nature as an enemy.

The work will emphasize the importance of understanding and living together with nature.

On the other hand, Princess Mononoke depicts an intense conflict between human development and the gods of nature.

The gods living in the mountains and forests fight against humans who are destroying nature through industrialization.

Ashitaka, the main character, stands between the two and seeks a path of symbiosis. The story will emphasize the importance of environmental protection through the tragedy caused by the destruction of nature.

These works are not just entertainment, but also send a strong message about the relationship between nature and humans and environmental issues, a theme that we can deeply relate to in today's society.

The Relationship between Nature and Humans as Depicted in Ghibli Films

One of the themes common to all Ghibli films is the relationship between nature and humans.

In many Ghibli films, nature is not merely a backdrop, but is central to the story and has a deep relationship with the characters.

For example, nature is often depicted as a reaction to human behavior, and coexistence or conflict is a major theme of the story.

In The Secret World of Arrietty, the importance of coexistence is portrayed from the perspective of the dwarfs who live in nature.

They live modestly so as not to be discovered by humans, and go about their daily lives making wise use of nature's resources.

This lifestyle minimizes their impact on the environment, and they are conscious of their harmony with nature.

In Howl’s Moving Castle, a fantasy world in which nature and magic coexist, nature is not just a backdrop, but the setting for a story.

Nature will not be just a backdrop, but will also play an important role as a setting for the story and a source of magic.

The characters will grow up and go their own way, utilizing the power of nature but without becoming too dependent on it.

Visit the Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Park!

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka and Ghibli Park are must-see spots for fans to experience the world of Ghibli!

Visitors can enjoy every aspect of the charms of Ghibli's works and experience as if they have actually stepped into the world of Ghibli's stories and characters.

Both museums carefully recreate the worldview depicted in the films and are designed to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages, from children to adults.

Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of Ghibli's works and have a richer viewing experience.

I will now introduce it in detail.

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka is a special place where visitors can experience the world of Studio Ghibli.

Director Hayao Miyazaki was involved in the design of the museum, and the charm of Ghibli films is reflected in the exhibitions and architectural design.

Inside the museum, visitors can learn about the production process of Ghibli films and watch original museum short films about the characters.

In addition, scenes from Ghibli films are recreated to draw visitors into the world of the films.

The “Cat Bus” exhibit for children and the robot soldiers from “Castle in the Sky” on the rooftop are especially popular with adults.

The Ghibli Museum requires visitors to make reservations in advance so that they can enjoy the exhibits at their leisure, avoiding crowds and allowing them to view the works in a relaxed atmosphere.

Photography is prohibited, so a special experience awaits visitors only.

This place is recommended not only for Ghibli fans but also for those who are new to Ghibli.

The museum's design, which integrates the museum with nature, and its meticulous attention to detail make it a space that can be enjoyed by all.

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Ghibli Park

(Source:PR TIMES)

Ghibli Park is a theme park where visitors can experience the cinematic world of Studio Ghibli, and opened in Aichi Prefecture in 2022.

It features areas where scenes and themes from Ghibli's films are recreated in detail, allowing visitors to feel as if they have stepped inside the films.

There are no attractions or fancy rides, but visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery, architecture, and quiet time with the characters from the Ghibli films.

The park is divided into several areas that faithfully recreate the world of the Ghibli films.

For example, scenes from My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away have been recreated, making it a dream come true for fans.

Visitors can also experience the buildings and characters from Ghibli films as if they were actually right in front of them, and the pleasure of walking through scenes from the films awaits them.

The park is in harmony with nature, with buildings and landscapes blending into the environment to fully express the world of Ghibli.

Ghibli Park is well worth a visit for fans who want to feel the world of the films with their whole being, and for those who want to immerse themselves in the charm of the films while enjoying the natural surroundings.

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Enjoy Ghibli Movies!

There are several ways to enjoy Ghibli movies in English.

With Netflix, you can easily watch Ghibli films.

You can also purchase or rent the North American versions of DVDs and Blu-rays and enjoy them in high quality.

Furthermore, understanding the deeper messages of Ghibli films and their connection to Japanese culture will deepen your appreciation of the works. Please choose the viewing method that suits you best and enjoy the world of Ghibli to the fullest.