Anime enthusiasts are no strangers to the sheer emotional depth that a well-crafted series or movie can bring.
When 5 Centimeters Per Second first graced our screens, it left an indelible mark on our hearts with its poignant storytelling, intricate characters, and compelling blend of drama and romance.
If you’re yearning for more anime experiences that can stir your emotions in a similar fashion, look no further.
From “Your Name”, and “Voices of a Distant Star”, to “The Garden of Words”, Here are the 15 best anime like 5 Centimeters per Second (Byousoku 5 Centimeter).
So, let’s get started.
1. Your Name
Your Name follows the story of Mitsuha and Taki, two individuals who mysteriously swap bodies. As they navigate each other’s lives, a unique bond blossoms, leading to an unforgettable connection that transcends time and space.
Much like 5 Centimeters Per Second, Your Name explores the theme of missed connections and the relentless passage of time. The protagonists’ emotional journey resonates with viewers on a deeply personal level, as they strive to bridge the gap between them.
2. I Want To Eat Your Pancreas
A heart-wrenching tale unfolds as a reserved high school student discovers a diary belonging to his terminally ill classmate, Sakura. Through her words, he learns about her unfulfilled dreams and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
I Want To Eat Your Pancreas delves into the emotional intricacies of relationships and the profound impact one person can have on another’s life. The anime’s exploration of love, loss, and personal growth strikes a chord reminiscent of 5 Centimeters Per Second.
3. A Silent Voice
Shoya, haunted by his past mistreatment of a deaf classmate, seeks redemption by befriending her. Their complex relationship unravels themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of empathy.
A Silent Voice skillfully navigates the realms of personal growth and the repercussions of past actions. It mirrors the introspection seen in 5 Centimeters Per Second, prompting viewers to reflect on their own life experiences.
4. Voices of a Distant Star
In a tale of cosmic proportions, two lovers are separated by interstellar distances. Using text messages, they attempt to stay connected despite the vastness of space and time.
Voices of a Distant Star encapsulates the theme of distance, both physical and emotional, that resonates strongly with 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s portrayal of longing and the struggle to maintain a connection is evocative and thought-provoking.
5. Your Lie In April
A talented pianist, Kosei, embarks on a musical journey of healing and self-discovery when he meets a vibrant violinist, Kaori. Their shared passion for music intertwines their lives in unexpected ways.
Your Lie In April masterfully combines music, emotion, and personal growth, akin to the multifaceted approach of 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s exploration of the human spirit and its ability to transcend hardships strikes a familiar chord.
6. The Place Promised in Our Early Days
Set in an alternate reality, three friends are separated by circumstances and a mysterious tower that holds the promise of reuniting them. Their individual journeys converge as they strive to fulfill their shared dreams.
The Place Promised in Our Early Days draws parallels with the longing for connection and the passage of time which are central themes in 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s blend of romance and science fiction adds a unique layer of intrigue.
7. To the Forest of Firefly Lights
Hotaru, while visiting a forest, encounters a mysterious boy named Gin, who can only exist in the forest at night. Their heartwarming friendship defies the boundaries between the human and spirit worlds.
To the Forest of Firefly Lights captures the essence of fleeting moments and the significance of shared experiences, much like the narrative thread woven through 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s exploration of connections that transcend reality resonates deeply.
8. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
After discovering her ability to time travel, Makoto navigates the complexities of altering her past to shape a better future. However, her actions lead to unforeseen consequences.
The Girl Who Leapt Through Time delves into the repercussions of choices made and the ripple effects on relationships, akin to the contemplative nature of 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s exploration of cause and effect prompts viewers to reflect on their own life trajectories.
9. The Garden of Words
A chance encounter between a shoemaker and a student on rainy days sparks a delicate bond. Amidst the backdrop of a lush garden, their connection deepens as they navigate their personal struggles.
The Garden of Words shares the evocative ambiance and emotional depth found in 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s focus on fleeting encounters and the emotions they evoke resonates harmoniously with the themes of love and longing.
10. Clannad: After Story
Building on the foundation of Clannad, this sequel delves into the lives of Tomoya and Nagisa as they navigate the challenges of adulthood, parenthood, and the enduring bond between them.
Clannad: After Story captures the essence of growth, change, and the intricate web of relationships, echoing the heartfelt exploration seen in 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s depiction of life’s complexities is a poignant reminder of the passage of time.
11. Honey And Clover
This coming-of-age story revolves around a group of art students as they navigate the realms of friendship, love, and self-discovery. Their intertwining journeys paint a vivid portrait of youthful aspirations.
Honey And Clover share the exploration of youth, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams that echoes the spirit of 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s relatable characters and emotional resonance invite viewers to reflect on their own aspirations.
12. Tsuki ga Kirei
The blossoming romance between Kotarou and Akane unfolds against the backdrop of their final year of junior high school. Their shy interactions and heartfelt moments capture the essence of young love.
Tsuki ga Kirei delicately portrays the nuances of young love and the gradual development of emotional connections, reminiscent of the tender approach seen in 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s focus on genuine emotions resonates deeply with viewers.
13. Whisper of the Heart
Shizuku, an aspiring writer, embarks on a journey of self-discovery when she crosses paths with an antique cat figurine. Her exploration of her own aspirations leads to unexpected revelations.
Whisper of the Heart explores the theme of self-discovery and the pursuit of one’s passions, akin to the introspective nature of 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s portrayal of personal growth and inner reflection strikes a harmonious chord.
14. We Were There
The intertwined lives of Nanami and Yano unfold over the years, marked by moments of joy, heartache, and the enduring bond that persists through life’s trials.
We Were There mirrors the exploration of time’s passage and its impact on relationships, evoking the bittersweet sentiment found in 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s portrayal of love’s complexities resonates deeply with viewers.
15. A Whisker Away
Miyo infatuated with her classmate, transforms into a cat to get closer to him. As her dual identity blurs, she discovers the importance of being true to herself.
A Whisker Away delves into the theme of self-identity and the journey toward authenticity, much like the introspective exploration of 5 Centimeters Per Second. The anime’s imaginative storytelling and emotional depth engage viewers on a personal level.
