Top 27 Best Sad Anime That Will Shatter Your Heart

(Last Updated On: September 2, 2023)

Anime has the remarkable ability to stir a multitude of emotions within its viewers. Amidst the plethora of inspirational and uplifting anime, there exists an equal number of heart-wrenching ones that have the power to pull at our heartstrings.

These anime have the capacity to reduce even the emotionally resilient to tears, delving into themes as profound as love, war, catastrophe, and mortality, leaving an indelible mark on our souls. In this article, let’s embark on an emotional journey as we explore the finest examples of heartrending anime that are sure to bring forth profound sadness and resonate with the depths of your being.

27. A Silent Voice

“A Silent Voice” is a poignant and emotionally charged anime film that explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of communication. It follows the story of Shoya Ishida, a young man who seeks to make amends for bullying a deaf classmate, Shoko Nishimiya, in his childhood.

Through beautiful animation and a moving narrative, the anime delves into the complexities of human relationships and personal growth. It’s a touching tale that reminds us of the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others.

26. Grave of the Fireflies

“Grave of the Fireflies” is a poignant and heart-wrenching anime film directed by Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli. Released in 1988, it tells the story of a young brother and sister, Seita and Setsuko, struggling to survive in Japan during World War II.

The film beautifully portrays the devastating impact of war on innocent lives, emphasizing the themes of love, resilience, and the harsh realities of survival. “Grave of the Fireflies” is a haunting masterpiece that leaves a lasting emotional impact on its viewers.

25. Fruits Basket

“Fruits Basket” is a beloved anime and manga series that revolves around Tohru Honda, a high school girl who discovers the Sohma family’s secret: they turn into animals of the Chinese zodiac when hugged by the opposite sex.

Through heartfelt and emotional storytelling, the series explores themes of family, friendship, and personal growth, making it a touching and enduring tale of love and acceptance.

24. Erased

“Erased” is a gripping anime series that combines elements of mystery, time travel, and drama. It follows Satoru Fujinuma, a man with the ability to go back in time to prevent tragedies. When he’s wrongly accused of a crime, he uses his power to solve a series of murders from his childhood.

With its intense storytelling and well-developed characters, “Erased” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout its episodes.

23. Tokyo Magnitude 8.0

“Tokyo Magnitude 8.0” is a gripping anime series that explores the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Tokyo, with a magnitude of 8.0 on the Richter scale. It follows the journey of two siblings, Mirai and Yuuki, as they navigate the chaos and search for their family in the midst of the disaster.

The series is known for its realistic portrayal of the emotional and physical challenges faced by survivors and the powerful bonds formed in times of crisis.

22. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas

“I Want to Eat Your Pancreas” is a poignant and emotional anime film that explores themes of life, friendship, and mortality. It follows the unlikely bond between two high school students, one of whom is terminally ill with pancreatic cancer.

Through their journey, the anime delves into the profound impact people can have on each other’s lives, even in the face of tragedy. It’s a heartwarming and heartbreaking story that reminds us of the importance of cherishing every moment and the connections we make along the way.

21. Clannad

“Clannad” is a beloved anime series known for its heartfelt storytelling and emotional depth. It follows the life of Tomoya Okazaki, a high school student, as he forms meaningful connections with his classmates, particularly a girl named Nagisa Furukawa.

The series explores themes of family, friendship, and the power of human bonds, making it a touching and memorable anime for fans of drama and romance.

20. Violet Evergarden

“Violet Evergarden” is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful anime series that follows the journey of a former child soldier named Violet as she becomes an Auto Memory Doll, a letter-writing typist who helps people convey their deepest feelings and emotions through written words.

The series beautifully explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, making it a must-watch for anime enthusiasts seeking a heartfelt and introspective experience.

19. Plastic Memories

“Plastic Memories” is a touching anime series that explores themes of love, mortality, and artificial intelligence. Set in a world where humanoid robots called “Giftias” have a limited lifespan, it follows the story of Tsukasa Mizugaki, a young man who joins the Terminal Service Department to retrieve and deactivate Giftias at the end of their lives.

The series beautifully delves into the emotional complexities of human-robot relationships and the inevitability of saying goodbye. It’s a poignant and heartwarming journey that leaves a lasting impact on its viewers.

18. Orange

“Orange” is a heartfelt anime that blends romance, drama, and a touch of science fiction. The story follows Naho Takamiya, a high school student who receives letters from her future self, guiding her to prevent the regrets of her group of friends, particularly concerning their fellow classmate, Kakeru Naruse.

As Naho and her friends strive to alter their destinies, “Orange” explores themes of friendship, love, and the impact of our choices on our lives. With its engaging characters and emotional storytelling, “Orange” offers a touching and thought-provoking viewing experience.

17. 5 Centimeters per Second

“5 Centimeters per Second” is a poignant and beautifully animated anime film directed by Makoto Shinkai. It explores themes of love, distance, and the passage of time through the interconnected stories of two characters, Takaki and Akari, who are separated by physical and emotional distance.

The film’s stunning visuals and evocative storytelling make it a heartfelt meditation on the complexities of human relationships and the fleeting nature of time.

16. Made in Abyss

“Made in Abyss” is an anime series known for its stunning visuals and a dark, mysterious storyline. It follows the adventures of two young explorers, Riko and Reg, as they journey into the depths of a perilous abyss in search of Riko’s lost mother.

The series combines beautiful animation with a sense of wonder and danger, making it a captivating and thought-provoking anime for viewers who enjoy fantasy and adventure with a touch of the macabre.

15. Your Name

“Your Name” is a beloved anime film directed by Makoto Shinkai. Released in 2016, it tells the story of two teenagers, Mitsuha and Taki, who mysteriously switch bodies and lives.

Through breathtaking animation and a heartfelt narrative, the film explores themes of love, fate, and connection, leaving a lasting impact on viewers worldwide.

14. Your Lie in April

“Your Lie in April” is a popular anime series that combines music, romance, and drama. It follows the story of Kousei Arima, a talented pianist who loses his ability to hear the sound of the piano after a traumatic event.

His life takes a turn when he meets a free-spirited violinist named Kaori Miyazono, who helps him rediscover his passion for music and love. The series beautifully explores themes of healing, friendship, and the transformative power of art.

13. Terror in Resonance

“Terror in Resonance” is a gripping anime series that explores the consequences of terrorism and the complex emotions of its characters. It follows two enigmatic young men, Nine and Twelve, who orchestrate a series of bombings in Tokyo while leaving cryptic clues behind.

As the authorities race to unravel their motives, the series delves into themes of alienation, government secrets, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. With its stunning animation and thought-provoking narrative, “Terror in Resonance” offers a compelling and intense viewing experience.

12. Into The Forest Of Fireflies’ Light

“Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light” is a heartwarming and beautifully animated anime film. It tells the touching story of a young girl named Hotaru and her encounter with a mysterious boy named Gin in a forest filled with fireflies.

Their friendship transcends the boundaries between the human world and the spirit world, creating a poignant tale of love and longing. This short film captures the magic of fleeting moments and the power of connections that go beyond words.

11. Angel Beats

“Angel Beats!” is a popular anime series that blends action, comedy, and drama. Set in the afterlife, it follows a group of deceased students who rebel against a mysterious girl known as Angel.

Through humor and emotional storytelling, the series explores themes of life, death, and finding closure.

10. Banana Fish

“Banana Fish” is a gripping anime series that blends elements of crime, drama, and action. It follows the intense and dark journey of Ash Lynx, a young gang leader in New York City, as he unravels the mystery behind the enigmatic drug “Banana Fish.”

With its complex characters and gritty narrative, the series explores themes of trauma, friendship, and the pursuit of truth in a world filled with corruption and violence.

9. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day

“Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” is a heartfelt and emotionally charged anime series that explores themes of friendship, grief, and coming to terms with the past. It follows a group of childhood friends who drift apart after a tragic incident but are brought back together by the ghost of one of their friends.

As they try to fulfill her final wish and reconcile their own feelings, the anime delves into the complexities of their relationships and the healing power of reconnecting with the past. It’s a poignant and beautifully crafted story that resonates with viewers.

8. To Your Eternity

“To Your Eternity” is a captivating anime that explores profound themes of life, death, and the human experience. It follows the journey of an immortal entity that takes on various forms to learn about the world and its inhabitants.

With its beautifully animated storytelling and emotional depth, this anime is a must-watch for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and heartwarming tale of existence.

7. Josee, the Tiger, and the Fish

“Josee, the Tiger, and the Fish” is a heartwarming anime film that explores themes of love, independence, and self-discovery. The story follows the unlikely romance between Josee, a wheelchair-bound young woman with a vivid imagination, and Tsuneo, a university student who becomes her caretaker.

Through their interactions, the two characters learn to overcome their personal challenges and find happiness together. The film beautifully combines slice-of-life elements with a touch of magic and emotion, making it a touching and memorable anime experience.

6. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time

“The Girl Who Leapt Through Time” is a beloved anime film directed by Mamoru Hosoda. Released in 2006, it tells the story of a high school girl named Makoto who gains the ability to time travel and explores the consequences and responsibilities that come with it.

The film is a heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of youth, friendship, and the choices we make. It’s celebrated for its beautiful animation, compelling characters, and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for anime enthusiasts.

5. Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood

“Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” is a critically acclaimed anime series that combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and philosophy. It follows the journey of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, as they seek the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment.

The series explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the consequences of tampering with the laws of nature. With a compelling storyline and well-developed characters, it has garnered a dedicated fanbase and is considered one of the greatest anime series of all time.

4. Weathering With You

“Weathering With You” is a visually stunning anime film directed by Makoto Shinkai, known for his previous work “Your Name.” The movie tells the story of a high school boy who meets a girl with the power to control the weather.

As they navigate their way through life’s challenges, their bond and the breathtaking animation make for a captivating and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. It explores themes of love, climate change, and the consequences of our choices. A must-watch for anime enthusiasts and those who appreciate beautiful storytelling.

3. Wolf Children

“Wolf Children” is a heartwarming and visually stunning anime film directed by Mamoru Hosoda. It tells the touching story of a young woman named Hana who falls in love with a man who can transform into a wolf. After his tragic death, Hana must raise their two children, who inherit their father’s ability to shift between human and wolf forms.

The film explores themes of identity, parenthood, and the challenges of belonging in a world that may not always understand or accept one’s uniqueness. “Wolf Children” is a beautifully crafted tale that resonates with audiences of all ages.

2. Children Who Chase Lost Voices

“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is an anime film directed by Makoto Shinkai, known for his visually stunning works like “Your Name.” The film follows the journey of a young girl named Asuna as she ventures into a mysterious underground world to uncover the secrets of the afterlife.

It’s a beautifully animated and emotionally resonant story that explores themes of loss, grief, and the connections between the living and the departed. With breathtaking landscapes and a touching narrative, it’s a must-watch for anime enthusiasts and those who appreciate thought-provoking storytelling.

1. Suzume No Tojimari

“Suzume no Tojimari” is a captivating anime that combines elements of fantasy and adventure. The story follows Suzume, a young girl who discovers a magical door that leads to a mysterious and enchanting world.

As she embarks on a journey through this fantastical realm, she encounters a variety of unique characters and faces numerous challenges. With stunning animation and a compelling narrative, “Suzume no Tojimari” offers viewers a magical and unforgettable adventure filled with wonder and discovery.