Japan's Top 10 Box Office Hits of 2024

Japan's box office rankings for 2024 once again showcase the country's deep love for anime, with animated films dominating the charts.

However, a few live-action films have also managed to carve out success. Here’s a look at the top 10 highest-grossing films in Japan this year.

1. Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram - 名探偵コナン 100万ドルの五結星


Box Office Revenue: 15.8 billion yen
Once again, the Detective Conan franchise has topped the Japanese box office, proving its immense popularity.
With thrilling mystery and engaging storytelling, the film attracted both long-time fans and new audiences.

The Detective Conan series is not just for children; it has many fans ranging from teenagers to adults in their 20s and 30s.
It has become a massive hit, supported by families and repeat viewers.
- YoshiKaze

 

2. Haikyuu!! Battle at the Garbage Dump - 劇場版 ハイキュー!! ゴミ捨て場の決戦


Box Office Revenue: 11.6 billion yen
Based on the hit volleyball manga and anime, Haikyuu!!’s latest installment delivered an intense sports drama that captivated both anime fans and sports enthusiasts alike.

3. Kingdom: The Return of the Great General - キングダム 大将軍の帰還


Box Office Revenue: 8.0 billion yen
A live-action adaptation of the popular historical manga, Kingdom continues its cinematic success with epic battle sequences and deep character storytelling.

4. SPY×FAMILY CODE: White - 劇場版 SPY×FAMILY CODE: White


Box Office Revenue: 5.9 billion yen
Blending action, comedy, and family elements, SPY×FAMILY continues to charm audiences with its mix of espionage and heartwarming moments.

5. Last Mile - ラストマイル


Box Office Revenue: 5.3 billion yen
A suspenseful live-action drama that captured audiences with its gripping storyline and strong performances.

6. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM - 機動戦士ガンダムSEED FREEDOM

Box Office Revenue: 5.3 billion yen
The Gundam franchise returns to the big screen, exciting long-time fans with spectacular mecha battles and deep storytelling.

7. Inside Out 2 - インサイド・ヘッド2

Box Office Revenue: 5.0 billion yen
Pixar’s latest emotional rollercoaster resonated with Japanese audiences, exploring the complexities of emotions with humor and heart.

8. The Strange House - 変な家

Box Office Revenue: 5.0 billion yen
A live-action adaptation of a best-selling mystery novel that kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

9. See You Again at Lily Hill - リリーヒルでまた会おう

Box Office Revenue: 5.0 billion yen
A heartwarming drama that resonated with audiences through its touching story of friendship and nostalgia.

10. Despicable Me 4 - 怪盗グルーのミニオン超変身

Box Office Revenue: 5.0 billion yen
Minions continue to bring laughter to Japanese audiences, making this Hollywood animation a strong contender in the rankings.

What This List Tells Us About Japan's Movie Trends

The dominance of anime and manga adaptations remains a key characteristic of Japan’s box office trends.
Japanese audiences show strong loyalty to their favorite franchises, and nostalgia-driven storytelling continues to perform well.
However, live-action adaptations of popular novels and Hollywood animations still find a place in the rankings.
As Japan’s cinema industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how future releases shape audience preferences.

 

What do you think of these rankings? Are there any movies you expected to see on the list? Let us know in the comments!