What are the top-grossing films in the Japanese Box Office for 2025 so far?

Abdul Bahelil
Mar 14
3 min read

Updated: Mar 15

The Japanese box office in 2025 has seen an exciting mix of animated films, live-action adaptations, and international blockbusters. From beloved anime franchises to Hollywood sequels, here’s a look at the highest-earning films of the year so far.

1. Cells at Work! ($39.1M) – Released Dec 13, 2024

Based on the popular anime and manga series, Cells at Work! continues to captivate audiences with its creative depiction of the human body's inner workings. The film’s blend of educational storytelling and action-packed sequences made it a favorite among both fans and newcomers.

2. Moana 2 ($33.2M) – Released Dec 6, 2024

Disney’s highly anticipated sequel to Moana was a massive hit in Japan. Featuring stunning animation and a brand-new adventure for Moana and Maui, the film resonated with audiences, particularly with its beautiful Polynesian-inspired world and catchy soundtrack.

3. Grand Maison Paris ($25.1M) – Released Dec 30, 2024

A cinematic continuation of the hit drama series, Grand Maison Paris follows an ambitious chef navigating the cutthroat world of haute cuisine. The film’s stunning food cinematography and gripping drama helped it achieve strong box office numbers.

4. Doctor X: The Movie ($18.3M) – Released Dec 6, 2024

Based on the immensely popular Japanese TV series Doctor X, this medical drama thriller brought the iconic surgeon Michiko Daimon back to the big screen. Fans flocked to see her latest battle against corruption in the medical industry.

5. Nintama Rantaro: Dokutake Ninja-tai Saikyou no Gunshi ($17.8M) – Released Dec 20, 2024

This animated ninja adventure, based on the long-running Nintama Rantaro franchise, delighted both children and nostalgic fans. The film introduced a new formidable enemy, adding fresh excitement to the classic story.

6. Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning ($16.6M) – Released Jan 17, 2025

A new entry in the Gundam saga, this sci-fi epic drew in mecha fans with its high-octane battles and deep storytelling. The film expanded on the Gundam universe, exploring new factions and conflicts that kept audiences engaged.

7. 366 Nichi ($14.2M) – Released Jan 10, 2025

A heartfelt romance drama, 366 Nichi touched audiences with its emotional storytelling about love and fate. The film’s powerful performances and bittersweet narrative contributed to its box office success.

8. Mufasa: The Lion King ($14.3M) – Released Dec 20, 2024

Disney’s The Lion King prequel explored the origins of Mufasa, the legendary king of the Pride Lands. With breathtaking visuals and an emotionally resonant story, the film was a major hit among Japanese audiences.

9. Trillion Game ($7.3M) – Released Feb 14, 2025

An adaptation of the popular manga, Trillion Game follows two ambitious young entrepreneurs on their journey to earn a trillion dollars. The mix of comedy, drama, and corporate intrigue made it a standout film for business and tech enthusiasts.

10. Colorful Stage! The Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing ($7.2M) – Released Jan 17, 2025

This film, inspired by the Project Sekai rhythm game, follows a unique story centered around Hatsune Miku. The film’s musical performances, vibrant visuals, and emotional depth resonated with Vocaloid fans.

The Japanese box office in 2025 has been filled with diverse films that cater to a wide range of audiences. Whether it’s anime, Hollywood sequels, or live-action dramas, moviegoers have had plenty of exciting choices this year!

Based on the available data, here is a list of the highest-earning films in the Japanese box office for 2025:

Rank	Title	Total Gross (USD)	Release Date
1	Cells at Work!	$39,111,155	Dec 13, 2024
2	Moana 2	$33,272,217	Dec 6, 2024
3	Grand Maison Paris	$25,099,386	Dec 30, 2024
4	Doctor X: The Movie	$18,353,324	Dec 6, 2024
5	Nintama Rantaro Dokutake Ninja-tai Saikyou no Gunshi	$17,882,595	Dec 20, 2024
6	Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning	$16,626,458	Jan 17, 2025
7	366 Nichi	$14,201,705	Jan 10, 2025
8	Mufasa: The Lion King	$14,290,235	Dec 20, 2024
9	Trillion Game	$7,372,687	Feb 14, 2025
10	Colorful Stage! The Movie: A Miku Who Can't Sing	$7,216,471	Jan 17, 2025