Chinese animation has been quietly, and not so quietly, making waves on the global stage. Forget everything you thought you knew about animation, because the films coming out of China today are pushing boundaries with breathtaking visuals, deeply moving stories, and incredibly imaginative worlds.
If you’re ready to discover your next animated obsession, you’ve come to the right place! As a huge fan myself, I’ve put together my top recommendations for Chinese animated films that you absolutely need to check out. Get ready for epic tales, stunning fantasy, and animation that will leave you speechless.
Top Chinese Animated Films: Must-Watch Anime Recommendations
Here are my must-watch picks:
Epic Adventures & Rich Mythology
Many Chinese animated films draw heavily from rich mythology and classic literature, bringing beloved characters and legends to life in spectacular fashion.
Nezha: The Devil’s Birth
This monumental success took the traditional tale of Nezha and spun it into a hilarious, action-packed, and surprisingly emotional journey of self-acceptance.
Ne Zha 2
The highly anticipated sequel to Nezha: The Devil’s Birth has absolutely shattered box office records! It’s currently the highest-grossing film of 2025 worldwide, with a staggering gross sales exceeding $2.2 billion, cementing its place as one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time and a global phenomenon. If you haven’t seen it, you’re missing out on a piece of cinematic history!
The Legend of Deification
Following the events of Nezha, this film delves into another grand mythological tale, offering stunning visuals and a deep narrative about destiny and sacrifice.
White Snake & Green Snake
These two films offer a visually sumptuous and emotionally resonant take on a classic Chinese folktale. “White Snake” is a beautiful romance with incredible action, while “Green Snake” provides a darker, more mature perspective through the eyes of the younger sister.
New Gods: Nezha Reborn & New Gods: Yang Jian
If you love cyberpunk aesthetics mixed with ancient mythology, these are for you! They reimagine classic deities in a modern, futuristic setting, delivering high-octane action and compelling stories.
Master Ji Gong
Based on the eccentric Buddhist monk, this film offers a blend of humor, wisdom, and fantastical elements.
Visually Stunning & Emotionally Resonant
Beyond the grand mythological epics, there are also films that stand out for their unique artistic styles and profound storytelling.
Big Fish & Begonia
Prepare to be mesmerized. This film is a visual poem, drawing heavily on traditional Chinese art and mythology to tell a poignant story of sacrifice and love. It’s truly a feast for the eyes.
Deep Sea
This recent masterpiece pushes the boundaries of animation style, creating a vibrant, almost painterly underwater world. It’s a visually stunning and emotionally profound journey that you won’t soon forget.
Dahufa
A more mature and philosophical film, Dahufa is known for its unique ink-wash animation style and its thought-provoking narrative on society and freedom.
Mr. Miao
From the same director as Dahufa, this film continues with a distinct visual style and a darker, more atmospheric story.
The Umbrella Fairy
A charming and whimsical tale that showcases the creative breadth of Chinese animation beyond just action.
I Am What I Am
A heartwarming and inspiring film that combines traditional lion dance culture with a contemporary story about chasing your dreams against all odds. The animation of the lion dance sequences is particularly phenomenal.
Modern Tales & Unique Perspectives
Chinese animation isn’t just about ancient tales; it also brings contemporary stories and diverse genres to the forefront.
The King’s Avatar: For the Glory
For fans of esports and gaming, this film is a fantastic prequel to the popular The King’s Avatar series, offering thrilling action and a look into the competitive world of gaming.
Crystal Sky of Yesterday
A beautiful and nostalgic coming-of-age story that captures the bittersweet feelings of youth and first love. It’s a refreshing departure from the usual fantasy epics.
The Legend of Hei
A delightful and visually appealing film that combines cute characters with environmental themes and exciting action sequences. It’s a great watch for all ages.
Into the Immortal World
Another promising title that expands the horizons of Chinese animated storytelling.
The Wind Guardians
A vibrant and adventurous film with a strong visual style and engaging characters, perfect for those who love exciting fantasy journeys.
Why You Should Start Watching Now
Chinese animated films offer a refreshing alternative to what you might be used to. They often blend traditional cultural elements with cutting-edge animation techniques, resulting in truly unique and unforgettable cinematic experiences. Whether you’re into sprawling fantasy epics, heartwarming slice-of-life stories, or mind-bending philosophical tales, there’s something for everyone.
So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible world of Chinese animation.
Which of these have you seen? Which one are you most excited to watch first? Let me know in the comments below!
Last Updated on July 6, 2025 by Yu Alexius
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