Top Anime Studios in 2025

1. NTV

Overview: NTV (Nippon Television Network) is one of Japan’s leading broadcasters, also involved in film financing to support domestic and international productions.

Renowned Projects: NTV has helped finance major films and TV dramas, including popular anime adaptations.

Awards: The company has won multiple Japanese Academy Awards for its contributions to the entertainment industry.

2. Toho

Overview: Toho is a major Japanese film production and distribution company, known for financing and producing some of Japan’s most successful films.

Renowned Projects: The company has financed and produced legendary films like Godzilla, Your Name, and Spirited Away.

Awards: Toho’s films have received international acclaim, including Academy Awards and Japan Academy Prizes.

3. Fuji Television Network

Overview: Fuji Television is a top Japanese broadcaster actively involved in film financing and co-productions for feature films and dramas.

Renowned Projects: The network has backed films like Bayside Shakedown and One Piece movie adaptations.

Awards: Fuji Television has received multiple accolades for its role in the Japanese entertainment sector.

4. Kadokawa

Overview: Kadokawa is a powerhouse in the Japanese media and publishing industry, also providing film financing for anime and live-action adaptations.

Renowned Projects: The company has financed major anime films like The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and Weathering with You.

Awards: Kadokawa’s productions have won numerous anime and film industry awards.

5. TV Tokyo

Overview: TV Tokyo is a leading Japanese broadcaster known for financing anime and film projects.

Renowned Projects: TV Tokyo has supported iconic anime franchises like Pokémon and Naruto.

Awards: The network has been recognized for its contributions to anime and television production.

6. Imagica Lab

Overview: Imagica Lab is a post-production and media services company that also offers financing solutions for film and television projects.

Renowned Projects: The company has been involved in financing and post-production for Japanese and international films.

Awards: Imagica Lab has received multiple technical and post-production industry awards.

7. TV Asahi

Overview: TV Asahi is a major television broadcaster in Japan, actively involved in financing films, anime, and drama series.

Renowned Projects: TV Asahi has backed projects such as Doraemon and Crayon Shin-chan movies.

Awards: The company has been recognized for its contributions to Japanese television and cinema.

8. Toei Animation Co Ltd

Overview: Toei Animation is one of the oldest and most prestigious animation studios in Japan, offering film financing for anime productions.

Renowned Projects: The studio has financed and produced Dragon Ball, One Piece, and Sailor Moon franchises.

Awards: Toei Animation has won multiple animation awards for its groundbreaking work.

9. Pony Canyon

Overview: Pony Canyon is a Japanese entertainment company providing film financing and distribution for anime and live-action films.

Renowned Projects: The company has supported major anime projects like Attack on Titanand Re:Zero.

Awards: Pony Canyon has received recognition for its impact on the anime and music industries.

10. NHK

Overview: NHK is Japan’s national public broadcaster, providing film financing for historical dramas, documentaries, and animated features.

Renowned Projects: NHK has financed renowned historical dramas and documentaries, as well as animated films.

Awards: NHK has won numerous broadcasting and journalism awards for its high-quality productions.

Trends in Anime Production for 2025

The anime industry is rapidly evolving. Here are the key trends shaping anime production in 2025:

• Increased Global Collaborations – More studios are partnering with international creators for fresh perspectives.
• AI & Digital Animation Advancements – AI-assisted tools are helping in refining animation workflows.
• Expansion of Streaming-First Anime – Studios are prioritizing direct-to-streaming content for global audiences.
• Diversity in Storytelling – Inclusion of diverse themes and characters is becoming a standard.

Factors That Make a Great Anime Studio

Not all anime studios are created equal. The best ones share the following qualities:

• Consistent Animation Quality – High-quality visuals and fluid action sequences set great studios apart.
• Strong Storytelling – A deep, engaging narrative is key to success.
• Financial Stability – Top studios have strong funding to maintain quality.
• Skilled Workforce – The best animators, writers, and directors work together to produce groundbreaking content.