Top 10 Anime Studios in Japan Every Otaku Should Know

🎬 Introduction

If you’re an anime fan visiting Japan, you’ve probably dreamed of stepping into the world where your favorite shows were created. Japan is home to some of the most legendary anime studios, from the magical worlds of Studio Ghibli to the action-packed series made by MAPPA and Bones.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the Top 10 anime studios every otaku should know, with quick info on their famous works, where they’re located, and whether you can actually visit them. Grab your camera and your anime-loving heart—it’s time to explore the creative homes of Japanese animation!

アニメファンで日本を訪れるなら、お気に入りのアニメが生まれた世界へ足を踏み入れることを夢見たことがあるでしょう。日本は、スタジオジブリの魔法のような世界から、MAPPAやBonesが手掛けるアクション満載のシリーズまで、伝説的なアニメスタジオの故郷です。このガイドでは、オタクなら知っておくべきトップ10のアニメスタジオを、代表作の簡単な情報、所在地、そして実際に訪問できるかどうかを交えてご紹介します。カメラとアニメ愛を胸に、日本のアニメーションの創造の拠点を探索する時が来ました！

📋 Table: Top 10 Anime Studios in Japan

Check it out now!

We’ve listed 10 studios.

Here’s a quick overview of the most famous anime studios, their hit works, and how you can experience them as a traveler.

Anime Studio	Famous Works	Location	Can You Visit?
Studio Ghibli	Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke,The Boy and the Heron	Tokyo (Mitaka)	🎉 Yes! Ghibli Museum (tickets required)
Kyoto Animation	Clannad, K-On!, Violet Evergarden,Lucky☆Star	Kyoto (Uji)	🏢 No public tours, but studio shop exists
Sunrise (Bandai Namco Filmworks)	Mobile Suit Gundam, Cowboy Bebop, Love Live!,CITY HUNTER	Tokyo	🎉 Yes! Gundam Factory Yokohama & Gundam Base Tokyo
MAPPA	Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, Attack on Titan: Final Season	Tokyo	🚫 Not open to public
Toei Animation	Dragon Ball, One Piece, Sailor Moon	Tokyo / Kyoto	🏛️Yes! Toei Animation Museum (Tokyo)
Production I.G	Ghost in the Shell, Haikyuu!!, Psycho-Pass	Tokyo (Musashino)	🚫 Studio not open, but collabs often
Madhouse	Death Note, One Punch Man, Cardcaptor Sakura	Tokyo	🚫 Not open to public
Bones	Fullmetal Alchemist, My Hero Academia, Mob Psycho 100	Tokyo / Saitama	🚫 Closed to public
A-1 Pictures	Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day,Sword Art Online, Your Lie in April	Tokyo	🚫 Not open to public
David Production	JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Fire Force,Urusei Yatsura	Tokyo（Nishi Tokyo ）	🚫 Not open to public

　　

For those who want to know more

1. Studio Ghibli (Tokyo & Mitaka)

• Famous for: Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke,The Boy and the Heron
• Location: Koganei, Tokyo
• Visiting: You can’t tour the studio itself, but the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is a must-visit. Tickets sell out fast, so book early!

A Brief History of Studio Ghibli
Founded in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, Studio Ghibli quickly became one of the most beloved animation studios in the world. With classics like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke, the studio is known for its breathtaking art style and heartfelt storytelling. Spirited Away even won an Academy Award, making Ghibli an international icon of Japanese animation.

Visiting
The studio itself is not open to visitors, but fans can experience the magic through the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, which offers exclusive short films and exhibits. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and they often sell out quickly. More recently, Ghibli Park opened in Aichi Prefecture, letting fans walk through life-sized worlds inspired by Totoro, Howl’s Moving Castle, and more. Both locations are must-visits for Ghibli lovers.

2. Kyoto Animation (Kyoto)

• Famous for: Clannad, K-On!, Violet Evergarden,Lucky☆Star
• Location: Uji, Kyoto
• Visiting: No studio tours, but fans often visit the area around Uji, which inspired some of their anime scenes.

A Brief History of Kyoto Animation
Kyoto Animation, often called KyoAni, is one of Japan’s most beloved animation studios. It was founded in 1981 by Yoko and Hideaki Hatta, starting out as a small group of artists working on subcontracted projects. Unlike many other studios, KyoAni focused on creating a supportive work environment, with in-house training and stable employment for animators.
Their big break came in the mid-2000s with hits like The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya (2006), Lucky Star (2007), and Clannad (2007?2008). These series quickly made the studio a favorite among anime fans worldwide. Later, works like K-On! (2009), Free! (2013), and A Silent Voice (2016) cemented their reputation for emotional storytelling and beautiful animation.
In 2019, Kyoto Animation faced a tragic arson attack, which took the lives of many talented staff members. The anime community around the world showed incredible support, and KyoAni has continued to create new works with strength and resilience.
Today, Kyoto Animation is admired not only for its visually stunning and heartfelt anime but also for its unique studio culture, which values people over profit.

Visiting
Kyoto Animation’s studios are not open to the public, but fans often visit landmarks connected to their works. In Kyoto, you can find real-life locations from The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, K-On!, and A Silent Voice. KyoAni also runs an official shop in Uji, Kyoto, where you can buy exclusive goods and support the studio directly.

3. Sunrise (Bandai Namco Filmworks) (Tokyo)

• Famous for: Mobile Suit Gundam, Cowboy Bebop, Love Live!,CITY HUNTER
• Location: Tokyo
• Visiting: The studio itself isn’t open, but you can experience Gundam at Gundam Base Tokyo in Odaiba and see the life-size moving Gundam in Yokohama(The project concluded at the end of March 2024.).

A Brief History of Sunrise (Bandai Namco Filmworks)
Founded in 1972, Sunrise is one of Japan’s most influential animation studios. It became famous for creating the Mobile Suit Gundam series, which launched the entire mecha anime boom. Over the years, Sunrise has produced many hits, from Cowboy Bebop to Code Geass, making it a powerhouse of both sci-fi and stylish storytelling. In 2022, the studio was rebranded as Bandai Namco Filmworks, but fans still know it best as Sunrise.

Visiting
The studio itself isn’t open to the public, but Gundam fans are in luck! You can visit the life-sized moving Gundam statue in Yokohama (until 2024) or the Gundam Base Tokyo in Odaiba for models, exhibits, and exclusive merchandise. Sunrise’s legacy is everywhere in Japan, especially if you love giant robots.

4. MAPPA (Tokyo)

• Famous for: Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, Attack on Titan: Final Season,Dorohedoro
• Location: Tokyo
• Visiting: No public tours, but MAPPA is constantly in the spotlight thanks to their hit anime.

A Brief History of MAPPA
Founded in 2011 by Masao Maruyama (one of the co-founders of Madhouse), MAPPA quickly rose to fame thanks to its bold animation style and high-profile projects. The studio became known worldwide for Yuri!!! on Ice, and later for big hits like Jujutsu Kaisen and Chainsaw Man. MAPPA is now considered one of the leading studios pushing modern anime to new levels of popularity.

Visiting
MAPPA’s studio isn’t open to visitors, but fans can often enjoy official exhibitions and pop-up events in Tokyo and Osaka. These events showcase original artwork, exclusive goods, and sometimes even themed cafes. Keeping an eye on MAPPA’s event announcements is the best way to experience their world up close.

5. Toei Animation (Tokyo & Kyoto)

• Famous for: Dragon Ball, One Piece, Sailor Moon
• Location: Tokyo and Kyoto
• Visiting: The Toei Animation Museum in Tokyo is open to fans, and Kyoto Studio Park is another fun spot.

A Brief History of Toei Animation
Founded in 1948, Toei Animation is one of the oldest and most influential anime studios in Japan. They created classics like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, and One Piece, shaping anime culture not only in Japan but all over the world. With decades of history, Toei has been a true powerhouse in bringing Japanese animation to global audiences.
Visiting
Toei Animation isn’t open to the public, but fans can visit the Toei Animation Museum in Tokyo. The museum features exhibits about the studio’s history, famous series, and artwork. It’s a fun stop for anime lovers, especially if you grew up with Toei classics!

6. Production I.G (Tokyo)

• Famous for: Ghost in the Shell, Haikyuu!!, Psycho-Pass
• Location: Musashino, Tokyo
• Visiting: Studio is closed, but their collaborations often pop up at exhibitions and anime events.

A Brief History of Production I.G
Founded in 1987, Production I.G is famous for its high-quality animation and stylish visuals. The studio worked on Ghost in the Shell, Haikyuu!!, and also collaborated on many anime films and even video game cutscenes. They’re known for pushing technical and artistic boundaries in anime.
Visiting
The studio itself isn’t open to the public, but fans can often find special exhibitions, anime film screenings, and pop-up events in Tokyo and across Japan. If you’re a Haikyuu!! fan, you’ll spot plenty of tie-in events and merchandise in stores!

7. Madhouse (Tokyo)

• Famous for: Death Note, One Punch Man, Cardcaptor Sakura
• Location: Tokyo
• Visiting: Not open to the public, but highly respected for its legendary catalog.

A Brief History of Madhouse
Founded in 1972, Madhouse has a legendary status in the anime industry. They’ve created classics like Death Note, Cardcaptor Sakura, and One Punch Man. Known for working with top directors and trying bold ideas, Madhouse has shaped anime history with both TV series and films.

Visiting
The studio isn’t open to visitors, but fans can enjoy Madhouse anime at exhibitions, special screenings, and theme cafes in Tokyo. Merchandise from their big hits is also easy to find in anime shops like Animate or Gamers.

8. Bones (Tokyo & Sapporo)

• Famous for: Fullmetal Alchemist, My Hero Academia, Mob Psycho 100
• Location: Tokyo (with multiple offices)
• Visiting: No tours, but Bones is beloved for its action-packed animation style.

A Brief History of Bones
Bones was founded in 1998 by former Sunrise staff, and quickly became famous for dynamic animation and powerful action scenes. They’re behind hit series like Fullmetal Alchemist, My Hero Academia, and Mob Psycho 100. Bones is loved for mixing strong storytelling with stylish visuals.
Visiting
Bones doesn’t have a studio tour, but fans can catch special exhibitions, My Hero Academia events, and anime cafes across Japan. You’ll also find plenty of Bones-related goods in anime shops in Akihabara and other major cities.

9. A-1 Pictures

• Famous for: Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day,Sword Art Online, Your Lie in April
• Location: Tokyo / Saitama
• Visiting: The studio itself is not open, but A-1 Pictures anime often has collabs, exhibitions, and themed cafés in Tokyo.

A Brief History of A-1 Pictures
Founded in 2005 as part of Sony Music Entertainment Japan’s Aniplex, A-1 Pictures has produced a wide range of anime, from romantic dramas to action-packed adventures. They’re especially famous for Sword Art Online, Blue Exorcist, and Your Lie in April. The studio is known for polished visuals and broad appeal.

Visiting
The studio itself isn’t open to the public, but you’ll often find Sword Art Online exhibitions, stage events, and collabs with theme cafes in Tokyo. Anime shops in Akihabara and Ikebukuro also stock lots of A-1 Pictures merchandise.

10. David Production (Tokyo)

• Famous for: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Fire Force,Urusei Yatsura
• Location: Tokyo
• Visiting: Studio not open, but JoJo fans can enjoy tons of events, pop-ups, and exhibitions across Japan.

A Brief History of David Production
David Production was founded in 2007 and became part of Fuji TV in 2014. The studio rose to fame with its stylish and faithful adaptations of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. They’ve also worked on Cells at Work! and Fire Force, showing their versatility across action, comedy, and educational anime.

Visiting
The studio itself isn’t open to fans, but JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has plenty of pop-up cafes, exhibitions, and special events across Japan. You can also find exclusive JoJo goods in anime shops around Tokyo and Osaka.

✨ Final Note

Most anime studios in Japan aren’t open to the public—it’s not like Hollywood where you can just book a studio tour. But don’t worry! Between museums, exhibitions, anime cafés, and life-size statues, there are plenty of ways for fans to connect with their favorite series in Japan.

If you’re planning your otaku trip, keep this list in mind—you might just find yourself standing in the world of your favorite anime.

A Note on Legendary Studios

While today’s anime industry is filled with famous studios, it’s important to remember the pioneers who shaped it.

Mushi Production (Mushi Pro)

Founded in 1961 by Osamu Tezuka, often called the “God of Manga,” Mushi Pro created Astro Boy, Japan’s first TV anime series. This studio set the foundation for modern anime production, from limited animation techniques to serialized storytelling. Though it went bankrupt in the 1970s, its influence is still felt everywhere in anime today.

Currently, Tezuka Productions handles copyright management for Osamu Tezuka’s works, animation production, the creation and sale of Osamu Tezuka character goods, and the planning and production of events.

Additionally, Osamu Tezuka’s works can be viewed on the Osamu Tezuka Official Website.

Studio Pierrot

Established in 1979, Pierrot became known for long-running hits like Naruto, Bleach, and Yu Yu Hakusho. The studio played a huge role in popularizing shonen anime worldwide, creating shows that defined entire generations of fans.

Tatsunoko Production

Founded in 1962, Tatsunoko gave us classics like Speed Racer (Mach GoGoGo), Gatchaman, and Casshern. The studio’s colorful heroes and dynamic action scenes helped define anime’s image overseas in the 1970s and 80s.

Shaft

Established in the 1970s, Shaft is famous for its unique and experimental animation style. Works like Puella Magi Madoka Magica and the Monogatari series showed how anime could be artistic, abstract, and bold, influencing many creators who came after.

These studios—whether still active or part of history—remind us that anime has been built step by step, shaped by visionaries and creative teams across decades.

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🌸 Outro / Wrap-up

Anime isn’t just entertainment in Japan—it’s part of everyday culture. While most studios are closed to the public, there are still plenty of museums, exhibitions, and themed shops where you can feel closer to the creators’ worlds.

So whether you’re standing under the giant Gundam in Yokohama, wandering through the magical halls of the Ghibli Museum, or just enjoying ramen near a studio town, remember—you’re walking the same streets where anime history is made.

✨ Next time you watch your favorite series, you’ll know exactly where those incredible stories came to life!

アニメは日本で単なる娯楽ではありません——日常の文化の一部です。ほとんどのスタジオは一般公開されていませんが、クリエイターたちの世界をより身近に感じられる博物館、展示会、テーマショップはまだまだたくさんあります。
横浜の巨大なガンダムの下に立っているか、ジブリ美術館の魔法のような廊下を散策しているか、スタジオ街の近くでラーメンを楽しんでいるかに関わらず、覚えておいてください——あなたはアニメの歴史が生まれた同じ街を歩いているのです。
✨ 次に好きなシリーズを観る時、あの素晴らしい物語が生まれた場所を正確に知ることができるでしょう！