Are you looking to travel to Japan without ever leaving your couch? You can do just that with Netflix's extensive library of Japanese shows. From gripping thrillers to heartfelt romantic comedies, there's something for everyone. Get ready to binge the best Japanese shows on Netflix right now!

1. Terrace House: Boys & Girls in the City (2012) - Directed by Naoto Hosoda

Terrace House: Boys & Girls in the City is a Japanese reality show directed by Naoto Hosoda and first aired in 2012. The show follows the lives of six young people living in a shared house in Tokyo. Every two weeks, a new member joins the house. As the housemates interact with each other, their relationships, friendships, and even romances develop.

The show quickly gained a cult following due to its real-life drama and honest conversations. It also offers an inside look into Japanese culture as viewers experience the everyday lives of Japanese youth.

In addition to being popular among viewers, the show has also been critically acclaimed. It has won several awards from international film festivals, such as the Grand Prix at the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union Awards.

Terrace House: Boys & Girls in the City is a unique and entertaining show that gives viewers an insight into the lives of young people in Tokyo. It has become a beloved show worldwide and continues to draw in new viewers. If you’re looking for a reality show with real-life drama, then Terrace House: Boys & Girls in the City is perfect.

2. Tokyo Trial (2016) - Directed by Ryuichi Inomata

The 2016 film Tokyo Trial is a gripping courtroom drama directed by Ryuichi Inomata. It is based on the real-life trials of Japanese war criminals in the aftermath of World War II. The film follows the proceedings of the International Military Tribunal for the Far East and the story of a young prosecutor tasked with trying the accused.

The film focuses on the trial of Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita and the young prosecutor, Shigematsu, who is determined to prove his innocence. Shigematsu's prosecution was met with strong opposition from the Japanese government, which is committed to protecting their war criminals. The courtroom drama is filled with intense debates and emotional confrontations.

The trials depicted in the film are emotionally charged and filled with tension. The audience is taken on a journey as Shigematsu fights to prove his case, despite the odds against him. He must come up against powerful forces, and the mental and emotional toll it takes on him is tangible.

The performances in Tokyo Trial are top-notch, with the cast bringing the characters to life. The verdicts reached in the film are influential, and the film explores the moral and ethical dilemmas surrounding the trials. It is a gripping and compelling film that will leave viewers thinking about the ramifications of war and justice.

Overall, Tokyo Trial is a powerful film directed by Ryuichi Inomata. It is an intriguing courtroom drama that is filled with emotion and tension. The performances are excellent, and the film provides a critical commentary on war and justice. It is a must-see for anyone interested in these topics.

3. Aggretsuko (2018) - Directed by Rarecho

Aggretsuko (2018) is a 2018 Netflix original anime series directed by Rancho. The show tells the story of Retsuko, a 25-year-old red panda who works as an office associate in a Japanese trading firm. Despite being an ambitious, hardworking employee, Retsuko struggles to manage her stressful job and social life, leading her to seek solace in karaoke and heavy metal music.

The show is a unique blend of comedy and drama that explores themes such as workplace sexism and gender inequality. The series follows Retsuko as she navigates her work life and her relationships with colleagues and her family. Retsuko is determined to find a way to balance her career aspirations and her need for self-expression, and she often uses her karaoke singing and metal music to express her frustrations and anxieties.

The show is animated in a unique style that blends traditional Japanese art with modern Western animation. The animation is bright and colorful, and the characters are special and endearing. The show is also full of humor and clever pop culture references. 

The show is directed by Rarecho, known for his work on the critically acclaimed anime series Miss Monochrome. Rancho brings a unique and creative vision to the show, which makes it stand out among other anime series.

Overall, Aggretsuko (2018) is an entertaining and thought-provoking show that appeals to anime fans of all ages. With its unique style, memorable characters, and thoughtful storytelling, this show will surely be a hit.

4. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories (2015) - Directed by Joji Matsuoka

Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories is a Netflix movie directed by Joji Matsuoka and released in 2015. The film follows the life of a mysterious diner owner in Tokyo known simply as "Master," who runs a late-night eatery. A diner is a place of solace and refuge for its regulars, a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

The movie chronicles a series of vignettes featuring the customers of the diner and the stories they bring with them. From a salaryman dealing with the pressures of his job to a single mother struggling to make ends meet, the film provides a window into the lives of these everyday people. 

At its heart, Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories is a celebration of humanity and its resilience in the face of adversity. Despite life's struggles and sorrows, the movie characters find strength and comfort in each other. This is best exemplified in the scene where the diner's regulars take turns singing karaoke. 

In addition to its heartwarming story, Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories also offers a unique glimpse into the culture and cuisine of Japan. The movie is filled with delicious-looking dishes, from classic favorites like ramen to more exotic fare like an eel. 

If you're looking for a feel-good movie that offers a peek into the lives of everyday Japanese people, Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories is a great choice. The film has a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. So put on your Netflix account and get ready to travel to Tokyo and experience the wonders of the Midnight Diner.

5. Erased (2016) - Directed by Tomohiko Ito

Erased (2016) is a Netflix movie directed by Tomohiko Ito. This thriller film, based on the manga series of the same name, follows protagonist Satoru Fujinuma, who can travel back in time.

The movie begins in 2006, with Satoru's mother being killed by an unknown assailant. He discovers that the serial killer responsible for the crime is also connected to a series of kidnappings and murders that happened 18 years prior. He uses his power to go back to prevent the crimes and save the victims.

The movie is filled with suspense and mystery as Satoru tries to piece together the past and present clues to save the victims. Along the way, he meets various characters who help him in his mission.

Erased is an exciting and thrilling movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The film is filled with intense scenes and a gripping storyline. Tomohiko Ito's direction is masterful, and the actors' performances are top-notch.

Erased is a must-watch movie on Netflix and will not disappoint. The gripping story and suspenseful scenes will leave you wanting more. Erased is the perfect choice if you are looking for an exciting movie that will keep you hooked.

6. The Naked Director (2019) - Directed by Masaharu Take

The Naked Director, newly released on Netflix, is a Japanese biographical drama directed by Masaharu Take. The movie follows the life story of Toru Muranishi, a notorious porn director in the 1980s. It explores the rise of Muranishi, who overcame immense obstacles to revolutionize the adult film industry in Japan.

This is a story of a man who dared to challenge the status quo and break the law. Muranishi didn't care about the consequences and persevered through poverty and humiliation to achieve his dream. He was determined to make a name for himself and his films and succeeded.

The Naked Director is an intriguing look into the seedy underworld of the adult film industry. The movie is well-shot and acted, and it is visually stunning. The movie also provides a glimpse into the human side of the characters, showing their struggles and motivations.

The movie also reflects on how society can be judgmental and hypocritical. While it seems that Muranishi is doing something wrong, his success challenged the rigid conventions of Japanese culture. His films opened up a new genre of film-making and gave rise to an entire industry.

The Naked Director is an entertaining and informative look at a man who dared to challenge the status quo and succeeded. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the adult film industry or the power of determination and ambition.

7. The Outsider (2019) - Directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa

Japanese auteur Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s 2019 film “The Outsider” is now streaming on Netflix. The Outsider is a psychological thriller that dives into the depths of human consciousness and explores the possibilities of the mind.

The plot follows a mysterious man, Takashi (Kuranosuke Sasaki), on the run from the police. Takashi has been accused of a crime he did not commit, and he must use all of his wits and cunning to stay ahead of the law. Takashi takes refuge in a small village, where he meets a strange man named Gondo (Koji Yakusho). Gondo is a hermit who lives in the forest and has a peculiar connection to the supernatural.

The Outsider combines intense psychological drama with supernatural horror. It is a mesmerizing exploration of the human psyche, presented visually strikingly. The film contains eerie images and unsettling moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s direction is masterful, and he infuses the film with an atmosphere of dread and unease. The film also features a haunting score by composer Keiichi Suzuki that further heightens the tension.

The Outsider is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and horror films. It is streaming now on Netflix and is an intriguing and captivating watch that keeps viewers guessing until the end.

8. Death Note (2006) - Directed by Tetsurō Araki

Death Note (2006) is a Japanese horror film directed by Tetsurō Araki. It follows the story of Light Yagami, a student who comes into possession of a supernatural notebook known as the Death Note, which grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it.

The movie is now available to watch on Netflix. Death Note is an atmospheric, suspenseful, thrilling thriller that many critics have praised, fans and viewers alike. The story follows Light Yagami, a brilliant yet bored high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook called the Death Note.

Light is given the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it, and he decides to use it to cleanse the world of evil. As he begins his mission to rid the world of crime, a mysterious detective known as "L" begins to hunt him down.

Death Note is a thrilling and captivating story that offers a unique take on the classic battle between good and evil. The film is visually stunning and provides an intense and suspenseful experience. The cast's performances and the directing of Tetsurō Araki make Death Note an unforgettable experience.

If you haven't seen Death Note, check it out on Netflix. It's an exciting and thrilling film that keeps you hooked until the end.

9. Tidelands (2018) - Directed by Haburu Sotozaki

Netflix recently released "Tidelands," a new show directed by Haburu Sotozaki. The show follows the story of Cal McTeer, a young woman who returns to her hometown of Orphelin Bay. She finds that the town is ruled by a group of dangerous half-siren/half-human creatures known as the Tidelands.

Cal quickly finds herself embroiled in a mysterious and dangerous world as she uncovers the secrets of the Tidelanders and the many hidden truths of her hometown.

The show features a unique blend of fantasy and thriller elements, with a captivating story that keeps viewers hooked. The show also features a stellar cast of actors, including Charlotte Best, Elsa Pataky, Aaron Jakubenko, and Peter O'Brien.

The show has been compared to other fantasy shows such as "Game of Thrones" and "Outlander," with many fans praising the show's dark and mysterious tone. The performance has also been praised for its unique visuals and cinematography, which help to create a beautiful and engaging world for viewers to explore.

Overall, "Tidelands" is an intriguing and captivating show that offers a unique take on the fantasy genre. It's worth checking out on Netflix if you're looking for a new binge-watch show.

10. Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san (2019) - Directed by Yūya Ishii

Love for ramen knows no bounds, and 10. Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san is the story of a young woman who loves ramen so much that it has become her hobby—directed by Yūya Ishii, 10. Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san is a comedy now available to stream on Netflix.

The protagonist of the movie is Koizumi, a high school student known for her love of ramen. She has an encyclopedic knowledge of different types of ramen and is always searching for the best bowl. Her passion for ramen is so strong that she even has a particular Ramen Club at school, where she and her friends review different ramen shops and share their reviews.

The movie follows Koizumi and her friends as they travel around Japan, trying different bowls of ramen and having various adventures along the way. Along the way, they meet various characters, each with their unique story and relationship with ramen. The movie is filled with laughter as the gang gets into multiple hijinks and misadventures while on their ramen adventures.

At its core, 10. Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san is a feel-good movie about friendship, adventure, and, of course, ramen. The film is filled with vivid colors and funny characters, making it a joy to watch. Suppose you’re a ramen fan or just looking for a lighthearted comedy to watch, 10. Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san is an excellent choice, and now available on Netflix.