Summary
Japan is known around the globe for its world-class animation industry, and even some of the most famous western cartoons have been created in the country. While not every anime studio is able to make money and sustain themselves, some of the oldest studios have managed to keep themselves afloat for long enough to enter the annals of history and still stick around to this day.
The medium’s style has changed significantly over the years, even just from the ’90s to the present, but the dedication and passion that go into creating these beloved cartoons have stood the test of time.
6Toei Animation
The Beginnings of Shoujo
Originally founded under the name Japan Animated Films, Toei Animation is one of themost influential studiosin anime history. With headquarters in Nakano, Tokyo, and over 800 employees, Toei has helped define the magical girl and mecha genres. One of its most notable contributions isSally the Witch, widely regarded as the first magical girl anime and possibly the first shojo anime overall.
Over the years, Toei has become a household name for its adaptations ofDragon BallandOne Piece, cementing its status as a leader in the anime industry. Notably, the studio employed legendary creators such as Hayao Miyazaki early in their careers.
5Madhouse
Collaboration With The Greats
Madhousewas established by former animators from Mushi Production, and their collective experience quickly made the studio a trailblazer in the anime industry. Known for its visually stunning works, Madhouse is often praised for collaborating with iconic manga artists like CLAMP and creating unforgettable titles such asDeath NoteandCardcaptor Sakura.
Beyond anime, Madhouse worked on the animation forThe JetsonsandThe Boondocks, showcasing its versatility and ability to reach beyond Eastern audiences into the West. With connections to Disney and Studio Ghibli and directors like Satoshi Kon in its ranks, Madhouse continues to influence animation globally. One of its co-founders, Masao Maruyama, went on to establish MAPPA, another animation powerhouse.
4TMS Entertainment
Oldest and Most Renowned
Initially established as a glove company called Asahi Gloves, TMS Entertainment has a long history of evolution. The studio’s name, Tokyo Movie Shinsha, now TMS, highlights its early focus on animated storytelling. Now owned by Sega, TMS has created some of Japan’s most enduring classics, includingAnpanman, beloved by children, and the globally recognized detective seriesDetective Conan.
With overseven decadesof experience, TMS Entertainment is a leading force in the anime industry and has even contributed to major Western projects likeAnimaniacsandDucktales. The studio continues to be a cornerstone of the anime industry, balancing nostalgia with modern techniques.
3Bandai Namco Filmworks
Better Known As Sunrise
Originally founded as Sunrise Animation, Bandai Namco Filmworks has undergone numerous transformations, eventually merging with Bandai Namco in 2022. Known for its focus on producers rather than individual creators, the studio carved out a niche in mecha anime, delivering iconic titles likeGundam,focusing on creatingrobot-centric showsto stand out in a market dominated by mainstream anime (and sell toys).
Their headquarters, aptly named “White Base,” is a nod to the studio’s dedication to mecha storytelling. Sunrise’s approach to fluid animation and dynamic action scenes has earned the nickname “Sunrise Smooth” among fans, showcasing their commitment to quality.
2Tezuka Productions
The God Of Manga
Tezuka Productions was founded by Osamu Tezuka, the “God of Manga” and creator ofAstro Boy. This studio was born from Tezuka’s desire to continue pushing creative boundaries after founding Mushi Productions in 1961. While the other studio founded by Tezuka, Mushi Productions, faced financial struggles and eventually went defunct, Tezuka Productions carried on his vision, producing works that celebrate his inventive storytelling.
Though Mushi was revived in 1977 under new leadership, it now primarily focuses on contract work and is not run by the same people. Tezuka Productions, however, with the help of his son Makoto, remains a creative force, ensuring that the legacy of Osamu Tezuka continues to inspire new generations.
1Tatsunoko Production
Seahorse And Clowns
Tatsunoko Production, founded by the Yoshida brothers, is one of Japan’s most iconic studios, with a name that carries a double meaning: “Tatsu’s child” and “seahorse,” which explains the studio’s unique logo. Known for its vibrant,action-packed animation, Tatsunoko set the stage for superhero team shows withGatchamanand brought anime to international audiences withSpeed Racer,and even worked onEvangelion.
The studio’s innovative style and focus on storytelling influenced a generation of animators, including those who went on to establish Pierrot in 1979. Pierrot was founded by former Tatsunoko employees and gained fame for its long-runningshonen serieslikeNarutoandBleach, continuing the legacy of boundary-pushing animation established by Tatsunoko.
