by The beloved anime film 5 Centimeters per Second, directed by Makoto Shinkai, will return to theaters across Japan for a limited two-week revival screening starting March 20, 2026.
The screening event is organized by Filmarks, which regularly hosts revival screenings of popular films. To celebrate the return of this emotional anime classic, special limited-edition postcards will also be distributed to moviegoers while supplies last.
This revival gives longtime fans and new audiences another opportunity to experience one of Makoto Shinkai’s most iconic works on the big screen.
A Timeless Anime Classic by Makoto Shinkai
Originally released in 2007, 5 Centimeters per Second is widely regarded as one of Makoto Shinkai’s most influential early films.
The story focuses on two childhood friends whose lives gradually drift apart due to distance, time, and the challenges of growing up.
Unlike many romance stories, the film explores the bittersweet reality of love that fades over time, presenting a quiet but deeply emotional narrative.
Its poetic storytelling, realistic dialogue, and stunning backgrounds helped establish Shinkai’s reputation long before he achieved worldwide success with films like:
Your Name
Weathering with You
Suzume
Three Stories About Distance and Time
The film is divided into three interconnected chapters, each depicting a different stage of the protagonist’s life.
1. Cherry Blossom (Oukashou)
This chapter follows Takaki Tono and Akari Shinohara, two close childhood friends who share a special bond.
After Akari moves away due to family circumstances, the pair struggle to maintain their relationship despite the growing distance between them.
Their emotional reunion during a snowy winter evening becomes one of the film’s most memorable moments.
2. Cosmonaut
The second chapter shifts perspective to Kanae Sumida, a classmate who secretly harbors feelings for Takaki.
Set in Kagoshima, this chapter highlights the emotional gap between people who cannot express their feelings and those who are stuck in memories of the past.
3. 5 Centimeters per Second
The final chapter shows Takaki as an adult struggling with loneliness and unresolved emotions.
The title refers to the speed at which cherry blossom petals fall, symbolizing how relationships slowly drift apart over time.
Limited Postcard Bonus for Moviegoers
To celebrate the revival screening, attendees will receive a special limited-edition postcard.
The postcard features a beautiful scene of young Takaki and Akari standing on opposite sides of a railroad crossing while cherry blossoms fall around them.
Interestingly, this scene does not appear in the original film itself. Instead, it was created for the music video of the film’s theme song.
Because of this, the postcard has become a rare collectible item for fans.
Distribution will be on a first-come, first-served basis, and supplies are limited.
The “Sakura Front Screening” Event
This theatrical revival is being promoted as the “Sakura Front Screening.”
The name refers to the cherry blossom front, the seasonal phenomenon where cherry blossoms bloom progressively from southern Japan to the north.
Following this theme, the film will be screened in stages across Japan:
March 20, 2026 – theaters in Western Japan and Southern Kanto
March 27, 2026 – theaters in Northern Kanto and Hokkaido
The idea is to mirror the movement of cherry blossoms across the country—just like the film’s central motif.
Expanded Theater Screenings
The revival will be shown in 66–68 theaters nationwide, expanding the reach of the previous revival screenings.
One of the highlights is a special 35mm film screening at the premium theater:
109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku
Watching the movie in traditional film format allows viewers to experience the animation closer to its original theatrical presentation.
Special Behind-the-Scenes Video
In addition to the film itself, this revival screening includes a bonus video feature.
In this special video, director Makoto Shinkai revisits locations that inspired the movie and shares memories about the production process.
He also discusses:
The emotional themes behind the story
The inspiration for the film’s iconic scenes
The challenges of creating a deeply personal narrative
For fans of Shinkai’s work, this behind-the-scenes content offers a rare glimpse into the film’s creation.
Theme Song That Defined the Film
One of the most memorable aspects of 5 Centimeters per Second is its theme song:
“One More Time, One More Chance” by Masayoshi Yamazaki.
The song plays during the film’s final sequence and perfectly captures the melancholic tone of the story.
Even years after the film’s release, the song remains closely associated with the anime and its emotional ending.
Film Production Staff
The film features a talented production team led by Makoto Shinkai.
Key Staff
Original Story, Screenplay & Director — Makoto Shinkai
Character Design & Animation Director — Takayo Nishimura
Art Direction — Takumi Tanji, Ryoko Umajima, Makoto Shinkai
Music — Tenmon
Their work helped create the film’s distinctive visual style and emotional atmosphere.
Why This Revival Matters
The return of 5 Centimeters per Second to theaters highlights its lasting impact on anime culture.
Reasons Fans Still Love the Film
✔ Emotional storytelling about distance and memory
✔ Beautiful animation and background art
✔ Relatable themes of growing up and lost love
✔ One of Makoto Shinkai’s most personal works
For many viewers, this film represents the beginning of Shinkai’s rise as one of the most influential anime directors of the modern era.
Screening Details
Release Schedule
March 20, 2026 – first wave of screenings
March 27, 2026 – second wave of screenings
Duration
Limited two-week theatrical run
Ticket Price
1,600 yen (flat rate)
Distributor
CoMix Wave Films
Filmarks
Final Thoughts
Nearly two decades after its original release, 5 Centimeters per Second continues to resonate with audiences through its emotional storytelling and breathtaking visuals.
The 2026 revival screening offers fans a rare opportunity to experience the film in theaters once again, complete with collectible postcards and special behind-the-scenes content.
For both longtime admirers and first-time viewers, this limited screening is the perfect chance to rediscover one of anime’s most heartfelt and visually stunning romantic dramas.
