by If you’re looking for anime that will tug at your heartstrings, July 3—officially recognized as “Tears Day” in Japan—is the perfect opportunity to revisit some of the most emotional stories ever created. To celebrate the occasion, streaming platform ABEMA has announced a special lineup of five unforgettable anime series that are guaranteed to make viewers laugh, reflect, and perhaps shed a few tears.
The carefully selected lineup includes timeless classics such as Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day, CLANNAD, and Angel Beats!, alongside modern fan favorites like Re: ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- and the beloved family comedy Crayon Shin-chan. Best of all, all five titles are available to watch for free on ABEMA for a limited time.
Whether you’re revisiting these masterpieces or discovering them for the first time, these emotionally powerful series showcase why anime remains one of the most compelling forms of storytelling.
What Is “Tears Day”?
July 3 is officially recognized in Japan as “Tears Day”, a commemorative day certified by the Japan Anniversary Association.
The observance was established by the Dry Eye Research Society to promote awareness about the importance of tears in maintaining healthy eyes and preventing dry eye syndrome.
Beyond its medical purpose, the day has also become a fun cultural occasion where many people celebrate by watching emotional films, reading touching stories, or enjoying anime that encourages a good cry.
To mark the occasion, ABEMA has curated a special collection titled “5 Anime Series That Will Make You Cry Your Heart Out.”
1. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
One of the most beloved tearjerkers in anime history, Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day remains an emotional masterpiece more than a decade after its release.
Created by the acclaimed creative team of:
- Director Tatsuyuki Nagai
- Screenwriter Mari Okada
- Character Designer Masayoshi Tanaka
The original anime tells the heartbreaking story of a group of childhood friends whose lives were forever changed after the tragic death of their friend Menma.
Years later, Menma suddenly appears before Jinta “Jintan” Yadomi, asking him to fulfill a wish she can no longer remember.
Her mysterious return reunites the once-close group known as the Super Peace Busters, forcing each member to confront grief, guilt, regret, and unresolved emotions.
Combining themes of friendship, forgiveness, and growing up, Anohana continues to move audiences worldwide and is widely regarded as one of the greatest coming-of-age anime ever made.
2. CLANNAD
Few anime have achieved the emotional reputation of CLANNAD.
Adapted from the award-winning visual novel by Key, the series consists of two television seasons:
- CLANNAD
- CLANNAD ~After Story~
While the first season focuses primarily on school life, romance, and friendship, the second season explores adulthood, marriage, parenthood, and the meaning of family.
The story follows Tomoya Okazaki, a high school student who gradually rebuilds his life after meeting the cheerful Nagisa Furukawa.
As the narrative progresses, viewers witness both joyful milestones and heartbreaking tragedies that have made CLANNAD After Story legendary among anime fans.
Its unforgettable soundtrack, memorable characters, and powerful life lessons continue to inspire audiences around the world.
For many fans, CLANNAD isn’t simply an emotional anime—it’s a life-changing experience.
3. Angel Beats!
Created by Jun Maeda, the legendary writer behind CLANNAD, AIR, and Kanon, Angel Beats! offers a unique blend of action, comedy, supernatural mystery, and heartfelt drama.
The story takes place in a mysterious afterlife school where students who experienced painful lives before death gather to overcome their lingering regrets.
The protagonist, Yuzuru Otonashi, awakens with no memories and soon becomes involved in a conflict between rebellious students and the enigmatic student council president.
Although the series begins with energetic action and humorous moments, it gradually transforms into an emotional exploration of life, loss, acceptance, and moving forward.
Its unforgettable ending remains one of anime’s most iconic emotional finales.
4. Re: ZERO -Starting Life in Another World-
While often recognized as one of the greatest modern isekai anime, Re: ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- is also deeply emotional.
Based on the bestselling light novel by Tappei Nagatsuki, the story follows ordinary teenager Subaru Natsuki, who is suddenly transported to another world.
However, Subaru possesses a terrifying ability known as Return by Death, allowing him to rewind time whenever he dies.
Rather than becoming overpowered, Subaru repeatedly experiences pain, loss, and psychological trauma as he desperately struggles to protect the people he loves.
The series has earned worldwide acclaim for its emotional character development and complex storytelling.
Fans also have plenty to look forward to, with Season 4 continuing the story through two major arcs:
- Loss Arc
- Reclamation Arc
The new season further expands the series’ emotional depth while introducing fresh challenges for Subaru and his companions.
5. Crayon Shin-chan
At first glance, Crayon Shin-chan might seem like an unexpected addition to a list of emotional anime.
Known primarily as one of Japan’s most beloved comedy series, it follows the hilarious daily adventures of five-year-old Shinnosuke Nohara, his family, and his kindergarten friends.
However, beneath its constant humor lies a surprisingly heartfelt celebration of family, friendship, and growing up.
Over the years, many of the franchise’s theatrical films have become famous for their emotional storytelling, especially:
- Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called: The Adult Empire Strikes Back
- Crayon Shin-chan: The Storm Called: The Battle of the Warring States
These movies have earned praise from both critics and audiences for delivering meaningful life lessons while remaining entertaining for viewers of all ages.
Many adult fans admit these films have brought them to tears despite the series’ comedic reputation.
Why Emotional Anime Continue to Resonate
One reason these five anime remain so beloved is their ability to portray genuine human emotions through unforgettable characters.
Each series explores different aspects of life:
- Grief and healing
- Family bonds
- Friendship
- Love and sacrifice
- Personal growth
- Hope after tragedy
- Moving forward despite loss
Whether the setting is a fantasy world, the afterlife, or everyday Japan, these universal themes allow viewers to connect deeply with the characters and their journeys.
Why You Should Watch Them on Tears Day
“Tears Day” is more than simply an opportunity to cry.
Many psychologists suggest that emotional storytelling can provide a healthy emotional release, helping viewers process their own feelings while developing greater empathy.
These five anime perfectly capture that experience, reminding audiences that sadness and happiness often exist side by side.
Whether you’re revisiting an old favorite or discovering one of these classics for the first time, each series offers an unforgettable emotional journey that stays with viewers long after the final episode ends.
Final Thoughts
ABEMA’s “5 Anime Series That Will Make You Cry Your Heart Out” is an excellent collection for anyone seeking meaningful, emotionally rich storytelling.
From the heartbreaking friendships of Anoha to the unforgettable family drama of CLANNAD, the bittersweet farewell of Angel Beats!, Subaru’s relentless determination in Re: ZERO, and the surprisingly touching moments found in Crayon Shin-chan, each title delivers its own unique emotional experience.
If you’re celebrating Tears Day on July 3, or simply searching for anime that will leave a lasting impression, these five masterpieces deserve a place on your watchlist.
Prepare some tissues—you’ll probably need them.
