10 Best Japanese Horror Movies in 2023 (Ringu, Ju-On, and More)

Pros:

• Mysterious plot full of surprises 
• Impactful film that jumpstarted J-horror popularity 
• Atmosphere full of suspense 

Cons:

• A few reviewers point out an issue with pacing 

This film is a live-action adaptation of a novel with the same title, and is widely known for influencing Japanese horror and inspiring Western remakes of J-horror movies. The story follows Reiko Asakawa, her son, and her ex-husband as they attempt to unravel the mystery of an infamous videotape haunted by a vengeful ghost. The trio has seven days to discover its secrets before the spirit will take their lives.

Some viewers say there are sections of the film with too much dialogue that slows down the pace. Nonetheless, many reviewers rave about its terrifying atmosphere and mysterious narrative. They also point out how influential this film is in making Japanese horror popular worldwide. It's definitely worth a watch for all horror fans!

Pros:

• Japanese counterpart to popular Western film 
• Mysterious plot the protagonist must unravel 
• Plenty of suspenseful moments with terrifying reveals 

Cons:

• Some viewers say the story can be hard to follow 

A horrible curse is placed upon a house where a gruesome murder takes place. When a social worker is sent to the home, she discovers it is haunted by vengeful spirits trapped by the curse. While this movie is the third in a series of films, it is notable for its influence on J-horror and Western adaptation The Grudge. 

A few reviewers express frustration with the story structure, saying the plot skips around in time. However, many viewers praise this movie for its creeping suspense. They like that it successfully creates terrifying moments through a simple premise, noting that it does not rely on an abundance of jump-scares. 

Pros: 

• Psychological horror that examines the dark side of human nature 
• Suspenseful story with twists and turns 
• Incredible special effects are praised

Cons:

• A few reviews say it has moments that feel rushed

This horror film is an adaptation of a popular Japanese manga. The protagonist, Susumu Nokoshi, is a homeless man who is offered a mysterious procedure by a medical resident. After the procedure, Nokoshi can see a distorted view of people with one eye, revealing their darkest secrets.

Some viewers say the movie feels a bit rushed as it tries to condense an entire manga series into a single film. But, many reviewers rave about the impressive special effects, saying they are a highlight of the film. They also appreciate the well-executed performances by the main characters.

Pros: 

• Spine-chilling action with moments of comedy
• Amazing practical and special effects 
• Touchstone for battle royal style of films and books 

Cons:

• Some reviews say there are too many moments of extreme gore 

This film boasts an absurd premise: school children are taken to an island and forced to fight to the death until one is left standing. The movie is full of gruesome special effects and action scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat. It can also be credited with popularizing the battle royal genre in Japanese and Western media. 

A couple of viewers have issues watching the particularly gruesome scenes. But, reviewers love the movie for its over-the-top special effects and moments of black comedy. The acting performances are also pointed out as a highlight of the film. 

Pros: 

• Surreal special effects 
• Palpable sense of dread
• Adaptation of popular horror manga 

Cons:

• A couple of reviewers say the acting performances are lackluster 

Based on a series by horror manga icon Junji Ito, this film examines a town where the inhabitants become obsessed with spirals. This fixation causes them to lose touch with reality and ultimately leads them to their deaths. Kirie Goshima, a high school student in this town, must discover a way to survive its bizarre game. 

Some viewers say the acting performances seem a bit stilted at times. But, many other reviewers praise this movie for its gorgeous cinematography and attention to detail. They also appreciate the special effects, saying they mesh well with the film's atmosphere. 

Pros: 

• Japanese counterpart that inspired popular Western film 
• Interesting plot with many revelations 
• Powerful story of a mother protecting her daughter 

Cons:

• Some reviews point out an issue with slow pacing 

This classic Japanese horror film is also recognizable for its Western remake. The somber story follows Yoshimi and her young daughter as they move into a new apartment building. Mysteries unfold as we learn more about a girl who went missing and now haunts their watery home.

A few viewers say sections of the film move quite slow and upset the pacing. However, many critics agree that the bleak atmosphere creates an unshakable sense of unease and foreboding throughout the movie. Many also praise the wonderful performance given by the lead. 

Pros: 

• Extraordinary action scenes 
• Bizarre plot with twists and turns 
• Puts certain Japanese cultural aspects under a lens 

Cons: 

• Critics say some of the roles are underperformed 

This Japanese splatter film follows Mitsuko. She and her fellow students are on their way to summer camp when the bus is attacked by a mysterious force, leaving Mitsuko as the only survivor. This moment starts a game that has our protagonist fighting for survival in a series of bizarre events full of gruesome action. 

A couple of reviewers have issues with the acting performances, saying that they leave much to be desired aside from the lead. However, many reviewers praise the intense action and unreal story beats that are staples of the splatter film genre. Critics also appreciate the social commentary present throughout the movie. 

Pros:

• Unique take on a zombie movie 
• Film delivers many scares and laughs 
• Plot unfolds in unexpected ways 

Cons:

• Reviewers say the beginning has some pacing issues 

This Japanese horror-comedy follows a film crew on the set of a zombie movie. Things get dicey when real zombies show up, and the team must fight to survive the monsters and each other. This movie gives a unique spin on zombie movies, resulting in many funny moments. 

Some viewers say the movie has a bit of a slow start, and it takes some time to become invested. However, most critics praise this film for its hilarious moments and twist on the zombie movie genre. Many enjoy this film's impressive thirty-seven-minute take that has no cuts!

Pros: 

• Chilling sense of dread throughout the film 
• Insight into fears of technology during the early 2000s 
• A melding of subgenres of horror

Cons:

• Some reviewers say there are confusing moments in the story 

Ghost stories and fear surrounding rapid technological advancement come together to create a film in which spirits are connected to the living through the internet. Computers become terrifying objects that curse those who use them, and the characters must face a seemingly invisible enemy. 

Some critics say that there are some confusing moments in the plot. However, many viewers positively comment on the atmosphere, saying it successfully creates feelings of dread and isolation. They also appreciate how the music and cinematography contribute to the atmosphere. 

Pros: 

• Plenty of mysteries and shocking reveals 
• Provides insight into a particular aspect of Japanese culture 
• Adaptation of a popular novel 

Cons:

• Some viewers say the beginning moves too slowly 

This psychological horror film is a slow burn. A widower, Shigeharu Aoyama, holds an audition to find a perfect, docile future wife. The girl he pursues is slowly revealed to be not as she seems, as dark secrets from her past are brought to light. This film is an entertaining horror movie, but it also poignantly comments on gender roles in Japan. 

Some viewers dislike the pace in the beginning, as it takes a while to set up the premise. On the other hand, many reviewers find the final scenes to be explosive and a satisfying conclusion. They also enjoy the atmosphere of dread and smart social critiques.