As an important cultural industry, animation, with its unique affinity and communication power, is one of the important carriers of cultural communication. It can build up the national cultural image, reflect the comprehensive strength of the country, and contribute greatly to the achievement of national brands and the aggregation of national images. It is a great tool for international communication and exchange under the background of globalization. By studying the development status of contemporary Chinese animation, analyzing the contemporary artistic characteristics of Chinese animation, this paper puts forward the methods and principles of Chinese animation creation under the construction of national cultural image, that is use animation themes to highlight the connotation of Chinese culture, improve China's recognition through role shaping, innovate scripts to tell Chinese stories and use new means to promote Chinese animation. Finally realizes the transformation and innovative development of excellent traditional ideas and values in the modern cultural context, and improves the national cultural soft power and the international influence of Chinese culture.