In the last century, several top romance anime have left audiences in awe of their characters and storylines. Romance anime arguably has one of its largest and growing audiences. While often considered cheesy, romance anime provides some of the best love stories in film and television.
Whether one is a sucker for love stories or not, there’s no denying they help humanify story plots. If you’re new to romance anime, finding the best anime can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a new fan or an oldie looking to tick boxes, these are the top 10 best romance anime to add to your watchlist.
10. Toradora!
Toradora! was adapted from Yuyuko Takemiya’s light novel series. The anime is a 25-episode series originally aired from October 2, 2008, to March 26, 2009. The romance anime’s plot is heartwarming and endearing and centers around the love cycle between its five main characters. However, it follows the story of its two protagonists, Ryuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka. Despite his kind nature, Ryuji Takasu is a high school student with an intimidating appearance. He forms an unlikely alliance with Taiga Aisaka, a short-tempered and fiery girl.
Besides Ryuji being schoolmates with Taiga, they are neighbors living opposite each other’s apartments. After they discover each has a crush on their best friends, Yusaku Kitamura and Minori Kushieda, they work together to help each other win the affection of their respective crushes. However, they soon develop a deep bond and understanding of each other. As they grow closer, Ami Kawashima, Yusaku’s childhood friend and now teen model, threatens it all as she too begins to grow feelings for Ryuji.
9. The Quintessential Quintuplets
The Quintessential Quintuplets is a heartwarming and comedic anime that follows the story of Futaro Uesugi, a high school student who is hired as a private tutor for the five identical but unique Nakano sisters: Ichika, Nino, Miku, Yotsuba, and Itsuki. At first, the sisters are uncooperative and have no interest in studying, but as the story progresses, Fuutarou begins to understand each sister’s strengths, weaknesses, and desires. The anime is filled with hilarious moments as Futaro tries to navigate the challenges of tutoring the quintuplets while also dealing with their different personalities and attitudes.
As the sisters open up to Futaro, their past secrets are revealed, adding depth and emotional impact to the storyline. One of the major highlights of the anime is the romantic tension between Futaro and the sisters, as feelings of love and affection develop over time. The Quintessential Quintuplets was first released as a 12-episode anime series from January 8, 2021, to March 26, 2021. A 136-minute anime film was released the following year on May 20, 2022. Both series and films received acclaim from critics and audiences.
Watch The Quintessential Quintuplets on Crunchyroll
8. The Stranger by the Shore
The Stranger by the Shore was adapted from the Japanese boys’ love (BL) manga series. Akiyo Ohashi directed the 59-minute anime movie, released on September 11, 2020. The Stranger by the Shore follows the story of Shun Hashimoto and Mio Chibana. Shun is a young, gay novelist who moves to a coastal town and becomes intrigued by a stranger named Mio Chibana.
On the other hand, Mio is an Okinawa native and freeter who lives with relatives after his parents die. The anime beautifully depicts the blossoming relationship between Shun and Mio, highlighting themes of love, acceptance, and self-discovery. The breathtaking seaside setting adds to the tranquil and introspective mood of the anime, making it a captivating and emotionally touching experience. It’s a must-watch for BL anime fans.
Watch The Stranger by the Shore on Crunchyroll
7. Tomo-chan Is a Girl!
Tomo-chan is a Girl! is a comedic anime series that centers around the dynamic friendship between Tomo Aizawa, a girl with a tomboyish exterior, and her childhood friend Junichiro Kubota, who she has always had a crush on. The story follows their lighthearted interactions as Junichiro remains oblivious to Tomo’s feelings and continues to see her as nothing more than a friend. The anime explores themes of friendship, unrequited love, and self-discovery through various comedic situations and misunderstandings. If you’re looking for a recent romance anime to watch, Tomo-chan Is a Girl! is a great place to start. It aired 13 episodes from January 5, 2023, to March 30, 2023.
Watch Tomo-chan Is a Girl! on Apple TV+
6. Yona of the Dawn
Yona of the Dawn is the best choice for a mix of romance, supernatural fantasy, and sword fight action. This captivating anime series follows the story of Princess Yona, a sheltered and naive young woman. Princess Yona is forced to flee for her life after her father, the king, is murdered by her childhood friend and love interest, Su-won.
As Yona embarks on a journey of self-discovery and growth, she is accompanied by a group of loyal and diverse companions. Together, they seek out the four legendary dragon warriors to reclaim Yona’s kingdom and fulfill her destiny as a true leader. Yona of the Dawn is far from a cheesy romance anime as it offers a broader plot to keep things exciting. To help flesh out its storyline, Yona of the Dawn has 24 episodes and 3 OVAs, originally aired from October 7, 2014, to March 24, 2015.
Watch Yona of the Dawn on Crunchyroll
5. Given
Given is an anime series that revolves around the lives of four high school students who are brought together through their love for music. The main character, Mafuyu Satō, is a shy, introverted young man dealing with emotional trauma. He meets the talented guitarist Ritsuka Uenoyama, and they form an unlikely bond through their shared passion for music. The series beautifully explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth.
Also, each character confronts their own emotional struggles and experiences personal development through their relationships and music. For the most part, Given is divided into two story arcs: Ritsuka and Mafuyu, as well as Haruki Nakayama and Akihiko Kaji’s relationships. The anime series, which aired from July 11, 2019, to September 19, 2019, has produced three films—Given: The Movie(2020), Given: Hiiragi Mix (2024), and Given: To the Sea (2024).
4. My Love Story!!
The Morio Asaka-directed anime series My Love Story!! was adapted from the Japanese rom-com manga series of the same name. My Love Story!! revolves around the unlikely romance between the gentle giant high school student Takeo Gōda and the sweet and petite Rinko Yamato. Takeo is used to being overlooked by girls due to his intimidating appearance, but everything changes when he saves Rinko from a groper on a train. The story beautifully depicts the growth of their relationship, showcasing both the challenges and joys of young love. The anime series has 24 episodes and aired in 2015. A live-action movie with the same name was also adapted and released on October 31, 2015.
Watch My Love Story on Crunchyroll
3. My Dress-Up Darling
My Dress-Up Darling centers around the story of Wakana Gojo, a high school boy who loves crafting dolls, and Marin Kitagawa, a cheerful and outgoing classmate who is an avid cosplayer. As Wakana navigates through the challenges of pursuing his passion while dealing with societal expectations and stereotypes, Marin becomes an unexpected source of inspiration and support for him. The anime is a delightful and uplifting watch for anyone interested in a heartwarming coming-of-age story with a unique twist. Also, it only has 12 episodes, originally aired from January 9, 2022, to March 27, 2022.
Watch My Dress-Up Darling on Crunchyroll
2. Horimiya: The Missing Pieces
The anime series Horimiya: The Missing Pieces revolves around the lives of high school students Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura. Hori is a popular and outgoing girl at school, while Miyamura is seen as a quiet and introverted boy. However, outside of school, they lead very different lives from their public personas. As they get to know each other better, they realize there is more to each other than meets the eye. The evolving relationship between Hori and Miyamura is a central focus of the series, and it’s incredibly heartwarming to see their bond grow as they overcome obstacles and support each other. With only 13 episodes, Horimiya: The Missing Pieces is a binge-worthy anime series.
1. Fruits Basket
Fruits Basket is arguably the best romance anime series. It’s a perfect blend of supernatural fantasy and romance. The anime series centers around Tohru Honda, a high school girl, who becomes involved with the mysterious and enigmatic Sohma family. Circumstances bring her to live with members of the Sohma family, whose son, Yuki, is Tohru’s classmate. However, Tohru soon discovers the Sohmas are under a powerful curse.
The curse transforms them into Chinese zodiac animals when someone of the opposite gender hugs them. The anime beautifully explores themes of acceptance, love, and healing as Tohru becomes integral to the fractured Sohma family, helping them confront their past and find newfound hope for the future. If you agree with this list of best romance anime, any of these strong anime characters could be your favorite Shonen action star.
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