Romance is one of the most popular and versatiles genres you can come across. It can be easily mixed with almost anything, ranging from fantasy through horror to slice of life. After all, love is a fundamental aspect of everyone’s life, making its inclusion in various anime genres completely natural. Yet, in this ever-expanding sea of romance anime produced each year, which ones truly stand out as the best?
In this article, we will explore the 30 best romance anime spanning various major genres, along with the latest 2023 additions.
Best Newest Romance Anime
What’s better than choosing from some freshly added, highly-rated romance anime that have just recently aired?
My Happy Marriage
The anime adaptation of My Happy Marriage premiered in July 2023 and has been praised for its beautiful animation, charming characters, and wholesome story. Moreover, the anime was renewed for a second season, and it is expected to premiere sometime in early 2025. The exact release date has not yet been announced.
It follows, Miyo Saimori, a kind-hearted young woman who is forced into an arranged marriage with Kiyoka Kudou, a cold and emotionless military commander. Despite their initial animosity, they gradually warm to each other and discover a love that transcends societal expectation
My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999
My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 is perfect for fans of romance, comedy, and gaming anime. The series is heartwarming, funny, and relatable, and there are many sweet and comedic moments that come across as genuine. I’m actually infuriated that this show remains underrated despite its quality.
The story follows Akane Kinoshita, a college student who is dumped by her boyfriend after he cheats on her with a woman he met in an online game. To cope with her heartbreak, Akane starts playing the same game and meets Yamada, a socially awkward but powerful player who is level 999, the highest level in the game.
Unfortunately, there has been no official announcement regarding a second season of My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999.
The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten
If you’re looking for a feel-good anime with charming characters, beautiful animation, and a touch of humor, The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten is sure to hit the spot.
Meet Amane, a typical high school boy with a rather peculiar neighbor – Mahiru, the school’s “angel.” She’s not only breathtakingly gorgeous but also incredibly kind, earning her that angelic nickname. But behind Mahiru’s angelic façade lies a surprising hidden talent: domestic goddess extraordinaire! After a chance encounter, Mahiru takes it upon herself to spoil Amane rotten with her culinary skills and impeccable housekeeping.
As of today, there is only one season of The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten available. However, the anime has been well-received, and there is a strong demand for a second season among fans. So, while there’s no official confirmation yet, there’s a good chance we’ll be seeing more of Amane and Mahiru’s heartwarming story in the future.
Honorable mentions:
Best Romance Shounen Anime
Why it works: It’s like having the best of both worlds—vibrant energy, camaraderie, and coming-of-age themes with sweet romantic moments that make you go “aww.”
Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is a heartwarming and touching anime that strikes a beautiful balance between music, romance, and self-discovery.
The story follows Kōsei Arima, a talented pianist who loses his ability to hear the music after a traumatic event. His life takes a turn when he meets the vibrant and free-spirited violinist Kaori Miyazono, who encourages him to rediscover the joy of music and face the emotional hurdles of his past.
Tip: Grab some tissues.
Horimiya
It hasn’t been that long since Horimiya finished airing its second season (September 2023), yet it already ranks on platforms like MAL among the most popular rom-coms with both first and second seasons. The anime is a mix of humor, friendship, and surprising revelations, which kept me glued to the screen thanks to its relatable characters and genuine moments.
Horimiya revolves around the seemingly ordinary high school students Kyoko Hori and Izumi Miyamura, who lead double lives with hidden sides that nobody knows about. As they discover each other’s secrets, a unique and heartwarming connection blossoms, challenging stereotypes and celebrating the beauty of embracing one’s true self.
The Quintessential Quintuplets
While many anime fans, myself included, often find the harem genre to be somewhat tiresome due to its reliance on fanservice and predictable plotlines, The Quintessential Quintuplets stands out as a breath of fresh air. What sets it apart is its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and a unique premise involving identical quintuplets, offering more depth and substance than the typical harem fare.
In this series, Fūtarō Uesugi, a high school student and skilled tutor, is tasked with teaching the academically struggling quintuplets. As he deals with the challenges of tutoring five sisters, unexpected romantic entanglements develop.
Honorable mentions:
Best Romance Shoujo Anime
Why it works: Combining heartwarming love stories that hit you right in the feels is perfect for anyone who loves a good emotional rollercoaster.
Maid Sama!
Maid Sama! was among my first shoujo anime, and I still remember the plot, music, and visuals like it was yesterday. This only means one thing: the anime leaves a lasting impact. Honestly, I chalk it up mainly to the endearing relationship between the protagonists and a strong-willed heroine. The series itself is a neat blend of fun and lighthearted moments, yet it also delves into more dramatic elements that can bring you to the verge of tears at times.
The story follows Misaki Ayuzawa, the tough and dedicated student council president of Seika High School. To support her family, she secretly works at a maid cafe, a fact unknown to her peers. Things take an unexpected turn when the popular and aloof Usui Takumi discovers her secret, leading to a series of comedic and heartfelt moments.
Kamisama Kiss
Another exceptional shoujo anime that has earned a special place in my heart, with no less than three rewatches, is none other than Kamisama Kiss. The series excels in striking a perfect balance between romance, comedy, and drama. Furthermore, its infusion of folklore and fantasy elements adds an extra layer of enchantment, making its rewatch potential high.
Kamisama Kiss focuses on Nanami Momozono, a high school girl who unexpectedly becomes a deity after assuming the role of a land god. Paired with Tomoe, a powerful and beautiful fox familiar, Nanami deals with the challenges of divine responsibilities.
My Little Monster
Pairing a bookworm with a deviant may seem like a cliché trope, but in the case of My Little Monster, it works wonders. The main couple’s dynamic, where studious highschooler Shizuku Mizutani meets troublemaker Haru Yoshida, is both entertaining and heartwarming.
What sets this anime apart is not just the central romance but also the equally quirky and memorable supporting cast, creating an enjoyable watch for anyone interested in the nuances of teenage romance.
Honorable mentions:
- Ouran High School Host Club
- Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You
- Blue Spring Ride
- Yona of the Dawn
- Orange
Best Romance Action Anime
Why it works: The contrast between heart-pounding action sequences and tender romantic moments creates a dynamic storytelling experience.
Elfen Lied
Elfen Lied is a masterpiece that, while not for the faint of heart, sets itself apart for its intense and brutal narrative. My first time watching this anime was during my ’emo phase’ around the age of 12, marked by Lucy, the rebellious and complex heroine, gracing wallpapers on both my phone and PC.
The story unfolds in a world where Diclonii, genetically modified humans with horns and telekinetic abilities, face discrimination and violence. Lucy, a Diclonius, escapes from a research facility, setting off a series of events that explore themes of humanity, cruelty, and redemption.
Freezing
Freezing caters to fans who enjoy a mix of sci-fi, action, and supernatural elements in their anime. If you’re drawn to intense battles, superhuman abilities, and a futuristic setting, this series has much to offer.
Set in a future Earth ravaged by extraterrestrial invaders, Freezing introduces the concept of Pandoras, genetically modified women with enhanced combat abilities, and their male partners called Limiters. The narrative follows Kazuya Aoi as he enters the elite West Genetics academy and becomes entangled in the fierce battles against the enigmatic invaders.
Devils Line
A dark and gripping anime, Devils Line intertwines supernatural elements with a modern-day setting. The series tackles the complex dynamics between vampires and humans, delivering a unique take on the age-old struggle between the two species. Moreover, the forbidden love between the two species adds a layer of emotional depth to the story.
Devils Line takes place in a world where vampires, known as “devils,” coexist with humans. It follows Tsukasa Taira, a college student who becomes embroiled in the hidden conflicts between devils and the organizations seeking to control them.
Honorable mentions:
- Dance in the Vampire Bund
- Isuca
- Zetman
- The Severing Crime Edge
- Kurozuka
Best Romance Fantasy Anime
Why it works: Whether it’s epic quests, magical worlds, or supernatural beings, the fusion of fantasy and romance brings a sense of wonder and excitement to the love stories, making them even more spellbinding.
The Ancient Magus’ Bride
The Ancient Magus’ Bride fulfills the desires of fantasy enthusiasts, offering a captivating blend of mythical creatures, ancient traditions, magic, and a resilient female protagonist.
In this anime, Chise Hatori, a girl with a troubled past, becomes part of a magical world when Elias Ainsworth, a powerful mage, buys her as his apprentice and bride. This sets her on a journey of self-discovery, encountering wonders and dangers while unlocking her own magical potential.
Snow White with the Red Hair
Every girl dreams of being treated like a princess, and for Shirayuki, this dream becomes a reality as she experiences royal treatment from a handsome prince. This enchanting scenario is a dream come true, making Snow White with the Red Hair an alluring tale of romance, fantasy, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
The plot unfolds as Shirayuki, a determined herbalist, deals with the challenges of her newfound royal life, creating a story that resonates with the audience’s longing for both love and adventure.
Spice & Wolf
Fans who appreciate medieval settings coupled with intricate explorations of economics and politics will find Spice & Wolf to be a captivating watch. The series immerses viewers in a richly detailed world where the dynamics of trade and political maneuvering shape the narrative. Additionally, Holo’s charming and wise character adds a delightful touch, making her a standout waifu for those who appreciate strong, unique female leads.
Spice & Wolf follows the journey of Kraft Lawrence, a traveling merchant, and Holo, a wise wolf deity with a human form. Together, they embark on a quest filled with business dealings, witty banter, and the exploration of their evolving relationship.
Honorable mentions:
Best Romance Comedy Anime
Why it works: Romance and comedy go hand in hand, creating a delightful blend of heartwarming emotions and laughter.
Kaguya-sama: Love is War
There is no better romantic comedy that puts a unique spin on the typical love story than Kaguya-sama. Instead of a straightforward confession, the main characters, highschoolers Kaguya and Miyuki, engage in a battle of wits, attempting to outsmart each other into confessing their feelings first.
What makes Kaguya-sama special is that the colorful supporting characters are equally important and entertaining as the main cast. After watching one episode, you’ll find yourself eagerly wanting to watch another one and witness the next strategic battle of their minds.
My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU
Teenagers often grapple with issues of identity, social expectations, and the longing for genuine connections. In fact, SNAFU shines by steering clear of typical romantic clichés, opting for a deeper exploration of social dynamics and personal growth.
SNAFU revolves around Hachiman Hikigaya, a high school student with a cynical view of social relationships. He’s forced to join the Service Club, where he meets the ice-cold Yukino Yukinoshita and the cheerful Yui Yuigahama. Together, they tackle various requests and confront the complexities of youth and relationships.
Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions!
Anyone who enjoys romantic comedies with a touch of whimsy will find delight in Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! This series is crafted for fans who appreciate stories that can easily balance between laughter, heart, and a bit of youthful fantasy. Whether you’re navigating the awkwardness of adolescence or simply on the lookout for a feel-good anime, this one’s a gem.
The anime follows Yuuta Togashi, a high school student desperate to leave his embarrassing “chunibyo” past behind. However, his plans change when he meets Rikka Takanashi, a girl still deep in the world of delusions.
Honorable mentions:
Best Romance Isekai Anime
Why it works: What would life be without wholesome romance in another world?
Re:Zero
Isekai isn’t always about fun adventures and laughs. In Re:Zero, the fantasy world is harsh and unforgiving. The series doesn’t hold back in diving into the psychological toll of having the ability to reset time, putting a unique spin to the usual isekai trope.
Our protagonist, Subaru Natsuki, finds himself transported to a mysterious fantasy world. What seems like a dream come true takes a dark turn when Subaru discovers he has the ability to return from death, but not without consequences.
Sword Art Online
How many gamers dream of living inside the games they play? For the protagonist of Sword Art Online, this ‘wish’ turns into reality. However, it’s not the dreamlike experience he imagined; instead, it’s more like a chilling nightmare. Fortunately, being a skilled gamer with kind heart, he manages to attract the most beautiful girl in the series and they become a couple.
The only way to escape this world? Clear the game’s levels. Our protagonist, Kirito, takes center stage as he battles through fantastical worlds filled with danger, uncovering mysteries, and forming bonds that transcend the digital confines.
The Rising of the Shield Hero
Who needs the usual hero story when you can have The Rising of the Shield Hero flipping the script? This series spices things up by putting betrayal and redemption front and center. If you’re into stories where characters take the wheel, mixed with fantasy, action, and a sprinkle of moral ambiguity, this one’s a ride you don’t want to miss.
Moreover, romance isn’t left behind. The protagonist’s journey takes a heartwarming turn when he purchases Raphtalia, a raccoon-like waifu.
The story follows Naofumi Iwatani, one of four chosen heroes summoned to the kingdom of Melromarc to protect it from interdimensional waves of calamity. However, Naofumi’s journey takes a dark turn when he is falsely accused of a crime he didn’t commit.
Honorable mentions:
Best Romance Drama Anime
Why it works: Where there are relationships, there is drama; it’s human nature.
Weathering With You
Hodaka Morishima is a teenage runaway who finds himself in Tokyo, a city plagued by relentless rain. Soon, he meets Hina Amano, a mysterious girl with the ability to manipulate the weather. Together, they start a business offering sunshine to those desperate for a ray of hope in the gloomy city. However, as their powers grow, so does the price they must pay to defy nature’s course.
Weathering With You is a film that doesn’t just tell a love story but paints it across the canvas of the ever-changing sky. Directed by Makoto Shinkai, the creative genius behind Your Name, this anime is a visual feast that takes you on a breathtaking journey above the clouds. Fans of Shinkai’s previous works will find themselves on familiar emotional terrain.
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
If you’re into a mix of romance, slice of life, and a dash of the supernatural, Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai has your name written all over it. Fans of shows like Monogatari series will appreciate the dialogue-heavy, character-driven narrative. Moreover, high school drama enthusiasts looking for a story that explores the psyche of its characters will find this series both engaging and thought-provoking.
The story follows Sakuta Azusagawa, a high school student navigating the tumultuous sea of adolescence. One day, he encounters Mai Sakurajima, a former child actress dressed in a bunny girl outfit, strolling through a library. Oddly enough, Sakuta discovers that Mai is invisible to everyone else. This anomaly is just the tip of the iceberg in a series of supernatural phenomena known as Adolescence Syndrome, each manifesting as surreal challenges that test the characters’ emotional resilience and relationships.
Darling in the FranXX
In the last decade, there haven’t been many high-quality mecha anime that could captivate fans as much as Darling in the FranXX did. While I can’t deny its appeal, a significant part of it is attributed to the popularity of the dino waifu, Zero Two.
In essence, Zero Two became more than just a character; she became a symbol of the series’ emotional core, resonating with fans and leaving a lasting impact on the mecha anime genre of the last decade. Her popularity extends beyond just being a “dino waifu”; she represents the emotional pulse of Darling in the FranXX and, in many ways, contributed to the show’s overall success.
Darling in the FranXX is set in a post-apocalyptic world where monstrous creatures known as Klaxosaurs threaten human existence, society relies on pairs of young pilots to control FranXX, powerful mechs designed to combat the menace.
Honorable mentions:
- Scum’s Wish
- Toradora!
- The Pet Girl of Sakurasou
- Golden Time
- I Want To Eat Your Pancreas
Best Romance Slice Of Life Anime
Why it works: A slice of someone’s life is incomplete without some love.
Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku
Anyone who has ever felt the struggle of balancing a love for anime, manga, or video games with adult responsibilities will find the characters’ journeys in Wotakoi both entertaining and relatable. Furthermore, the show is an easy, lighthearted watch for mature audience.
In this series, we follow Narumi Momose, a closet fujoshi (female otaku) who, after a failed relationship, decides to keep her geeky interests a secret at her new workplace. However, her plans take a turn when she reunites with Hirotaka Nifuji, a handsome gaming otaku from her past.
Hyouka
If there’s any series that can prove mysteries aren’t always about crime scenes and detectives, it’s Hyouka. This show reveals that the most intriguing puzzles can be found in the ordinary aspects of life.
At the heart of Hyouka is Houtarou Oreki, a high school student with a penchant for conserving energy and avoiding unnecessary exertion. His life, however, takes an unexpected turn when he’s dragged into the school’s Classic Literature Club by his curious and energetic friend, Eru Chitanda.
What starts as a seemingly mundane club activity soon transforms into a quest for uncovering the mysteries hidden within the corridors of their high school and the lives of those who came before them.
Komi Can’t Communicate
Komi Can’t Communicate is mostly a fun, lighthearted romantic comedy set in high school. That being said, it tackles serious themes like social anxiety and the desire for connection while maintaining a light and comedic tone.
The story revolves around Shoko Komi, a girl with stunning looks and a heart full of kindness. Despite her outward perfection, she grapples with severe social anxiety, making it nearly impossible for her to communicate effectively. Enter Tadano Hitohito, an average high school student with a knack for observing people. Tadano befriends Komi and makes it his mission to help her achieve her goal: making 100 friends.
Honorable mentions:
Best Romance Ecchi Anime
Why it works: Beautiful girls and fanservice are gucci, but adding a touch of romance creates lasting memories.
High School DxD
High School DxD fully embracs ecchi elements and the supernatural. The series doesn’t hold back on the fan service, making it a guilty pleasure for those who enjoy a bit of cheeky humor.
Issei Hyoudou is a high school student whose life takes a dramatic turn when he’s killed on his first date by a fallen angel. But fear not, because he gets a second shot at life as a devil, all thanks to the crimson-haired beauty, Rias Gremory.
Now serving as Rias’s pawn, Issei has to deal with the dangerous world of angels, fallen angels, and devils, all while attending high school.
Chivalry of a Failed Knight
If you’re into underdog stories with a healthy dose of magic, swordplay, and a touch of romance, Chivalry of a Failed Knight is perfect for you. Fans of the fantasy genre looking for a protagonist who defies expectations will appreciate the protagonist’s journey. I found myself cheering for him.
Chivalry of a Failed Knight unfolds in an academy where students train to become skilled Blazers, warriors capable of wielding powerful weapons known as Devices. Our main character, Ikki Kurogane, isn’t your typical hero. Labeled as the “Worst One” due to his lackluster magical abilities, he’s determined to prove that chivalry isn’t just for the elite.
Sankarea
Chihiro Furuya is an avid lover of all things zombie-related. His eccentric interests take a turn for the unexpected when his pet cat Babu is tragically hit by a car. Seeking to fulfill a promise made to Babu, Chihiro decides to bring him back to life. However, things take a quirky twist when he meets Rea Sanka, a girl from a wealthy family who has her own reasons for seeking the supernatural.
Sankarea is like a special message for those who enjoy some weirdness in their anime. It’s not just a regular love story—it’s one with a touch of the strange.
As I kept watching, I realized that Sankarea isn’t just about the bizzare things. It’s also about real feelings, kindness, and self-reflection. The characters, with all their quirks and problems, make the show feel down-to-earth and relatable.
Honorable mentions:
- Trinity Seven
- Haganai
- Monster Musume
- Eromanga-sensei
- The Familiar of Zero