30 Best Romance Anime You Should Watch Right Now (2024)

Love stories are foundational to anime, which is why it's no surprise that the best romance anime are also some of the best anime period. Whether it be understated and adult or loud and juvenile, romance anime are endlessly compelling and have a massive fan base for good reason. Even fans of straight-up action shonen series might want to give romance anime a try given how many solid series there are.

One advantage romance anime have over their more action-oriented counterparts is that a focus on characters is an absolute requirement. While a sci-fi or fantasy series might be able to get away with a forgettable cast of characters, a love story needs to pay extra attention to its characters or else the story will fall apart. It's this focus on characters connecting and growing together that end up defining the very best romance anime series.

30 Insomniacs After School

Based on the Manga Created By Makoto Ojiro

This recent hit based on the manga by Makoto Ojiro follows two high school students, the reclusive Ganta Nakami and the outgoing Isaki Magari who bond over their mutual insomnia. Together, the sleepless duo reform their school's Astronomy club despite their conflicting personalities.

Far from a typical romance anime, Insomniacs goes for a far more muted and understated romance than anything big or grand. There's a real sense of introspection that gives viewers an intimate sense of who the two leads really are. Insomniacs After School might be recent, but it's already one of the best anime romances.

29 My Happy Marriage

Based on the Light Novel Series Created By Akumi Agitogi

My Happy Marriage

My Happy Marriage is a TV show that follows Miyo Saimori, a young woman in a loveless arranged marriage, who embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery and unexpected romance. Set in historical Japan, the series explores themes of duty, love, and personal growth as Miyo navigates societal expectations and her new life.

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My Happy Marriage follows a young woman named Miyo who is forced by societal pressure into marrying a man from a well-respected family named Kiyoka. Though Kiyoka has a reputation for scaring off many potential fiances, Miyo quickly learns that her future husband isn't quite what he seems on the surface. This hybrid of romance and fantasy is one of 2023's biggest romance anime, and much of that is because of the likable characters. Miyo and Kiyoka's romance is the definition of sweet, making the series a truly memorable romance.

28 Wotakoi: Love Is Hard For Otaku

Based on the Manga Created By Fujita

Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for an Otaku

TV-14

Animation

Comedy

Romance

Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for an Otaku is a romantic comedy series that explores the romantic relationships of otaku, or passionate fans of anime and gaming, in the workplace. The show centers around childhood friends Narumi and Hirotaka, who navigate the complexities of love and friendship while embracing their geeky interests. The series delves into the challenges and delights of finding romance as an adult with otaku hobbies.

Cast

Arisa Date , Kento Ito , Miyuki Sawashiro , Tomokazu Sugita , Yûki Kaji , Aoi Yuki

Release Date

April 12, 2018

Seasons

1

Streaming Service(s)

Prime Video

Franchise(s)

Wotakoi: Love is Hard for an Otaku

Writers

Fujita

Directors

Yoshimasa Hiraike

Main Genre

Comedy

Creator(s)

Fujita

As the name suggests, Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku is all about the unique challenges and perks of dating as an otaku, someone obsessed with things like games and anime, and it gives the viewer a good idea of what to expect from the start. In the first episode, Narumi's nerdy nature is exposed on her first day at a new job after running into her old friend Hirotaka. Later that day, after she complains about her romantic troubles, the two otakus decide to try dating each other. Whilst their otaku obsessions cause unique issues and awkward moments, it's almost always a source of cute and gentle comedy rather than any real drama. Good characters and an unusual premise make Wotakoi worth a try.

27 My Little Monster

Based on the Manga Created By Robico

My Little Monster

My Little Monster is a Japanese anime series that centers on the unlikely relationship between the studious Shizuku Mizutani and the troublemaking Haru Yoshida. The series explores their evolving bond as they navigate high school life, friendships, and personal growth.

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An odd-couple shoujo anime with plenty of great comedic moments, My Little Monster is ideal for anyone looking for lighthearted romance and fun characters. Centered on Shizuku Mizutani, a studious girl who lacks any friends, and Haru Yoshida, a delinquent student with a reputation for violence, My Little Monster is all about how people can make unexpected connections.

The two connect thanks to neither having any friends in the class and, though Shizuku's lack of social skills means she struggles at first, they soon develop feelings for each other. Whilst My Little Monster is a little light on romantic moments, that's also what makes it such easy viewing.

26 Love Hina

Anime Series by Xebec; Based on the Manga by Ken Akamatsu

Love Hina pushed the envelope for shonen anime thanks to abundant fan service and harem tropes that would become increasingly industry-standard as the decades passed. For 1990s kids, it was a well-marketed series, with ads appearing in Shōnen Jump magazine promoting these hilarious, occasionally risqué glimpses at the story of Keitaro Urashima and the girls staying at Hinata Inn. Keitaro's main stake in this charming series is to find the girl with whom he promised to go to Tokyo University in this shōnen romance classic.

25 Komi Can't Communicate

Based on the Manga Created By Tomohito Oda

Komi Can't Communicate

TV-14

Comedy

Drama

Romance

Komi Can't Communicate is an animated series focusing on Shoko Komi, a high school student with severe communication anxiety. Despite her social challenges, she becomes the school's most admired figure. Aided by a classmate, Hitohito Tadano, Komi embarks on a journey to overcome her fears and make 100 friends. The series blends humor and heartfelt moments while addressing themes of social anxiety and friendship.

Cast

Amber Lee Connors , Kyle McCarley , Skyler Davenport , Sarah Williams , Cristina Vee , Cherami Leigh

Release Date

October 7, 2021

Seasons

2

Streaming Service(s)

Netflix

Franchise(s)

Komi Can't Communicate

Writers

Deko Akao

Directors

Kazuki Kawagoe , Ayumu Watanabe

Main Genre

Comedy

Creator(s)

Tomohito Oda

An adaptation of one of the most popular manga in recent years, Komi Can't Communicate is all about the titular Komi and her problems making friends at school. Though she's immensely popular as a mysterious figure, Komi doesn't actually have any friends because of her struggle with talking to others.

Hitohito Tadano discovers her problem and decides to help her make friends, resulting in a sweet comedy with some genuinely memorable moments. The only downside for romance fans is that the relationship between the two is often sidelined during Komi's quest to make friends and connect with her fellow students.

24 My Love Story!!

Based on the Manga Created By Kazune Kawahara & Aruko

My Love Story!!

My Love Story!! is a Japanese romantic comedy anime series that follows the unique love life of Takeo Gouda, a giant high school student with a heart of gold, and his sweet yet timid classmate Rinko Yamato. The show explores their developing relationship, capturing the innocence and humor as Takeo navigates his first romantic experiences with the help of his best friend, the popular and handsome Sunakawa.

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With his huge, intimidating stature, Takeo Gouda stands out a lot among his fellow high-school freshmen, and it's bad news for the kind boy's love life in My Love Story!!. Compounded by his best friend being the school heartthrob, it's not until he meets the cute Rinko Yamato that his fortunes finally begin to change.

Though he's resigned to playing matchmaker for the girl, the two are the perfect pair for each other despite looking like total opposites. For anime fans that love cute moments, comedy, and odd-couple romances, My Love Story!! is one of the quintessential cozy romance anime series.

23 TONIKAWA: Over the Moon for You

Based on the Manga Created By Kenjiro Hata

Tonikaku Kawaii, or TONIKAWA: Over the Moon for You as the first season is titled in English, certainly starts with some drama, with protagonist Nasa Yuzaki narrowly avoiding death in a truck accident only to chase after the mysterious girl that saved him, injured, to ask her out.

Luckily, after she accepts his confession on the odd condition that the two of them get married, it gives way to a show with little drama and tons of sweet romantic moments. Plenty of anime leave shocking twists for the very end but Tonikawa leaves the high stakes behind after the opening and each episode is a wholesome treat guaranteed to leave the viewer with a smile.

22 Maid Sama!

Based on the Manga Created By Hiro Fujiwara

Maid Sama!

Maid Sama! follows Misaki Ayuzawa, the strict student council president of a formerly all-boys school, who secretly works part-time at a maid café. The show explores her struggles to maintain her tough image while balancing her hidden job and the growing attention from her classmate, Usui Takumi.

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Whilst shoujo anime has produced some great dramatic endings, it's also responsible for a ton of incredibly fun and laid back romances. Maid Sama! is arguably one of the best to come out of shoujo anime, centered on Seika High School's strict new school council president and the one secret she doesn't want to get out. Of course, when a popular boy named Takumi Usui discovers that she works at a maid cafe and starts to tease her about it, a romance begins to blossom between the two. Along with cute romantic moments, Maid Sama! has plenty of slice-of-life fun for a relaxed good time.

21 Tomo-chan Is a Girl! Follows a Tomboy in Love

Anime Series by Lay-duce; Based on the Manga by Fumita Yanagida

Tomo-chan Is a Girl!

Tomo-chan Is a Girl! is an anime series that follows the story of Tomo Aizawa, a high school girl who struggles to convey her feelings to her childhood friend Jun, who only sees her as one of the guys. The series explores Tomo's comedic and heartfelt attempts to make Jun realize that she is, indeed, a girl, while navigating the complexities of teenage friendships and romance.

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Tomo-chan Is a Girl! follows a familiar enough premise, with the protagonist, Tomo Aizawa, hopelessly in love with her childhood friend, Junichiro Kubota, while he remains relentlessly dense. Tomo's perceived flaws are her tomboyish tendencies, including being a talented fighter, but her attempts to garner attention by appearing more feminine often produce more awkward moments than progress in love and life. The hijinks resulted in this constant miscommunication between the pair results in a hilarious romantic comedy anime, and more than a few close calls in this concise thirteen-episode anime.

20 Your Lie in April

Based on the Manga Created By Naoshi Arakawa

Your Lie in April

TV-PG

Animation

Comedy

Drama

Your Lie in April follows Kousei Arima, a piano prodigy who loses his ability to hear the piano after his mother's death. His life changes when he meets Kaori Miyazono, a spirited violinist who helps him rediscover his passion for music. The series explores themes of loss, recovery, and the power of music in healing. The show stars Natsuki Hanae as Kousei and Risa Taneda as Kaori.

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Cast

Max Mittelman , Erica Lindbeck , Erica Mendez , Kyle McCarley , Erik Scott Kimerer , Erika Harlacher , Stephanie Sheh , Wendee Lee , Carrie Keranen , Christina Vee

Release Date

October 9, 2014

Seasons

1

Streaming Service(s)

Crunchyroll , Hulu

Franchise(s)

Your Lie in April

Writers

Takao Yoshioka

Directors

Kyohei Ishiguro

Main Genre

Drama

Creator(s)

Naoshi Arakawa

Few romance anime are as touching as Your Lie in April, and that's no small achievement. The series follows a young piano prodigy named Kōsei Arima who becomes so traumatized by the death of his mother that he quits his passion for his music. Kōsei's life turns around though when he meets a violinist named Kaori Miyazono.

With Kaori's bright spirit and undying optimism, Kōsei slowly comes out of his shell and rediscovers his love of music. The series is filled with heartbreaking twists that still have an impact on fans years after the series concluded. If a fan of romance anime is looking for a tearjerker, then they can't do much better than Your Lie in April.

19 Monthly Girls' Nozaki-Kun

Based on the Manga Created By Izumi Tsubaki

Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun

TV-PG

Anime

Comedy

Romance

Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun is a humorous anime series following high school student Chiyo Sakura, who confesses her love to her classmate Umetarou Nozaki, only to discover he is a shoujo manga artist. Instead of reciprocating her feelings, Nozaki enlists Chiyo as his assistant, leading to a series of comical and heartwarming events as they navigate the challenges of high school and manga creation.

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Cast

Yuichi Nakamura , Ari Ozawa , Masumi Tazawa , Sawako Hata , Christina Marie Kelly , Juliet Simmons , Ty Mahany , Tiffany Terrell

Release Date

June 1, 2014

Seasons

1

Main Genre

Anime

The downside of low-stakes romcoms is that they often focus a lot more on the comedy aspect rather than developing the central relationships. Whilst Monthly Girls' Nozaki-Kun arguably suffers from this, the show's unique humor and charming characters more than make up for it.

The show is centered on Chiyo Sakura, a girl with a massive crush on the deadpan, oblivious shoujo romance author Umetarou Nozaki, and her attempts to get her feelings across to him form the heart of the show. They aren't its only charming pair, however, as the side characters all get their own romantic subplots that are just as much lighthearted fun.

18 Horimiya

Based on the Manga Created By Hero & Daisuke Hagiwara

Horimiya

TV-14

Animation

Comedy

Drama

Horimiya follows high school students Kyoko Hori and Izumi Miyamura, who lead contrasting lives both in and out of school. As they uncover each other's hidden sides, their relationship grows deeper, revealing the complexity and warmth behind their facades.

Where to Watch

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Cast

Haruka Tomatsu , Koki Uchiyama , Seiichiro Yamashita , Zeno Robinson , Alejandro Saab , Marisa Duran , Lanling Li , Yurie Kozakai

Character(s)

Kyoko Hori , Izumi Miyamura , Toru Ishhikawa , Toru Ishikawa , Izumi Miyamura (English) , Kyoko Hori (English) , Kakeru Sengoku , Yuki Yoshikawa

Release Date

January 10, 2021

Seasons

1

Main Genre

Animation

Proof that low-stakes romance doesn't have to mean generic characters, Horimiya boasts one of the most distinctive central couples in anime in the form of the apparently very different Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura. Though she appears to be popular and sociable, and he appears timid and withdrawn, Horimiya sees them discovering the surprising things they have in common.

How much a viewer enjoys the series is dependent on how well they get along with Horimiya's cast of side characters and their stories, as the show dedicates plenty of time to developing them as well. There are some emotional moments too, but the show stays very much in the realm of lighthearted romcom, making it perfect as sweet low-stakes entertainment.

17 Rascal Does Not Dream Of Bunny Girl Senpai

Anime series by CloverWorks; Based on the light novel by Hajime Kamoshida

To escape the pressure of her actress work, Mai Sakurajima decides to take a hiatus but suddenly realizes people can't see or perceive her, due to something called Adolescence Syndrome. The only one who sees her is Sakuta Azusagawa, whose sister suffered from the same condition, and decides to help Mai in solving this mystery.

Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is far more wholesome than one might think. Sakuta and Mai become a couple very early on, and from then on, Sakuta and Mai's relationship always has a lot of maturity and heart to it; their relationship isn't always the focus, but every moment where they're just a regular couple always makes for some of the best material in the story.

16 Romantic Killer Reminds Viewers That Love Can't Be Forced

Anime Series by DOMERICA; Based on the Manga by Wataru Momose

Romantic Killer

Romantic Killer is an animated series based on the manga by Wataru Momose, following a high school girl named Anzu Hoshino who is determined to avoid romance. However, her life takes a comedic turn when a magical creature forces her into situations designed to make her fall in love. The series explores themes of love, friendship, and personal growth set against a humorous and whimsical backdrop.

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Anzu Hoshino loves precisely three things in life: video games, cats, and chocolate. However, in an appeal to her video game fixation, a wizard named simultaneously Riri and Rio contrives otome dating sim-style romantic situations for Anzu, primarily with male candidates Tsukasa Kazuki and Junta Hayami. The twist is that they develop genuine feelings for her. Romantic Killer is a concise series, wrapping up these misadventures with a surprising and wonderfully wholesome conclusion where Anzu outplays the wizards trying to control her life and seizes agency for herself.

15 Given

Anime Series by Lerche; Based on the Manga by Natsuki Kizu

Given

Not Rated

Animation

Drama

Given (2019) is an anime series that follows the journey of four musicians navigating their personal struggles and relationships while forming a rock band. The story centers on high school student Ritsuka Uenoyama and his introduction to the world of music and romance through his bandmate, Mafuyu Sato. Directed by Hikaru Yamaguchi, the series explores themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of music.

Cast

Shogo Yano , Yuma Uchida , Masatomo Nakazawa , Takuya Eguchi , Fumiya Imai

Release Date

July 12, 2019

Seasons

1

Given is an excellent anime recommendation not just because of its prominent romance plot, which follows two couples in the show as well as a third in the original manga, but because of its deep, heart-wrenching drama. It makes poignant use of music and the creation of it, as the show's titular band forms around their newest member, Mafuyu, and his innate singing and songwriting talents. The result is a reminder of the power music can have on the heart. It stands as the most stellar BL offering, which is an essential experience for anybody looking to explore the genre.

14 Toradora! Remains an Excellent Choice for New Romance Anime Fans

Anime Series by J.C.Staff; Based on the Light Novel by Yuyuko Takemiya

Toradora!

TV-14

Animation

Comedy

Drama

Toradora! is an anime series that revolves around the unique friendship between Ryuuji Takasu, a kind-hearted high school student with an intimidating face, and Taiga Aisaka, a diminutive yet fierce girl. Together, they navigate their respective love interests, forming an unexpected bond while helping each other pursue their romantic goals. The series blends comedy, drama, and romance in a high school setting, offering a heartwarming and nuanced narrative.

Where to Watch

Season

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Cast

Erik Scott Kimerer , Cassandra Lee Morris , Christine Marie Cabanos , Johnny Yong Bosch , Erika Harlacher

Release Date

October 2, 2008

Seasons

1

Streaming Service(s)

Crunchyroll , Max

Franchise(s)

Toradora!

Writers

Mari Okada

Directors

Tatsuyuki Nagai

Main Genre

Animation

Creator(s)

Yuyuko Takemiya

Atop many recommendation lists for people looking to get into romance anime, Toradora! ages particularly well and breaks genre traditions. Its scenarios are relatable and stand the test of time, presenting a romance between its two leads while crafting a believable and hilarious set of potential connections for viewers to follow. Still, the adorable lead characters, Ryuji Takasu, who is written in the anime as dense regarding girls' affection toward him, and Taiga Aisaka, a clumsy and feisty quasi-Tsundere whose vulnerable side shows within the first episode, will win viewers over instantly.

13 Urusei Yatsura

Anime Series by David Production, Inc.; Based on the Manga by Rumiko Takahashi

Urusei Yatsura

TV-14

Animation

Adventure

Comedy

Drama

Fantasy

Music

Romance

Sci-Fi

Urusei Yatsura (2022) is a revival of the popular 1980s anime series, following the chaotic adventures of the lecherous high school student Ataru Moroboshi and the alien princess Lum. Lum comes to Earth with her race, the Oni, and ends up living with Ataru, leading to comedic and supernatural escapades. This new adaptation maintains the original's blend of romance, humor, and sci-fi elements, updated for modern audiences.

Cast

Hiroshi Kamiya , Sumire Uesaka , Mamoru Miyano , James Marler , Maaya Uchida , Shin'ya Takahashi , Masaya Fukunishi , Kenta Miyake , Wataru Takagi , Miyuki Sawashiro , Shô Okumura , Keiko Toda , Jade Kelly , Jun Inoue , Kosuke Echigoya

Character(s)

Ataru Moroboshi , Lum , Shutaro Mendo , Tobimaro Mizunokoji , Shinobu Miyake , Kosuke Shirai , Boy , Onsen Mark , Cherry , Sakura , Kakugari , Ataru's Mother

Release Date

October 13, 2022

Streaming Service(s)

Crunchyroll

Main Genre

Animation

Aside from debating whether the 1981 original still outshines the hot new 2022 show, it's hard to argue that the 2022 remake shines as one of the best anime comedies around. In a story full of pop culture gags and progressively more hilarious faux pas, Ataru Moroboshi wishes to assemble a harem while trying and failing to win the affections of Shinobu Miyake, among others. But this all changes when planet Oni invades Earth, where their representative Lum challenges Ataru to a game of tag, loses, and misreads his actions as romantic advances, starting a zany 46-episode romp.

12 The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You Is A Romance Anime Unlike Any Other

Anime series by Bibury Animation Studios; Based on the manga by Rikito Nakamura & Yukiko Nozawa

The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You

TV-14

Animation

Comedy

Sci-Fi & Fantasy

The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You is a romantic comedy series that follows high school student Rentarou Aijo, who, after being rejected 100 times, meets 100 girls destined to be his true loves. Each girl falls deeply in love with him, creating humorous and complicated scenarios. Adapted from the manga by Rikito Nakamura and Yukiko Nozawa, the series explores themes of love, destiny, and teenage relationships.

Cast

Wataru Katoh , Kaede Hondo , Miyu Tomita , Maria Naganawa , Asami Seto

Release Date

October 8, 2023

Seasons

1

Harem anime might have a divisive reputation, but The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You deserves none of that criticism. The genuine love Rentaro and his harem have for each other makes 100 Girlfriends' story surprisingly heartwarming, far more than the average harem story that never truly justifies its premise.

After adding in the usual comedy and shenanigans that a harem series thrives on, 100 Girlfriends stands out by giving fans a romance anime that caters to all tastes and manages to stand out even against strong competition.

11 My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 Is Perfect for Gamers Who Love Romance

Anime Series by Madhouse; Based on the Manga by Mashiro

My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999

My Love Story With Yamada-Kun At Lv999 follows a high school student, Akane Kinoshita, who turns to an online game after a heartbreak, and meets the aloof and enigmatic gamer Yamada. The show explores their evolving relationship as they navigate complex feelings both in the virtual world and in real life.

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Fans of the original manga were quick to flock to this series due to its depiction of relatable romances and how differently young adults can react to relationships, as college student Akane Kinoshita meets third-year high school student Akito Yamada. Akane meets Yamada on a popular MMORPG, Forest of Savior, where, despite their vastly different personalities, a strong connection forms.

Readers particularly love the adorable, occasionally dense male lead, Yamada. With only thirteen episodes so far, fans craving more have flocked to Mangamo, one of the best manga reader apps around, for more of the latest chapters.