25 Best Romance Anime of All Time (2024)
No matter where we are at any point in our lives, a dose of romance can always brighten up your mood. Hundreds of romance anime have been ruling the hearts of fans for decades. The beautiful story and the stunning chemistry between the characters, blended with cheerful plot and comedic elements, are always a delight to watch. So today, we’ve compiled a list of the best romance anime that should watch in your lifetime.
1. Fruits Basket (2019-2021)
If you want to see the most beautiful romance in an anime, Fruits Basket should be your first stop. It is a slice-of-life anime with fantasy elements that take you through the most emotional roller coaster ride of your life.
When its last season aired, Fruits Basket went on to become the highest-rated anime of all time on MAL (My Anime List). While it dropped back down later on, it is still one of the top-rated anime in anime history. Along with the romance elements, it has plenty of other things in store for you.
This anime is flawless in every way, including the story, the characters, the animation, and opening and ending songs, among other things. Personally, it is also one of my all-time favorite anime. This romance anime should not be missed at any cost. Fruits Basket not only provides pure romance but also teaches you life lessons that you won’t forget any time soon.
2. Kaguya-Sama: Love is War (2019 – )
Kaguya-Sama Love is War is a high school romance anime. But what if I tell you it’s nothing like you have ever seen before? Yeah, while the high school love stories are plain and simple, Kaguya-sama takes it to the next level. Read the plot, and you will know why I’m saying this.
The plot is as follows:The two top students from an elite school have feelings for each other. But instead of confessing to each other, they wage a love war against each other to make each other confess first so their pride isn’t affected. This is indeed a love battlefield, isn’t it?
Kaguya-Sama became a sensation in the romance genre after it aired and is still celebrated as one of the best romance anime. It is incredibly hilarious with its quirky characters. I mean, you must have seen the popular Fujiwara Chika meme already.
Beyond the romance, the way the author maneuvered the chemistry between the characters is just amazing. It has many emotional moments and is easily one of the greatest anime in this genre. So witness the war of love like never before!
3. Clannad (2009)
The Clannad series has received excellent reviews on the anime rating website MAL, which says a lot about how good this romance anime is. In Clannad, high school kids attempt to achieve things in life by conquering different obstacles that stand in their way. The Clannad After Story prequel examines how the main characters struggle to survive in this world.
The tale and the characters are firmly rooted and offer a genuine perspective on romance. It focuses on the challenges of maturity and may be thought of as the two separate halves of Life.
Prepare yourself for the anime to utterly break your heart into pieces because the narrative is a little gloomy toward the end. Clannad is a must-watch romantic and depressing anime because it focuses heavily on the struggles people encounter in life and the importance of romance.
4. Horimiya and Horimiya: Missing Pieces (2021-2023)
When there was a shortage of romance anime after 2020, Horimiya came to the rescue and with just 13 episodes it became a certified hit in the romance genre. Once again, we have a high school anime on our hands but what makes it so different from other anime is its characters.
Although they have different personalities, Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura havea remarkable connection. Horimiya explores the interaction between the two major leads as well as many side characters, each with a unique narrative, and shows how they become friends and how their friendship transcends into something wonderful as they fall in love with one another.
Even though the studio decided to skip some chapters of the manga, Horimiya is still as beautiful as ever with just 13 episodes. I was disheartened to see this anime not getting its deserved sequel. But luckily, they have revived it as the studios decided to adapt the left-out manga chapters and release it as another season.
Thus, you should watch Horimiya if you’re a high school rom-com fan and catch up with Horimiya: The Missing Pieces.
5. Your Name (2016)
Your Name is an anime film that made history in the romance genre. It was a smash hit, not just in Japan but also internationally. That is how much the anime community adores this film, which will be a pillar in the field of romance.
Taki Tachibana, a high school student who struggles to balance his schoolwork with a part-time job, is the main character of the film. In the meantime, Mitsuha Miyamizu, a fellow high school student who resides in a rural area and has aspirations of someday relocating to a large metropolis is introduced. As one might anticipate from such tales, these two people’s souls eventually trade places on a mysterious day. How do they get back to their original lives?
Well, these high school classmates are now bonded by this odd phenomenon and eagerly anticipate getting together to unravel the riddle. The remainder of the narrative is about what fate has in store for them.
You will adore this incredible love story by the famous Japanese filmmaker Makoto Shinkai. It’s another beautiful romance anime that you must watch. The superb animation and beautiful music of this anime are well-known throughout the world, and you must have heard about it already.
6. I Want To Eat Your Pancreas (2018)
I Want to Eat Your Pancreas is a beautiful rom-com anime that leaves you reeling at the conclusion. Haruki Shiga, the main character, is areclusive introvert. His discovery of his classmate’s hidden diary one day alters both of their lives irrevocably. The remainder of the film covers what is in store for them.
I thought the main character was quite relatable, and perhaps you would agree too. The heart and soul of this anime film are the characters and the animation. This anime contains a stunning couple who enthralls you, and the depiction of their relationship’s development is superb. Without a doubt, you ought to see this soon!
7. Rascal Does Not Dream Of Bunny Girl Senpai (2018 – 2019)
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is another excellent addition to our romance anime list. It is a distinctive romance anime as it has pure fantasy elements around it, and it’s so intriguing to watch. It’s about Sakura Azusagawa who is a high school student living a normal life. But one day, he encounters a girl in a wild bunny costume who appears to be invisible to everyone except him. The mundane life has been altered into something magical from that moment.
As you can see from the plot, you can understand how much different this anime is from the typical rom-com drama. With a mysterious story and sweet characters, it melts your heart with its romance and breaks it into pieces with the same.
This anime has a follow-up movie that should be seen so that you can witness this epic conclusion. I highly recommend this anime if you love fantasy rom-com anime.
8. Your Lie In April (2014-2015)
It’s common knowledge among fans that Your Lie in April is one of those anime series that will leave you heartbroken. It tells the tale of Kousei Arima, a piano prodigy as a young boy whose life and skill are ultimately destroyed by a horrific event. But when he meets a violinist called Kaori Miyazono, everything changes. She aids him in rediscovering his skills and regaining the limelight. And with that, their lovely relationship has officially begun.
Even if it’s gloomy, you will feel uplifted as a result of the amazing moments in the show. One of the finest romances, as well as heartbreaking moments in an anime, is offered. Together, these factors make this anime a magnificent one since it is emotional and leaves you completely moved by it.
9. Toradora! (2008 – 2009)
Toradora is a classic romance anime that has been in the hearts of many fans for decades now. It has a funny plot unlike any other, check it out: High school student Ryuuji Takasu has a kind heart but keeps a tough front. Taiga Aisaka, on the other hand, is just a cute girl. When their paths meet, they admit their emotions for their closest friends to one another. So they band together to support one another in telling their crushes how they feel. It is pretty funny, right? Who would they end up together is so fun to watch.
Toradora is extremely funny and lovable at the same time. The old-school animation gives you nostalgic vibes and the story will keep you entertained until its end. It is easily one of the best romance anime and an all-time favorite for many including me. Thus, I highly recommend you check out this anime.
10. Violet Evergarden (2018)
Violet Evergarden is another wonderful romance anime that has a multitude of moving stories at its disposal. The heroine Violet Evergarden is at the center of the anime’s primary storyline as the title suggests. The following is the plot: She landed a new job with the postal service as an auto memory doll once the great war was finally finished. She now sets out on a quest to help people by crafting letters that accurately reflect the thoughts and feelings of the recipient. Each episode wears you down, and romance plays a big part in it.
One of the most beautiful anime you will ever watch is Violet Evergarden because it combines stunning aesthetics with a variety of poignant narratives. You can relate to Violet on an emotional level because of the excellent characterization that was done. Violet’s major goal on her trip is to understand herself, the outside world, and her emotions. Likewise, it’ll be thought-provoking for you to understand the emotions unlike you have never seen before.
11. Ouran High School Host Club (2006)
Ouran High School Host Club is a high-school romance anime that explores relationships between Japanese students in the modern era. This anime primarily focuses on Haruhi Fujioka, a member of the aforementioned group who has concealed a secret from everyone. What is that secret? who are the ones that are going to end up together? and many more questions that will be on high-school romance drama takes place here in a feel-good way. The show is based on a manga of the same name by Bisco Hatori that balances comedy and romance in a great way.
All things considered, the entertaining film Ouran High School Host Club illustrates the cliches of contemporary relationships. If you enjoy high school rom-coms, you should check this one out. It is also highly rated by the fans on the MAL site as well as the popular IMDb so without any hesitation, you can start this one.
12. Yuri!!! On Ice (2016)
As it features both romance (boys’ love) and sports, Yuri on Ice is a multi-genre anime. And if you would love to watch romance with a mix of sports, Yuri on Ice is the perfect stitch for you. It is based on the same-titled manga by Mitsurou Kubo. Yuuri Katsuki, a figure skater and the protagonist of this tale experiences several adventures.
Yuuridecides to put his ice skates awayafter being destroyed in the finals. Victor Nikiforov, a Russian figure skater, noticed Yuuri afterward and decided to become his coach to help him regain his former glory.
The portrayal of the love ties between the major characters is done in the sweetest possible way. It also majorly features ice skating dances, which the audience finds to be wonderfully beautiful and romantic. Each dance’s tune and choreography are both excellent which just melts your heart. Thuspopular BL animeis one of the best romance anime we have on our list.
13. Nana (2006 – 2007)
Nana is a highly-rated romance anime as it’s both critically acclaimed as well as loved by tons of fans around the world. The author Ai Yazawa is super popular among anime fandom for her works. So, if you are seeking a realistic and perfect portrayal of relationships in anime, Nana should be your first preference. This anime is about two girls who both share the same Nana.
They also share a room in Tokyo and end up becoming best friends. But things take a turn when the hard truths of adult life strike upon them and both of their relationship is in a questionable place.
As we mentioned earlier, Nana is widely celebrated as one of the best romance anime of all time. This reason is enough to get you started on this anime. Furthermore, the characters and the settings of their relationship are interesting to watch. With just 50 episodes, the entertainment and value it offers is impeccable. It is a must-watch suggestion from our side.
14.The Pet Girl Of Sakurasou(2012 -2013)
Ever felt like an ordinary person around extraordinary individuals in your life? the MC of this anime also feels the same here. But just like us instead of falling into the trap of sadness, he strives to push his limits to become a greater person. Sorata Kanda is the name of our Protagonist and when he joins a dormitory he feels surrounded by talented people. That’s where he meets his crush, Mashiro Shiina, a talented artist. Now what happens between them in this coming-of-age drama is pretty much the rest of the plot.
Like any other coming-of-age drama, this anime is also amazing surrounded by beautiful characters. The plot is a typical one but the characters and their chemistry make it so refreshing. The themes of love, relationships, and friendship are well-written and handled in a good way here. Therefore, it is totally worth checking out this anime if you love coming-of-age dramas.
15. Orange (2016)
Orange is a heartfelt high school drama with, of course, romance. It is about senior high school student Naho Takamiya, who is having some trouble adjusting to life. She receives a bizarre letter from her 26-year-old future self one enigmatic day. The future Naho expresses her sincere remorse for her past mistakes in that letter, as well as her hope that her younger self will learn from them. We all have hoped for a moment like this at times, don’t we?
Orange is an emotional anime that will make you feel down and ultimately make you feel better at the same time It is a very good anime to binge-watch with all the high school elements. This series is a must-watch for all in my opinion as it offers teachings about friendship, life, love, etc. Thus, Orange is a worthy romance anime you can check out.
16. Given (2019)
Given is a big mix of musical anime with elements of romance (Boy’s Love). It tells the story of Mafuyu Satou, who meets Ritsuka Uenoyama, another student, and gets in trouble for letting his guitar strings rust and break. Uenoyama’s guitar prowess and knowledge impress Mafuyu, who wants him to teach him how to play. Afterward, he decides to join Uenoyama’s rock group, which ushers in a blend of the most profound romantic and musical journey of their lives.
As we have stated earlier, this anime explores the love connection that forms between the musicians in addition to their musical journey. This high school band drama features endearing characters, a fascinating romance, and fantastic songs which are basically everything a lover of romance and BL anime could desire. Therefore, you should watch this anime for the romance, but also because one of the finest aspects of it is the soulful songs and background score.
17. Weathering With You (2019)
Another gorgeous romantic anime from Makoto Shinkai is Weathering With You. This time, Makoto’s typical rom-com is set in a soggy Tokyo and features stunning animation and evocative music. In terms of the plot, Hodaka Morishima, a high school student, runs away to Tokyo where she meets Hina Amano, an orphan. Hina has a mystical ability that gives her complete control over the weather. Even while they appear to like utilizing the powers, things start to change as they discover the truth about them.
Like Your Name, this anime is a true piece of art. Thus, you should definitely check this out if you enjoy Makoto Shinkai’s work as much as I do. You’ll be beaming and enjoying the entire time the anime movie is playing as it’s so joyous to watch. Another must-see anime romance anime, Makoto just knows how to make us fall in love with his works doesn’t he?
18. Kaichou wa Maid-sama! (2010 – 2011)
Another excellent choice if you’re seeking a high school romance tale is Maid-Sama. It features Ayuzawa Misaki, the president of Seika High’s student council. She does have a secret occupation part-time as a staff member at a Maid Café, which her peers are unaware of. Nevertheless, Usui Takumi, a student at her school, learns this truth one day. The rest of the narrative is covered by what will transpire between these two after the secret is revealed.
This anime has the perfect balance between romance and comedy. Furthermore, the two lead characterizations are cleverly done to maintain the humor as well as to keep the romance flowing. It is unlike your typical rom-com anime and thus we assure you that you will have a great time watching this one!
19. Into The Forest Of Fireflies’ Light (2011)
The 45-minute length of Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light makes it a quick and short romance anime. A little girl named Hotaru gets lost in a jungle one day in this story. Fortunately, a kid named Gin saves her, only for her to discover that he is a spirit. Then Gin confesses that he is cursed by humans and that he will vanish forever if any humans get in contact with him. As you can see, this anime offers a distinct narrative and a distinct cast of lead characters, which is a refreshing take on regular romance dramas.
Furthermore, these two began to become close friends, and their friendship has grown stronger over time. But the remainder of the story is what is in store for them as they gradually develop affection for one another. How can they go against the norms with their feelings for each other? will they get united? see this short anime to get that answer for yourself. This romance anime engages you in the characters’ emotions despite its short 45-minute running duration. The two characters’ relationship feels genuine and is skillfully shown in the anime. A 45-minute watch will be truly worth your time.
20. 5 Centimeters Per Second (2007)
This is the ideal romantic anime if you’re looking for one that emphasizes long-distance relationships. From the viewpoint of the main characters Takaki Toono and Akari Shinohara, this anime explores the harsh realities and challenges of a long-distance relationship. The debut film of Makoto Shinkai’s career, 5 Centimeters per Second, is a fantastic romance story that you will love for sure.
Like all the Makoto Shinkai anime 5 Centimeters per Second also features fantastic animation and amazing characters. Despite their best efforts, life separates them even as they strive to sort things out and stay together. And just like the real-life romance conflicts, this beautiful anime stays so realistic and grounded throughout.
21. My Dress-Up Darling (2022 – )
Watching the romance between two distinct persons with different personalities is always fun to watch. That’s the same case here as Wakana Gojou is a doll artisan who loves making dolls. On the other hand, Marin Kitagawa is a cosplayer. Even though their lifestyles are totally different, they team up together and work on their hobbies which results in them getting closer and falling for each other.
My Dress-Up Darling was an instant hit when it was released last year. And so, the gorgeous animation combined with the adorable characters was too good to watch. Fans are anticipating the second season of this show and it is the right time for you to binge-watch the first season and hop on when the following season comes out.
22. Kimi Ni Todoke: From Me To You (2009 – 2011)
You must have at some time in your life seen the classic horror movie “The Ring.” We still get goosebumps thinking about the iconic scene where Samara emerges from the television. I’m sure you’re wondering why I’m bringing up this movie now. It’s because of how hilariously it relates to this anime.
Sawako Kuronuma is mistaken by her classmates because of how much she resembles Samara (the ghost girl from The Ring). But, everything changes in her life when she meets Kazehaya, the kindest and sweetest person in the class. He befriends her and they both continue to change their lives and develop feelings.
Furthermore, this is a cute romance anime that would be everyone’s cup of tea. It has a cracking and hilarious storyline but it only gets so much better from there. The characters are adorable and they stand as a pillar of this anime. You can easily binge-watch the entire series within a short time and will have no regrets.
23. Welcome to the N.H.K. (2006)
Do you desire a romanticized psychological dramedy (drama + comedy)? then you should watch Welcome to the NHK. This anime follows Tatsuhiro as he struggles to leave his flat and find work. But his major goal is to flee the evil schemes of the NHK. What is this NHK even?
One day, Tatsuhiro meets the enigmatic Misaki Nakahara who could be the turning point in his life, but what awaits them in the grand scheme of NHK? Try this anime to find the answers.
Welcome to the NHK is considered to be an amazing anime in all aspects but what’s more special is that it feels so relatable once you finish watching. Additionally, the story is kind of bizarre at first but with the romance and the comedies on the side, it gets entertaining as hell with each episode. Don’t overlook this anime as an old one it’s a classic anime that will win over your hearts easily.
24. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation (2021 – )
Soon after the release of its first season, Mushoku Tensei was regarded as one of the best isekai anime by fans. It depicts the story of a man who dies trying to save someone and then regains his life as Rudeus Greyrat in a fantastic fantasy universe. The main character aspires to have a meaningful life and is committed to avoiding repeating his previous mistakes in his new life.
It has amassed a very large audience in just one season, thanks to the isekai lovers. Furthermore, the second season was launched recently, and it helped the Isekai anime’s followers regain their confidence. Due to the hilarious characters and mystical plot, it is highly celebrated by the fans. Also, this anime has the perfect balance of romance, story, and action, in addition to having tons of funny comedy. It ranks among thetop isekai animeand is also a worthy romance anime.
25.Blue Spring Ride(2014)
Not all high-school love blooms into a beautiful relationship but what if you are given another life-changing chance? This anime is an example of such a situation. It centers around Futaba who fell in love with his classmate, Ko Tanaka in middle school. Their love falls apart as the boy gets transferred to some other place. But as the mysterious fate binds them together, Futaba runs into Ko again during her high school life which is turned upside down now. Will this reunion turn into the relationship they desire? find that for yourself by starting this romance anime.
It is a regular romance anime with a blend of comedy and drama. While it is cliched, it tends to offer a good watching experience and the romance is the soul of this anime. Thus if you are looking for a time pass material on our list such as anything not too serious, then try this one!
I hope we were able to present you with multiple and distinct anime choices in the romance genre. We have curated and picked anime TV series and movies based on popularity, fandom, and a little bit based on my personal taste to offer you numerous choices.
In the meantime, let us know which is your favorite romance anime in the comments section below. Also, if you think we have missed out on any good romance anime, tell us in the comments, and we will add them right away.
Ajith Kumar
An entertainment writer with a passion for analyzing and sharing insights on movies, shows, and anime.
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