Anime Like Adachi and Shimamura You Should Watch

If you enjoyed the subtle, slow-burning romance and slice-of-life elements in Adachi and Shimamura, these anime are perfect for you. Each of these shows explores the emotions and connections that develop between characters in a similar, thoughtful way, offering fans a deeper dive into yuri themes and emotional storytelling.

1. Bloom Into You

Bloom Into You is a beautiful yuri anime that delves into the emotional complexities of love and self-discovery, similar to Adachi and Shimamura. It follows Yuu, a high school student who doesn’t feel the same romantic excitement others do—until she meets Touko, the student council president, who confesses her feelings. The two navigate their emotions and grow closer, resulting in a delicate exploration of love and identity. The series not only highlights their evolving relationship but also focuses on the struggles they face in understanding themselves and their desires. With its careful pacing and emotional depth, this anime is perfect for those who appreciate introspective storytelling.

Release Date: October 5, 2018
Studio: Troyca
Genres: Drama, Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Bloom Into You

2. Sakura Trick

This anime focuses on two high school friends, Haruka and Yuu, whose relationship deepens when they start sharing secret kisses to strengthen their bond. While Sakura Trick is more playful and lighthearted than Adachi and Shimamura, it still explores the developing bond between two girls as they navigate the highs and lows of their romantic feelings. The show emphasizes the small, everyday moments that make their relationship special, blending comedy and romance in a way that keeps the tone fun yet heartfelt. Fans who enjoy sweet and affectionate dynamics will find this anime delightful.

Release Date: January 10, 2014
Studio: Studio Deen
Genres: Comedy, Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Sakura Trick

3. Citrus

Citrus tells the story of Yuzu, a fashionable and lively girl who transfers to a strict all-girls school. There, she clashes with her serious and mysterious stepsister, Mei, who soon becomes the object of her affection. The series captures the tension and emotional turmoil that comes with exploring newfound feelings and the struggles of adapting to a new environment. As their relationship evolves, both characters must confront their own insecurities and past traumas, making this anime a fitting choice for fans of Adachi and Shimamura who enjoy more dramatic and intense yuri stories.

Release Date: January 6, 2018
Studio: Passione
Genres: Drama, Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Citrus

4. Asagao to Kase-san

Asagao to Kase-san. is a sweet and gentle yuri anime that portrays the budding romance between the shy Yamada and the athletic Kase. Unlike other anime that start with friendship and slowly transition to romance, this show explores a relationship that begins with mutual attraction. The anime emphasizes the charm of everyday moments, such as caring for plants together or supporting each other’s hobbies. It’s a heartwarming watch for those who appreciate gentle, slice-of-life narratives and the innocent, growing connections between two girls. The art style also adds to the warm, comforting atmosphere.

Release Date: June 9, 2018
Studio: Zexcs
Genres: Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Asagao to Kase-san.

5. Whispered Words (Sasameki Koto)

Whispered Words features the unrequited love story of Sumika, who has deep feelings for her best friend, Ushio. The anime follows her internal struggle as she tries to balance her longing for Ushio with their friendship. It’s a slow-paced yuri series that captures the emotional complexities and challenges of falling for someone close, mirroring the themes seen in Adachi and Shimamura. The show also introduces a variety of secondary characters who add layers to the story, providing insights into different types of relationships and the diversity of romantic experiences.

Release Date: October 7, 2009
Studio: AIC
Genres: Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Whispered Words

6. Sweet Blue Flowers (Aoi Hana)

Set in a high school environment, Sweet Blue Flowers follows Fumi and Akira as they reconnect after years apart. The series explores the complications of love, friendship, and identity as both characters face challenges in their personal lives. Known for its realistic portrayal of shoujo ai relationships, the anime delves into how each character navigates their feelings and evolves emotionally. The anime’s delicate storytelling and gentle animation style make it an excellent companion to Adachi and Shimamura, focusing on character development and the subtleties of romantic relationships.

Release Date: July 2, 2009
Studio: J.C. Staff
Genres: Drama, Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Sweet Blue Flowers

7. Watashi no Yuri wa Oshigoto desu!

This series dives into the dynamics between girls working at a café where they role-play yuri scenarios for customers. While the setting is different from typical school-based yuri anime, the show retains a similar atmosphere, with characters exploring their emotions and deepening relationships. The series offers humor and light drama as the characters’ real emotions start to blur with their roles at work, making it an engaging watch for fans of Adachi and Shimamura who enjoy more unique settings in yuri stories.

Release Date: April 2023
Studio: Passione, Studio Lings
Genres: Comedy, Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Watashi no Yuri wa Oshigoto desu!

8. Yuri Kuma Arashi

Directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara, Yuri Kuma Arashi presents a surreal, metaphorical approach to yuri romance. The story follows girls who must confront societal barriers as they explore their love for each other. The series’ artistic style and narrative complexity offer something unique for fans who want a more abstract and symbolic take on yuri themes. It challenges viewers to think deeply about the meaning of relationships and societal norms, making it a standout entry for those who enjoy thoughtful, layered narratives.

Release Date: January 5, 2015
Studio: Silver Link
Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Yuri Kuma Arashi

9. Strawberry Panic

A classic in the yuri genre, Strawberry Panic follows the romantic entanglements between students at three affiliated all-girls schools. With its dramatic storylines and complex characters, the series intensifies the emotional stakes in each episode, offering fans an engaging and nostalgic yuri experience. It explores various relationships, from innocent first loves to more complicated, unrequited feelings. For fans of Adachi and Shimamura who enjoy drama with their yuri, this anime provides a compelling watch.

Release Date: April 3, 2006
Studio: Madhouse
Genres: Drama, Romance, Shoujo Ai
MyAnimeList Link: Strawberry Panic

10. Kanamemo

Kanamemo is a lighthearted, slice-of-life series that also explores relationships between girls. While it’s not purely focused on yuri, the anime includes subtext and character interactions that echo the gentle, warm moments found in Adachi and Shimamura. The show’s easygoing tone and episodic format make it a relaxing watch for those who want a softer and more comedic take on female friendships and subtle romantic elements.

Release Date: July 5, 2009
Studio: Feel
Genres: Comedy, Shoujo Ai, Slice of Life
MyAnimeList Link: Kanamemo

Final Thoughts

If you loved the soft, introspective, and romantic atmosphere of Adachi and Shimamura, these anime provide similarIf you loved the soft, introspective, and romantic atmosphere of Adachi and Shimamura, these anime provide similar experiences filled with emotional growth, complex relationships, and heartwarming storytelling. Explore these recommendations to find your next favorite yuri series that captures the essence of slow-burn romance and deep connections.