The Ultimate List of Best Romance Anime: 22 Recommendations
Here’s an extensive list of some of the best romance anime, featuring a wide range of stories that cover everything from high school romances to more mature, complex love stories. This list is perfect for anyone looking to explore the romance genre in depth.
1. Fruits Basket (2019)
Fruits Basket is a must-watch for any romance anime fan. It beautifully blends romance with drama and fantasy, focusing on the complicated relationships within the Sohma family, who are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac. The series offers deep character development and emotional storytelling that resonates with viewers long after the credits roll.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life, Supernatural
- Release Date: April 2019
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
2. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa.) (2016)
Your Name is a landmark in romance anime films. The story revolves around two high school students who mysteriously swap bodies, leading to a connection that transcends time and space. This visually stunning film explores themes of love, destiny, and longing, making it a must-see.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, Supernatural
- Release Date: August 2016
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
3. Clannad: After Story (2008)
This sequel to Clannad is known for its emotional depth and exploration of life’s hardships, focusing on the main characters as they transition into adulthood. The series is a rollercoaster of emotions and is often cited as one of the most touching romance anime ever made.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life, Supernatural
- Release Date: October 2008
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
4. Horimiya (2021)
Horimiya is a refreshing take on high school romance, focusing on the unlikely relationship between the seemingly perfect Hori and the reserved Miyamura. The series explores their growth as individuals and as a couple, making it a heartwarming and relatable watch.
- Genres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Romance, School
- Release Date: January 2021
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
5. Kaguya-sama: Love is War (2019)
This anime turns the typical high school romance on its head with its battle of wits between two top students, each trying to make the other confess first. It’s a hilarious and clever series that combines romance with psychological elements, making it a unique entry in the genre.
- Genres: Comedy, Psychological, Romance, School
- Release Date: January 2019
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
6. Nana (2006)
Nana tells the story of two women with the same name whose lives intertwine as they navigate love, career, and friendship in Tokyo. The series is a deep dive into adult relationships, capturing the highs and lows of love in a realistic and emotionally charged way.
- Genres: Drama, Music, Romance, Slice of Life
- Release Date: April 2006
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
7. Toradora! (2008)
A classic in the genre, Toradora! follows the unlikely friendship and eventual romance between Ryuuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka. The series is known for its well-developed characters and the way it balances humor with heartfelt moments.
- Genres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Romance, School
- Release Date: October 2008
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
8. Ao Haru Ride (2014)
This anime explores themes of first love and second chances. The protagonist, Futaba, reunites with her first love, Kou, only to find that their feelings and circumstances have changed. It’s a poignant look at how relationships evolve over time.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, School, Shoujo
- Release Date: July 2014
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
9. Scum’s Wish (Kuzu no Honkai) (2017)
Scum’s Wish offers a darker, more mature take on romance, focusing on unrequited love and the emotional voids people try to fill with imperfect relationships. The series is intense and thought-provoking, making it a standout for those who enjoy complex emotional drama.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, School, Seinen
- Release Date: January 2017
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
10. Honey and Clover (Hachimitsu to Clover) (2005)
Set against the backdrop of art college, Honey and Clover explores the romantic entanglements and personal growth of five students. The series is both heartwarming and melancholic, capturing the bittersweet nature of unrequited love and the struggle to find one’s path in life.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life, Josei
- Release Date: April 2005
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
11. Kimi ni Todoke (2009)
This series follows Sawako, a shy and misunderstood girl, as she navigates high school and slowly opens up to love and friendship. Kimi ni Todoke is a gentle, heartwarming story that emphasizes the transformative power of love and kindness.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, School, Shoujo
- Release Date: October 2009
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
12. Lovely★Complex (2007)
Lovely★Complex is a comedic take on high school romance, focusing on the relationship between a tall girl and a short boy who team up to help each other with their respective crushes. The series is full of laughs and tender moments, making it a delightful watch.
- Genres: Comedy, Romance, School, Shoujo
- Release Date: April 2007
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
13. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai.) (2011)
This anime blends romance with supernatural elements, focusing on a group of friends who reunite after a tragedy. The series explores themes of loss, regret, and the enduring impact of first love.
- Genres: Drama, Slice of Life, Supernatural
- Release Date: April 2011
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
14. 5 Centimeters Per Second (Byousoku 5 Centimeter) (2007)
A visually stunning film, 5 Centimeters Per Second explores the painful side of love and the impact of distance on relationships. The film is a poignant portrayal of how first love can shape our lives and linger in our memories.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
- Release Date: March 2007
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
15. Golden Time (2013)
Set in college, Golden Time follows Banri Tada, who suffers from amnesia, and his complicated relationship with Koko Kaga. The series delves into themes of identity, memory, and the impact of past relationships on new ones.
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, School
- Release Date: October 2013
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
16. Weathering With You (Tenki no Ko) (2019)
From the creator of Your Name, this film follows a high school boy who runs away to Tokyo and meets a girl who can manipulate the weather. Their romance unfolds against the backdrop of an unusual and magical Tokyo, blending romance with fantasy.
- Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Romance
- Release Date: July 2019
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
17. Tsuki ga Kirei (2017)
Tsuki ga Kirei is a tender exploration of first love, following the blossoming relationship between two middle school students. The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of young love and the awkward, yet sweet, interactions that come with it.
- Genres: Romance, School
- Release Date: April 2017
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
18. Orange (2016)
Orange combines romance with a touch of science fiction as the protagonist, Naho, receives letters from her future self, guiding her to prevent the regrets she will have about her relationship with a transfer student named Kakeru. The anime explores themes of love, regret, and the impact of decisions.
- Genres: Drama, Romance, School, Sci-Fi
- Release Date: July 2016
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
19. Kokoro Connect (2012)
Kokoro Connect adds a supernatural twist to the romance genre. The story follows five high school students who start swapping bodies with each other, which leads to complications in their relationships and forces them to confront their hidden emotions.
- Genres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Supernatural, Drama, Romance, School
- Release Date: July 2012
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
20. My Little Monster (Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun) (2012)
My Little Monster follows the relationship between the studious Shizuku and the unpredictable Haru. The series is known for its unique characters and the development of an unconventional romance.
- Genres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Romance, School
- Release Date: October 2012
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
21. Plastic Memories (2015)
Plastic Memories is a sci-fi romance that explores the relationship between a human and an android with a limited lifespan. The series is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, touching on themes of love, loss, and the passage of time.
- Genres: Sci-Fi, Drama, Romance
- Release Date: April 2015
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
22. White Album 2 (2013)
White Album 2 is a mature and dramatic romance that focuses on a love triangle between three music students. The series delves into the emotional complexities of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of dreams.
- Genres: Drama, Music, Romance, Slice of Life
- Release Date: October 2013
- MyAnimeList Link: Read here
Conclusion
This extensive list of romance anime offers something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of heartwarming high school love stories, dramatic and complex relationships, or even a touch of supernatural or sci-fi elements intertwined with romance. From classics like Toradora! and Clannad: After Story to modern hits like Fruits Basket and Your Name, these anime showcase the depth and diversity of love in its many forms. Whether you’re looking for a tearjerker or a lighthearted romantic comedy, this list has got you covered. Dive into these stories and experience the emotional journeys they have to offer—each one a testament to the power of love in anime.
