School romance anime is a classic mix of genres that never fails to capture the hearts of viewers of all ages.
These shows will take you on a thrilling emotional journey, from innocent crushes to complicated love triangles, all set in a nostalgic high school backdrop.
So if you’re ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, check out our best school romance anime, handpicked by us based on our personal experience and tastes.
You will often read about school clubs and presidents, because that’s a quite common trope as you will notice.
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31. Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend
Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend is a school romance anime with a unique twist.
The anime follows Tomoya as he gathers a group of talented artists and writers, including childhood friend Eriri and scriptwriter Utaha, to create a hit visual novel.
To make their story more relatable, they model the main character after an average high school student, Megumi.
As they work to bring their game to life, the team realizes the importance of real emotions for success, leading to a captivating love triangle between Tomoya, Eriri, and Utaha.
While Saekano may not be considered the greatest romance of all time, it still manages to rise above the vast majority of harem anime out there, so we’re 100% positive that it’s worth it.
30. Horimiya
Horimiya is a heartwarming anime about Kyouko Hori and Izumi Miyamura, who unexpectedly find themselves drawn to each other in a fateful meeting.
As they spend more time together, their hidden selves are revealed, leading to the development of romantic feelings.
Horimiya a testament to love coming from unexpected places and different walks of life and finding common ground.
What makes this anime truly stand out is its ability to avoid the typical clichés found in the school romance genre. Instead, it offers realistic characters that viewers can genuinely relate to.
There are no over-the-top tsundere or overly dominant males, just genuine teenagers trying to navigate the ups and downs of life and love.
Plus, the slow-burning love story adds depth through revealed insecurities and past traumas, making it an emotional journey that you won’t forget.
29. Ouran Koukou Host Club
After accidentally breaking a valuable vase at Ouran Academy’s famous Host Club, studious Haruhi Fujioka joins the club disguised as a boy to repay her debt and entertain female students.
But what starts as a hobby soon becomes a journey of self-discovery and unexpected relationships as each member of the Host Club develops feelings for Haruhi, who finds herself drawn to each of them in her own way.
With the perfect mix of humor and romance, this anime is a delightful tale of love and friendship that has stood the test of time.
What sets Ouran Koukou Host Club apart is its approach to the typical harem, providing a fresh perspective from a female point of view, so this is one of the best reverse harem anime ever.
Plus, with adaptations in the form of a visual novel, live-action TV series, and a movie in Japan, it’s clear that this anime has made an impact on audiences worldwide.
28. Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun
Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun blends romance and comedy in a delightful way.
The story follows Chiyo Sakura, who confesses her love to famous shoujo manga artist Umetaro Nozaki, only to be mistaken for an autograph seeker. Chiyo then becomes Nozaki’s manga assistant, working alongside a group of quirky classmates.
As Chiyo helps Nozaki with his manga, she finds herself growing closer to him, but he remains oblivious to her feelings. Nevertheless, the girl remains optimistic and continues to support Nozaki’s work.
Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun’s unique style features characters that are typical of a shojo manga. The comedy is derived from their reactions to situations based on what they’ve read, as Nozaki writes his stories based on the people he interacts with.
This anime hilariously portrays how manga can shape one’s perspective on life.
While the anime can wander at times, with many character interactions that don’t advance the plot, the charming blend of romance and comedy still makes it a good watch.
27. Say “I Love You”
This beautiful series follows Mei Tachibana, a high school student who has been hurt in the past and is hesitant to trust others. But when the popular and persistent Yamato Kurosawa enters her life, everything changes.
Follow Mei and Yamato’s journey as they navigate the ups and downs of a new romantic relationship, complete with misunderstandings and learning to express their true feelings for each other.
But this anime isn’t just about romance, it also carries an important message about not judging others based on appearances or personality.
Through Mei’s growth, we see the importance of getting to know someone beyond the surface level.
And if you love a good one-sided love story, Say I Love You handles the topic with grace and comfort, ensuring that every unrequited love story has a happy ending.
26. Teasing Master Takagi-san
This charming series follows the playful banter and relationship between classmates Nishikata and Takagi.
As Takagi teases Nishikata and always seems to be one step ahead, Nishikata tries his best to turn the tables on her and make her blush. But as their relationship progresses, Nishikata also grapples with his growing feelings for Takagi.
What makes Teasing Master Takagi-san stand out is its refreshing innocence and genuine portrayal of young love.
It avoids typical tropes of the slice-of-life genre and instead focuses on relatable and pure moments between the 2 classmates.
Teasing Master Takagi-san is a must-watch if you want to experience the sweet and playful side of young love. Don’t miss out on this charming and adorable series that will leave you with a big smile on your face.
25. Given
This school romance anime tells the story of Mafuyu Satou and his journey to find his light through music.
With his Gibson guitar in hand, Mafuyu meets Ritsuka Uenoyama, who offers to help him improve his guitar skills and join their band. The band is made up of Haruki Nakayama on bass and Akihiko Kaji on drums.
As Mafuyu learns to play the guitar, Uenoyama is captivated by his beautiful voice and works to make him the lead singer of the band.
But as they work together, the characters uncover their own mysterious pasts and find love in unexpected ways.
This anime features some of the best instrumental music you’ll ever hear, serving as a beautiful backdrop to the exploration of themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
Through the lens of music, Given tells a heartwarming story of characters finding themselves, their light, and the unexpected love that we’re sure you’ll like.
24. Ao Haru Hide (Blue Spring Ride)
This 12-episode masterpiece will grab your attention from the get-go and refuse to let go.
The story revolves around Futaba Yoshioka, a girl who was well-liked by boys in middle school but kept at arm’s length by the girls.
The only boy she was interested in was Ko Tanaka, who eventually moved away, leaving Futaba heartbroken.
The school romance in Ao Haru Ride is one of the main reasons why this anime stands out from the rest.
The portrayal of the relationship-building between Futaba and Ko is nuanced. It is also compelling as they navigate their feelings and challenges of young love.
Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you follow their journey, from heartbreak to reconciliation, and everything in between.
23. Tsurezure Children
This short romance anime offers a relatable and diverse cast of characters, showcasing the various stages of love, life, and growing up in a high school setting.
What makes Tsuredure Children stand out is its unique format of bite-sized episodes that offer a glimpse into the experiences and emotions of the students.
With a variety of relationship dynamics, the conflicts in the anime feel genuine and relatable to anyone who has dealt with young love.
Whether you’re a fan of school romance anime or simply looking for something light, heartwarming, and memorable, Tsuredure Children is a perfect choice.
22. Nisekoi
Nisekoi follows the story of Raku Ichijou, a high school student who’s thrown into a fake relationship with Chitoge, the daughter of a rival gang’s leader.
With hilarious moments and a lovable cast of characters, this anime delivers on all fronts. As Raku navigates the challenges of his false romance, more girls from his past start to appear, adding to the excitement and drama.
Sure, it may not be the most original anime out there, but Nisekoi: False Love manages to keep things engaging with its likable characters and well-executed plot, all in one of the best romance anime where enemies become lovers.
Whether you’re a fan of harem anime or just looking for a fun and entertaining watch, Nisekoi: False Love is definitely worth your time if you like school settings.
21. Toradora!
Toradora! is a classic school romance anime that will leave you with warm and fuzzy feelings.
The anime follows the story of Ryuuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka, 2 high school students who form an unlikely alliance to help each other win the hearts of their crushes.
The duo’s personalities are like day and night, with Ryuuji appearing rough on the outside but having a heart of gold, while Taiga, nicknamed Palmtop Tiger, is small in stature but has a feisty personality.
As they work together, Ryuuji and Taiga develop a close bond, leading to unexpected feelings between them.
With its well-written characters and heartfelt moments, Toradora! is a great blend of romance and comedy.
The anime’s ability to tackle complex emotions and relationships with humor and sensitivity is what makes it stand out from other school romance anime.
20. My Dress Up Darling
This school romance anime follows the story of Wakana Gojo and Marin Kitagawa, 2 students who bond over their love for cosplay.
As Gojo works on Marin’s cosplay outfits, they discover a deeper connection and a new way to express themselves.
This anime takes you on an in-depth journey into the technical side of cosplay, from accurate measurements to shopping for materials.
The main setting is their high school, as you can clearly see from most of the scenes. Gojo is actually a shut-in at the start of the series and Marin will help him in his journey to confidence.
This is also coherent to the main message of the show, namely accepting your passions and not being afraid of who you are.
19. ReLIFE
ReLIFE is a captivating anime that appeals to fans of the school and romance genres, with one of the best romantic subplots ever.
The show follows Arata Kaizaki, a 27-year-old who is given the chance to relive his high school years through a mysterious pill.
As he navigates the challenges of being a transfer student, he forms close bonds with his classmates and falls in love with Chizuru Hishiro, another ReLIFE subject.
But ReLIFE is more than just a love story. It delves into complex themes of personal growth and second chances, while also exploring the strengths and complexities of human connections.
And at only 13 episodes, it’s a quick watch that’s sure to leave you feeling emotionally stirred and satisfied.
18. Bloom Into You
If you’re searching for a school romance anime that deals with intricate themes in a refreshing and touching manner, Bloom Into You is a perfect choice.
Bloom Into You follows the journey of Yuu Koito, a high school student who has always longed for true love. When she receives a confession from a classmate, she finds herself at a loss for how to respond.
It’s not until she meets Touko Nanami, the sophisticated and poised student council president, that Yuu’s romantic journey truly begins.
What makes Bloom Into You stand out is its ability to delve into the intricacies of relationships and the difficulties of opening up to another person.
The characters are multidimensional and relatable, with the story unfolding from multiple perspectives without sacrificing the development of the main cast.
With its great pacing, the series thoughtfully explores fresh themes without resorting to unnecessary drama.
17. His and Her Circumstances
Unlike other shows that drag out the confession, this series dives into what happens after the couple starts dating.
Follow the story of Yukino and Souichirou, 2 high school rivals who realize they’re hiding secrets from the world. As their relationship blossoms, themes of love, self-discovery, and acceptance are explored.
As Yukino and Souichirou navigate their flaws and secrets, they learn to love and stay with each other in a realistic and relatable way.
What sets this anime apart is the perfect balance between humor and seriousness.
Yukino’s spoiled personality adds the laughs, while Souichirou’s troubled past brings depth. With honest and sincere communication, they cater to each other’s needs and grow closer.
16. The Pet Girl of Sakurasou
The Pet Girl of Sakurasou is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of friendship, love, ambition, and heartbreak.
The show follows Sorata Kanda, a transfer student who ends up living at the Sakura-sou dormitory, where he meets Mashiro Shiina, a talented artist who struggles with basic everyday tasks.
Sorata becomes Mashiro’s caregiver and strives to become her equal, but their developing relationship faces challenges as they confront their own past experiences and self-doubt.
What makes this anime so special are the characters, they’re interesting, eclectic, and will definitely tug on your heartstrings.
There’s plenty of character growth and slice-of-life interactions along the way, and the pacing is just right to keep you engaged without getting bored.
Sorata’s journey of learning to deal with the extraordinary, despite being an ordinary person, is truly inspiring.
Kono Oto Tomare! is a beautifully executed anime with a compelling storyline and lovable characters.
The show brings a fresh take to the genre by centering around traditional Japanese music and the koto instrument.
But what really makes this anime stand out is the underdog story of Chika Kudou, a delinquent who strives to become a skilled koto player, abandoning his dark past.
The series is filled with heartwarming moments and emotional depth, as the club members bond over their shared love for music and develop a deep understanding of each other.
And let’s not forget the slow-burning romance between Chika and koto prodigy Satowa Houzuki, which adds another layer of sweetness to the show.
The music remains the star of the show, but the romance and friendships between the characters make it a must-watch.
14. True Tears
True Tears is a stunning coming-of-age story that dives deep into the complex emotions of high school students Shinichirou, Hiromi, and Noe.
But what sets True Tears apart is the captivating drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat and makes you truly care about the characters.
The character of Noe, in particular, will capture your heart from the get-go. At first, she may seem like a silly character, but as the story unfolds, you’ll come to understand the deep pain and suffering that she’s going through.
Don’t be fooled by its simplicity, this tale carries a wealth of depth and social meaning, touching on themes like dreams and failure that are integral to the story.
True Tears is an emotional rollercoaster that you won’t want to miss. Its relatable characters, well-crafted drama, and themes of growth and struggle make it an anime that will stick with you long after the final episode.
13. Skip and Loafer
Skip and Loafer is a modern romance anime featuring a group of friends and a couple with opposite personalities.
Mitsumi Iwakura, an energetic and funny girl, embarks on a new journey in a school in Tokyo, coming from rural Japan, and she will meet Sosuke Shima, a diligent and aloof student.
She is looking for some change and to upgrade her life, dreaming of a perfect life in the big city of Tokyo. As many of you know, reality hits hard and she will have to face the hardships of life and youth.
This is the perfect story if you want to relive high school again with a diverse cast with their own struggles and backgrounds, Skip and Loafer is the way to go.
12. Ore Monogatari!!
Ore Monogatari!! is not your typical school romance anime. It celebrates the beauty of inner qualities rather than just showcasing conventionally attractive characters.
Meet Takeo Gouda, the muscular protagonist with an unorthodox personality that sets him apart from the typical romantic hero.
Takeo’s big heart shines through when he falls in love with Rinko Yamato after saving her from danger. He pursues her, even if it means going against his best friend Makoto Sunakawa.
Their journey is filled with ups and downs, but their love only grows stronger with each episode.
One of the most refreshing things about Ore Monogatari!! is its endless humor, often centered around Takeo’s unorthodox intensity and innocence. But the show never forgets to showcase the positive qualities that make him so lovable.
If you’re looking for a school romance anime that celebrates the beauty of inner strength and humor, Ore Monogatari!! is a must-watch.
11. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
Based on the novel by Tsutsui Yasutaka, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time has won numerous awards for its unique and thought-provoking storyline.
Makoto Konno is a typical high school student who suddenly discovers she has the power to time travel. But as she begins to play around with her new ability, she quickly learns that every action has a consequence, and time is not as simple as it seems.
The animation in this movie is almost perfect, but the love story is what really pulls at your heartstrings.
Makoto’s relationship with a boy she cares for deeply hits a snag, and no matter how much she tries, she can’t seem to set things right.
But even as she learns the hard way that time travel can’t fix everything, she discovers that every decision she makes has the power to shape her future.
Whether you’re a fan of time travel stories or just looking for a heartwarming and thought-provoking anime, The Girl Who Leapt Through Time is not to be missed.
10. Maid Sama!
Maid Sama! is a romantic school anime that’s all about challenges and secrets.
Meet Misaki Ayuzawa, the strict and no-nonsense student council president of Seika High School who harbors a secret job as a maid at a nearby cafe.
Enter Takumi Usui, the school’s most popular guy, who discovers Misaki’s clandestine gig and takes pleasure in teasing her mercilessly.
But as Misaki’s and Takumi’s paths continue to cross, their relationship blossoms in surprising ways.
While Takumi might not be the most memorable love interest out there, Misaki’s spunky and frenetic personality creates hilarious conflicts that are easy to enjoy.
The show may not be packed with relationship drama, but it more than makes up for it with the challenges and secrets that arise from their newfound feelings.
The story follows Kousei Arima, a former piano prodigy who’s lost his ability to hear the music he plays since the death of his mother.
Enter Kaori Miyazono, a passionate violinist who breathes life back into Kousei’s world with her music and personality.
Set in a high school setting, this award-winning anime tells a touching tale of the power of music to heal and connect people. As Kousei navigates his way back into the world of music and his relationship with Kaori blossoms, you’ll be taken on a rollercoaster of emotions.
And even if you’re not familiar with classical music, the stunning graphics and beautiful pieces will leave you awestruck.
Your Lie in April isn’t just a tear-jerker, though. It’s a story of hope, inspiration, the resilience of the human spirit, and one of the best romance anime with a depressed MC.
You’ll be inspired by Kaori’s musical prowess and Kousei’s journey of self-discovery.
8. Tsuki ga Kirei
This anime takes a refreshingly honest look at the challenges and joys of first love, with one of the best romance anime with a early couple.
Kotarou and Akane are 2 ordinary students who find themselves drawn to each other. As they navigate the complexities of their relationship, including misunderstandings and outside influences, you’ll be rooting for them every step of the way.
What sets Tsuki ga Kirei apart is its authenticity. The characters are relatable, the story is believable, and the emotions are genuine.
This anime will take you on a journey through the ups and downs of young love, leaving you with a warm and fuzzy feeling in your heart.
Plus, the stunning animation and beautiful soundtrack only add to the experience.
7. Kids on the Slope
Set in the 1960s in Kyushu, Japan, the anime follows the story of Kaoru Nishimi, a classical pianist who struggles to fit in at his new high school.
That is until he meets Sentarou Kawabuchi, a delinquent with a passion for jazz music. Together, they form an unlikely friendship and start a jazz band.
And as Kaoru’s passion for jazz music grows, so does his love for Ritsuko Mukae, the owner of a family-run record shop. The show beautifully depicts the ups and downs of their relationship as they navigate through the challenges of first love.
What sets Kids on the Slope apart from other high-school dramas is its unique setting, art direction, and score. It’s also worth noting that this anime is the first series produced by MAPPA, which is now a powerhouse in the industry.
With likable characters and a fantastic storyline, this anime will have you hooked from start to finish. And plus, if you’re a jazz enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the attention to detail in the music.
6. From Me To You
This delightful anime follows the journey of Sawako Kuronuma, who, despite her sweet personality, is often mistaken for the terrifying character from The Ring due to her physical appearance.
But all Sawako really wants is to make friends and live a happy life. That’s where Shouta Kazehaya comes in, a popular student who takes an interest in Sawako and helps her break out of her shell.
As their friendship blossoms, Sawako and Kazehaya learn to appreciate and understand each other in a whole new light.
But what really sets From Me to You apart are its relatable characters and realistic portrayal of high school life. You’ll find yourself rooting for Sawako as she discovers her true self and cheering for Kazehaya as he discovers the depth of Sawako’s kindness.
And let’s not forget the charming chibi humor that adds an extra layer of fun to the story. From Me to You is a must-watch if you love a good school love story, and for vanilla romance anime too.
5. Clannad
The story revolves around Tomoya Okazaki, a delinquent who thinks life is boring and that he’s not destined for anything great.
However, everything changes when he meets Nagisa Furukawa, a cheerful girl who wants to revive the school’s drama club.
As Tomoya helps Nagisa, he becomes friends with four other girls and learns about their struggles. These interactions help him see life from a different perspective, and he starts to realize that there’s more to it than he initially thought.
And as he grows closer to Nagisa, he also starts developing feelings for her. Their relationship blossoms into a sweet and tender romance, but they face obstacles along the way.
This anime portrays the complexity of relationships beyond just the physical aspects, with one of the saddest ending in romance anime.
4. Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is a captivating and distinctive school romance anime that offers a refreshing perspective on the usual teenage dilemmas.
The anime delves into the mysterious Puberty Syndrome, a rare and puzzling illness that afflicts teenagers with extraordinary symptoms beyond explanation.
Sakuta Azusagawa is a high school student who knows all too well about this phenomenon, and one of the best cool Mc in a romance anime
When he meets Mai Sakurajima, a famous child actress turned high school student who is also affected by the syndrome, they team up to navigate through their respective supernatural problems together.
But what sets this anime apart is the realism of its characters and their interactions. Sakuta is a self-aware and cool protagonist, and the characters’ reactions feel real, based on their personalities, making them all relatable.
At its core, Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is a unique blend of romance, supernatural elements, and psychology. It’s a must-watch if you are looking for something different and meaningful.
3. My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU (OreGairu)
My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU (OreGairu) follows Hachiman Hikigaya, one of the best depressed Mc in a romance anime who joins the Volunteer Service Club and meets the smart and stunning Yukino Yukinoshita.
Together, they help other students while confronting their own personal issues, leading to a complex relationship that becomes even more complicated with the addition of Yui.
But what really sets OreGairu apart is its realistic portrayal of high school life and the complex emotions that come with it. The characters are flawed and relatable, and their interactions are both hilarious and thought-provoking.
Hachiman’s deadpan humor and sarcasm never feel forced, and the show never rewards his bad behavior. Instead, it shows the characters rising above their flaws and growing into better versions of themselves.
It’s a journey that will stay with you long after the final episode, and leave you wanting more.
2. Kaguya-sama
Looking for a school romance anime that’s not like the others? Kaguya-sama: Love Is War is a fresh and entertaining take on the genre.
It’s about 2 highly respected student council leaders, Miyuki and Kaguya, who are madly in love with each other but too stubborn to confess.
Instead of the usual lovey-dovey stuff, they engage in an all-out war of wits and schemes to make the other one confess their love first.
The result is a hilarious and absurd series of events that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and one of the best slice of life romance anime ever made.
Not only are the protagonists dynamic and interesting, but the supporting characters are just as entertaining, making this romance just one of the best you can find at the moment.
1. Fruits Basket
This beloved series stands out among its peers with its captivating story, relatable characters, and one of the best love triangles in romance anime.
The anime centers around Tooru, a teenage girl who must navigate the challenges of living on her own.
But when she finds a new home with the Souma family, she discovers their magical secret. They turn into animals of the zodiac when hugged by someone of the opposite gender.
At its core, Fruits Basket is a story about love, with one of the best love triangles you can find in all the romance genre.
But what sets this anime apart is its skillful portrayal of complicated relationships. From unrequited love to toxic relationships, Fruits Basket tackles these challenging topics with grace and sensitivity.
It’s no wonder that we considered it as the top school romance anime.
