The shonen demographic is often linked to action and fighting genres rather than romance series, but trust us when we say that this is a misconception, as there are some gems in the romance genre tailored for this target audience.
Some as you might expect incorporate an action narrative, like Inuyasha, but there are also pure romances such as Your Lie in April and Nisekoi.
And you know what this means, right? That you are sure to find something for you in this list because of its variety.
So, here’s our collection of the best shonen romance anime that you definitely should add to your watchlist.
Table of Contents
20. The Quintessential Quintuplets
The Quintessential Quintuplets is an excellent harem romance that achieved huge success during its run, based on a shonen anime.
The anime concluded with 2 seasons and 1 movie, all of which are available on Crunchyroll.
The story revolves around Futaro Uesugi, a student with excellent grades but an antisocial nature, coming from a poor family.
One day he encounters Itsuki Nakano, a newly transferred student in the school cafeteria, and a conflict ensues between them.
Shortly after, Futaro lands a well-paying part-time job as a private tutor, only to discover that his student is none other than Itsuki, along with her four twin sisters! How will the story unfold from here?
The Quintessential Quintuplets is undoubtedly a must-watch if you enjoy harem romances.
It features lively and well-written characters that maintain the story’s pacing fast, with plenty of comic moments and with cute romance scenes as the quintuplets try to win over Futaro.
19. TONIKAWA: Over The Moon For You
Tonikawa originated as a shonen manga in 2018, which was later adapted into an anime with its first season in 2020, followed by a recently released second season in 2023.
It’s a perfect romance anime for those who prefer getting straight to the point with the romance, skipping the usual courtship phase.
The main character is Nasa, a simple boy who one day meets the beautiful Tsukasa in an encounter that seems as if it was meant by fate.
Deciding to go to her by crossing the street, the boy will be hit by a truck, but he still decides not to miss the chance to meet the girl, who rushes to his aid.
The girl will accept the proposal to go out with him, but only if she promises to become her spouse.
18. Flowers of Evil
Flowers of Evil is an incredible work that started as a shonen manga written by Master Oshimi and was adapted into an anime in 2013.
Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the best dark romance anime you can find, featuring a psychological and at times twisted narrative along with a unique and uncomfortable animation style.
We also highly recommend reading the manga if the animated adaptation captures your interest.
Follow high school student Takao Kasuga‘s descent into an obsession with fellow student Nanako Saeki.
But things take a dark turn when he’s blackmailed into participating in the disturbing fantasies of one of his classmate, Sawa Nakamura.
17. Tsuredure Children
Tsuredure Children is a heartwarming coming-of-age romance adapted from a shonen manga that follows the main characters as they navigate their first loves and form genuine relationships.
With its endearing cast of characters and multiple adorable couples to root for, Tsurezure Children is guaranteed to put a smile on your face with each episode.
Whether it’s the mature bickering between Ryouko and Akagi, the goofy relationship between Kana and Chiaki, or the honest dynamic of Ayaka and Takeru, each couple brings something unique to the story.
Tsuredure Children is one of those romance anime where you can witness the characters change and grow, discover love, and face the inevitable disappointments that come along with it.
All with an exquisite slice-of-life formula and a comedic atmosphere, so you can rest assured that you won’t get bored while watching.
16. Taisho Otome Fairytail
Taisho Otome Fairytail is an ideal pick for enthusiasts of historical romance anime, being set in the Taisho era with numerous references to real historical events.
If this is the type of anime you’re searching for in this list, you’ve indeed found what you’re looking for.
It follows the story of Tamahiko Shima, a pessimistic teen left alone in the mountains with a disabled right arm after a tragic accident.
But his life takes an unexpected turn when his father buys him a wife to take care of him.
Enter Yuzuki Tachibana, a determined young girl who’s been sold into marriage. Together, they navigate societal expectations and judgments while developing a deep emotional connection.
15. Horimiya
HoriMiya is a delightful romance anime available on Crunchyroll that premiered in 2021. It consists of 13 episodes and is based on a shonen-yonkoma manga, which are collections of humorous, short, and easy-to-follow comic strips.
At first glance, Hori appears to be a typical sociable teenager, but in reality, she’s a studious girl who prioritizes her studies and family, leaving little time for a social life.
On the other hand, Miyamura seems to be a serious and reserved boy at school, but outside of it, he reveals his sociable side adorned with numerous piercings.
When these contrasting personalities collide, what will unfold? As the saying goes, opposites attract.
HoriMiya is and will always be a solid choice in the romance genre, offering a simple but super enjoyable story.
The well-written characters complement each other perfectly, resulting in a tender and entertaining love story that is unlikely to disappoint you.
If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming and light-hearted romance, HoriMiya is definitely worth a watch.
14. Romantic Killer
Romantic Killer is a light-hearted romance anime that does not take itself seriously, released in 2022 in 12 episodes.
Anzu seems to have the life we all dream of: she is popular in school, and back home she relaxes by playing video games while petting her cat.
So what happens when a strange magical creature that looks like a potato in a witch’s hat transports her to an alternate world where she finds herself surrounded by beautiful boys?
Romantic Killer is a simple and entertaining romcom, suitable if you are looking for something light and without any particular plot.
The characters also are fun and drawn with good character design, accompanied by good animations and a lot of nerd references.
13. Nisekoi
Nisekoi is like The Quintessential Quintuplets one of the best harem romance you can find, and we highly recommend it if, like us, you’re a fan of this subgenre.
The story follows Raku Ichijou, the heir to a powerful Yakuza family. Years ago, he made a promise many years ago to a girl who gave him a pendant, vowing to marry her once they became adults.
Raku embarks on a desperate search to find the girl with the key that will unlock his pendant. Meanwhile, he harbors strong feelings for his childhood friend, Kosaki Onodera.
But Raku’s reality takes an unexpected turn when the rival gang of his family, the American Bee Hive Gang, enters the picture. To settle their dispute, the two clans decide to unite Raku with Chitoge Kirisaki, the daughter of the enemy’s leader.
Though their relationship starts as a mere facade, who knows whether genuine feelings can emerge as the story progresses.
Nisekoi is a funny harem romance, blending comedic scenes with moments where the different girls try to win Raku’s affection.
12. The Ancient Magus Bride
The Ancient Magus’ Bride is a quite popular anime that was recently released and consists of 24 episodes adapted from a shonen manga that combines a tender plot with a fantasy setting.
The story follows Chise Hatori, a young girl who tragically loses her family and finds herself being sold at an auction.
But instead of a life of servitude, she is purchased by a mysterious man with a canine skull for a head. This man takes her under his wing and trains her to become a magician, offering her a chance to escape her tragic fate.
The Ancient Magus’ Bride is renowned for its enchanting atmosphere that melds beautiful fantasy and fairy tale elements with dark and even creepy aspects.
But where this series truly excels is in its incredible emphasis on the psychology of the 2 main characters and their transformation from isolated individuals burdened by their pasts into better people due to their relationship.
11. Bakuman
Bakuman is the quintessential anime centered on the figure of the mangaka and everything around it, including merits and flaws.
It was released in 2010 in 25 episodes, based on a shonen manga created by the same authors of Death Note.
Mashiro Moritaka is a normal 14-year-old boy who dreams of living a normal life, with a huge talent for drawing that he uses to draw in his notebook when bored.
But one day this notebook will be found by Akito Takagi, who noticing Mashiro’s great talents will propose to him a deal: create a manga together.
Bakuman is an excellent series, which in its almost parodic story of the figure of the mangaka manages to be entertaining, and at times even a social critique of this idolized work.
Not to mention that the characters are well-written and endearing, the comical moments are super funny and it also has a fantastic romantic subplot.
10. The Dangers in My Heart
The Dangers in my Heart is a 2023 anime that blends romance with comedy and absurd scenes that will crack you up.
It’s a solid choice if you’re in the mood for a lighthearted school romance anime without excessive pretensions.
Kyoutarou Ichikawa may come across as your typical shy and reserved student, but beneath the surface, he harbors some crazy, psychopathic thoughts.
He entertains the idea of witnessing his school and everyone in it burn, including Anna Yamada, the beautiful and popular girl.
But as he gets to know her better, he discovers that she’s actually a sweet girl in need of protection. This might lead to the development of deeper feelings between the two…
9. Urusei Yatsura
Urusei Yatsura is a colossal in the romance genre, based on a shonen manga by Rumiko Takahashi, the queen of manga.
The story takes place in the quiet town of Tomoboki, which is suddenly disrupted by the arrival of an alien spaceship filled with Oni with a very specific intention: to conquer the planet.
But there’s a way for humanity to save itself: if one person, chosen at random by a computer, can touch the horns of the Oni princess Lum, the planet will be spared. And this task falls to our protagonist, Ataru.
Urusei Yatsura is one of the best examples of how to blend romance with supernatural elements and a dash of action. Not to mention that is one of the predecessors of the harem romance genre.
Honestly, if you don’t at least acquaint yourself with this classic, you can’t truly claim to be a fan of the romance genre.
While there is a remake of this series produced by David Productions that is still ongoing, we don’t think it’s superior to the original.
And that’s because the first series, produced by Studio Deen in the 1980s, with its delightful vintage charm, remains truly wonderful even today.
The reboot is more faithful to the manga even though it skips a lot instead of adding parts like the original adaptation. Either version works, as they have different vibes!
8. Cross Game
Cross Game is undoubtedly one of the best sports romance anime series available right now, and it’s based on a 2000s shonen manga. It centers around the lives of childhood friends Kou Kitamura and Aoba Tsukishima, who often find themselves at odds with each other.
This heartwarming series follows the story of 2 unlikely friends, Kou and Aoba, who share a deep love for baseball and a special connection to Wakaba, Aoba’s older sister, and Kou’s crush.
One of the things that makes Cross Game stand out is the unique dynamic between these 3 characters.
Cross Game is an excellent anime that goes beyond the sports theme on which it is based.
It explores themes of friendship, love, personal growth and overcoming challenges, all while delivering a happy ending not only in terms of the romantic aspects but also in the characters’ personal lives.
If you appreciate a series that combines sports, psychological elements, and slice-of-life storytelling, this anime is an absolute must-watch.
7. Touch
Touch is a fantastic romance anime from the 80s that perfectly blends an intricate love story with the excitement of baseball.
For those nostalgic for vintage series with their amazing vibes, this show has few contenders on this list.
The story revolves around Uesugi Kazuya, a dedicated baseball player, his gifted twin brother Tatsuya, and their childhood friend, Asakura Minami.
The plot thickens when Tatsuya realizes that he’s in love with Minami, the same girl Kazuya has been eyeing since they were kids.
6. Kono oto tomare!: Sounds of Life
Kono Oto Tomare! is a beautifully executed 2019 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 fantastic series to discover.
5. Ranma 1/2
Ranma 1/2 is an iconic romance anime, adapted from a shonen manga again by the legendary Rumiko Takahashi, as Urusei Yatsura. It aired from 1989 to 1992, with a total of 161 episodes.
The story revolves around martial arts expert Ranma Saotome, a super strong martial artist who, due to a curse, transforms into a girl when exposed to cold water.
His engagement with Akane Tendo sets the stage for a series of hilarious misunderstandings and mishaps as they are compelled to live together and navigate their unconventional predicament.
Ranma continues to be an incredible and unparalleled romance anime even today, after 30 years.
It delivers first-rate comedy and an exceptional love story intertwined with supernatural elements, which still comes across as innovative and ahead of its time even today.
But then again, such qualities are to be expected from the works of Rumiko Takahashi, and she never fails to deliver.
4. Inuyasha
And with Inuyasha we close the group of shonen masterpieces written by Rumiko Takahashi on this list, released in 167 episodes made by Studio Sunrise.
The story follows Kagome, an ordinary eighth-grade student who unexpectedly falls down a well in her home’s garden and is transported 500 years into the past, to the Sengoku era.
In this era, Kagome discovers that she is the reincarnation of Kikyo, a powerful priestess who had the responsibility of protecting the Shikon Jewel, a dangerous object coveted by villains.
Teaming up with Inuyasha, a half-demon with canine-like traits, Kagome embarks on a journey to safeguard the sacred jewel from falling into the wrong hands.
Inuyasha is one of the best examples, if not the best, of how to masterfully combine a fantastic action, a fantasy storyline and a stunning feudal Japan setting with a remarkably well-crafted romance.
This series is a modern classic that is steadily gaining recognition as a cult favorite, much like many of Rumiko Takahashi’s other works.
If you’re reading this list and haven’t watched it yet be sure to add it to your watchlist as soon as possible.
3. Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is a 2014 romance anime that received a lot of popularity since its release, mainly thanks to its strong emotional story, adapted from a shonen manga.
Kousei Arima, a former child prodigy pianist, was once revered by all. But after the death of his mother, he becomes unable to hear his own music, sinking into a deep depression.
His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Kaori Miyazono, a vibrant and lively blonde violinist. Through her influence, Kousei rediscovers his passion for music.
As their bond deepens, their love for each other flourishes. But there is something about Kaori that Kousei has yet to discover, which adds complexity to their relationship.
Your Lie in April is a fantastic romance anime that blends romance and music.
And when it comes to the emotional aspect, we are more than confident in saying that it is one of the best sad romance anime in general, if not the best.
2. Rurouni Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin is one of the milestones of samurai-themed anime and consists of a 95-episode anime adaptation based on the shonen classic of the same name by Nobuhiro Watsuki.
Follow the journey of legendary warrior Kenshin Himura as he seeks to protect people from injustice and atone for his violent past actions.
Along the way, he meets his one true love interest, Kaoru Kamiya, and together they embark on thrilling adventures filled with love and conflict.
Rurouni Kenshin is one of the best vintage anime you can come across under multiple aspects.
It presents a tale full of honor, action, and life-or-death battles, all within the captivating backdrop of feudal Japan and with the inclusion of a fantastic love story that complements the story perfectly in its interludes.
1. Kimagure Orange Road
Kimagure Orange Road is another ’80s masterpiece of the romance genre that brought significant changes with its fantastic plot that merges romance and supernatural.
The original manga is a perfect representation of what you could expect from a shonen romance.
Kyosuke Kasuga is not an average 16-year-old boy, as he possesses unique ESP powers inherited from his family, which he has promised never to use in public.
Upon moving to a new town, he meets the beautiful Madoka Ayukawa, with whom he develops a special relationship.
But this relationship soon becomes complicated when Hikaru, Madoka’s best friend, falls in love with Kyosuke too.
Kimagure Orange Road combines one of the best love triangles ever with an incredibly unique storyline featuring superpowers and supernatural themes.
The idea behind this series is simple yet so effective and its City Pop soundtrack is among the best ever created.
We are confident in saying that this series is innovative and continues to be inspirational even today, leaving a lasting impact on the romance genre.
