In this post, I’ll be sharing my top 20 favorite romance anime – movies and series – currently streaming on Netflix, offering a mix of Japanese magic and romance. To keep things exciting, I’ve arranged them randomly for you to discover at your own pace. Please note that not every title may be accessible in all regions worldwide due to licensing restrictions. Enjoy exploring these enchanting tales!
1. Your Name
Original Release: July 3, 2016
Running Time: 107 minutes
The movie revolves around Mitsuha and Taki, who undergo some mysterious changes during the night. Living in starkly contrasting worlds, Mitsuha is a teenage girl from a remote mountain village where her father serves as the mayor. She finds rural life tedious and yearns for urban adventures. On the other hand, Taki resides in bustling Tokyo, immersed in the field of architecture.
One day, an unexpected transformation occurs overnight for both Taki and Mitsuha, leaving them inhabiting different bodies. Communicating via notes on their mobile phones, they support one another in navigating school life, popularity, and romantic relationships. Once Taki regains his original body, he decides to pay a visit to Mitsuha.
In a restaurant, the owner identifies a drawing by Taki as being of the now-destroyed village of Itomori, explaining that it was obliterated by a comet collision. Shocked, Taki discovers that Mitsuha’s life took place three years ago and she did not make it through. Determined to prevent the same fate for Mitsuha, Taki attempts to reach out to her and warn her about the oncoming comet. Successfully contacting Mitsuha, they join forces with friends Tessie and Sayaka to evacuate Itomori.
In time, a comet strikes the village, leaving it in ruins. When Taki awakens the following morning, he has no recollection of the incident. Five years down the line, Taki discovers that the inhabitants of Itomori miraculously survived due to their mayor’s actions. One fateful day, as their trains cross paths, Taki and Mitsuha recognize each other. They immediately disembark at the next station to learn one another’s identities.
2. Your Lie in April
Original Run: October 9, 2014 – March 19, 2015
Number of Episodes: 22
Kōsei Arima, an exceptionally talented child pianist, reigned supreme in numerous music contests across Japan, gaining widespread recognition among young musicians. However, this fame was not without its share of controversy. Following the demise of his mother Saki, he suffered a severe mental breakdown during a piano competition, resulting in an unusual condition where he could no longer perceive the melodies from his piano, despite retaining normal hearing ability for all other sounds.
It’s been two years since that time, during which Kosei has abstained from playing the piano and views the world as devoid of depth or vibrancy. His closest friends, Tsubaki Sawabe (the softball player) and Ryota Watari (the soccer player), have been attempting to lift his spirits, planning a sort of double outing where Kosei encounters a girl who reintroduces color into his drab existence: Kaori Miyazono.
The unconventional 14-year-old violinist, whose performance mirrors her energetic demeanor, encourages Kōsei’s reentry into the music world by persuading him to resume playing the piano. Through her vibrant violin playing, she demonstrates a contrast to the formal and strict style that Kōsei uses, instead embodying freedom and liveliness. Their relationship has earned them a spot on our list of top anime romantic pairs.
3. Toradora!
Original Run: October 2, 2008 – March 26, 2009
Number of Episodes: 25 (+ 1 OVA)
Ryuuji Takasu, a Japanese teenager, has come back for his senior year of high school and resides with his mom as a lone inhabitant. He longs for a normal high school experience, but there’s a catch: his piercing gaze. His ominous appearance fuels baseless gossip, such as the belief that he would physically harm anyone who brushed against him or was prepared to take violent action, when in reality, he is a tender-hearted young man.
As a movie enthusiast, I find myself grappling with challenges when it comes to friendship and romance. Most heavily weighing upon me is the void left by an absent romantic connection. Yet, fortunately, I share my classroom with my dearest friend Yūsaku Kitamura and the captivating Minori Kushieda, whom I hold a special regard for.
4. A Silent Voice
Original Release: September 17, 2016
Running Time: 130 minutes
As a movie buff, I’d rephrase it like this: In one film, there’s a kind-hearted student named Nishimiya who faces daily torment from a classmate, Ishida, due to her hearing impairment. After his unacceptable actions are brought to light, he’s shunned and ends up isolated. Fast forward five years, he picks up sign language and embarks on a quest to reconnect with the girl who once knew him only too well.
5. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War
Original Run: January 12, 2019 – June 27, 2020
Number of Episodes: 24
At Shuchiin Academy, an elite institution primarily attended by children from wealthy families, stand out two exceptional students: the vice-president, Kaguya Shinomiya, and the president, Miyuki Shirogane, who hails from a humble background. Despite their feelings for each other, which have grown over time, they find themselves unable to express them due to their excessive pride, even after an entire semester has passed.
Considering the link between one person expressing love interest first in a domineering relationship, often it sets up a dynamic where that individual may feel submissive or “the loser.” This can lead to an ongoing power struggle as both parties strive to get the other to confess their feelings first. Thus, daily life becomes filled with various schemes and tactics aimed at manipulating the other person’s emotions.
6. Violet Evergarden
Original Run: January 11, 2018 – April 5, 2018Number of Episodes: 13 + OVA
The narrative revolves around a young girl involved in the business of crafting “Automatic Memory Dolls.” These dolls were originally invented by Professor Orland for his visually impaired wife Mollie, assisting her in writing her novels. Over time, they became available for rent to individuals requiring their unique services.
The subject pertains to individuals who act as public scribes, tasked with recording the thoughts and emotions of others. After enduring four years of intense conflict, this young girl with a tumultuous past struggles, not without effort, to construct her future, beginning with this occupation. However, among the many wounds sustained during the war, there is one that refuses to mend completely.
The term signifies people who function as public writers, whose role involves recording the sentiments and thoughts of others. This young girl, having suffered greatly from a four-year long conflict, strives, not without struggle, to create her future by engaging in this job. Yet, among all the scars she acquired during warfare, there remains one that shows little signs of healing.
In her heart, the tender words spoken by someone dear linger, leaving her unaware of their deeper significance. Eager to comprehend and decipher their true meaning, Violet Evergarden embarks on a journey filled with correspondence, meetings, and a myriad of feelings. This is how her adventure unfolds.
7. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
Original Run: April 14, 2011 – June 23, 2011
Number of Episodes: 11
A cluster of six close-knit friends disbanded following the demise of one member, Meiko “Menma” Honma, in a mishap. A decade later, Jinta Yadomi, the ringleader among them, withdrew from community life and chose to live in solitude.
On a sunny summer’s day, mysteriously, Menma reappears before Jinta, seeming older than when they last met, and requesting his aid in granting her a wish that she can’t quite recall. She is convinced that completing this task will bring her to her intended destiny. However, the nature of her wish has been lost to her memory, leading Jinta to rally their old friends from childhood, as Menma believes they hold the solution to this conundrum.
Yet, the deep emotions, personal struggles, and enduring sorrow experienced by Menma’s parents create difficulties for the group, as they find it challenging not just to assist Menma, but also to deal with their own emotional issues.
8. Weathering with You
Original Release: July 19, 2019
Running Time: 112 minutes
16-year-old Hodaka Morishima, originally from a remote island, moves to bustling Tokyo, only to discover he’s short on funds. Living a solitary life, he ultimately lands a job crafting articles for a questionable paranormal publication.
Following Hodaka’s employment, the skies persistently pour day after day. One bustling city corner is where he encounters a youthful girl known as Hina Amano. Sharing their home, Hina and her younger sibling enjoy a cheerful and secure existence. This sprightly and resolute girl possesses an unusual and mesmerizing ability: the power to halt the rain and brighten the heavens.
9. Ouran High School Host Club
Original Run: April 5, 2006 – September 26, 2006
Number of Episodes: 26
Urban High School is an elite learning environment primarily attended by children from Japan’s wealthiest and influential families, including offspring of politicians and business magnates. The faculty at this institution tailor the curriculum to cater to the privileged students, ensuring it doesn’t overwhelm them. This thoughtful approach leaves these affluent students with ample leisure time, which they often devote to their personal interests.
Among the distinctive features of Ouran High School stands out the famed “Host Club”, a gathering place where wealthy, charming young men employ their innate talents to amuse similarly affluent and attractive females, often reaping personal advantages in return.
By mere coincidence, Haruhi Fujioka, who had earned admission to this school due to impressive academic qualifications, stumbled upon the music room where this exclusive club resided. In an unfortunate turn of events, he accidentally knocked over a costly, 8-million yen vase from its stand. Consequently, the affluent members of the Host Club forced Haruhi Fujioka into their service. From that moment on, he was required to run errands, work as a servant, shop, and perform various menial tasks for the club until his graduation – essentially becoming their devoted servant until he completed his obligations to the club.
10. Yuri!!! on ICE
Original Release: October 6, 2016 – December 21, 2016
Number of Episodes: 12 + OVA
Following a disappointing last-place finish at his debut Grand Prix competition, the young Japanese figure skater Yuri Katsuki struggles to find victories and starts questioning his future in the sport. A few months later, he returns to his hometown of Hasetsu in Kyūshū, a place he hadn’t seen for five years, where he flawlessly replicates a choreography created by the renowned Russian skater Victor Nikiforov.
If a video of someone else’s performance that was recorded secretly becomes popular and draws the notice of Victor, he chooses to take on the role as Yuri’s mentor, working with one of his exceptionally gifted pupils, also named Yuri Plisetsky, to train him.
11. Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-kun
Original Run: July 7, 2014 – September 22, 2014
Number of Episodes: 12
Chiyo Sakura, a high school student, finds herself smitten by her classmate Umetaro Nozaki. However, confessing her feelings to him proves challenging. One failed attempt leaves her hopes dashed, as he takes it home with him instead. Contrary to Chiyo’s dreams, Umetaro interprets her affection differently; he believes she is a fan of his manga work. In fact, Nozaki creates a popular comic series for girls titled “Shōjo” which is featured in the magazine “Gekkan Shōjo Romance”.
She’s discovered her knack for art within the club, so he enlists her as an Inker. Sakura enjoys this role, not just because she’s skilled but also because she’s close to him and hopes to express her feelings for him. As they collaborate more often, they meet new people and Sakura gains insights into the workings of a mangaka. Ultimately, Nozaki seeks out intriguing individuals who could serve as models for his stories.
Sakura presents him to her classmate Yuzuki Seo – an athletic, kind-hearted yet blunt and insensitive girl. Via Nozaki, Sakura gets acquainted with Mikoto Mikoshiba, who sketched the decorations and patterns for Nozaki. Mikoto is a potential ladies’ man, frequently uttering catchphrases, but soon after feels embarrassed about his actions.
Sakura introduces him to her friend Yuzuki Seo – she’s sporty, nice, but also blunt and tactless. Through Nozaki, Sakura meets Mikoto Mikoshiba, who drew designs for Nozaki. Mikoto tries to charm women and often says funny things, but he usually regrets it later.
12. Kamisama Kiss
Original Run: October 1, 2012 – March 30, 2015
Number of Episodes: 25 (+ 5 OVA)
In my perspective as a film enthusiast, I found myself deeply moved by the tale of Nanami Momozono, a young woman whose life was turned upside down by her father’s compulsive gambling habits. This relentless pursuit of luck left us both struggling in hardship. One fateful day, her father abandoned ship, leaving behind a mountain of debts and a heartache that I could almost feel. Unable to meet the rent, we were unfortunately evicted from our humble abode.
As night fell on the city, I found myself wandering aimlessly, my heart heavy with despair. But then, hope seemed to appear out of the shadows when I crossed paths with an enigmatic stranger. Moved by her tale of woe, he extended a most unusual offer – his very house, a sanctuary in these troubled times. It was then that the first glimmers of a brighter future began to take shape for Nanami and me.
After planting a kiss on her forehead, he departs. Upon reaching the location he’d indicated, Nanami discovers it’s not just an ordinary house but a temple housing spirits – among them, a boy with fox ears and tail. To her surprise, she finds out that his goodbye kiss made her the new goddess of Earth, and now she must navigate numerous challenges to uphold her divine status!
13. Komi Can’t Communicate
Original Run: October 7, 2021 – present
Number of Episodes: 12
At Itan High Private School resides the well-liked Komi Shouko, admired for her beauty and aloof demeanor. On her first day in class, she crosses paths with her neighbor, Tadano Hitohito. He soon finds out that despite her popularity, Komi struggles to communicate with others due to a disorder, making it difficult for her to form friendships. Moved by this revelation, Tadano vows to assist her in overcoming this challenge and reaching the goal of amassing a hundred friends.
14. 5 Centimeters per Second
Original Release: March 3, 2007
Running Time: 65 minutes
A story unfolds about two friends, Tono Takaki and Shinohara Akari, who initially shared a strong bond. However, over time, due to circumstances involving their families, they find themselves growing more distant. Despite this separation, they maintain contact via letters. But as the years roll by, their correspondence gradually tapers off until it stops completely. The chasm between them expands with each passing year.
Yet, Takaki recalls their shared moments, but as his life progresses, he ponders if fate will allow another encounter with Akari. As the story unfolds, Takaki comes to terms with the world and the people surrounding him.
15. Ride Your Wave
Original Release: June 10, 2019
Running Time: 96 minutes
Hinako, a lively and passionate young scholar, recently relocated to a coastal community for academic purposes, yet primarily to indulge in her beloved pastime, surfing. On one fateful night, an unauthorized firework ignited a blaze within the apartment complex where she resides.
In the course of events, I found myself rescued by Minato, a relentless firefighter. We soon discovered an unexpected connection between us and began to share our lives as a couple. Our days were filled with joy and dreams for what was yet to come. However, fate took an unexpected turn when Minato sacrificed his life while trying to save someone from drowning. Overwhelmed by grief, I struggled to cope until Minato’s spirit reappeared.
16. InuYasha
The original airing dates were from October 16, 2000 to September 13, 2004 and then from October 3, 2009 to March 29, 2010. There were a total of 167 episodes initially, followed by an additional 26 episodes.
On this list, there’s one anime titled “InuYasha.” The story revolves around a half-demon teenager from contemporary Japan, a monk with peculiar tendencies, a cunning fox demon, and an exorcist from the Sengoku era. Together, they embark on a quest to gather all pieces of the Sacred Jewel while keeping it out of the hands of villains, particularly Naraku.
Throughout the series, InuYasha grapples with a persistent dilemma: his longing for the Shikon Jewel and his affection for Kagome. This struggle arises because his demonic nature amplifies his power. However, it’s eventually unveiled that his human side holds the greatest strength – a trait InuYasha demonstrates upon finding the Tessaiga sword.
17. Ocean Waves
Original Release: May 5, 1993
Running Time: 72 minutes
Rikako Mutō, a student hailing from Tokyo, has recently moved to a coastal city called Kōchi following her parents’ divorce. This city is situated quite a distance from the capital. Rikako is an attractive and brilliant girl, excelling in both academics and sports. Yet, she struggles to fit into the social environment of her new school. Taku Morisaki and Yutaka Matsuno, two close friends from high school, happen to attend the same school. It’s Taku who starts noticing the newcomer, Rikako, quite distinctly.
18. Flavors of Youth
Original Release: July 6, 2018
Running Time: 75 minutes
Flavors of Youth is made up of three stories set in a different city:
- The Rice Noodles: A young employee working in Beijing remembers his childhood, his grandmother in his hometown, and the taste of rice noodles.
- A Little Fashion Show: Orphan sisters live in Canton; the eldest earns her living as a model to enable her sister to study.
- Love in Shanghai: In Shanghai, a young man finds a K7 recorded in 1999 by the girl he was in love with.
19. Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop
Original Release: July 25, 2020
Running Time: 87 minutes
During summer breaks, Yui Sakura, affectionately called Cherry by friends, a reserved young man with a love for haikus, temporarily takes on her mother’s role at a senior citizens’ club. Using headphones to ward off street conversations, she works there. One unplanned encounter brings her face-to-face with Yuki, an influencer known as Smile, who conceals her prominent incisors under a surgical mask. As they navigate their friendship, they embark on a quest to find a misplaced vinyl record together.
20. Fruits Basket
Original Run: July 5, 2001 – June 29, 2021
Number of Episodes: 89
16-year-old Tohru Honda resides by herself in a tent following her mother’s demise. Unbeknownst to her, she has relocated to the estate of the Soma family. As she ventures around, she stumbles upon a house and decides to enter it. Inside, she encounters Yuki and Shigure Soma. Upon discovering her living situation, they graciously invite her to reside with them, asking only that she help out with household tasks in return.
Tohru moves in with Yuki, Kyô, and Shigure, and before long she uncovers the family’s hidden truth: Thirteen members of this clan are under a curse that causes them to transform into one of the twelve Chinese zodiac animals. This transformation occurs when someone of the opposite gender touches their neck, they experience embarrassment, or even if they become weakened.
A short while afterwards, they regain their human form (with the time frame fluctuating), yet they re-emerge entirely unclothed (which can prove rather inconvenient, particularly for Tohru, as she frequently witnesses these transformations).
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2025-06-04 13:16