The world of anime offers a kaleidoscope of emotions, and perhaps no genre captures hearts quite like romance. From the blush-inducing “will-they-won’t-they” moments to the deeply emotional journeys of self-discovery through love, romantic anime continues to captivate audiences worldwide. In 2024, whether you’re looking for new releases, ongoing hits, or timeless classics that still resonate, there’s a perfect love story waiting for you.
We’ve curated a list of the top 10 romantic anime that you absolutely must watch in 2024. Get ready to laugh, cry, and root for your favorite anime couples!
1. The Dangers in My Heart Season 2
- MyAnimeList Score (S2): 8.78
- Genres: Romance, Comedy, School, Shonen
Continuing its surprising ascent to the top of the romance genre, The Dangers in My Heart Season 2 delivered an exceptional, deeply satisfying progression of the relationship between Ichikawa Kyotaro and Anna Yamada. What started as an awkward, internal monologue-driven crush blossomed into one of the most genuinely sweet and realistic portrayals of first love in recent memory. The series masterfully handles their growing feelings, anxieties, and the innocent joys of being together, making every small interaction feel monumental. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and incredibly well-executed romance that truly develops its characters, this is a must-watch in 2024.
2. A Sign of Affection
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.16
- Genres: Romance, Slice of Life, Josei
One of the freshest and most talked-about romance anime of early 2024, A Sign of Affection brings a unique and heartwarming premise to the forefront. The story follows Yuki Itose, a college student who is deaf, and Itsuomi Nagi, her globetrotting senpai who becomes fascinated by her world. Their budding romance is portrayed with incredible sensitivity and beauty, exploring communication beyond words and the joy of discovering new perspectives through love. It’s a gentle, visually stunning series that offers a refreshing take on the classic shoujo romance tropes.
3. Horimiya: Piece
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.27
- Genres: Romance, School, Slice of Life, Comedy
While the main story of Horimiya wrapped up in its initial run, Horimiya: Piece delighted fans in 2023 with episodes adapting beloved manga chapters that weren’t included in the original anime. This means more precious moments with the iconic couple Hori and Miyamura, as well as their charming group of friends. For those who adored the original’s realistic portrayal of high school romance, its humor, and its genuine character development, Piece is an essential continuation that solidifies Horimiya‘s place as a cornerstone of modern romance anime. It’s the perfect show for a comforting, feel-good watch.
4. My Happy Marriage
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.04
- Genres: Romance, Fantasy, Drama, Historical
Set in a fantastical Meiji-era Japan, My Happy Marriage swept viewers off their feet with its enchanting blend of romance, drama, and supernatural elements. The story centers on Miyo Saimori, a young woman treated cruelly by her stepfamily, who is sent to marry Kiyoka Kudou, a cold and seemingly heartless military captain. What unfolds is a tender, slow-burn romance as Miyo and Kiyoka gradually open up to each other, finding solace and strength in their unexpected bond. Its stunning visuals, emotional depth, and compelling character growth make it a standout fantasy romance of recent times.
5. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.84 (Season 3)
- Genres: Romance, Comedy, Psychological, School
No list of top romantic anime is complete without Kaguya-sama: Love Is War. This strategic rom-com masterpiece revolves around student council president Miyuki Shirogane and vice president Kaguya Shinomiya, two brilliant minds who are too proud to confess their feelings. Instead, they engage in elaborate psychological battles, trying to trick the other into confessing first. Kaguya-sama is incredibly witty, hilarious, and surprisingly heartwarming, showcasing how even the most complex minds can be flustered by love. Its sharp writing and dynamic animation ensure it remains a top-tier watch in 2024.
6. Fruits Basket
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.71 (The Final Season)
- Genres: Romance, Drama, Fantasy, Shoujo, Slice of Life
The 2019 adaptation of Fruits Basket is a modern classic, offering a complete and faithful retelling of one of the most beloved shoujo manga of all time. The story follows Tohru Honda, an optimistic orphan who finds herself living with the mysterious Sohma family, who are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac. Amidst the family’s dark secrets and emotional struggles, Tohru brings light and healing, fostering deep bonds and an incredibly poignant central romance. Fruits Basket is a profoundly emotional journey about acceptance, love, and breaking generational curses.
7. Bottom-tier Character Tomozaki-kun 2nd Stage
- MyAnimeList Score (S2): 7.91
- Genres: Romance, School, Drama
For those who appreciate a romance that builds on personal growth, Bottom-tier Character Tomozaki-kun 2nd Stage continues the journey of Fumiya Tomozaki, an avid gamer who sees life as a “bad game.” Guided by the popular Aoi Hinami, Tomozaki works to improve his social skills and navigate the complexities of real-world relationships. The second season delves deeper into his romantic endeavors, showing the awkwardness, triumphs, and genuine efforts involved in understanding others and expressing feelings. It’s a thoughtful and relatable romance that resonates with anyone who’s ever felt out of place.
8. Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.16
- Genres: Romance, Comedy, Slice of Life, Josei
If you’re looking for a refreshing take on adult romance with a heavy dose of relatable otaku humor, Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku is your pick. The series follows a group of young working adults who are all closet (or not-so-closet) otaku, navigating their relationships while balancing their professional lives and passionate hobbies. It charmingly portrays the realistic dynamics of established couples and the struggles of new ones, all while celebrating niche interests. It’s a feel-good, genuinely funny, and mature romantic comedy that remains highly enjoyable in 2024.
9. Toradora!
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.11
- Genres: Romance, Comedy, School, Slice of Life
A timeless classic that continues to dominate “best of” romance lists, Toradora! follows the unlikely partnership of the “Palmtop Tiger” Taiga Aisaka and the gentle Ryuji Takasu. Initially teaming up to help each other confess to their respective crushes, they slowly begin to realize their true feelings lie closer to home. Toradora! is praised for its excellent character development, realistic portrayal of high school relationships, and the powerful emotional impact of its finale. If you haven’t seen it yet, 2024 is the perfect time to experience this beloved romance.
10. Clannad: After Story
- MyAnimeList Score: 9.06
- Genres: Romance, Drama, Slice of Life, Supernatural
While the first season introduces the characters and sets the stage, Clannad: After Story is where the true heart of this iconic romance lies. This series follows Tomoya Okazaki and Nagisa Furukawa beyond high school, depicting their struggles, joys, and challenges as they build a life together. It delves deep into themes of family, sacrifice, and the enduring power of love, making it an incredibly emotional and profound viewing experience. Clannad: After Story is renowned for its ability to evoke strong emotions and is often cited as one of the most impactful and beautiful romantic dramas in anime history. Be prepared with tissues!
Conclusion
From the sweet innocence of first love to the complex journey of building a life together, romantic anime in 2024 offers a vast array of narratives that touch the heart. Whether you prefer the laugh-out-loud humor of a rom-com or the tear-jerking drama of a profound love story, this list provides a perfect starting point for your next binge-watching adventure.
Which romantic anime stole your heart in 2024? Let us know in the comments below!
FAQs About Romantic Anime
Q: What is the most popular romantic anime right now?
A: As of early to mid-2024, The Dangers in My Heart Season 2 and A Sign of Affection have garnered significant popularity for their compelling storytelling and strong romantic development. Timeless classics like Kaguya-sama: Love Is War and Fruits Basket also remain consistently popular.
Q: Are there any new romance anime coming out in late 2024?
A: Anime release schedules are always evolving, but typically, new romance series are announced for each season (Summer, Fall, Winter). Keep an eye on official anime news sites and streaming platform announcements for the latest information on upcoming romantic anime in late 2024!
Q: Where can I watch these romantic anime?
A: Most of these anime are available on popular streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu, and Funimation (now largely integrated with Crunchyroll). Availability may vary by region, so check your local streaming services.
Q: What makes a good romantic anime?
A: A good romantic anime typically features well-developed characters, believable chemistry between the main couple, engaging plot progression, and emotional depth. Strong communication (or lack thereof, if it’s a plot point) and relatable challenges that the characters overcome together are also key elements.
Related posts:
Must-Watch Fantasy Anime for Epic Adventures That Will Transport You
Upcoming Webtoon Adaptations: Your Must-Watch List for 2025 & 2026 Anime and K-Dramas
Top 10 Webtoon-to-Anime Adaptations You Absolutely Can’t Miss!
Best Romance Anime Series of All Time to Absolutely Melt Your Heart
The Reigning Champions: Most Watched Anime of Spring 2025 Revealed!