Boys love anime, or BL is a genre of Japanese culture that has grown significantly in recent years. Boys love anime focuses on the love between one or more male characters. Within the genre, viewers can explore stories about friendship, romance, intrigue and even comedy.
With this article, readers can dive into the 20 best boys who love anime out there. This comprehensive list includes a discussion of some classic shows, such as No. 6 and Junjou Romantica.
Explore character relationships, experience different kinds of stories and switch up your anime viewing habits with the introduction of these brilliant BL series!
Contents
20. Haru Wo Daite Ita (Embracing Love)
Haru Wo Daite Ita (Embracing Love) is an iconic anime beloved by many for its witty storyline, beautiful animation, and deeper themes about love and relationships.
This Boys Love title follows the main characters, Izumi and Akihito, as they enter into an unexpected relationship due to their life circumstances.
As the story progresses, identity issues are addressed within the narrative’s exploration of self-discovery and intimate connection.
The series captures a unique reflection between two people who were once complete strangers, illustrating the importance of seeing beauty in unordinary bonds while addressing morals such as empathy and sympathy.
With detailed character development and strong art direction, Haru Wo Daite Ita will continue to stand out in the genre as a classic anime known for its sincere portrayal of human emotions.
19. Antique Bakery
Antique Bakery is a 2020 Boys Love anime about four men at an artisan bakery in Kyoto specialising in Western-style pastries.
Released on Amazon Prime Video, this anime follows the ever-evolving relationships between its four main characters, which range from a master baker to an ex-boxer with a sweet tooth.
As the story progresses and each character experiences unique struggles and revelations along the way, viewers are transfixed by the endearing characters and humorous situations Antique Bakery presents.
With dynamic visuals, a fantastic voice cast, and captivating music by veteran composer Akito Matsuda, audiences worldwide have fallen in love with this lovely slice-of-life series.
18. Loveless
Loveless is an anime loved by boys and is a sensational hit around the world. It follows Ritsuka Aoyagi, a young boy who becomes involved in an age-old mystery after suffering from amnesia.
In this fantasy adventure, there are monsters and magic, but it also explores important themes such as one’s identity, becoming free from society’s expectations, and understanding love. The artwork and visuals further bring to life its exciting story while engaging viewers of all ages.
Boys enjoy Loveless’s ability to make them think while blossoming their imaginations. Any boy looking for an exciting journey would be enamoured by this captivating anime that explores modern concerns and timeless messages of spirits reaching out to one another.
17. Suki na Mono wa Suki Dakara Shou ga Nai!
“Suki na Mono wa Suki Dakara Shou ga Nai!” is one of the most popular anime within this genre. It tells the story of two high school students, Yuujirou Shihoudani and Nowaki Kusama, who fall in love against a backdrop of comedy and heart-warming romance.
Despite its heavy focus on romantic relationships between male characters, this anime has something to offer everyone. Humour and drama are blended together in an emotionally involving story that develops across a dozen episodes.
Characters experience joy, loss, and triumph throughout their epic adventure. Suki na Mono wa Suki Dakara Shou ga Nai! is sure to capture the heart of any viewer, whether they are looking for a gripping story or something a little more lighthearted.
16. Seitokaichou ni Chuukoku (Hey! Class President)
“Seitokaichou ni Chuukoku (Hey! Class President)” is a hit boys’ love anime series loved by many fans around the globe. This profoundly romantic and heart-breakingly beautiful story is centred on Kazama-kun and Ui’s relationship, two students whose characters entwine in an incredibly delicate way.
It’s a captivating musical comedy full of exciting moments and great visuals. The impeccable voice acting only adds to the overall experience, making it enjoyable for viewers.
The series tackles delicate topics such as bullying, gender prejudice, and sexuality, and even includes some unconventional couples, which makes it unique and special. “Seitokaichou ni Chuukoku” exemplifies how love can triumph against all odds if we stay strong together.
15. Ai no Kusabi (Love Wedge)
Ai no Kusabi is an ultra-popular Boys Love Anime series that follows the journeys of Riki and Iason as they travel through a fictional future world.
Initially released in 1992, the groundbreaking anime has earned a passionate following over the years and continues to be cited as a major influence on boys’ love and shounen-ai media today.
Ai no Kusabi tells the story of two men from opposite social standings whose lives intersect unexpectedly. As their tumultuous relationship becomes the focus of their lives, fans can’t help but root for them throughout their hardships and find solace in their mutual understanding of one another.
The beautiful animation and intricate story make Ai no Kusabi a must-watch for any fan of Boys Love anime, especially those wanting to discover classics from years past.
14. Gravitation
Gravitation is classic boys’ love anime based on a popular manga series by Maki Murakami. It follows the adventures of aspiring singer Shuichi Shindou, who falls in love with a famous author, Eiri Yuki.
The two quickly develop feelings for each other, and together they have to overcome many obstacles on their way to true love.
Gravitation has become a classic for fans of boys who love anime worldwide, thanks to its realistic characters and outstanding story.
In this endearing tale, Shuichi embarks on a journey from an average high school student to Japan’s biggest musician while striving against all odds to keep his one true love by his side every step of the way.
With gripping drama, comedic moments and heartfelt romance, Gravitation shows how two people can come together and make it through even the toughest times with determination and understanding.
13. Soul Contract
Soul Contract is an incredibly cool anime with a plot full of intrigue and twisty revelations. It’s about high-school student Tian Jing Zhi who discovers he has special powers. After signing his name on the Soul Contract scroll, he finds that every choice will have grave consequences.
Taking place in a setting where humans and gods coexist, this story follows Jing Zhi as he navigates to make ethical choices while surviving in a dangerous environment.
The animation of this anime is beautiful. Whirling patterns, symbolic images and captivating colours are intertwined throughout the scenes adding to its appeal.
In addition, the characters have much depth to them, and their individual arcs evolve nicely as they become strong bond friends. Overall, Soul Contract stands out among Boys Love Anime with its twisty plotline and charming characters.
12. Love Stage!!
With its captivating storylines and stunning visuals, Love Stage! is one of the most popular boys’ love anime of all time. Created by J.C. Staff in 2014, this series follows Izumi Sena, an aspiring voice actor who unexpectedly winds up in a romantic relationship with his male co-star Ryoma Ichijo.
The show paints an authentic portrait of LGBTQ identity — including moments of awkwardness, surprise, and real social barriers — and its portrayal of queer relationships is both respectful and honest.
It offers viewers a compassionate look into non-heteronormative storytelling and romantic relationships. Furthermore, its characters are dynamic, with truly believable development arcs centred around self-realization — which might be why it resonates so strongly with fans today.
11. Beryl and Sapphire
Beryl and Sapphire is an exciting anime series that centres around two teenage boys exploring love, friendship and identity.
With beautiful animation, complex themes and an intriguing storyline, this anime offers viewers the opportunity to experience a heartfelt journey through the lives of two characters with whom viewers can identify.
Each episode perfectly captures the struggles faced by young people as they learn to navigate through relationships and life’s little complexities.
Through captivating storylines, and heartwarming characters, there’s something for everyone in this unique boys-love anime series.
From adventures full of new experiences to moments of reflection on the past and future, Beryl and Sapphire are sure to capture the hearts of anime fans from all over the world with its endearing story that will make you laugh, cry, and encourage you to take a step back and find your own inner strength.
10. Wei, Kanjian Erduo La!
One of the most popular BL anime is “Wei, Kanjian Erduo La!” This Chinese animation adaptation of a novel follows the story of two high school students, Wei Zhongle and Luo Feiyan, as they form a relationship and struggle to traverse their own personal issues in life.
Themes ingrained throughout the anime include friendship, loyalty, self-discovery, understanding, acceptance and love that spans boundaries.
Fans have praised this series for its realistic approach compared to other BL anime with its relatable coming-of-age plot and captivating storytelling and accurately portraying themes surrounding LGBT+ relationships.
The characters and art style have also been highly acclaimed for capturing the beauty in each individual’s uniqueness.
9. Yuri!!! on Ice
“Yuri on Ice” is beloved and wildly popular boys’ love anime series. This heartwarming show first aired in 2016, and it has had a tremendous impact on the culture ever since.
It follows the story of Yuri Katsuki, an amateur figure skater who must find his inner strength after experiencing a major defeat.
With the help of his idol Victor Nikiforov and other eccentric characters, Yuri embarks on an inspiring journey toward ultimate success.
His character arc resonates with viewers of all ages and backgrounds, making it easy to understand why “Yuri on Ice” is still talked about today.
Great attention to detail paired with top-notch animation make this anime a definite must-watch for both anime fans and those new to the genre.
8. Junjou Romantica
Japan’s romantic comedy anime series “Junjou Romantica” has been a beloved favourite since its debut in 2008. This slice-of-life anime centres around three couples and follows their romances of different kinds, with plenty of funny and heartwarming moments.
Both boys and girls have developed a love for this show as it deals with all types of relationships that resonate with young adults – romantic, platonic, familial, professional, and more.
With characters that tug at your heartstrings and an overarching story of love and accepted differences in lifestyles, “Junjou Romantica” delights fans with its lighthearted yet honest approach to those complicated teenage years related to passion.
Against a backdrop of singing birds, fluttering sakura petals, and lively music pieces that bring out the romance, the viewers can really sink into the world of this series as they become tearful or jump up in glee along with the characters.
7. Hitorijime My Hero
Boys Love anime “Hitorijime My Hero” tells a captivating love story between two boys who explore the naivete of first love. The show’s protagonists, Kousuke and Masahiro, struggle to understand and accept their feelings towards each other in a world that makes it hard for them to be together.
This anime appeals to fans of the Boy’s Love genre wanting an authentic representation. In search of something more than a typical romance trope, viewers are delighted to watch the characters evolve as they triumph over adversity to reach a fulfilling, joyful resolution that is both inspiring and validating.
With its groundbreaking approach, Hitorijime My Hero easily establishes itself as one of the most noteworthy BL anime in recent years with its powerful message and heartfelt storyline.
6. No. 6
Boys love anime “No. 6” is a thrilling story of two young boys, Shion and Nezumi, and their exciting and dangerous adventures in a dystopian city.
Throughout the series, Shion and Nezumi struggle to survive in this new world as they uncover secrets about the city and themselves.
Despite being faced with overwhelming odds, their friendship grows as they fight off villains and complete missions together. Every episode brings new exciting twists and turns that will keep viewers hungry for more! Fans of dystopian fiction like
The Hunger Games or Maze Runner will find this anime to be captivating due to its stunning visuals and groundbreaking plot line.
5. Given
Boys of all ages are drawn to the action and adventure found in anime. Whether it be the high-paced energy of a fight scene or the emotional struggles between characters, boys can find something in each episode that speaks to them.
Furthermore, boys not only watch but also make art inspired by the various storylines, villains, and heroes featured in these shows.
As the fanbase for Boys Love Anime continues to grow, so does its presence on social media platforms and search engines. This genre offers fans a way to connect with others who share a similar interest from all over the world.
4. Hybrid Child
The anime Hybrid Child has captivated viewers of all ages for its deep story about love, mortality and loss. It follows the story of a young boy named Kuroda, whose hybrid doll was created by his father. The beauty brings comfort to him in moments of despair and lightens his heart with joy.
As time passes and the stories intertwine, viewers watch as Kuroda grows older. He faces difficult choices about what is best for himself and others, showing great maturity despite his age. Despite the strong themes of loss in Hybrid Child, there are lighthearted moments that bring laughter into the plot.
This anime explores complex themes and educates viewers on Japanese culture while providing entertainment along the way. These qualities make it a must-watch for anyone looking to enjoy an intriguing story or explore a unique art form.
3. Banana Fish
The series follows Ash Lynx and his street gang on their journey to uncover the secrets of Banana Fish. Set in 1980s New York City, viewers are captivated by the thrilling action sequences and strong character development.
The show maintains a consistent plot with exciting twists and turns, leaving viewers eager in each episode to find out what will happen next.
Despite its dark themes, there is still a sense of hope that radiates from the show. It delivers meaningful messages of loyalty and friendship, offering an emotionally engaging experience for fans.
With powerful characters and an unpredictable storyline to boot, it’s no surprise Banana Fish continues to be one of the leading Boys Love anime series today.
2. Classmates
One of the most memorable titles to come out of this genre is “Classmates,” a coming-of-age drama set in a prestigious high school.
Focusing on particular teenage struggles and relationships between connecting characters, this anime shines in its ability to portray the nuances of emotion and expression during its pivotal scenes.
Aspiring romantics are sure to find something endearing in this story that is both amusing and inspiring. For deep characterization, viewers become attached to each journey of growth partaken by the main cast.
All-in-all, it’s an experience vicariously lived through every turn of events while passionately caring for the lasting impression left on each heart that touches another in such an unforgettable way. “Classmates” provides catharsis and an understanding of why we love anime so.
1. Mo Dao Zu Shi
Mo Dao Zu Shi is an anime that has captivated viewers worldwide. Set in ancient China, this show follows two powerful figures who are bound together by fate and have often been referred to as “Soulmates”.
This thrilling adventure exhibits stunning visuals and a dramatic plot taking viewers through desert kingdoms and magical secrets.
This Boys Love Anime focuses on both the internal and external struggles of these beloved characters, along with an unexpected twist.
The action fans will not be disappointed either; MO Dao Zu Shi still reaches unforgettable battle scenes and memorable moments.
During its time of release, this show gained wide recognition and appreciation among anime lovers all over the globe with its unique plotline, beautiful animation, and incredibly skilled voice performances.
Those who are looking for a BL anime that can capture your heart, make you cry out loud, or let laughter roar in the air, then Mo Dao Zu Shi is one show that you should not miss.
Conclusion
This article explored 20 of the best BL Anime series for all kinds of fans to enjoy. Though the genre may be classified as niche, it offers viewers a totally different type of love story worth exploring.
From soulmates to deep friendships, boys love anime with its diverse range of stories and powerful storytelling. We hope our list has given you enough foot into this unique genre and that you have found your favourite by now.
So what’s stopping you from going deeper into this beautiful world – watch one of these remarkable shows today.
