When we think about shonen anime, our minds usually jump to epic battles and wild adventures. But what about romance? While love stories aren’t always the main focus in Shonen series, there are some gems out there that blend heartfelt relationships with that unmistakable Shonen vibe, giving us love stories that stay with us long after the credits roll.

I’ve pulled together a list of five romance shonen anime that beautifully captures the excitement of youth, the joys of falling in love, and the rollercoaster of growing up. If you love playful teasing, heartfelt confessions, or characters who evolve over time, these series are definitely worth checking out! What I love about these picks is that they make romance a central part of the story rather than just a side dish. So sit back and enjoy the ride through these touching tales!

5 Romance Shonen Anime

Each of these selections takes its characters on a meaningful journey of growth, whether that means overcoming personal challenges, learning about one another through teasing, or building a life together.

The Dangers in My Heart: A Romance That Starts with Dark Fantasies

• Full Genre List: Romance, Comedy, Psychological, School, Slice of Life, Shonen
• Episodes: 25 episodes – Season 1 (12 episodes) + Season 2 (13 episodes)
• Duration to Watch: +/- 10 hours
• Age Restriction: PG-13
• Trigger Warnings: Mild violence, dark thoughts, social anxiety
• Release Date: 2023
• Animation Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
• English Dub: Yes
• Source: Manga 
• Alternative Title: Boku no Kokoro no Yabai Yatsu
• Average Rating: 8.1/10
• Stream: ANIPLUS, Netflix, HIDIVE, BiliBili
• Does the story continue in the source material? Yes

Kyotaro Ichikawa is an introverted middle schooler who harbours dark, over-the-top thoughts of harming his popular classmate, Anna Yamada. However, as he observes her from afar, he realises she’s nothing like the untouchable idol he imagined—she’s goofy, snack-obsessed, and strangely endearing.

As he unexpectedly gets closer to Anna, his twisted fantasies fade into something else entirely: genuine care and admiration. But can someone like Kyotaro even hope to belong in her world? This coming-of-age romance takes readers on an emotional adventure through self-acceptance, friendship, and love, proving that the heart is far more unpredictable than we think.

Teasing Master Takagi-san: A Playful Battle of Wits

• Full Genre List: Romance, Comedy, Slice of Life, School, Shonen
• Episodes: 36 episodes across 3 seasons
• Duration to Watch: +/- 12 hours
• Age Restriction: 12+ 
• Release Date: 2018
• Animation Studio: Shin-Ei Animation
• English Dub: Yes
• Source: Manga
• Kanji: からかい上手の高木さん
• Alternative Title: Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san
• Average rating: 7.8/10  
• Does the story carry on in the source material: yes
• Stream on Crunchyroll, iQIYI and Animax Asia

In the world of shonen anime, where action and adventure often take centre stage, Teasing Master Takagi-san offers a refreshing and heartwarming narrative. The series follows middle schooler Nishikata, who is constantly teased by his seatmate, Takagi-san. Determined to get back at her, Nishikata devises various schemes, only to have them backfire due to Takagi-san’s keen insight into his behaviour. This light-hearted cat-and-mouse dynamic showcases the innocence of youth and the subtle development of their relationship, making it a delightful watch for those seeking a blend of humour and budding romance.

Blue Box: A Harmonious Blend of Sports and Young Love

• Full Genre List: Romance, Sports, Slice of Life, School, Shonen
• Episodes: 25
• Duration to watch: +/- 9 hours
• Age Restriction: PG-13 (May contain some mildly suggestive content)
• Release Date: 2024
• Animation Studio: Telecom Animation Film
• English Dub: Yes
• Source: Manga
• Kanji: ブルーボックス
• Alternative Title: Ao no Hako
• Average Rating: 7.9/10
• Where to Stream: Netflix and bilibili
• Does the story carry on in the source material? Yes

In the world of shonen anime, where high-energy sports and determined protagonists thrive, Blue Box blends romance and competition into one heartfelt story. Taiki Inomata, a passionate badminton player, has a huge crush on Chinatsu Kano, a senior and rising basketball star. Every morning, he watches her practice, admiring her dedication. But when unforeseen circumstances bring them under the same roof, Taiki finds himself closer to his dream than ever before.

TONIKAWA: Over the Moon for You A Love Story That Begins with Marriage

• Full Genre List: Romance, Comedy, Slice of Life
• Episodes: 26
• Duration to watch the entirety of the anime in hours: +/- 10 Hours 
• Age Restriction: PG-13 (May contain some mild suggestive content)
• Release Date: 2020
• Animation Studio: Seven Arcs Pictures
• English Dub: Yes
• Source: Manga
• Kanji: トニカクカワイイ
• Alternative Title: Fly Me to the Moon
• Average Rating: 7.9/10
• Where to Stream: Crunchyroll, BiliBili, ANIPLUS
• Does the story carry on in the source material? Yes

In the world of shonen anime, where high-energy sports and determined protagonists thrive, Blue Box blends romance and competition into one heartfelt story. Taiki Inomata, a passionate badminton player, has a massive crush on Chinatsu Kano, a senior and rising basketball star. Every morning, he watches her practice, admiring her dedication. But when unforeseen circumstances bring them under the same roof, Taiki finds himself closer to his dream than ever before.

Kono Oto Tomare!: A Melodic Journey of Passion and Redemption

• Full Genre List: Music, Drama, School, Shonen
• Episodes: 2 seasons (26 episodes total)
• Duration to watch: ~10 hours
• Age Restriction: PG-13 (May contain some mildly suggestive content)
• Release Date: 2019
• Animation Studio: Platinum Vision
• English Dub: Yes
• Source: Manga
• Kanji: この音とまれ！
• Alternative Title: Kono Oto Tomare!: Sounds of Life
• Average Rating: 8.1/10
• Where to Stream: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Prime Video, ANIPLUS
• Does the story carry on in the source material? Yes

In the realm of shonen anime, Kono Oto Tomare! stands out by harmoniously blending the themes of music, personal growth, and the power of unity. The series centres on Takezou Kurata, the last remaining member of Tokise High School’s koto club, a group dedicated to the traditional Japanese string instrument. Facing the club’s dissolution, Takezou’s world is upended when Chika Kudou, a notorious delinquent with a hidden passion for the koto, and Satowa Hozuki, a prodigious koto player with a complex past, unexpectedly join the club. Together, this unlikely ensemble embarks on a journey to master the koto, aiming for national competitions. Through rigorous practice and overcoming personal challenges, they discover the transformative power of music and the unbreakable bonds it forges.

Have you watched any of these?

Romance in shonen anime comes in many forms—whether it’s the slow burn of childhood rivals, the excitement of first love, or the determination to chase both dreams and romance. Each of these anime tells a love story in its own unique way, making them perfect for anyone who enjoys a mix of romance, humour, and adventure.

Which of these is your favourite? Or do you have a go-to romance shonen anime that deserves a spot on this list? Let’s chat in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!