When people talk about the “best” shoujo anime, of course, the answer is subjective. But if you’re looking for a data-backed list, we compiled the top-rated shoujo anime as ranked on MyAnimeList.
MAL ranks anime by season, not by the whole series. Each title will be shown by its highest-rated season or entry
The Best of the Best: Top-Rated Shoujo Anime
1. Fruits Basket (2019)
At first glance, Fruits Basket seems like a whimsical story about a girl stumbling into a family with a strange curse. What unfolds is a deeply layered narrative about generational trauma, emotional abuse, and the lifelong, painful process of healing.
Tohru Honda’s steadfast kindness helps heal the broken Sohma family and makes them face their past. The tone moves from comfy to deeply introspective. With a powerful, well-earned conclusion that secures its spot at the top.
2. Natsume’s Book of Friends (Natsume Yuujinchou)
This series follows Takashi Natsume, a boy who can see spirits. This ability has isolated him his entire life. After inheriting the “Book of Friends” from his grandmother, he begins returning the names of yokai she bound to her will.
Natsume’s Book of Friends stands out for its storytelling. Each episode is like a small, emotional story that explores loneliness and connections. Natsume’s journey to belonging, both in the human world and the spirit realm, is deeply moving.
3. Nana
Two women named Nana meet by chance and become roommates. But their lives couldn’t be more different. One is chasing love, and the other, fame. Both are about to learn how fragile those dreams can be.
Nana explores the gray areas of life. Toxic love, co-dependency, ambition, and betrayal are all part of the story. This series embraces the messiness of adulthood. It’s less about happily-ever-after and more about the choices that shape us as people.
4. Banana Fish
Set in New York City, Banana Fish follows gang leader Ash Lynx as he investigates a mysterious phrase tied to his brother’s trauma: “Banana Fish.” What begins as a crime thriller spirals into a harrowing story of power and survival.
At the heart of the story is the relationship between Ash and Eiji. Their bond brings brief moments of tenderness to an otherwise harsh world. The series doesn’t hold back emotionally, making it one of the most intense and unforgettable shoujo anime.
5. Kimi ni Todoke
Sawako Kuronuma has been misunderstood her entire life due to her resemblance to a horror movie character. Underneath her eerie reputation is a shy, kind girl who just wants to connect.
When Kazehaya, a popular classmate, reaches out to her, Sawako’s world starts to open up. What comes next is a slow-burning romance full of awkward moments and emotional growth. It’s sincere and very relatable.
6. Kamisama Kiss (Kamisama Hajimemashita)
After her father abandons her, Nanami suddenly becomes homeless. A chance meeting leads her to become a local shrine deity. She has to handle her new duties with Tomoe, a handsome fox familiar who is none too pleased with any of this.
The series balances comedy and romance with a strong emotional core. As Nanami grows into her role, her relationship with Tomoe evolves from reluctant partnership to something much more complicated.
7. The Rose of Versailles (1979) (Versailles no Bara)
Set against the scene of the French Revolution, this series follows Oscar François de Jarjayes, a woman raised as a man to serve in the royal guard.
The Rose of Versailles is a historical drama mixed with personal stories. Oscar struggles with identity, duty, and morality as the monarchy falls apart. a lavish and tragic tale that holds up even after many years.
8. Into the Forest of Fireflies’ Light (Hotarubi no Mori e)
This short film tells the story of Hotaru, a girl who befriends a mysterious spirit named Gin in a forest inhabited by supernatural beings. There’s just one rule: she can never touch him.
What follows is a story about a connection that grows over the years. Its strength is within it’s simplicity, but be warned, this one is heartbreaking.
9. Whisper of the Heart (Mimi wo Sumaseba)
Shizuku is a middle schooler who loves to read, but isn’t quite sure what she wants to do with her life. After noticing the same name appearing in all the library books she checks out, she sets off upon a journey that leads her to discover both love and her own creative ambitions.
This coming-of-age film shows the uncertainty of youth, the fear of not being “good enough,” and the guts it takes to try anyway.
10. Cardcaptor Sakura
When Sakura accidentally releases a set of magical cards, she’s tasked with recovering them before they wreak havoc. Armed with her growing powers and an iconic wardrobe, she transforms into the role of Cardcaptor.
Beyond the magical adventures, the series shines for its honesty. Friendships, first crushes, and self-realization are shown in a way that makes the story timeless.
11. A Sign of Affection (Yubisaki to Renren)
Yuki is a deaf college student trying to find her place in the world. Everything changes when she meets Itsuomi, a traveler who is truly interested in communication and connection.
This series gives a thoughtful portrayal of disability and its nuanced language. Beyond just words, their romance develops through effort, patience, and understanding.
12. Ouran High School Host Club (Ouran Koukou Host Club)
Haruhi Fujioka accidentally breaks an expensive vase and is forced to work off her debt by joining the school’s eccentric Host Club. But this is only because her classmates have mistaken for a boy.
It is a wild romantic comedy about wealth and society’s expectations. It is hilarious with memorable characters that will make you want to add this to your list of comfort shows.
13. Yona of the Dawn
Princess Yona lives a sheltered life until a sudden betrayal forces her to flee her kingdom. Stripped of her privilege, she begins a journey to reclaim both her homeland and her sense of self.
The series is great at showing character growth while highlighting each character within a faithful found family. Yona’s transformation from a naive princess to a determined leader is satisfying and inspirational.
14. Kodocha
Sana Kurata is a child actress with a larger-than-life personality. She’s constantly clashing with a troubled classmate who disrupts their school environment.
The series is full of wild humor, but it also tackles tough topics like neglect and bullying. The constant tonal shift is unpredictable, and that’s what makes it stand out.
15. Glass Mask
Maya Kitajima is a girl with raw acting talent, yet no formal training. When a legendary actress takes her under her wing, Maya is thrust into a competitive, ruthless world of performing arts.
Glass Mask is all about obsession. The kind that pushes you to greatness but comes with a price. Rivalries and artistic passion come together in a dramatic, high-stakes story that only grows more and more intense.
Top Shoujo Anime – Honorable Mentions
While these titles weren’t Top 15, they’re still closely rated as the top shoujo anime on MyAnimeList:
- Skip Beat!
- Lovely★Complex
- Maid Sama! (Kaichou wa Maid-sama!)
- The Story of Saiunkoku (Saiunkoku Monogatari)
- Snow White with the Red Hair (Akagami no Shirayuki-hime)
- Sailor Moon (Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon)
- Looking for the Full Moon (Full Moon wo Sagashite)
