Sasaki and Miyano enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a list of similar BL anime that promise an unforgettable viewing experience. Allow “Beryl and Sapphire” to captivate you with its riveting intersecting storylines and ever-changing settings.
Try dipping into “Tsurezure Children” if you enjoy bite-sized romance series replete with charming slice-of-life moments, much like Sasaki and Miyano. Indulge in “Love Stage,” a delightful BL anime teeming with cute narratives and quintessential yaoi tropes.
BL Anime To Watch
Sasaki and Miyano is a masterful representation of the “boys love” or BL genre in anime. This beautifully crafted series delves into the nuances of same-sex love, delivering an engaging narrative that leaves viewers yearning for more.
Let’s have a look at some similar shows you should look into.
20Doukyuusei – An Unforgettable Classmate
To kick off our list, we recommend “Doukyuusei.” This film follows the budding romance of Kusakabe and Sajou, two high school students who initially meet during a school music festival.
Their dynamic mirrors that of Sasaki and Miyano, in the sense of one party being reluctant and the other one patiently pursuing their affection.
“Doukyuusei” is an excellent choice for fans who appreciate the soft and sweet moments and the personal growth and understanding that develops in these relationships. The unique and captivating animation style makes every scene a visual delight.
19Hybrid Child
A unique android type, the Hybrid Child, flourishes when given ample love and support, forging deep connections with their owners.
The anthology anime, Hybrid Child, follows three central characters: Kotaro grapples with the imminent death of his beloved Hybrid Child, Seya, a swordsman, pursues a quest to rekindle love; while Kuroda, the creator of the Hybrid Children, designs them from remnants of a lost love.
Surpassing typical Boys’ Love narratives, Hybrid Child intricately weaves heart-rending tales accentuated by top-notch animation, music, and storytelling, effectively conveying profound sacrifice stories. The narrative is superb, matched by equally compelling characters. I found the finale quite satisfactory.
18Antidote
Antidote weaves the intriguing story of Cheng Ke and Jiang Yuduo. After losing everything, Cheng Ke stumbles upon Jiang Yuduo during a frantic search for his lost items. Trying to distance himself, Cheng Ke seeks a new home, only to discover Jiang Yuduo as his landlord.
Navigating their complicated pasts and engaging in tense conflicts, they still manage to reconnect. With its gripping narrative, Antidote offers a dark and riveting BL anime that keeps viewers enthralled.
17Hitorijime My Hero – Unlikely Heroes
Next on our list is “Hitorijime My Hero,” a series that explores the complexities of unspoken feelings and self-discovery. It follows Masahiro Setagawa, a teenager with a troubled past, and Kousuke Ohshiba, a teacher determined to protect him.
Similar to Sasaki and Miyano’s dynamic, the narrative takes viewers on a journey of young love, personal growth, and acceptance. The characters’ development and transition from friends to lovers provide warmth and joy that will resonate with Sasaki and Miyano enthusiasts.
16Junjou Romantica – The Classics Never Disappoint
Another worthwhile addition to your list is “Junjou Romantica,” a classic in the BL genre. Like Sasaki and Miyano, it highlights the value of patience in love, with complex character development woven into the narrative.
The story follows three different couples, each bringing a unique perspective to their relationships, with an emphasis on trust and communication. Despite its older animation style, the compelling storytelling and relatable characters make it a must-watch for fans of BL anime.
15Gakuen Handsome
Parodies within the yaoi anime genre, like Gakuen Handsome, are a rare find. Gakuen Handsome humorously exaggerates with unappealing artwork, loathsome romantic leads, and a remarkably dull protagonist. Its quick three-minute episodes serve as amusing satires, spotlighting controversial elements in boys’ love stories, specifically from older series like Junjo Romantica and Gravitation.
Nonetheless, Gakuen Handsome isn’t the best choice for those fresh from watching Sasaki and Miyano, as the latter lacks many tropes parodied in the 2016 series. Gakuen Handsome, while entertaining, offers a more enhanced experience to those acquainted with the yaoi world.
14No.6 – A Dystopian Love
If you enjoy the underlying themes of understanding and acceptance found in “Sasaki and Miyano,” “No.6” is another BL anime you must check out. This series introduces us to Shion, a brilliant student living in a dystopian city, and Nezumi, a fugitive on the run.
Their friendship develops into something deeper, showcasing the transformative power of love. Despite the dark setting, the storyline focuses on the characters’ vulnerability and the blossoming romance between them, making it a worthwhile watch.
13Sekaiichi Hatsukoi – A Tale of First Love
Sekaiichi Hatsukoi, or “World’s Greatest First Love,” is a captivating anime that delivers a nuanced portrayal of love and relationships. The narrative centers around Ritsu Onodera, a jaded literary editor, and his tumultuous relationship with his overbearing boss, Masamune Takano.
With a narrative that is reminiscent of Sasaki’s patient approach towards Miyano, this series offers fans a dose of workplace romance coupled with comedy and a dash of drama.
The depiction of the protagonists’ journey from rejection and fear to acceptance and love is both engaging and heartfelt, making it a must-watch for fans of BL anime.
12Sukisho! – Can’t Stop Loving You!
Sukisho shines a spotlight on the relationships among boys in a single-sex boarding school, immediately captivating viewers with its visually appealing animation.
While some may perceive its plot as lighthearted, with a few of its 13 episodes feeling like filler content, Sukisho stays true to the conventions of a typical Boys’ Love (BL) anime, primarily focusing on romance rather than profound themes.
Unlike stories centered around superheroes or wizards, Sukisho prioritizes the blossoming connection between two young men, accompanied by a sprinkle of fan service and youthful antics.
11Love Stage!! – Spotlight on Love
Love Stage!!, is a lighthearted series that explores the world of showbiz through a queer lens. It follows Izumi Sena, an otaku, and Ryoma Ichijo, a popular actor, whose worlds collide in an unexpected twist of fate.
Like Sasaki and Miyano, the series delves into the confusion and realization of developing feelings for the same gender. “Love Stage!!” offers viewers a charming blend of comedy, drama, and heartwarming romance, perfectly rounding off our list of recommendations.
10Spiritpact
Spiritpact provides ample content for fans of Sasaki And Miyano. The series revolves around Tanmoku, an exorcist, and Keika, who meets an untimely demise in a peculiar accident. Instead of a tragic conclusion, Tanmoku proposes that Keika persists as his spirit shadow, retaining a link to the physical realm in a non-human state.
The engaging plot and otherworldly escapades offer entertainment, but it is the lively interactions between Tanmoku and Keika, who naturally have much to converse about, that are bound to captivate viewers the most. The storyline of this show completely enraptured me; its excellence was staggering.
9Gravitation: In the Orbit of Love
Buckle up, and let’s dive into the electrifying world of music and romance with “Gravitation.”
This dynamic series resonates with Sasaki and Miyano lovers through its classic blend of humor, heartbreak, and deep-seated love. Centered around the aspiring musician, Shuichi Shindou, and the enigmatic novelist, Eiri Yuki, “Gravitation” portrays the universal themes of acceptance and persistence in love.
Whether it’s the expressive animation or the pop-infused soundtrack, this series draws you in and keeps you engrossed. Much like Sasaki and Miyano, the characters’ romantic development will strike a chord and make you root for their relationship.
8Loveless: Where Innocence Intersects Love
Next up is “Loveless,” a beautifully complex series that explores love, loss, and the ties that bind us. Ritsuka, a young boy struggling with his memory, and Soubi, a mysterious older student, are pushed together by fate.
Despite their initial differences, a deep bond develops between them. Although “Loveless” veers towards the dramatic and intense side of the spectrum, its compelling storytelling, combined with the delicate handling of its characters’ emotions, echoes the beauty found in the relationship between Sasaki and Miyano.
Its narrative nuances and deeply symbolic world-building will keep you enthralled.
7Heaven’s Official Blessing
Heaven’s Official Blessing, a Chinese donghua anime, delves deep into the realm of divine love. The protagonist, Xie Lian, is a fallen god who encounters the immensely powerful Hua Cheng in heaven. Their romance unfolds gracefully against a backdrop of intrigue, spirituality, and mythology.
Unlike many BL anime, this series expertly balances the romantic narrative with other compelling elements. As a result, the love story between the gods evolves naturally, presenting a truly divine interpretation of romance.
6Super Lovers: Embracing the Unconventional
Super Lovers is a testament to unconventional relationships that transcend societal norms. The story revolves around Haru, who becomes the guardian of his younger adoptive brother, Ren. With time, their relationship evolves, raising complex questions about familial bonds and romantic love.
Like Sasaki and Miyano, “Super Lovers” offers a poignant exploration of the characters’ emotions as they navigate through the ambiguity of their feelings. The series’ emotional depth and vibrant art style make it a compelling watch, tugging at viewers’ heartstrings. It’s been a month since I experienced this breathtaking show and its captivating storyline, and not a day passes without it echoing in my mind.
5Dakaichi
Dakaichi is a mature BL anime blending comedy and drama in a “enemies to lovers” romance. In its short 13 episodes, it unfolds an engaging LGBTQA+ story featuring the attractive, rival actors, Takato Saijo and Junya Azumaya.
The tension rises when Junya secures career-threatening evidence against Takato, making their dynamic captivating. Their relationship subtly transitions into sensuality, pleasing adult anime enthusiasts.
4The Stranger By The Shore
Doukyusei: Classmates is a satisfying, straightforward tale of two contrasting school chorus members, introverted honor student Rihito and extroverted academically-challenged Hikaru, falling in love.
Hikaru helps Rihito with his singing, sparking their romance. The story’s simplicity is not a downside but enhances its charm and love. It’s an exceptional example of classical BL anime done right. I can confidently advocate for this amazing show.
3Given
Given, a popular music-themed BL anime, traces the path of high schoolers Mafuyu Sato and Ritsuka Uenoyama. Unaware of its sentimental value, Ritsuka helps Mafuyu tune a guitar that belonged to Mafuyu’s first love, leading to Mafuyu joining Ritsuka’s band and fostering a bond between them.
Given bravely dives into deep emotional territories, providing viewers a profound exploration of feelings. Yet, these heavy themes only enhance the romantic storyline between the characters, with Given’s success stemming from its courageous use of dark themes to highlight the light.
2Banana Fish
Stemming from Akimi Yoshida’s 80s manga, it traces New York gang leader Ash Lynx’s investigation into his brother’s murder and his blossoming love story with Eiji Nakamura.
The anime adaptation maintains the manga’s emotional depth, securing Banana Fish’s spot as a top-tier BL work. The highly authentic narrative features an interconnected plot that constantly delivers surprises. Each episode balances intensity with doses of comedy, enhancing its appeal.
The brilliance of this show is hard to put into words. It’s a classical BL anime that breaks the mold. I’d certainly vouch for it any day.
1Yuri!!! On Ice – A Love on Thin Ice
Last but certainly not least, “Yuri!!! On Ice” rounds off our list. This popular anime is known for its captivating storytelling, exquisite animation, and central relationship rivaling Sasaki and Miyano’s chemistry. The story follows Yuuri Katsuki, a competitive figure skater, and his idol, Victor Nikiforov. As Victor becomes Yuuri’s coach, their professional relationship evolves into a heartfelt romance.
The series masterfully combines the intensity of competitive sports with the tenderness of their blossoming love, making it an unforgettable watch for all BL fans.
I recently completed watching this anime and found it utterly captivating – it’s impeccably crafted! I can’t praise it highly enough. The characters are downright charming, and the overarching narrative is incredibly uplifting and heartwarming. The bond shared between Victor and Yuri is simply stellar.
Sasaki Shuumei – Sasaki and Miyano
“BL” stands for “Boys’ Love,” a subgenre of anime and manga that depicts romantic or sexual relationships between male characters, often created by and for women. A good BL anime will depend on the viewer’s personal tastes, but some general qualities tend to make for well-received series:
Well-Developed Characters: BL anime should feature nuanced, complex characters who have their own personalities, motivations, and histories. This can make the romantic relationships more believable and compelling.
Engaging Storyline: The best BL anime have interesting and well-paced plots, drawing viewers in and keeping them engaged. Depending on the series, this could involve elements of drama, humor, action, or other genres.
Respectful Representation: Good BL anime should handle the representation of its LGBTQ+ characters respectfully. This can include avoiding harmful stereotypes or tropes and treating the characters’ identities and relationships with sensitivity.
Quality Animation: As with any anime, the quality of the animation is important. Good artwork, fluid animation, and well-designed characters can make the series more enjoyable to watch.
Emotionally Engaging: BL anime often have emotional storylines; the best ones make viewers emotionally invested in the characters and their relationships. This can include having heartwarming moments, dramatic tension, or tragic events.
Satisfying Resolution: How a series ends can greatly impact how viewers feel about it. Good BL anime typically have satisfying resolutions that meaningfully tie up the plot and character arcs.