The best lesbian yuri anime you watch include Bloom Into You, Revolutionary Girl Utena, Strawberry Panic, and Sakura Trick.
Fantasy, adventure, and romance dominate the anime and manga scene as the most popular genres. Fans recognize many tropes within these genres, such as the transformation of enemies into lovers, heroes with immense power, and even those heroes harboring secret, unknown powers.
However, less familiar genres like yuri, showcasing intimate romantic relationships between two women, are gaining traction. An array of excellent yuri anime out there will make your heart flutter.
This is not a ranked list: Watch Them All :)
The Unspoken Beauty of Yuri Anime
Yuri anime can feel like a mystery wrapped in an enigma for the uninitiated. But once you unravel the layers, a mesmerizing world of deep relationships and enchanting stories awaits.
This genre celebrates love in its purest form, defying societal norms and embracing passion between women. From heartbreaking tales of unrequited love to adventurous escapades of spirited women, the best yuri series have a knack for making you fall in love over and over again.
Sailing through the Sea of Yuri Anime Shows
The depth and breadth of Yuri anime shows are mind-boggling. Yet, every show retains its unique charm, with stunning visuals, riveting plotlines, or unforgettable characters.
Dive deep into this enticing world and explore the breathtaking vistas of anime lesbianism. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or a curious newbie, Yuri anime TV shows always have something new to offer, etching indelible marks on your heart.
Embracing Diversity with the Best Yuri Series
The best yuri series are the ones that wholeheartedly embrace diversity. These shows depict a broad range of lesbian relationships, beautifully illustrating the ebbs and flows of love.
These are stories of love, loss, and resilience that showcase the authenticity of lesbian yuri. They not only entertain but also inspire and evoke a sense of camaraderie. They present a heartfelt portrayal of female companionship, going beyond mere titillation.
1Bloom Into You – A Blossoming Romance
Bloom Into You is an excellent starting point for those new to yuri anime. It centers around high schooler Yuu Koito who hasn’t experienced the romantic feelings she’s read about in books until she meets the beautiful student council president, Touko Nanami. It’s a heartfelt exploration of identity, self-discovery, and burgeoning love.
2Revolutionary Girl Utena – Challenging Norms
In Revolutionary Girl Utena, Utena Tenjou’s desire to become a prince leads her to an unconventional school where duels decide who becomes the Rose Bride. The complex relationship between Utena and the current Rose Bride, Anthy Himemiya, challenges traditional gender norms and is steeped in metaphor and symbolism.
3Citrus – A Roller Coaster of Emotions
Citrus focuses on the relationship between Yuzu Aihara, a vibrant, fashion-forward city girl, and Mei Aihara, her new stepsister, and the stern student council president. The show delves into themes of love, confusion, and the pains of adolescent relationships, making it one of the most compelling yuri anime TV shows.
4Sakura Trick – Celebrating Young Love
Sakura Trick is all about Haruka Takayama and Yuu Sonoda, best friends who deepen their relationship to keep their bond unique in high school. The show is a lighthearted, often humorous take on young love, making it a delightful addition to your list of yuri anime shows.
5Aoi Hana (Sweet Blue Flowers) – Nostalgic Tenderness
Aoi Hana tells the story of Fumi Manjoume, an introverted young girl, and her cheerful childhood friend Akira Okudaira. As their paths cross again after several years, the series elegantly explores their friendship and the emotional complexities of growing up and falling in love.
6Maria Watches Over Us – A Tale of Trust and Friendship
Maria Watches Over Us is a yuri anime show that beautifully handles the delicate emotions of its characters. The series follows Yumi Fukuzawa’s life in an all-girls Catholic school, where relationships known as “soeur” (sister) form the basis of companionship. The deep bond between Yumi and her “soeur,” Sachiko Ogasawara, forms the heart of this touching anime.
7Kannazuki no Miko – Destiny and Heartfelt Bonds
Kannazuki no Miko is an intriguing mix of mecha, mythology, and yuri. The series focuses on the lives of Himeko and Chikane, the reincarnations of solar and lunar priestesses, respectively. Despite their contrasting personalities, they’re bound by an intense and fateful love.
8Simoun – A Dive into Fantasy
Simoun offers a unique perspective on gender and love. In its world, everyone is born female and chooses their gender at 17. Those who haven’t chosen pilot ancient flying artifacts, “Simoun,” in a war-torn world. The compelling plot and engaging relationships make it a must-watch yuri anime.
9Yuri Kuma Arashi (Yuri Bear Storm) – Symbolism and Love
Yuri Kuma Arashi is a surreal yuri anime filled with symbolism. The narrative explores the relationship between humans and bears in a society that has erected a Wall of Severance between them. It’s a thought-provoking series that beautifully represents lesbian relationships and social alienation.
10Riddle Story of Devil – Love Amidst Danger
Riddle Story of Devil plunges you into an exhilarating world of female assassins attending the infamous Black Class at Myōjō Academy. However, there’s a twist – one isn’t an assassin but a target.
The relationship between the target Haru Ichinose and her protector Tokaku Azuma is the core of this riveting yuri anime. Their burgeoning bond amidst peril makes for a captivating watch, showcasing an intriguing blend of suspense, action, and emotional depth.
11Flip Flappers – A Vibrant Adventure
Flip Flappers is a vividly imaginative yuri anime TV show, wrapped in a compelling blend of magical girl aesthetics, sci-fi elements, and enchanting yuri undertones.
The series revolves around the adventurous journey of two girls, Cocona and Papika, as they traverse through various fantastical worlds while developing a deeply intimate relationship. The show’s unique narrative style and vibrant animation make it a stand-out choice for those craving a visually stunning, heartwarming tale of friendship and love.
12Whispered Words – An Unspoken Love
Whispered Words illustrates the yearning for unrequited love and the struggles of coming out. The series portrays the relationship between Sumika Murasame, a high school student secretly in love with her best friend, Ushio Kazama.
Sumika’s struggles to express her feelings to Ushio, who seemingly prefers cute girls, results in a touching narrative about love, self-acceptance, and understanding. Its heartfelt portrayal of lesbian yuri and thoughtful exploration of sexuality make it a must-watch.
13Kase-san and Morning Glories – Love in Full Bloom
Kase-san and Morning Glories is a touching yuri anime OVA that follows the budding relationship between Yui Yamada and Tomoka Kase. From contrasting social circles, these two young women navigate their feelings for each other amidst the ups and downs of high school life.
The anime explores their relationship with beautiful delicacy and presents a sincere, heartfelt representation of lesbian love.
14Tachibanakan To Lie Angle
One of the best yuri anime is Tachibanakan To Lie Angle.
The story is about a high school student Natsuno Hanabi moving into a dormitory with intriguing characters.
Among them are a childhood friend in love with her and a mysterious girl towards whom Hanabi’s feelings slowly develop. Her new environment immerses her in complex relationships and emotions, providing a captivating exploration of love and friendship in the world of Yuri.
15Happy Sugar Life
Satou Matsuzaka, a beautiful high schooler, carries a certain reputation. When she stumbles upon a young girl named Shio Koube, she recognizes that this connection marks her first and only genuine love.
Rather than living with her aunt, as she leads others to believe, Satou covertly shares an apartment with Shio. Behind her innocent facade, she is willing to undertake anything, even desperate actions, to shield her cherished Shio.
16Daughters of Mnemosyne
Many people might wish for immortality, but what if it came with the constant threat of being attacked because of it? This is the reality for Rin Asougi, an immortal private investigator with no shortage of adversaries wanting her dead. Despite meeting many grim fates over the centuries, she always comes back to life, as if nothing had happened.
If you’re searching for one of the best yuri anime, this is one to check out.
17The Hunter of the Witch
In South America, Ellis, a fugitive girl with amnesia, a troubled past, and supernatural powers, fatefully encounters Nadie, a feisty bounty hunter.
This meeting spurs them to travel south to Mexico together as they search for the key to unlocking Ellis’s past.
Guiding their journey is only a mysterious stone, given to Ellis by a fortune teller she was staying with, and Ellis’s instinct that she must head south to Wiñaymarka Lake.
18Strawberry Panic! – Romance Amidst Competition
Set in an all-girls school, Strawberry Panic! weaves an intricate tale of love and rivalry. Nagisa Aoi transfers to St. Miator’s Girls’ Academy, where she encounters a world of competition for the title of “Etoile.” The show beautifully portrays relationships between the characters, making it a must-watch yuri series.
19Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid – Love in All Forms
At first glance, Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid may seem like your standard comedic slice-of-life anime, but it cleverly integrates yuri elements into its narrative. The series focuses on Kobayashi, an office worker living with a dragon named Tohru.
As Tohru expresses her love for Kobayashi, the show navigates themes of acceptance, family, and love in all forms, while providing a heartwarming take on lesbian relationships in anime.
20Inugami-san to Nekoyama-san – Love Across the Animal Kingdom
Inugami-san to Nekoyama-san is a short, comedic yuri anime show that introduces us to Suzu Nekoyama, a cat-loving girl, and Yachiyo Inugami, a dog-loving girl.
Despite their contrasting personalities, these two are irresistibly drawn to each other. The series offers a sweet and humorous take on their animal-like behavior towards each other, making it a charming entry into the yuri anime world.
21Candy Boy – A Tale of Sisterly Love
Candy Boy centers around the lives of Yukino and Kanade Sakurai, twin sisters sharing a room in their middle school dormitory. Despite the mundane setting, the show cleverly weaves subtle hints of their unique bond.
This tale of sisterly affection might be controversial due to its incestuous undertones, but the sensitive exploration of their closeness makes it noteworthy.
Candy Boy is one of the best yuri anime to watch!
22Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid – Action-Packed Romance
Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid presents a world where girls turn into weapons when aroused. It follows Mamori Tokonome and Mirei Shikishima as they battle to a strange island.
Although the show is filled with fan service, at its core, it’s a love story about the characters finding solace and strength in each other amidst the chaos. This action-packed yuri series promises a wild ride.
23Blue Drop – Aliens and Unforgettable Bonds
Blue Drop offers an interesting blend of sci-fi, drama, and yuri. Mari Wakatake’s life changes when she befriends an alien girl, Hagino Senkoji. As the plot unveils their otherworldly connection, it concurrently explores their deepening bond.
Though it incorporates alien invasion elements, the series’ heart lies in the poignant relationship between the two main characters, making it one of the best yuri anime.
24Konohana Kitan – Folklore and Blooming Bonds
Konohana Kitan whisks you away to Konohanatei, a hot spring hotel in a mystical world populated by animal spirits and magical beings. Yuzu, a cheerful fox girl, begins working at the inn and gradually forms deep bonds with her fellow workers.
This yuri anime teems with heartwarming stories of friendship and love, all set against charming Japanese folklore and mythology.
25Adachi and Shimamura – Love in the Ping Pong Club
Adachi and Shimamura present a slow-burn romance that begins in an unusual location: the second floor of the school gymnasium. The series follows Adachi and Shimamura, two girls who regularly skip class to hang out and play ping pong.
As they grow closer, their friendship subtly transitions into something more intimate. It’s a delicate portrayal of young love and confusion, making it one of the best yuri series.
26Yuru Yuri – A Lighthearted, Love-Filled Extravaganza
Yuru Yuri provides a delightful mix of comedy, slice-of-life, and yuri elements. The series follows the Amusement Club’s members, consisting of four fun-loving schoolgirls with a penchant for imagination and adventure.
As the girls navigate their daily lives, their bonds deepen, and subtle yuri relationships blossom. The show’s cheerful tone and endearing characters make it a charming and fun-filled lesbian anime.
27Release the Spyce
Release the Spyce blends action-packed sequences with heartfelt yuri relationships. The anime follows Momo Minamoto, a high school girl recruited by Tsukikage, an intelligence agency fighting against a criminal organization.
Throughout the show, the close bonds between Tsukikage’s members and their shared dedication to protecting their city add depth and emotional richness to the intense action.
28Pandora in the Crimson Shell
Pandora in the Crimson Shell: Ghost Urn is an exciting venture into cybernetics and AI. When cyborg girl Nene Nanakorobi meets inventor Clarion on an artificial island, their lives intertwine unexpectedly.
Despite its futuristic setting, the series explores the themes of friendship and mutual dependence in an authentic, touching manner, presenting a unique addition to the list of yuri anime shows.
29Kanamewo – Anime Lesbian Yuri
In the stirring ONA short, Kanamewo, a young woman stumbles upon a tree goddess after her bike crashes during a storm. Construction threatens the goddess’ shrine, and the ongoing destruction weakens her.
The young woman brings the tree goddess home, nurturing her during her final days. Their bond intensifies into a deep love as they spend time together. However, this 5-minute yuri short sadly concludes on a tragic note. It offers a visceral exploration of change, existence, and grief.
Showcasing the Shimmering Spectrum of Yuri Anime TV Shows
From gentle school life tales to fantastical adventures, the list of yuri anime shows spans a broad spectrum of genres. These shows seamlessly weave lesbian themes into their narratives, offering a fresh perspective on love and companionship.
The intense emotions, complex character dynamics, and lush animations contribute to an immersive viewing experience that transcends the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
The Compelling Allure of Lesbian Anime
Lesbian anime holds a unique allure. It’s more than just the representation of queer women in anime. It’s about the intricate dynamics, powerful narratives, and nuanced characterizations at these stories’ hearts.
Lesbian yuri is a beacon of hope for many, breaking stereotypes and redefining norms. The charm of anime lesbianism lies in its unabashed celebration of love, loyalty, and friendship.
Remember, each of these shows presents its interpretation of love and relationships, adding a unique flavor to the diverse world of yuri anime. Dive in, and you might find a series that resonates with your heart.
Yume X Akatsuki Yuri Moment
What is yuri anime?
Yuri anime refers to a genre that focuses on romantic or sexual relationships between female characters. It’s also known as “Girls’ Love” or “GL” and can range from platonic love and friendship to more explicit romantic and sexual relationships.
What are some of the best yuri anime to start with?
Some great yuri anime to start with include “Bloom Into You,” “Strawberry Panic,” and “Revolutionary Girl Utena.” These shows offer diverse stories and representations of lesbian relationships, making them a good introduction to the genre.
Is yuri anime popular in Japan?
Yes, yuri anime has a dedicated fanbase in Japan and has been gaining popularity over the years. It’s not just popular in Japan, but also has a growing international audience who appreciate the genre’s exploration of female relationships.
Are there any action-focused yuri anime?
Yes, yuri anime isn’t just about romance. There are several action-focused yuri anime like “Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid” and “Release the Spyce” that blend elements of action and adventure with yuri relationships.
How does yuri anime differ from shoujo-ai?
While both yuri and shoujo-ai focus on female relationships, the terms are often used to distinguish between the explicitness of the content. Shoujo-ai, translated as “girls’ love,” usually implies more innocent and platonic relationships, while yuri can depict more explicit and sexual relationships. However, these definitions can vary, and the terms are often used interchangeably outside of Japan.
Are there any yuri anime movies?
Yes, there are several yuri anime movies. “Kase-san and Morning Glories” is a popular example, and it’s a heartfelt movie about the relationship between two high school girls. Another example is “The Adolescence of Utena,” a film adaptation of the “Revolutionary Girl Utena” series.
Do yuri anime always have a happy ending?
Not always. Like any other genre, the story’s tone and ending in yuri anime vary widely. Some series have happy endings, while others may have more bittersweet or tragic conclusions. The variety of narratives and outcomes is part of what makes the genre so diverse and compelling.