Yuri is a term that encompasses a wide range of media, including manga, anime, novels, TV shows, movies, and games, all exploring the emotions and relationships of lesbians. Here we have a fantastic recommendation for you: Top 13 Best Yuri Anime.
Join me on a journey into a world of elegance and fantasy as we dive into these incredible shows.
Best Yuri Anime List
1. Lycoris Recoil
Our Rating: 👑👑👑
Publication: July 2, 2022
Episodes: 13
Synopsis: There is a covert group called “DA (Direct Attack)” that works to stop crimes during off-peak hours. A group of girls known as “LYCORIS” are secret agents.
The two LYCORIS that operate at the LycoReco café branch are Takina Inoue, an exceptional LYCORIS, and Chisuke Nishiki, regarded as the strongest LYCORIS of all time.
Feel free to leave your orders to LycoReco for anything from ordering coffee and pastries to watching the kids, shopping, and teaching foreigners Japanese. Now begins the hectic everyday lives of the cool, collected, and capable Takinami and the free-spirited, pacifist Chisuke!
Review: The story revolves around Japan creating a specialized internal security organization known as DA following a major incident.
The agents of DA, called Lycoris, are individuals who were orphaned and then carefully trained and chosen from a young age.
These Lycoris agents wear school uniforms to seamlessly blend into the city, although the decision ultimately lies with their creator.
Additionally, they possess a license that grants them the authority to eliminate their targets. They don’t have passports (maybe not even citizenship) and are only permitted to leave when they have a mission to complete.
In essence, these individuals are highly skilled operatives trained by the government. The DA’s setup clearly exudes a dystopian vibe.
2. Adachi and Shimamura
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑
Publication: October 9, 2020
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: Sakura Yasuda is well-known at her school for being a disobedient girl who regularly misses classes. One day, she runs into Shimamura Tsuzuki, who is also skipping, on the second floor of the gym while avoiding her routinely dull gym lesson.
The two girls, who didn’t know each other well at first, became friends and spent a lot of time together talking, bowling, and singing. They notice that their personalities are remarkably similar and that they are becoming more and more in line with their tastes and viewpoints.
Over time, Sakura discovers that she is pulled to Shimamura inexplicably; she blushes and feels her heart skip a beat in response to every move Shimamura makes. Sakura understands that she no longer just has friendship feelings for Shimamura. How does Shimamura feel about their connection is still an open question.
Review: Anda considers Adashima to be her sole companion. She is unable to express her thoughts to her distant mother, leaving her caught up in a web of complex emotions.
She longs for a relationship that goes beyond just being best friends. She lacks the necessary skills to navigate and manage these overwhelming emotions, and unfortunately, she lacks a support system to seek guidance from.
Feeling a bit hesitant to open up and unsure of the potential consequences, she refers to Adashima as her friend while discreetly gauging her own emotions.
Adashima may not be the most outgoing person, but Anda takes solace in their friendship, constantly wishing for a special bond that sets her apart from everyone else.
When that’s not sufficient, she fearlessly goes the extra mile to express her emotions.
3. Kase-san and Morning Glories
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑
Publication: June 9, 2018
Runtime: 58 minutes
Synopsis: The yuri manga ‘Petunia and Kase’ by Hiromi Takashima is adapted for the stage by anime. The horticultural department is led by shy sophomore Yuki Yamada, who has a strong interest in plants. Because of Yamada’s passion for petunias, her classmate Kase—a popular student and track star—crosses paths with her, leading to a growing bond between them.
Review:
This animated film, based on Hiromi Takashima’s yuri manga “Asagao to Kase-san,” has a runtime of less than an hour.
Yamada, one of the main characters, has a talent for growing morning glories that catches the eye of Kase, a star on the track team.
The film starts with them already in a relationship, which adds a sweet touch compared to many other Yuri anime.
Nevertheless, the limited duration of the film leaves you yearning for a deeper exploration of their relationship.
The morning glory represents a deep connection, with the belief that their love will endure forever in the warmth of the sun!
4. Bloom Into You
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑👑
Publication: October 5, 2018
Episodes: 13
Synopsis: Eu is a typical high school student who is referred to be “Mr. Nice Guy” by her peers, but she secretly struggles with other people’s feelings. She frequently finds it difficult to relate to these emotions, but she nevertheless helps people without thinking twice—not because she is naturally nice, but rather because she can’t say no.
One day, Eu’s best friend of the opposite sex unexpectedly confesses to her. She turns to Mitsuko Nanami, the well-liked student council president at the school, for help since she’s not sure how to react, even though she’s heard a lot of confessions. To Eu’s amazement, Nanami freely expresses her sentiments by saying, “I like you.”
Review: Author Nio Nakatani honed her skills in this field during college and seamlessly incorporated her expertise into her writing.
She chose yuri as a means of delicately portraying love stories, rather than solely focusing on same-sex relationships. Her scripts stand out for their exceptional, unique, and timeless qualities.
At first glance, it may appear to be a Yuri series, but it quickly becomes evident that it is a love story that transcends traditional notions of gender.
In the end, you’ll come to understand that it’s all about finding yourself. It goes beyond the theme of love, encompassing a wider range of understanding.
For me, this is the absolute best Yuri anime of all time on my Yuri anime list of the year I’ve encountered so far.
5. Citrus
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑
Publication: January 6, 2018
Episodes: 12
Synopsis:
Yuzu Aihara is a first-year high school student who, despite her outwardly trendy and self-assured demeanor, is genuinely naive and lacking in interpersonal experience. Because of her family’s situation, she grudgingly enrolls in an all-girls high school and bemoans the small likelihood that she will make a boyfriend there.
Yuzu first meets Mei Aihara, the president of the school, who is well-known for her good looks, intelligence, and wealthy family. A miscommunication causes Yuzu to soon lose Mei’s favor. Yuzu finds out that Mei Aihara is now her step-sister and that they will soon be sharing a home, which exacerbates the situation.
Review: Citrus is truly exceptional, with a theme that is both clear and vivid.
This Yuri series stands out for its authentic portrayal, free from the usual tropes of a male protagonist or fantastical elements. It’s far from utopian or skirting the edges.
Instead, it genuinely portrays a beautiful type of love that exists between individuals in the real world.
This piece beautifully captures the intricacies of romance, delving into the challenges of a love that is deemed forbidden. It also imparts valuable lessons on the essence of possessing strong character.
That highlights the deep influence of family environments, the importance of social interactions, the value of courage, the significance of expressing our emotions, and the essence of genuine love.
6. Sakura Trick
Our Rating: 👑👑👑
Publication: January 10, 2014
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: Merisi High School, where Haruka Takayama and her best friend Yu Sonoda are enrolled, is scheduled to close in three years as a result of a merger with another institution. When Yu makes friends with other pupils right away, Haruka grows envious and harbors love for him. To be Yu’s “special” buddy is Haruka’s goal. Yu recommends they do something they would never do with anyone else after noticing how Haruka is feeling. A kiss is what makes anything unique for Haruka; she wouldn’t do it with other pals.
Review: Two girls, Sonoda Yuu, and Takayama Haruka, find themselves unexpectedly falling in love with each other as they embark on their high school journey in the same classroom, surrounded by four other girls who also share a clear Yuri connection.
This Yuri series has a unique twist. This anime stands out from the rest with its boldness, authenticity, and vibrant energy, setting it apart from typical Yuri shows.
7. Kin-iro Mosaic
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑👑
Publication: July 6, 2013
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: Shinobu Omiya, a fifteen-year-old Japanese girl, has black hair and eyes, like any other ordinary girl. She has, nevertheless, previously resided in England with a host family. Shinobu is a refined, kind, and mature woman with her own opinions and a strong sense of resolve.
Alice, the daughter of her English host family, surprises Shinobu with a letter after she returns to Japan. Alice informs Shinobu that she will be spending time with her in Japan. Kujo Pity, a childhood friend of Alice’s who appears to be foreign but is actually mixed-race, is brought along. A happy and endearing school comedy revolves on these three vivacious girls.
Review: Shinobu Omiya embodies the essence of a typical fifteen-year-old Japanese girl, complete with her lustrous black hair and captivating eyes.
However, her story takes an interesting turn as she spends time living with a host family in England.
Shinobu exudes an air of maturity, composure, and gentleness. She remains unwavering in her convictions, steadfastly sticking to her own ideas without easily being swayed.
After coming back to Japan, Shinobu is pleasantly surprised to receive a letter from Alice, the daughter of her English host family. Alice excitedly mentions that she’s going to Japan to stay with Shinobu.
With Alice is her childhood friend, Karen Kujo, who has a unique blend of Japanese and foreign features. Join these three vibrant girls as they embark on a heartwarming and fun-filled school comedy adventure.
8. Yuru Yuri
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑
Publication: July 4, 2011
Episodes: 12
Synopsis: Akari, who has a small case of vertigo, is now formally enrolled in middle school. She and her companions Yui and Kyoko join the “Amusement Club” on her first day. In reality, the “Amusement Club” is merely them occupying the space that was once the tea ceremony club, where they engage in mostly idle conversation and tea drinking. Chinatsu, Akari’s classmate, unintentionally joins the tea ceremony group because she admires her sister, who was a member.
In the Amusement Club, the four girls have carefree and enjoyable days with a hint of yuri (girl-love) motifs. While Chinatsu has a crush on the kind Yui, Kyoko is rather fond of the adorable Chinatsu. The protagonist, Akari, feels a little ignored as a result. In the Amusement Club, they have talks that result in amusing tales. The Amusement Club faces possible closure as a result of the student council’s attention being drawn to their improper use of the classroom.
Review: Immersed in the relaxed and comfortable world of “YuruYuri,” middle schoolers find joy in carefree laughter and cherished friendships.
In contrast to other shows that focus on lighthearted comedy, this series takes things to the next level. The beauty of “YuruYuri” is how it highlights the importance of valuing and safeguarding these friendships.
We’ve got Kyouko, the one bursting with energy, Yui with her sharp wit, the sly and crafty Chinatsu, the almost invisible Akari, Chitose who’s all about Yuri, the tsundere Ayano who secretly has feelings for Kyouko, and the childhood friends Sakurako and Himawari who playfully act like they can’t stand each other.
Their everyday lives are filled with excitement and entertainment, thanks to the student council and the amusement club.
9. Sweet Blue Flowers
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑
Publication: July 1, 2009
Episodes: 11
Synopsis: The lovely and compassionate Fumi Manjoume is going to begin her new life in high school on this day. She recognizes Akira Okudaira, a buddy from her youth who she hasn’t seen in almost ten years. Both girls experience little joy and surprises as a result of their unexpected meeting. Fumi’s feelings for Akira become more apparent the more time they spend together. Will the vivacious Akira and the melancholy Fumi—two completely different people—end up together?
Meanwhile, Yasuko Sugimoto, Kyoko Ikumi’s senior, continues to have an influence on the mature-looking Kyoko Ikumi. At this all-female school, the girls’ feelings for one another progressively blanket the bleak hills like springtime wildflowers.
Review: “Aoi Hana” stands out as a precious find in the world of yuri anime, capturing the essence of yuri emotions in a truly captivating manner.
In the world of anime, there has been a surge of new Yuri-themed shows. However, it is disappointing to see that most of them only touch upon yuri relationships briefly, treating them as mere subplots or passing moments.
“Aoi Hana” is an anime adaptation of the manga that beautifully portrays the tender love between high school girls.
The story features a diverse cast of characters, with various romantic relationships blossoming and fading away, creating a sense of delicate tranquility, much like the falling of snow.
When it comes to the TV adaptation, the characters appear to have a more polished demeanor in contrast to the manga. The backgrounds maintain the original’s refreshing and elegant watercolor style, featuring gentle and calming colors that create a delightful viewing experience.
10. Candy Boy
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑
Publication: May 2, 2008
Episodes: 7
Synopsis: Twin sisters Yukino and Kanade Sakurai have a very strong bond and have never been separated since birth. Even though they are in high school, they still live in a contented and tranquil “two-person world.” However, Sakuya Kamiyama, a female, shows in and throws a wrench in their routine.
When Kanade sees that Sakuya and Yukino appear to be growing closer, he misinterprets this as a sign of romantic sentiments. Kanade, who is a little heartbroken, chooses to avoid Yukino in order to give them some space. The sisters, who were once inseparable, begin to drift apart as a result. Yukino discovers during this period that she has strong affections for Kanade. The sisters eventually declare their emotions to one another and start living happily together after experiencing some emotional ups and downs.
Review: “Candy Boy” is an adorable and heartwarming Yuri slice-of-life anime.
Yukino and Kanade have been inseparable since childhood. Throughout every stage of their lives, from childhood to graduation, and even as they embark on their careers, they remain inseparable.
They have an unbreakable connection as twins, a deep affection as lovers, and, above all, they are always by each other’s side, regardless of the circumstances.
11. Revolutionary Girl Utena
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑👑
Publication: April 2, 1997
Episodes: 39
Synopsis:
Utena Tenjou lost her parents when she was young. One day, she meets a handsome prince who gives her a ring and tells her that it might bring her parents back together in the far future. Utena is deeply moved by the prince’s kindness and charm, and she wants to be as elegant as he is.
The ring tells Utena to go to Ohtori Academy, where a game called “The Prince’s Duel” is famous. The winner of these fights can take Anthy Himemiya, also known as the “Rose Bride,” as their slave. Souji Mikage is Anthy’s boss right now, but Utena beats him in the end and takes her for herself. A strong link forms between Utena and Anthy over time.
Review: “Revolutionary Girl Utena,” directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara in 1997, is a timeless shoujo anime that captivates viewers with its 39 episodes, each intricately crafting a narrative filled with profound symbolism and artistic expression.
Himemiya Anthy serves as the Rose Bride at Ohtori Academy, and those who marry her gain the extraordinary “Revolutionary Power.” This ignites the boys at the academy to engage in the “Prince Game,” engaging in duels on the school rooftop at twilight. The winner claims the Rose Bride’s body and heart.
One day, Utena Tenjou unexpectedly finds herself caught up in a duel and manages to come out on top.
On the contrary, Utena’s journey takes a tumultuous turn as she confronts numerous obstacles from individuals vying for revolutionary power, rather than enjoying a blissful life with Anthy. She emerges victorious in every battle, only to be ultimately overpowered by Anthy’s brother, Akio Ohtori, the chairman of the academy.
Utena’s downfall is a result of Anthy’s betrayal. Utena, unfortunately, becomes a forgotten figure in the Prince Game and in the memories of her friends. Surprisingly, Anthy abruptly departs from her brother and sets off on a journey to locate Utena.
This anime is considered one of Japan’s top-tier animations, standing alongside “EVA” and “Space Battleship Yamato” as part of the country’s renowned trio of OUAKU series.
“Revolutionary Girl Utena” has sparked a multitude of interpretations surrounding its captivating “revolution” theme. It delves into the concept of breaking free from a confining world, challenging traditional prince-princess narratives, embarking on a transformative journey of self-reconciliation, and even pioneering the yuri genre.
12. Maria Watches Over Us
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑
Publication: January 7, 2004
Episodes: 13
Synopsis: At the prestigious Lillian Girls’ Academy, it is customary for new students to pick an upperclassman to be their “sister.” This person will teach them how to behave at school while they are there. The students look up to the Yamayurikai, especially its head Yoshino Ogasawara, Eriko Torii, and Sei Satou. They are known as the “Three Roses of the Academy.” Together with their sisters, who are known as Rosa Foetida, they run different parts of the student council.
Normal girl Yumi Fukuzawa turns into Yoshino’s Rosa Foetida by accident and starts to have duties in the Yamayurikai. As she becomes close with her fellow roses, a sweet and fun school life starts.
Review: At Lillian Girls’ Academy, there’s a fascinating tradition where new students choose an upperclassman as their “sister” to provide guidance on school life and etiquette.
The Yamayuri Council has gained quite a reputation, with Sachiko Ogasawara, Eriko Torii, and Sei Satou being adored by everyone in the school. These individuals, referred to as the Three Roses, along with their younger counterparts known as the Rose Buds, oversee all student council activities.
Yumi Fukuzawa, a regular girl, finds herself in the unexpected role of Sachiko’s Rose Bud and is entrusted with the responsibility of assisting in the management of the Yamayuri Council. As she connects with the other Rose Buds, her school life takes on a warm and laid-back vibe.
13. Whispered Words
Our Rating: 👑👑👑👑👑
Publication: October 7, 2009
Episodes: 13
Synopsis: Junka Murasame is a very smart and bright student who gets great grades and is good at sports. But she keeps a shocking secret from everyone: she likes her childhood friend Shizuku Kazama. Because Junka has a small inferiority complex, she hides these feelings deep inside her and watches over Shizuku in silence from afar.
As they start high school, they make a group of interesting friends. Kaede Torizuka, who is always hungry, Aoi Renga, who looks grown but is actually very young, Misao Amagami, who is sassy but has a dark side, and Azusa Kurowai, who is lost in her own world. This group of girls is called the “After School Happy Girls Club,” and every day they do fun and funny things.
Review: “Whispered Words” revolves around Murasame Sumika and Ushio Kazama, two high school students who find themselves entangled in a web of emotions and the trials of growing up.
Murasame Sumika is a 15-year-old girl who finds herself developing feelings for her female best friend, Ushio Kazama. Fortunately, Ushio also has an interest in girls.
Regrettably, Ushio’s preferences lean towards girls who are considered “cute” and “small,” which doesn’t align with Sumika’s tall, athletic, and outgoing nature.
The Story is a beloved anime series that delves into the profound themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery. The show’s characters are incredibly rich and complex, making it a captivating topic for analysis and discussion.
Yuri Anime is an exciting addition to the larger world of yuri that satisfies the exploratory nature of fans who want to explore the rich and dynamic personalities of their favorite yuri anime character, debate their true personality types, and engage in discussions with other fans.
If you’d prefer to build the Yuri world from your own perspective, then I suggest you start with Lesbian Comic Books. If you’re clueless, then I recommend you start with these Best Completed Yuri Manhwa.
