Anime fans who are new toshojomight feel as if they’re in for an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With so many stories to choose from, it can be daunting to find the right place to start.There is a perfect shojo anime for everyone, ranging from high school romances and magical adventures to dramatic love triangles.
Shojo is a genre that is particularly targeted at young women,yet it appeals to a broader audience with its rich narratives, romance, and relatable themes. For those new to shojo, the best way to start is with a series that combines engaging storytelling, beautiful animation, and memorable characters without being too complex or drawn out. To assist on this journey into the realm of shojo, this list offers the perfect anime to begin with.
Yona of the Dawnblends action and adventure with romance, making it aunique and standout choice for those just beginning to explore shojo. The story follows Princess Yona, who is forced to flee her kingdom after her cousin betrays her. As she begins her journey to reclaim her throne, she evolves from a sheltered princess to a capable leader.
What sets this anime apart is its powerful female protagonist, Yona, who proves herself a worthy leader in battle. Yona’s relationship with her companions and those she crosses along her adventure grows through trust and mutual respect.Yona of the Dawnbalances adventure with romantic subplotsand intriguing character development, making it a perfect introduction to shojo for those who want more than high school romance.
Kamisama Kissis asupernatural romantic comedy that ran for two seasonsand received several OVAs. The story follows Nanami Momozono, a young girl who, down on her luck,unexpectedly becomes a shrine deity. As the goddess of the shrine, she forms an initially reluctant partnership with Tomoe, a powerful fox yokai.
The narrative follows their evolving relationship, which isfilled with playful banter and genuine moments of emotional growth.Kamisama Kissexplores themes of self-worth and resilience in a lighthearted narrative. Nanami and Tomoe’s dynamic is reason enough to watch, but the series is also known for its magical world, unique characters, and meaningful themes scattered throughout the storyline.
My Little Monsterstands out on this list for its unique take on romance and quirky humor mixed with unexpected emotional depth. The story follows Shizuku Mizutani, astudious and detached girl who develops an unlikely bond with a misunderstood troublemaker, Haru Yoshida. Their relationship grows from an awkward and unpredictable pairing to one of mutual understanding. Together, they show how two very different personalities can complement and challenge each other.
At its heart, the anime is a story that explores vulnerabilities and personal growth. Shizuku’s emotional walls slowly crumble as she opens up to Haru. Similarly, Haru learns the value of kindness and connection while he’s with Shizuku.Their dynamic breaks each other out of their comfort zonesand makes the narrative perfect for anyone seeking a shojo filled with laughs and heartfelt developments.
Maid Sama!is a perfect blend ofromance, comedy, and empowerment and offers a refreshing take on shojo. The series centers on Misaki Ayuzawa, the student council president at what was formerly an all-boys school. She secretly works at a maid café to support her family. The clash between her tough, no-nonsense persona and her softer, more vulnerable side creates an engaging dynamic after her secret is discovered by popular student Takumi Usui.
Misaki’s determination todefy traditional gender roles while facing her fears and insecuritiesoffers a unique perspective within shojo. Takumi’s support and ever-growing affection for her add depth to their romance and show how trust and mutual respect challenge Misaki’s personal barriers. With its humor and empowering narrative,Maid Sama!is a fantastic shojo animeto watch.
6Say “I Love You”
Based on the Manga by Kanae Hazuki and PRoduced by Studio ZEXCS
Say “I Love You”is a refreshing take on high school romance thatfocuses on trust and healing between its two protagonists. Mei Tachibana is a shy girl whose world gets turned upside down after she’s drawn into a relationship with Yamato Kurosawa. This series thrives on the complexity of opening up to love and breaking down emotional barriers, making it a perfect gateway for beginners exploring shojo anime.
Mei’s transformation from an isolated figure to emotional openness resonates deeply as she learns to trust those around her. Yamato’s support and patience created a solid foundation for their relationship to blossom,demonstrating how love can be a powerful force for personal growth and healing.Say “I Love You”stands out among shojo anime because of its balance of drama and tenderness.
Horimiyaexplores the complexities of teenage love and self-discovery. It follows Hori, a popular and seemingly perfect high school girl, and Miyamura, a quiet and seemingly ordinary boy, as their unexpected connection unfolds. Their bond slowly evolves into a heartfelt romance built upon mutual understanding and shared vulnerabilities, with afocus on their public personas in contrast to their private selves.
At its core,Horimiyais a story about acceptance and being true to oneself. Hori and Miyamura’s growth in the series, both individually and as a couple, demonstrates the beauty of trust and vulnerability in a relationship. The two have arefreshing dynamic that balances humor with emotional moments, making it one of the most relatable shojo series.
Sugar Apple Fairy Taleis a blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure. Following Anne Halford, a young sugar artisan who dreams of becoming a Silver Sugar Master like her mother before her. She is accompanied on her journey by Challe Fen Challe, a warrior fairy who serves as Ann’s bodyguard. The anime explores themes oftrust and freedom and an examination of the societal structures that bind the characters.
What setsSugar Apple Fairy Taleapart is its handling of power dynamics within the series. While many shojo anime focus on romance,this series emphasizes the importance of autonomy, making Anne and Challe’s growth central to the storyline. The pacing allows for thoughtful character development, making it the perfect anime for new fans to shojo who are seeking more than just romance.
3Snow White with the Red Hair
Based on the Manga By Sorata Akidzuki and Produced by Studio Bones
Snow White with the Red Hairis a refreshing take on the classic fairytale,focusing on personal agency and self-discovery. The story follows Shirayuki, a strong-willed herbalist with, as the title suggests, striking red hair. Shirayuki escapes an unwanted marriage proposal and embarks on a journey to live life on her own terms.
This leads her to the kingdom of Clarines, where she meets Prince Zen and forms a partnership with him based on mutual support and respect. The anime hasa character-driven narrative and lighthearted romance in a beautiful setting. At its heart,Snow White with the Red Hairis a tale about independence, self-empowerment, and finding love on equal footing.
Ouran High School Host Clubis a beloved classic shojothat effortlessly combines humor, satire, and romance, making it an excellent starting point for beginners. The protagonist is Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student at an elite school who becomes entangled with the members of the Host Club after breaking an expensive vase. This animecleverly critiques societal expectations and class differenceswhile simultaneously delivering heartfelt character growth and scenes that will truly make viewers laugh out loud.
Ouran High School Host Clubtacklesthemes of identity, self-worth, and breaking free of societal norms. Haruhi’s journey with the Host Club is full of comedic and touching moments that add to the series’ depth.Ouranis an ideal introduction to rom-com shojo anime and will absolutely leave fans wanting more of Haruhi’s story.
Fruits Basketistheshojo anime to watch. The series first aired in 2001 and then received a remake in 2019, which ran for three seasons. This shojo animemasterfully blended romance with comedy and deeply emotional themes, including personal growth, trauma and healing, and acceptance.
The story follows Tohru Honda, a kind-hearted girl who stumbles upon the mysterious Sohma family’s secret. When hugged by someone of the opposite sex, they transform into animals from the Chinese zodiac. Each character’s struggles inFruits Basketfeel personal and raw,making the story resonate with viewers on a deeper level. The anime has theperfect mix of lighthearted moments and heartrending drama that will leave viewers wanting more.
