Top 10 BL Anime Series You Can't Miss

Hey guys! So, you're looking for some amazing BL anime to binge, huh? You've come to the right place! BL, or Boys' Love, has exploded in popularity, and for good reason. It offers heartwarming, dramatic, and sometimes steamy romances between male characters that resonate with a huge audience. We're talking about stories that delve deep into relationships, explore emotional complexities, and showcase love in its many beautiful forms. Whether you're a seasoned BL fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, this list is curated to give you some of the absolute best the anime world has to offer. We've scoured through countless series to bring you a selection that covers a variety of styles, from high school rom-coms to more mature and intense dramas. Get ready to meet some unforgettable characters and fall in love with their journeys. Let's dive in and discover your next favorite BL anime!

1. Given

Alright, first up on our top BL anime list is Given. Seriously, if you haven't watched Given yet, you are missing out big time! This anime isn't just a romance; it's a masterpiece that blends music, emotion, and a deeply touching love story. The plot follows Ritsuka Uenoyama, a talented guitarist who has lost his passion for playing. His life takes a turn when he meets Mafuyu Sato, a quiet and melancholic boy who carries a guitar but doesn't know how to play it. Ritsuka takes Mafuyu under his wing, teaching him and eventually inviting him to join his band. What unfolds is a beautiful exploration of healing, grief, and finding connection through music and love. The anime does an incredible job of portraying the characters' struggles and vulnerabilities. Mafuyu's past trauma is handled with such sensitivity, and seeing Ritsuka help him open up and express himself is incredibly moving. The music in Given is also phenomenal, adding another layer of emotional depth to every scene. You'll find yourself humming the tunes and feeling the raw emotion poured into every performance. The development of the relationship between Ritsuka and Mafuyu feels incredibly natural and earned. It’s not rushed; it’s a slow burn that builds with genuine affection and understanding. Plus, the supporting characters and their own budding relationships add even more richness to the story. Given truly captures the essence of finding solace and love when you least expect it, making it a must-watch for any BL fan. It’s a story about second chances, overcoming heartbreak, and the power of vulnerability.

2. Yuri!!! on Ice

Okay, guys, prepare yourselves for a dose of pure BL anime magic with Yuri!!! on Ice! This show isn't just about figure skating; it's about passion, ambition, and a romance that's as elegant and breathtaking as a quadruple jump. The story centers around Yuri Katsuki, a Japanese figure skater who, after a crushing defeat, returns to his hometown. In a moment of desperation, he makes a video of himself performing his idol, Victor Nikiforov's, routine. To his utter shock, Victor himself sees the video and decides to become Yuri's coach! What follows is an incredible journey of self-discovery, pushing limits, and, of course, a blossoming romance between Yuri and his legendary coach. The chemistry between Yuri and Victor is simply electric. Their relationship evolves from idol-worship to mutual respect, deep affection, and undeniable love. The anime beautifully depicts their training sessions, the emotional highs and lows of competition, and the intimate moments they share. It's inspiring to see Yuri grow not just as a skater but also as a person, gaining confidence and learning to believe in himself, largely thanks to Victor's unwavering support and belief in him. Yuri!!! on Ice is celebrated for its stunning animation, particularly the skating sequences, which are fluid and exhilarating. But beyond the visual spectacle, it’s the heartfelt story and the genuine connection between the main couple that truly makes this show shine. It champions perseverance, self-love, and the courage to pursue your dreams, all wrapped up in a captivating BL package. It’s a feel-good series that will leave you cheering for Yuri and Victor every step of the way.

3. Sasaki and Miyano

Let's talk about some sweet, sweet BL anime with Sasaki and Miyano. This one is pure fluff and heartwarming goodness, perfect for when you need a pick-me-up. The story revolves around Miyano Yoshikazu, a shy, effeminate high school student who loves BL manga. He's a bit of an otaku and loves talking about his favorite stories. One day, he strikes up a conversation with his upperclassman, Sasaki Shumei, a more laid-back and somewhat mischievous guy. Sasaki becomes fascinated by Miyano and his passion for BL, and before you know it, he's asking Miyano for recommendations and getting drawn into the world of boys' love. What makes Sasaki and Miyano so special is its gentle pacing and focus on the small, intimate moments of a developing relationship. It’s about the awkwardness, the curiosity, and the slow realization of feelings. You see Sasaki gradually develop genuine feelings for Miyano, not just out of interest in BL manga, but because he truly likes Miyano as a person. Miyano, on the other hand, is slowly learning to accept himself and his interests, and Sasaki's genuine affection helps him blossom. The supporting cast also adds a lot of charm, with their own relationships and reactions to Sasaki and Miyano's growing bond. The art style is soft and appealing, perfectly complementing the sweet and innocent tone of the story. It’s a refreshing take on the genre, emphasizing consent, communication, and mutual respect. If you're looking for a slice-of-life romance that's full of charm, adorable interactions, and genuine emotional growth, Sasaki and Miyano is definitely one for your watch list. It’s a story that celebrates the joy of discovering love and accepting who you are.

4. Given

Wait, Given again? Yes, guys, Given is THAT good, and it deserves a second mention on our top BL anime exploration, especially when considering its movie! While the anime series beautifully sets the stage and develops the core relationships, the Given movie, officially titled Given: The Movie - Reaching the Limit (or Given: The Movie - Uragawa no Sonzai), dives even deeper into the emotional complexities and the evolution of the band's music and relationships. This installment focuses primarily on the backstory of Mafuyu Sato and his past trauma, particularly his relationship with his late boyfriend, Yuki. It’s a pivotal part of the story that explains so much about Mafuyu's quiet nature and his struggles with expression. Watching Mafuyu grapple with his grief and slowly find his voice, both literally and figuratively, through music and his connection with Ritsuka is profoundly moving. The film doesn't shy away from the pain, but it balances it with the hope and burgeoning love that Ritsuka brings into Mafuyu's life. The musical performances continue to be a highlight, carrying immense emotional weight and driving the narrative forward. It showcases the raw talent of the band and the deep bonds they are forming. The exploration of past love and present romance is handled with incredible nuance, making it a truly cathartic viewing experience. For fans of the series, the movie is an essential watch that provides crucial character development and emotional payoff. It solidifies Given's place as a standout in the BL genre, proving that it's not just about romance, but about healing, understanding, and the power of shared experiences. It’s a poignant continuation that will undoubtedly leave you with tears in your eyes and a warm feeling in your heart.

5. Banana Fish

Alright, buckle up, because Banana Fish is a BL anime that will absolutely wreck you, but in the most compelling way possible. This isn't your typical fluffy romance; it's a gritty, intense, and incredibly powerful story that explores deep bonds, trauma, and survival in the dark underbelly of New York City. The narrative follows Ash Lynx, a charismatic and intelligent young gang leader, and Eiji Okumura, a kind-hearted Japanese photographer's assistant who gets drawn into Ash's dangerous world. Their connection is immediate and profound. Eiji is the light in Ash's dark, violent existence, and Ash becomes Eiji's protector and guide in a city that's constantly trying to break him. The relationship between Ash and Eiji is the emotional core of the series. It’s built on trust, loyalty, and a love that transcends simple friendship. They rely on each other completely, finding solace and strength in their bond amidst constant danger and betrayal. The anime tackles heavy themes like child abuse, drug trafficking, and institutional corruption with unflinching honesty. It’s a story that’s as heartbreaking as it is thrilling. The characters are incredibly well-developed, and their struggles feel palpable. You’ll find yourself deeply invested in Ash's fight for freedom and Eiji's unwavering support for him. While not explicitly romantic in the traditional sense for much of its run, the deep, undeniable love and devotion between Ash and Eiji is central to the narrative and resonates strongly with BL fans. Banana Fish is a masterpiece of storytelling, delivering a dramatic and emotional rollercoaster that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s a testament to the power of connection in the face of overwhelming adversity.

6. Doukyuuin (My Childhood Friend Is a Pervert!)

Let's switch gears to something a bit more lighthearted but still incredibly charming: Doukyuuin (or My Childhood Friend Is a Pervert!). This BL anime OVA (Original Video Animation) might be short, but it packs a punch of classic childhood friends-to-lovers trope with a fun, slightly mischievous twist. The story focuses on Haru and Aki, two childhood friends who have known each other forever. Haru has always had a bit of a cheeky, teasing personality, especially towards Aki, whom he secretly harbors deep feelings for. Aki, on the other hand, is a bit more reserved and easily flustered by Haru's antics, often calling him a pervert. The anime humorously explores their dynamic as Haru tries to navigate his feelings and perhaps push Aki towards realizing his own. It’s a classic setup that relies on the comfort and familiarity of a long-standing relationship. The charm here lies in the playful banter, the blushing misunderstandings, and the slow burn realization that their teasing might be more than just playful banter. It's the kind of story where you can see the affection simmering beneath the surface, waiting to boil over. While it's an OVA and therefore shorter than a full series, it captures a sweet and nostalgic vibe. It’s perfect for viewers who enjoy sweet, low-stakes romances with a good dose of comedy. The dynamic between Haru and Aki is endearing, and their journey from childhood friends to something more is a delightful watch. It’s a nice, quick dose of BL goodness that highlights the sweet potential of relationships that have a long, shared history. Definitely a fun one to add to your list if you love that childhood friends trope!

7. Hitorijime My Hero

Get ready for a BL anime that balances sweet romance with a bit of a mature, teacher-student dynamic – Hitorijime My Hero. This series delves into the lives of Masahiro Setagawa, a high school student who feels like a bit of a pushover and is constantly getting into trouble, and Kousuke Oshiba, a strict but secretly kind-hearted math teacher who is also the neighborhood's