Horimiya is a heartwarming romance anime that premiered in 2021. The series is an exceptional adaptation of a manga by the same name, and it continues to win over fans years later. It’s a must-watch for anyone who loves soft, character-driven romance stories that balance humor, heart, and high school awkwardness in the best way.

What Is Horimiya About?

The story follows the lives of high school students Hori and Miyamura as they navigate the complexities of school, friendship, and love. The series explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the importance of genuine connection. Hori is a gorgeous, popular, and friendly girl, while Miyamura is the quiet, misunderstood boy who seems to fade into the background. By chance—or maybe fate—their worlds collide outside of school, revealing their true selves to each other. The development of their love story unfolds beautifully over two seasons and is an absolute delight to watch.

Horimiya is both addictive and binge-worthy. It’s one of those rare series that you can finish in a weekend and still find yourself thinking about later. Rewatching? Always worth it (trust me, I’ve done it). But if you’re done swooning over Hori and Miyamura and want something that gives you that same serotonin boost, I’ve got you covered. Here are ten other romance anime that will hit the same feels.

Why Do People Love Horimiya So Much?

Part of Horimiya’s magic is that it doesn’t rely on gimmicks. It doesn’t stretch the romance out for ten episodes just to manufacture tension, and it doesn’t trap its characters in endless misunderstandings that never feel earned. Instead, it delivers something surprisingly rare in romance anime: a relationship that actually feels real.

First, it’s just beautiful to look at. The art style is soft and expressive without being dull. The color palette is warm, the character designs feel intentional, and the little details—especially the eyes and hair—give everyone a distinct emotional presence. Even quiet scenes feel visually rich, which makes the everyday moments land harder.

But the biggest reason fans connect with Horimiya is realism. Romance anime can sometimes drift into fantasy logic—perfect characters, over-the-top reactions, or conflicts that only exist to delay a confession. Horimiya skips that. Hori and Miyamura get jealous. They overthink. They struggle with self-esteem, communication, and the weight of how others see them. None of it feels exaggerated—it feels recognizable.

And then there’s the pacing. While slow-burn romances absolutely have their place, sometimes viewers want to actually see a relationship exist. Horimiya lets its leads get together early, without dragging things out or tossing in a forced love triangle to sabotage the momentum. The focus shifts from “will they?” to “how do they grow together?”—and that’s where the series really shines.

Yes, the second season, The Missing Pieces, jumps around and revisits moments from Season 1, which isn’t everyone’s favorite approach. But even with that uneven structure, the emotional payoff still lands. Watching Hori and Miyamura settle into their relationship, flaws and all, is deeply satisfying.

That combination—gorgeous art, grounded emotions, and a romance that actually progresses—is why Horimiya has stuck with so many viewers. It doesn’t just tell a love story. It lets you live in it for a while. And once it’s over, it’s only natural to start looking for something that hits the same way.

17 Anime Shows for Horimiya Fans to Stream

Did you love watching Horimiya? Here are 17 other anime shows in the romance genre you might also enjoy streaming.

1. My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999

My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 follows Akane, a college student who gets dumped after her boyfriend cheats on her with someone he met in an online game. Spiraling a bit (relatable), she continues playing the game where she meets Yamada, a socially awkward, blunt, and extremely skilled gamer who has zero interest in romance. Their lives start overlapping both online and offline, leading to a slow but natural emotional connection.

If Horimiya set the bar for modern romance anime, My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 casually walked in and matched it. This one flew to the top of my list almost immediately, and yes — I’m intentionally putting it first. Akane and Yamada’s relationship feels natural in that rare, hard-to-pin-down way where nothing feels forced, rushed, or dragged out just for drama.

What makes this series shine is how grounded it feels emotionally, even with its gaming backdrop. Akane is messy, emotional, and painfully relatable after a breakup, while Yamada is socially awkward in a way that feels authentic, not tropey. Their connection builds through shared time, small gestures, and gradual understanding — not grand romantic nonsense. Like Horimiya, this anime actually lets you watch a relationship form and evolve instead of teasing it endlessly. It’s soft, funny, honest, and absolutely top-tier romance.

2. Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion

Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion follows Raeliana, a woman who reincarnates into the world of a novel — only to realize she’s inhabiting a character destined to be murdered. To survive, she strikes a contract engagement with Noah Wynknight, a powerful duke known for his sharp mind and dangerous reputation.

I need to be emotionally honest here: Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion is dangerous. This is top-tier romance and I would, without hesitation, ruin my life for Noah. The chemistry is sharp, the banter is excellent, and the slow realization of mutual affection is incredibly satisfying.

While it leans more fantasy than Horimiya, it shares that same strength of letting the relationship develop through trust, protection, and emotional awareness. Raeliana isn’t passive, Noah isn’t emotionally obtuse, and their dynamic feels intentional at every stage. If you loved watching Hori and Miyamura grow together as partners rather than just love interests, this one absolutely belongs on your watchlist.

3. Say I Love You

Say I Love You follows Mei Tachibana, a high school girl who’s been burned by friendship and has trouble letting people in. When the popular and charming Yamato Kurosawa takes an interest in her, Mei’s carefully built walls start to crumble.

This anime stands out for its realistic portrayal of high school relationships and emotional growth. It’s not just about romance—it’s about learning to trust, forgive, and open up again. Fans of Horimiya will appreciate how both series show imperfect people figuring out love in their own awkward, heartfelt ways. The only real difference? Say I Love You dives a bit deeper into mature emotional territory while Horimiya keeps a purer, more innocent vibe.

One of the biggest reasons Say I Love You is so high on this list is because the couple gets together almost instantly. This series isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But, there isn’t a slow burn to be found in this series. Honestly? I don’t know why so many people dislike the characters. The FMC is a little annoying. But, overall I love this show.

4. A Condition Called Love

A Condition Called Love follows Hotaru Hinase, a girl who’s never believed in romance. After helping a classmate named Saki Hananoi through a breakup, she somehow ends up agreeing to a “trial relationship” with him. It’s awkward, sweet, and full of those early-relationship growing pains that make you want to yell at the screen and hug the characters at the same time.

This series is currently streaming on Crunchyroll and is one of the newer romance anime to grab attention in 2025. The premise—two opposites learning how to love—is right up a Horimiya fan’s alley.

Again, this is a series with a couple that gets together instantly.

5. A Sign of Affection

A Sign of Affection tells the story of Yuki, a deaf college student, and Itsuomi, a traveler who doesn’t know Japanese Sign Language. Their gentle, thoughtful romance grows as they learn to understand and communicate in their own ways.

This one is emotionally rich and beautifully animated—a love story built on empathy and patience. It’s available in both English Dub and Sub and is easily one of the standout romance anime of 2025.

6. Romantic Killer

Romantic Killer is a hilarious Netflix rom-com that turns romance tropes upside down. Anzu, a video-game-obsessed high schooler with zero interest in dating, finds herself trapped in a magical real-life dating simulation. Between her love for chocolate, cats, and gaming, she has no time for romance—until life (and a meddling wizard) forces her to give it a shot.

There’s an unexpected twist toward the end of Season 1 that gives the story more depth than your typical rom-com. It’s a shame there’s no Season 2 yet, but the first season alone is worth watching for its humor and heart.

7. Maid Sama

Maid Sama follows Misaki Ayuzawa, the tough-as-nails student council president who secretly works at a maid café to support her family. When popular classmate Takumi Usui discovers her secret, he becomes her biggest tease—and protector.

The series mixes comedy and romance with just the right amount of tension. It’s slow-burning, frustratingly so at times, but endlessly charming. Maid Sama can be streamed on Hulu and remains a fan favorite for those who love that enemies-to-lovers dynamic.

8. Vampire Dormitory

Vampire Dormitory centers on Mito, a girl who disguises herself as a boy to survive after being kicked out of her home. She ends up living in a prestigious boys’ dorm — which just happens to be full of vampires. Things get complicated fast when she catches the attention of a powerful vampire who becomes emotionally attached to her, unaware of her secret.

Vampire Dormitory is pure vibes, and I mean that in the best way possible. If you ever loved the chaotic charm of Ouran High School Host Club mixed with the moody intensity of Vampire Knight, this one scratches that exact itch. It’s dramatic, a little ridiculous, and completely aware of what it’s doing.

The romance leans into identity, secrecy, and emotional dependence, which gives it a surprisingly strong core beneath the flashy vampire aesthetics. It’s not as grounded as Horimiya, but it earns its place on this list by leaning into emotional longing and vulnerability. This is the kind of show you watch when you want drama, yearning, and just a little bit of chaos.

9. Sugar Apple Fairy Tale

Sugar Apple Fairy Tale follows Anne Halford, a young girl determined to become a master confectioner like her late mother in a world where fairies are enslaved. On her journey, she purchases a fairy warrior named Challe Fen Challe — and unlike most humans, she treats him with respect and compassion rather than ownership.

I am also embarrassed it took me so long to watch Sugar Apple Fairy Tale, because holy hell — it is good. And cute. And emotionally sincere in a way that sneaks up on you. The fantasy setting is whimsical, but the heart of the story is about agency, respect, and choosing love without giving up yourself.

10. The Demon Prince of Momochi House

The Demon Prince of Momochi House follows Himari, an orphaned girl who inherits a mysterious estate that exists on the border between the human and spirit worlds. There, she meets Aoi, a demon guardian bound to the house, along with other supernatural residents tied to tragic pasts.

If someone pitched The Demon Prince of Momochi House as “Kamisama Kiss meets Fruits Basket,” I would have watched it immediately — and that comparison is painfully accurate. This series leans heavily into supernatural romance, emotional bonds, and found family vibes.

What earns it a place on a Horimiya-adjacent list is the emotional sincerity. The romance isn’t flashy for the sake of it. It’s about protection, belonging, and choosing someone even when things get complicated. If you like romance that feels warm but carries emotional weight, this one absolutely delivers.

11. Kamisama Kiss

Kamisama Kiss follows Nanami, a homeless high school girl who unexpectedly becomes a land god after saving a stranger. She moves into a rundown shrine and meets Tomoe, a sharp-tongued fox spirit who reluctantly becomes her familiar.

Yes. It’s kind of embarrassing that Kamisama Kiss wasn’t already on this list. This is foundational romance anime for a reason. Nanami and Tomoe’s relationship is the blueprint for supernatural slow-burn done right — sharp banter, emotional walls, and deep loyalty.

While it’s more fantastical than Horimiya, the emotional throughline is similar: flawed characters learning how to love without losing themselves. It’s funny, heartfelt, occasionally painful, and endlessly rewatchable. If you care about romance anime at all, this one is non-negotiable.

12. Sasaki and Miyano

Sasaki and Miyano centers on Miyano, a high school student who quietly enjoys BL manga but feels insecure about his interests. He befriends Sasaki, an upperclassman who gradually becomes drawn to Miyano in ways he doesn’t fully understand at first.

Listen. I know. “BL? Gross.” Shut up. Sasaki and Miyano is top-tier romance, full stop. You don’t have to like BL to appreciate how carefully, gently, and realistically this relationship is written.

What makes it belong on a Horimiya list is the pacing and emotional honesty. There’s no rushing, no melodrama for shock value — just two people slowly figuring out their feelings in a way that feels deeply human. It’s soft, respectful, and emotionally satisfying in a way a lot of romance anime completely miss. Honestly? It doesn’t get much better than this.

13. Toradora!

Toradora! is another classic high school rom-com streaming on Crunchyroll and Netflix. It centers on Ryuuji and Taiga, two students who help each other confess their feelings to their crushes—only to fall for each other in the process.

The emotional balance between humor and heartbreak makes Toradora! a classic for a reason. It’s slightly less romantic than Horimiya, but its character development makes it an easy recommendation.

14. Fruits Basket

Fruits Basket is a staple in the romance anime world—and for good reason. It follows Tohru Honda, an orphan who discovers that members of the mysterious Soma family are cursed to transform into animals from the Chinese zodiac when hugged by the opposite sex.

The series is emotional, funny, and deeply human. It explores family trauma, love, and personal growth with sincerity. Watch both the original and reboot versions to fully appreciate the storytelling evolution. Just keep tissues nearby—you’ll need them.

15. My Love Story

My Love Story flips the usual romance formula on its head. Instead of the pretty-boy protagonist, we get Takeo Gouda—a big, awkward, but incredibly kind-hearted guy who falls for a sweet, shy girl named Rinko.

It’s cheesy, yes, but in the best possible way. If you loved the sincerity and emotional warmth of Horimiya, you’ll find plenty to adore here. It’s streaming on Hulu and is a fun, feel-good watch when you want something lighthearted.

16. Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku

Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku follows Narumi, an office worker who hides her love for anime and manga—until she reconnects with childhood friend Hirotaka, a fellow otaku. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of dating as adults who still love geek culture.

The show’s slice-of-life tone and authentic chemistry between the leads make it a refreshing change from the high school setting. It’s especially relatable for viewers who grew up watching anime and are still in that world today.

17. Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You

Kimi ni Todoke: From Me to You is one of the sweetest romance anime on Netflix. It follows Sawako, a misunderstood girl who looks intimidating but is actually painfully shy and kindhearted. When the school’s most popular boy, Kazehaya, starts talking to her, Sawako’s world opens up in the most endearing way.

The series is full of slow-burn, awkward charm and plenty of emotional payoffs. For fans of Horimiya, it hits all the right notes of sincerity, friendship, and soft love. There’s also a live-action adaptation and an upcoming third season expected to premiere in 2025.

Bonus: Erased

Erased might not be a traditional romance, but it’s a must-watch for anyone who values deep storytelling. The series follows Satoru Fujinuma, a struggling manga artist who can travel back in time. When tragedy strikes, his ability sends him farther back than ever before, giving him a chance to change the past and save lives.

While not a love story in the conventional sense, Erased explores the power of love and compassion in every form—friendship, family, and redemption. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that leaves a lasting impression.

Do you have a favorite romance anime that didn’t make this list but deserves a spot? Drop it in the comments—I’m always up for adding more binge-worthy titles to my queue.

If you’re ready to dive in, you can even start a free trial of Crunchyroll through Amazon and start streaming your next favorite love story today.