30 Best Josei Anime of All Time To Watch

30. Omiai Aite wa Oshiego, Tsuyoki na, Mondaiji.

Starting off our list with Omiai Aite wa Oshiego, Tsuyoki na, Mondaiji a good josei anime with a captivating and steamy love story about the unexpected love that blooms between Teacher Nano Saikawa and Souji Kuga. It’s a tale that will make your heart race as the two of them embark on a journey of passion, love, and discovery. The show starts off with Nano being asked to attend a marriage interview with Souichirou Takamiya, but as fate would have it, she finds herself in bed with the wrong man. When she takes off his glasses, she realizes he’s one of her own problem students, Souji Kuga.

Souji, who’s confident and bold, reveals that he posed as his brother to be with Nano and he’s even sure his family will approve of their marriage. Nano, on the other hand, is hesitant about this taboo relationship. But as the show progresses, it becomes apparent that the chemistry between these two is undeniable, and they both can’t resist each other’s charms. You’ll find yourself cheering them on as they navigate through their forbidden love, and you’ll be left breathless with each passing episode.

29. My Sweet Tyrant

Known in Japanese as Akkun to Kanojo, this is a charming and delightful josei anime with a tamntic story that will have you smiling from ear to ear. This short, brisk, and fun show is the perfect pick-me-up for those who love romantic comedies without the commitment of multiple seasons. The story revolves around the bashful Atsuhiro “Akkun” Kagari and the sweet and loveable Non Katagiri.

Despite his bashfulness, Akkun has fallen head over heels for Katagiri, but his embarrassment with affectionate acts causes him to act mean and harsh towards her in their day-to-day lives. However, Akkun’s love for Katagiri shines through in his own unique ways, from tailing her to taking her picture to eavesdropping on her conversations. Though others may find his actions a little strange, Katagiri sees the love and adoration behind them and finds them endearing.

“Akkun to Kanojo” is a delightful love story that will warm your heart and leave you smiling. The dynamic between Akkun and Katagiri is cute, quirky, and simply adorable. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or not, this show is sure to appease and leave you wanting more. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming tale of love and affection.

28. Hatenkou Yuugi

“Hatenkou Yuugi” is a heartwarming josei romance anime that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. With just 10 episodes, Studio Deen brings to life the manga’s tale of Rahzel, a confident and determined young woman who sets out to see the world after being kicked out of her wealthy home. Along the way, she meets two men, Heat and Alzeid, who are on their own unique journeys and share a bond with Rahzel despite their vastly different personalities.

With her powers of magic and intelligence, Rahzel becomes a beacon of hope and a helping hand to those she encounters, using her wit and determination to overcome challenges and help those in need. This show is a perfect blend of comedy, drama, fantasy, and romance, making it a must-watch for fans of all genres.

27. Karneval

26. Endo and Kobayashi Live! The Latest on Tsundere Villainess Lieselotte

Endo and Kobayashi Live! the Latest on Tsundere Villainess Lieselotte is a new 2023 josei anime that explores the world of otome isekai games. The main character, Shihono Kobayashi, is a member of the broadcasting club who is particularly captivated by the villainess Lieselotte Riefenstahl in the game “MagiKoi”. Despite her rude behavior towards the protagonist Fiene, Lieselotte harbors a desire to be friends and is deeply in love with her fiancé, Prince Siegwald Fitzenhagen. Unfortunately, Lieselotte faces a tragic end in most game routes.

With the help of her friend Aoto Endou, Kobayashi is able to convince him to play “MagiKoi” to improve his speaking skills. However, what starts as a normal playthrough takes an unexpected turn when Prince Siegwald hears the players’ voices within the game. Endou and Kobayashi are now seen as “lords” and use their insights and comments to change Lieselotte’s fate and save her from her destined tragedy.

25. Strange+

Strange+ is a quirky anime that follows Kou, who arrives in a run-down neighborhood in search of his elder brother, Takumi. To his surprise, he finds that Takumi is the head of a private detective firm. Takumi hires Kou to assist him in his detective work, and the two of them encounter a cast of unique and entertaining characters along the way.

This josei funny anime is essentially about the adventures of a group of four friends who work in a detective agency and face unusual cases and circumstances. The characters are all charming and the episodic structure provides a good balance of random humor and overarching continuity. Overall, the anime is an eccentric, but enjoyable watch.

24. Hakuouki

Hakuoki” is a must-watch anime for fans of josei themes. The story takes place in 1864 Japan and follows Chizuru Yukimura, a young woman on a quest to find her missing father, who is a doctor. When Chizuru arrives in Kyoto in search of him, she witnesses a group of ronin being attacked by crazed white-haired men.

The members of the Shinsengumi, a famous group of warriors, come to the rescue and take Chizuru back to their headquarters. Chizuru soon realizes that her father is connected to the Shinsengumi and gets caught up in the conflicts and political tensions between the Shinsengumi and their enemies. Featuring a rich historical setting, well-developed characters, and exciting action scenes, “Hakuoki” is a unique and thrilling josei anime that you won’t wanna miss.

23. Kami Kuzu☆Idol

Kami Kuzu☆Idol is an anime about two idols, Kazuki Yoshino and Yuuya Niyodo, who make up the duo ZINGS. Kazuki is dedicated to his performances and takes the job seriously, while Yuuya sees it as a way to make money and has a lack of passion for the fans. Yuuya’s manager gives him an ultimatum to step up his efforts or face being fired.

This all changes when Yuuya meets Asahi Mogami, a ghost who was once an idol and wants to perform for fans again. Asahi possesses Yuuya and helps him find the ambition and passion for the idol life that he has been missing. The two work together to become the best idols the world has ever seen, but will Yuuya be able to overcome his apathy and find true meaning in his career?

22. Koukyuu no Karasu

Now we have Koukyuu no Karasu, a great fantasy josei anime that tells the story of the Raven Consort, Ryuu Jusetsu. Set in the royal court, Jusetsu is known as a feared and revered figure, rumored to possess mystical abilities and carry out any request asked of her. Despite the rumors, Jusetsu leads a quiet life in her black palace, until the emperor, Ka Koushun, comes to her seeking help with a mysterious case.

Jusetsu sets out of her palace for the first time and begins to form bonds with others, including the inquisitive court girl Jiujiu, who becomes her sole attendant. As they fulfill requests from the people of the palace, they face unknown dangers and Jusetsu is forced to confront her past. Despite being advised to remain alone and desire nothing, Jusetsu finds herself breaking the mold and making connections that will change her life forever.

21. Akkun to Kanojo

The Japanese anime Akkun to Kanojo is a heartwarming story about Atsuhiro “Akkun” Kagari and Non-Katagiri. Although Akkun is extremely shy, he has managed to win the heart of the girl he loves. However, his shyness often causes him to act rude and mean towards Katagiri, even though he deeply loves her. Despite his harsh behavior, Akkun still finds ways to show his love for Katagiri, such as taking pictures of her or eavesdropping on her conversations.

Although some may see Akkun’s actions as creepy or unusual, Katagiri finds them adorable and knows that he doesn’t truly mean any harm. Even their friend Masago Matsuo finds their relationship dynamic a bit strange, but Katagiri loves her sweet “tyrant” just the way he is.

20. Koori Zokusei Danshi to Cool na Douryou Joshi

Japan has grant us another endearing romantic josei anime named Koori Zokusei Danshi to Cool na Douryou Joshi. It follows the story of a kind-hearted man named Himuro-kun, who has an unfortunate ability to create blizzards around himself whenever he’s nervous, stressed, or flustered. On the first day of his new job, he encounters a beautiful woman named Fuyutsuki-san, who helps him break out of his icy state. To his surprise, she turns out to be his new coworker.

At work, Fuyutsuki-san uses her cool and rational thinking to help Himuro-kun navigate his icy dilemmas, such as making sure he doesn’t freeze his plants while gardening or avoiding melting during a tropical work retreat. Every time she does something kind for him, Himuro-kun’s emotions inside are so strong that they manifest as snowstorms around him, making it impossible for him to hide his feelings for her. Even though Fuyutsuki-san is unfamiliar with love, Himuro-kun remains determined to repay her kindness and warm her heart. He’s determined to find a way to express his feelings and make a connection with her.

19. Kumichou Musume to Sewagakari

Kumichou Musume to Sewagakari is a touching slice-of-life josei anime series about a man named Tooru Kirishima and a young girl named Yaeka Sakuragi. Tooru is well-known in the underworld as “The Demon of Sakuragi,” due to his reputation for using violence if necessary. However, after almost causing trouble during a peace treaty, his boss assigns him to take care of Yaeka, the boss’ precious daughter, to teach him about responsibility.

At first, Tooru and Yaeka struggle to understand each other, as Tooru doesn’t know how to communicate with a young child and Yaeka has trouble expressing her emotions. But as they spend time together, they begin to appreciate each other’s differences and learn to understand each other. The fearsome yakuza right-hand man and the young girl he’s tasked with protecting come to realize that family doesn’t always have to be bound by blood.

18. Love Of Kill

Love of Kill is ine of the best thrilling josei anime TV shows of all time. It is about a novice bounty hunter named Chateau Dankworth. Chateau is taken by surprise when she meets a mysterious man who is capable of overpowering her in combat and shows a keen interest in her, even going so far as to help her on missions. Even with this, Chateau makes it clear that she has no intention of getting involved with him personally.

Chateau’s company is later tasked with eliminating an expert assassin named Song Ryang-ha, who used to be a member of a powerful Asian organization. It turns out that Ryang-ha is the same man who has been pursuing Chateau. Despite her reservations, Chateau agrees to meet with Ryang-ha as part of a deal: he will provide her with information about her targets in exchange for going on a date with him. However, as their pasts begin to catch up with them, their arrangement may have to come to an end, as their involvement with each other puts their lives in grave danger.

17. Ristorante Paradiso

Nicoletta, a young woman, sets out on a mission to ruin her mother’s life after being abandoned by her as a child 15 years prior. She finds her mother working at a restaurant called Casetta dell’Orso in Rome and is struck by the kindness and wisdom of the mature, spectacled gentlemen who staff it.

The allure of the sweet romance of everyday Italian life proves too much for Nicoletta, and her plans for vengeance start to fade. Overall, you gotta watch Ristorante Paradiso, which is a really unique josei anime with themes of drama, gourmet, and romance set in a workplace setting.

16. Servamp

Servamp is josei anime with vampire, supernatural, and action-packed themes that you will really enjoy. The series follows Mahiru’s once peaceful and mundane life is turned upside down as he is thrown into the dangerous world of vampires and their respective servamps, powerful beings that serve as the embodiment of their master’s emotions. With Kuro as his servamp, Mahiru must navigate this new world and fight against rival servamps and their masters in order to protect himself and those he cares about.

As he travels down this path of danger and excitement, Mahiru begins to learn that the world of vampires is not as black and white as he once thought. He meets a cast of unique and diverse characters, each with their own motives and secrets, and starts to unravel the complex history and relationships between servamps and their masters.

15. Mishiko and Hatchin

With its unique mix of action, adventure, and heart-wrenching drama, Michiko to Hatchin is a must-watch anime for fans of the josei genre. Join the hard-boiled criminal Michiko Malandro as she embarks on a dangerous journey through the South American landscape in search of a man from her past. Along the way, she teams up with a young girl named Hana Morenos, who is desperate for a way out of her abusive foster family. Together, they face the challenges of a world filled with crime, poverty, and exploitation, all while avoiding the wrath of the criminal syndicate Monstro Preto. With its top-notch animation style, colorful cast of characters, and well writing plot, Michiko to Hatchin is a thrilling masterpiece anime you will never forget.

14. Usagi Drop

Usagi Drop is a heartwarming anime produced by Production I.G, with themes of childcare, iyashiki, and slice of life. The story follows Daikichi Kawachi, a 30-year-old bachelor who is just going through life without any direction. His world is turned upside down when his grandfather suddenly passes away and he returns to the family home to pay his respects.

It is there that he meets Rin, a mysterious young girl who is revealed to be his grandfather’s illegitimate daughter. Rin is rejected by the rest of the family and finds herself alone in the wake of her father’s death. Daikichi, filled with anger at the family’s cruelty, announces that he will take care of Rin himself, despite having no prior experience in childcare.

Thus begins Daikichi’s journey into fatherhood as he raises Rin with his gentle and affectionate nature. The story showcases the love and interdependence that are essential for a close-knit and happy family. Usagi Drop will leave a lasting impact on viewers with its tender portrayal of the joys and challenges of parenthood.

13. Uramichi Oniisan

Uramichi Oniisan is one of the top josei anime that teaches valuable lessons about life through its unique setting in the studio of a morning children’s show. Here is where a cast of disgruntled adults put on their best smiles to educate a group of young preschoolers. However, Uramichi Omota, a former gymnast, cannot help but shatter their idyllic world with his realistic, and often bleak, perspectives on adulthood.

Behind the cameras, Uramichi’s desire for solitude is constantly thwarted by his junior colleagues, the show’s bear and rabbit mascots, Utano Tadano and Iketeru Daga. While Tadano longs to tie the knot, Daga is a flirtatious man with a crude sense of humor. With Uramichi as their mentor, the trio navigates the ups and downs of adulting, from grappling with an addiction to grappling with the meaning of existence. Through Uramichi’s life lessons, viewers are given a glimpse into the gritty reality of adulthood, making Uramichi Oniisan a unique and thought-provoking watch.

12. Koikimo

In the romance comedy anime Koikimo, love takes center stage as two individuals cross paths in an unexpected way. Ryou Amakusa, a wealthy and genius playboy, has his world turned upside down when he nearly falls down the stairs on a rainy morning, only to be saved by a young woman named Ichika Arima. As fate would have it, Ryou later discovers that Ichika is not only the best friend of his sister, Rio but also the one person who seems immune to his usual charm and flirtatious tactics.

Undeterred by her initial reaction, Ryou sets out to win Ichika’s heart with his persistent yet creepy advances. Despite receiving disgusted reactions every time, Ryou remains steadfast in his pursuit of Ichika, leading to a battle of wits and emotions. Will Ichika eventually fall for Ryou’s advances, or will she remain immune to his charms? The answer to this question is at the heart of Koikimo, a story about the mysteries of love and the lengths people will go to in order to win the heart of the one they love.

11. Net-juu no Susume

Fans of josei stories, here is a nice anime called Net juu no susume, which showcases the journey of Moriko Morioka, a 30-year-old woman who has just left her long-term job and is embracing her newfound freedom by immersing herself in the world of online gaming. As she ventures into the MMORPG “Fruits de Mer” as the character “Hayashi,” she meets the charming healer Lily and begins a close friendship with her. As Moriko becomes increasingly drawn into her virtual life, she becomes a reclusive person, only venturing out from her apartment when necessary.

At the same time, Yuuta Sakurai, a shy corporate worker, logs onto “Fruits de Mer” from across town and eventually crosses paths with Moriko in the real world, but the two write off their meeting as just another awkward encounter. However, their paths will continue to cross in both the virtual and real worlds, as fate brings these two lonely individuals together.

10. Wotaku ni Koi wa Muzukashii

Wotaku ni Koi wa Muzukashii is one of the top josei anime on our list that stands out for its unique depiction of otaku culture. The story follows the life of Narumi Momose, a passionate and energetic young woman who has a hidden side – she is an avid otaku and fujoshi. On her first day at a new office, she finds herself running late and frantically trying to hide her otaku identity from her coworkers. But when she runs into an old friend from middle school, Hirotaka Nifuji, her plan goes awry and her secret is revealed.

Hirotaka, who is also an otaku, offers Narumi a unique solution to her problem: to date a fellow otaku. He suggests that they start a relationship, where they can support each other and share their common interests. Narumi is thrilled by the proposal and agrees immediately, marking the beginning of their cute and awkward otaku romance. As they navigate their relationship, they find solace in each other’s company and discover new ways to enjoy their favorite pastimes, like playing “Monster Hunter” and attending the Summer Comiket.

9. Sakamichi no Apollon

Sakamichi no Apollon highlights a story of drama, romance, and musical bliss as it follows the journey of classical pianist Kaoru Nishimi. A perpetually introverted and scholarly young man, Kaoru has moved from place to place during his childhood and arrives in Kyushu for his first year of high school with little hope of fitting in. That all changes, however, when he crosses paths with the infamous delinquent, Sentarou Kawabuchi.

Sentarou’s unwavering passion for jazz ignites Kaoru’s curiosity and leads him on a path to discover the genre for himself. Through this newfound interest, Kaoru begins to break out of his shell and forms his very first friendship. He takes part in after-school jazz sessions, playing the piano in the basement of Ritsuko Mukae’s family-owned record shop. Here, Kaoru experiences the joy of using his musical talents to bring happiness to others and himself, making his summer a crescendo of memories that he’ll never forget.

8. Senpai ga Uzai Kouhai no Hanashi

Senpai ga Uzai Kouhai no Hanashi is a workplace comedy anime that revolves around the antics between two coworkers at a trading company. Futaba Igarashi, a saleswoman, has been able to maintain her job for nearly two years thanks to the guidance of her senior colleague, Harumi Takeda. However, Takeda’s teasing of Igarashi due to her short stature often leaves her frustrated and annoyed.

Despite Takeda’s tendency to tease, Igarashi begins to see his reliability and willingness to assist whenever the workplace faces a problem. As the two coworkers spend more time together, their relationship evolves beyond just being colleagues, leading to an entertaining and developing work dynamic.

7. My Next Life as a Villainess

My next life as a villainess is a unique twist on the josei anime genre, offering a reverse harem experience that appeals to both male and female audiences. The protagonist, Catarina Claes, finds herself reborn into the world of the video game “Fortune Lover.” However, instead of being the heroine, she has been reincarnated as the main antagonist, facing certain doom in every ending.

With memories of her past life and her extensive knowledge of the game, Catarina sets out on a mission to break free from her accursed fate. Navigating through dangerous death flags, she strives to not only save herself but to bring change to the lives of those around her. This anime takes a refreshing approach to the typical hero’s journey, proving that sometimes, the villainess can be the one to save the day.

6. Nana

Nana, produced by studio Madhouse, is an emotional story of two women with identical names and dreams who meet in their quest for new beginnings. The first Nana, Komatsu, is a cheerful young woman with a friendly nature, but her naivety has caused her to make mistakes in love. Determined to follow her boyfriend, Shouji, to Tokyo, she works hard to save enough money and join him.

The second Nana, Osaki, is a solitary punk singer whose heart was broken by the end of her relationship with her band’s bassist, Ren. Despite her heartache, she travels to the capital with the ambition of becoming a successful artist. When the two Nanas meet in Tokyo, they soon become roommates and form a close bond as they support each other in their struggles to make a better life.

5. Paradise Kiss

Hayasaka is a high school student who is approached by a group of eccentric fashion designers from the famous Yazawa Art Academy. At first, she is intimidated by their unique appearances and avant-garde designs, but she eventually finds herself drawn into their world of art and passion.

Throughout the anime, Yukari is faced with difficult decisions as she navigates the ups and downs of her modeling career and her relationships with the members of the Atelier. She must determine what she truly wants in life and whether the life of a model is the right path for her. With its mix of drama, romance, and fashion, Paradise Kiss is a captivating and thought-provoking anime that is sure to keep you engaged from start to finish.

3. Nodame Cantabile

Nodame Cantabile is a great josei romance comedy anime that tells the story of the talented musician Shinichi Chiaki, who is determined to reach the heights of musical success in Europe. A perfectionist from a respected family, Shinichi is known for his harsh criticism of himself and others. Despite his talent and passion, his fear of flying prevents him from pursuing his dream, leaving him stuck in Japan.

However, his life takes a sudden turn when he meets Nodame, a quirky and disorganized girl who is his neighbor. Despite her unkempt appearance, Shinichi is blown away by her incredible piano skills and begins to see her in a different light. As Nodame falls head over heels in love with Shinichi, he must come to terms with his feelings and navigate the ups and downs of their relationship as they both strive to achieve their musical dreams.

2. Chihayafuru 

Chihayafuru is a must-watch sports romance anime that is considered one of the best josei releases of all time. It follows the journey of Chihaya Ayase, who as a child, had only one dream – to see her elder sister Chitose become a successful model. However, when she meets Arata Wataya and discovers the world of competitive karuta, she falls in love with the sport.

Karuta, based on the Ogura Hundred Poets anthology, is a card game that requires a combination of memory, agility, and endurance from its players. Chihaya, Arata, and Taichi, who is Chihaya’s childhood friend, join the Shiranami Society and embark on an exciting journey to become the top-ranked female player, the Queen of Karuta.

As Chihaya grows older, she becomes more passionate about karuta and starts a karuta club in her high school with the help of Taichi and new members. The club aims to win the national championship at the Omi Shrine, giving Chihaya a chance to improve her skills and reach her full potential.

1. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu

Closing out our lineup of the best josei anime of all time with “Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu”. With a gripping storyline and a rich cultural background, this is a must-watch for all anime fans. The story revolves around Yotarou, a former yakuza member who decides to pursue a career in rakugo, a traditional Japanese form of comedic storytelling. He meets Yakumo Yuurakutei, a distinguished rakugo performer, who becomes his mentor and teaches him the art of rakugo. Yotarou also meets Konatsu, a young woman who has a passion for rakugo and a connection to Yakumo’s past.

As Yotarou delves deeper into the world of rakugo, he learns about the relationships it creates and the dedication required to keep the art form alive. The story takes the audience on a journey through both the past and present, painting a vivid picture of the rakugo world and the people who inhabit it.

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