Yuri anime, also known as “shoujo-ai,” focuses on romantic or emotional relationships between female characters, offering viewers a unique and heartfelt perspective on love. Whether it’s a lighthearted school romance, an emotional drama, or something in between, Yuri anime has gained popularity for its diverse storytelling and the way it portrays the depth of female relationships. As 2022 brings us new releases and classics, the genre continues to resonate with audiences who appreciate nuanced emotional connections, intricate character development, and beautiful art styles.
This guide highlights the best Yuri anime series that you can enjoy this year. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or someone looking to explore it for the first time, there’s something here for everyone. From lighthearted comedies to deep emotional dramas, these series offer a diverse range of experiences that celebrate love and friendship between women. Let’s go into the 10 best Yuri anime series to watch in 2022, offering both newcomers and long-time fans a chance to find something special to enjoy.
1. Bloom Into You (Yagate Kimi ni Naru)
Genre: Romance, Drama, Slice of Life
Episodes: 13
“Bloom Into You” is an emotional journey that explores the complexities of love, especially when it’s not as clear-cut as you expect. The series follows Yuu, a high school girl who has never experienced romantic feelings, and Touko, a charismatic student council president who seems to have it all. When they develop an unexpected bond, Yuu begins to question what love really means.
This series beautifully explores the slow burn of a romantic relationship. Its delicate pacing and rich character development will fascinate anyone interested in stories about finding your own feelings and how love can bloom in unexpected ways.
Why You Should Watch:
- Thoughtful exploration of personal growth and identity.
- Gorgeous animation and ta stunning musical score.
- A deeply emotional story that touches on themes of love, confusion, and acceptance.
2. Citrus
Genre: Drama, Romance, School, Slice of Life
Episodes: 12
If you’re looking for a more intense Yuri anime, “Citrus” offers exactly that. The story revolves around Mei and Yuzu, stepsisters who have complicated feelings for one another. Mei is cold, distant, and unapproachable, while Yuzu is a carefree girl who initially struggles to adapt to the new family dynamic. Their relationship grows as they navigate their feelings for each other in the context of family, school, and self-discovery.
“Citrus” is a love story filled with dramatic tension, jealousy, and emotional twists. It offers a grittier take on the Yuri genre, with both characters going through personal struggles while dealing with their blossoming romantic feelings.
Why You Should Watch:
- An intense, dramatic love story with moments of tension and heartache.
- Explores taboo relationships and complex emotional depth.
- Strong, contrasting personalities between the main characters keep the story engaging.
3. Happy Sugar Life
Genre: Psychological, Thriller, Drama, Yuri
Episodes: 12
“Happy Sugar Life” takes a much darker turn compared to other Yuri anime. This psychological thriller follows Satou Matsuzaka, a seemingly innocent girl who will go to extreme lengths to protect her younger “sister,” Shio. The series delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and unhealthy attachments.
Despite the disturbing elements, “Happy Sugar Life” stands out for its gripping storyline and complex character dynamics. It’s a unique take on the genre, offering suspense and horror wrapped in a Yuri narrative.
Why You Should Watch:
- Disturbing yet fascinating psychological thriller.
- Dark and intense storyline that challenges traditional romance conventions.
- Complex characters and an unpredictable plot.
4. Revue Starlight
Genre: Music, Drama, Fantasy, Yuri
Episodes: 12
“Revue Starlight” is a visually stunning and emotionally charged anime that combines the world of theater with intense personal struggles. The series centers around a group of young girls training to become actresses in a mysterious and competitive revue. The main characters, Karen and Hikari, share a deep bond that transcends friendship, and their relationship grows as they face intense rivalry and conflict.
With its dazzling performances, striking visuals, and compelling emotional stakes, “Revue Starlight” offers a dynamic Yuri experience that blends fantasy with raw human emotion.
Why You Should Watch:
- Beautiful animation and choreography.
- Explores themes of rivalry, friendship, and unspoken love.
- A unique fusion of theater and fantasy elements.
5. Yuru Yuri
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life, Yuri
Episodes: 12 (multiple seasons)
For fans of lighter, comedic Yuri anime, “Yuru Yuri” is a perfect choice. The show follows a group of middle school girls who form a “Amusement Club” and explore their relationships with one another through funny, heartwarming interactions. While the show includes plenty of Yuri subtext, it leans more into comedy and lightheartedness rather than intense drama.
“Yuru Yuri” is an easy watch for those who want something fun and light, with subtle hints of romance and sweet moments between characters.
Why You Should Watch:
- Lighthearted, funny, and easygoing.
- Great for fans of comedic Yuri content.
- Characters’ interactions are heartwarming and humorous.
6. Aoi Hana (Sweet Blue Flowers)
Genre: Romance, Drama, Slice of Life
Episodes: 11
“Aoi Hana” tells the story of Fumi, a high school girl who reconnects with her childhood friend, Akira, after years of separation. As Fumi navigates her own emerging feelings and the complexities of her emotions for Akira, the series delicately explores themes of love, longing, and self-discovery.
The show’s nuanced portrayal of teenage love and its realistic approach to relationships makes it a standout in the genre.
Why You Should Watch:
- Gentle, slow-paced romance with heartfelt emotions.
- Beautiful animation and soft art style.
- An authentic depiction of growing up and understanding one’s feelings.
7. Sakura Trick
Genre: Comedy, Romance, School, Yuri
Episodes: 12
“Sakura Trick” is a fun and lighthearted Yuri anime that follows the sweet relationship between two high school girls, Haruka and Yuu. They decide to share a kiss, which sparks a deeper emotional connection between them. The series is full of adorable moments, light humor, and sweet romantic interactions.
With its emphasis on first love and the joy of discovering new feelings, “Sakura Trick” is perfect for viewers seeking a breezy and heartwarming romance.
Why You Should Watch:
- Sweet, funny, and filled with adorable romantic moments.
- Explores the early stages of love and intimacy.
- Lighthearted and full of charm.
8. Kase-san and Morning Glories
Genre: Romance, Slice of Life, Yuri
Episodes: 1 (OVA)
Based on a popular manga series, “Kase-san and Morning Glories” is a short but touching OVA that tells the story of Yamada, a shy high school girl, and Kase, the popular and athletic girl she falls in love with. Their relationship grows from tentative beginnings into a beautiful, supportive love story, filled with tender moments and gentle humor.
The short length of this OVA doesn’t detract from its emotional impact—it’s a perfect, quick watch for fans of sweet, wholesome Yuri.
Why You Should Watch:
- Simple yet beautiful love story.
- Heartwarming and wholesome moments.
- Quick but impactful viewing experience.
9. Maria†Holic
Genre: Comedy, Mystery, Yuri
Episodes: 12
“Maria†Holic” is a comedic and quirky series that blends Yuri’s themes with a mysterious plotline. The show centers around Kanako, a girl who has a strange phobia of men and ends up at an all-girls school. She meets Mariya, a beautiful and mysterious student who happens to be a crossdresser. Hilarity and strange situations ensue as Kanako navigates her feelings for Mariya while trying to uncover her secrets.
It’s a wacky, offbeat comedy with plenty of laughs and twists that keep the viewer entertained.
Why You Should Watch:
- Quirky, funny, and full of oddball humor.
- A unique take on Yuri with a cross-dressing twist.
- A fun, unpredictable viewing experience.
10. The Executioner and Her Way of Life
Genre: Fantasy, Action, Yuri
Episodes: 12
“The Executioner and Her Way of Life” offers a darker fantasy take on the Yuri genre. Set in a fantasy world, the series follows Moping, a powerful executioner who is sent to eliminate dangerous individuals. Her journey intertwines with a mysterious woman named Lilith, and a bond starts to form between them. Combining action, fantasy, and romance, this anime introduces new dynamics to the Yuri narrative.
Why You Should Watch:
- Unique fantasy setting with action-packed sequences.
- Complex relationship and emotional stakes.
- Strong character-driven storytelling.
