25 Best BL (Boys Love) Anime You Must Watch in 2026

For years, romance anime has ruled the hearts of anime viewers. And Boys Love anime, more popularly known as BL anime, is a special sub-genre of romance that explores romantic relationships between male characters. While the BL anime genre has been popular in Japan for many years, it has recently gained popularity worldwide.

The effective portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community offers compelling stories, memorable characters, and heart-warming relationships that fans adore. If that’s exactly what you are looking for, you have come to the right place, as we have listed down the 25 best boys’ love (BL) anime shows and movies you should check out in 2026.

Best Boys Love (Yaoi) Anime to Stream

We have compiled the most popular BL anime shows and movies, such as Banana Fish, Gravitation, Classmates, etc., adapted from manga, manhwa, donghua, and light novels, which are celebrated by fans worldwide. That said, let’s dive right into the list:

Anime Title	Details
Semantic Error	Release Year: 2021 Episode Count: 4 Ratings: 7.7 Streaming Platform: LAFTEL and BiliBili
Twittering Birds Never Fly	Release Year: 2020 Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes Ratings: 6.8/7.4 Streaming Platform: Netflix, Prime Video, and HIDIVE
Twilight Out of Focus	Release Year: 2024 Episode Count: 12 Ratings: 7.0/7.5 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
The Betrayal Knows My Name	Release Year: 2010 Episode Count: 24 Ratings: 6.8/7.2 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Gravitation	Release Year: 2001 Episode Count: 13 Ratings: 7.2/6.9 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
Hikari: Be My Light	Release Year: 2019-2022 Episode Count: 10 Ratings: 8.1 Streaming Platform: BiliBili
The Summer Hikaru Died	Release Year: 2025- Present Episode Count: 12 Ratings: 8.2/8.1 Streaming Platform: Netflix
Hyperventilation	Release Year: 2017 Episode Count: 6 Ratings: 7.5/7.2 Streaming Platform: Vimeo and BiliBili
Hybrid Child	Release Year: 2014-2015 Episode Count: 4 Ratings: 7.3/7.6 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
No. 6	Release Year: 2011 Episode Count: 11 Ratings: 7.4/7.6 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
Xiao Lu He Xiao Lan	Release Year: 2018-2024 Episode Count: 72 Ratings: 7.38 Streaming Platform: BiliBili
Classmates	Release Year: 2016 Duration: 1 Hour Ratings: 7.7/8.3 Streaming Platform: Prime Video
World’s Greatest First Love	Release Year: 2011 Episode Count: 24 Ratings: 7.6/7.7 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Cherry Magic!	Release Year: 2024 Episode Count: 36 Ratings: 7.7/7.5 Streaming Platform:
Junjou Romantica	Release Year: Episode Count: Ratings: Streaming Platform:
Mignon	Release Year: 2013 Episode Count: 12 Ratings: 8.01 Streaming Platform: Vimeo and BiliBili
Love Stage	Release Year: 2014 Episode Count: 11 Ratings: 7.3/7.2 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
Dakaichi	Release Year: 2018 Episode Count: 13 Ratings: 7.3/7.4 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
Heaven Official’s Blessing	Release Year: 2021 – Present Episode Count: 23+ Ratings: 8.2/8.4 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Netflix
Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation: Mo Dao Zu Shi Series	Release Year: 2019-2021 Episode Count: 35 Ratings: 8.5/8.5 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
The Stranger by the Shore	Release Year: 2020 Duration: 58 Minutes Ratings: 7.1/7.9 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll
Sasaki and Miyano	Release Year: 2022-2023 Episode Count: 12 Ratings: 7.7/8.24 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
Given	Release Year: 2019-2024 Episode Count: 11 Ratings: 8.3/8.3 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll and Prime Video
Yuri!!! On Ice	Release Year: 2016 Episode Count: 12 Ratings: 8.3/7.9 Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Disney+ and Hulu
Banana Fish	Release Year: 2018 Episode Count: 24 Ratings: 8.2/8.5 Streaming Platform: Netflix and Prime Video

My Top 3 BL Anime Recommendations

If you are struggling to narrow down the BL anime you want to watch from our big list, don’t worry I got your back. Here is my top 3 BL anime recommendation whether you are a newcomer or have watched plenty of BL anime already:

Banana Fish

Banana Fish wasn’t just a BL anime, as its thrilling gang-based narrative hooked me in. I didn’t know MAPPA was behind Banana Fish at that time, and their stunning animation never fails to amaze me. So, if you want a BL cum crime-thriller anime, Banana Fish still stands tall as the number 1 BL anime to watch after all these years.

Classmates

The first thing about Doukyusei: Classmates that caught my attention is its simple yet striking watercoloringesque animation. On top of that, it has a sweet rom-com set in high school. Though this movie has a 1-hour runtime, it left a lasting impression on me.

The Summer Hikaru Died

The Summer Hikaru Died is easily one of the best anime I watched in 2025. The initial episodes of this anime were a full-on horror and mystery show. But as the show progressed, it had a BL touch as well. The first season was an instant hit, and I’m waiting for more of this anime just like the rest of the world now.

Must-Watch BL Anime in 2026

With the personal BL anime recommendations out of the way, let’s move on to the best BL anime of all time that are a must-watch this year if you haven’t yet:

Semantic Error

• Title: Semantic Error
• Author: J.Soori
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
• Episodes: 4
• IMDB/MAL: NA/7.7

Semantic Error anime is the adaptation of the manhwa of the same name by Jeosuri and illustrated by Angy. This anime has only four episodes, and more will be produced as there is a lot of source material left to be adapted. There is also a live-action show adapted from the same manhwa, which is loved by the fans as one of the best K-dramas.

Chu Sangwoo and Jang Jaeyoung’s relationship is explored in this anime. They are drawn to one another, and the anime emphasizes their attempts to stay together. The four episodes can be viewed in a single binge, as I mentioned, and viewers can keep an eye out for additional episodes of this series.

Twittering Birds Never Fly

• Title: Saezuru Tori wa Habatakanai: The Clouds Gather
• Author: Kou Yoneda
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
• Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes
• IMDB/MAL: 6.8/7.4

We have yet another BL movie here with a very short runtime. But it strikingly captures the essence of the manga and remains faithful to it, as you can see, many fans recommend it after they have completed the manga. It is about a businessman named Yashiro who lives a double life. One day, he hired Doumeki Chikara to be his bodyguard, and everything changed between them as both their heart sparked and they fell in love with each other.

The main strengths of this anime film are its narrative and its art style. Seeing these characters is incredibly touching, and the whole thing has a cozy vibe. Additionally, this anime does a good job of handling many mature themes, like trauma. In addition, there are two follow-up films, and the OVA is anticipated to be released shortly. Thus, be sure to watch this anime and prepare for the series’ upcoming releases.

Twilight Out of Focus

• Title: Tasogare Out Focus
• Author: Janome
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
• Episodes: 12
• IMDB/MAL: 7.0/7.5

Studio Deen is one of the pioneering studios when it comes to BL anime adaptation, and their latest work, “Twilight Out of Focus,” turned into an instant beloved BL anime among the fandom. Mao Tsuchiya and Hisashi Ootomo are roommates who got off to a bad start. But when the duo finds themselves filming a short film project, the anger begins to fade and turns into something beautiful.

After releasing great BL anime such as World’s Greatest Love, Sasaki to Miyano, and many more, Twilight Out of Focus undoubtedly joins the list of greats as it’s a wonderful BL anime on its own. This classic BL anime in a high-school setup offers all the elements one needs to get delighted, such as comedy and drama, while serving the BL romance aspect. Thus, if you want to witness a high school rom-com, go ahead and try this one out. You won’t be disappointed.

The Betrayal Knows My Name

• Title: Uragiri wa Boku no Namae o Shitteiru
• Author: Hotaru Odagiri
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Music
• Episodes: 11
• IMDB/MAL: 6.8/7.2

If you’re looking for a BL anime with a compelling plot, you shouldn’t miss this one. The narrative centers on Yuki, an orphan with the capacity to sense the emotions (pain) of others. He finds it difficult to manage this power in his daily life, but a silver-eyed guardian who has vowed to keep Yuki safe helps him master his lethal skills. Together, they attempt to unravel Yuki’s enigmatic past.

I’m sure this plot had you intrigued while just reading, and it’s the same case with the anime. It’s not an all-time best BL anime, but it sure will entertain you to the best. The chemistry between the main duo, together with the compelling storyline, gets you hooked and offers something unique and better than a regular BL anime show.

Gravitation

• Title: Gravitation
• Author: Maki Murakami
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Comedy
• Episodes: 13
• IMDB/MAL: 7.2/6.9

Gravitation is one of the oldest BL anime out there, as it was released back in 1999. It features the aspiring story of a man named Shuichi, a lyricist who aims to follow the steps of his idol and become a successful artist with his band. He and his band were lucky enough to get signed to a major recording label. But as the deadlines start to creep up, Shuichi is still unable to write good lyrics for their major release. On a fateful night, he meets Japan’s famous romantic writer Eiri Yuki, who considers him a talentless artist.

Once Shuichi completes his lyric work, he wants to confront Eiri again and prove his worth. But the question is, is he doing that out of his frustration, or does he love him? This anime was an influential one in the history of BL anime, as it inspired a hundred other animes that are coming out these days. So if you need to watch a classic anime, Gravitation is the one for you.

Hikari: Be My Light

• Title: –
• Genre: Animation, Short, Romance
• Episodes: 10
• IMDB/MAL: 8.1/Nil

We have a lot of wholesome BL anime here in our list, but how about a poignant BL tale? This recent anime chronicles the relationships between Akira and Hikaru. Akira, who is at the lowest point in his life, bumps into Hikari, who will become the shining light and ray of hope in the former’s darkest phase.

However, this is not a full-fledged BL anime as it’s a relatively short anime featuring 10 episodes, each with only 3 minutes of runtime. So, if you are tired of watching wholesome BL anime all the time, it’s time to watch Hikari: Be My Light. Make sure to have a tissue box near your side, as your face will be covered in tears when you reach the end of this anime. All the episodes of Hikari: Be My Light are available to stream for free on Studio Hikari’s official YouTube channel.

The Summer Hikaru Died

• Title: Hikaru ga Shinda Natsu
• Author: Mokumokuren
• Genre: Animation, Horror, Mystery
• Episodes: 12
• IMDB/MAL: 8.2/8.1

The Summer Hikaru Died is the anime adaptation of the popular supernatural manga of the same name by Mokumokuren. It has a strange plot where Yoshiki and Hikaru are best friends; however, the latter goes missing in the mountains one day. Fortunately, he returns in shape, but is he really the same Hikaru Yoshiki that he has known all along?

The anime is still ongoing at the time of writing, but fans are already regarding it as a loyal adaptation of the manga. Despite not being an out-and-out BL anime, Hikaru is highly lauded and recommended by BL fans due to the queer characters taking the spotlight in a horror story. Therefore, we suggest Summer Hikaru Died in case you are seeking a distinctive experience in the BL genre.

Hyperventilation

• Title: Hyperventilation
• Author: Bboong Bbang Kkyu
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Short
• Episodes: 6
• IMDB/MAL: 7.5/7.2

Hyperventilation is the series adaptation of the Manhwa (Korean Web Novel) of the same name by Bboong Bbang Kkyu. Myongi and Sunho are high school students at the beginning of the show. Years later, they meet again at a high school reunion and begin to express the old feelings they had for one another during their high school days.

Hyperventilation is a very short series with just 6 episodes, each just 3 minutes. You can finish it in one sitting and have a mature story without any corny moments. The animation style is very different and has sensible characters. With that said, Hyperventilation is the perfect example of a short and sweet BL rom-com anime show.

Hybrid Child

• Title: Hybrid Child
• Author: Mariko Ōhara
• Genre: Animation, Fantasy, Romance
• Episodes: 4
• IMDB/MAL: 7.3/7.6

A hybrid child is an artificial person made by the extremely talented engineer Kuroda. They have their own awareness, making them virtually exactly like actual humans. The fact that these androids would only mature depending on the affection and attention they receive from their owners makes them highly special. The three love relationships between these androids are therefore examined in this anime.

This anime is totally different from the regular tropes we see in the BL genre; it amalgamates the sci-fi concept with BL romance in a brilliant way. The story focuses on the major romance in a distinctive style, and you may want to try it if you are looking for an eccentric boys’ love plot in the best BL anime shows list. Also, be aware that the finale of Hybrid Child is bound to break your hearts.

No. 6

• Title: No.6
• Author: Atsuko Asano
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Adventure
• Episodes: 11
• IMDB/MAL: 7.4/7.6

No. 6 is a faithful anime adaptation of the original nine-part light novel series of the same name. In the significant city known as the No. 6, Shion is a top student. He rescues a young escapee named Nezumi and saves him, but he is later caught and loses his elite rank. He is thus sent to the less desirable area of the city. Years later, both of their fates cross again, and they decide to uncover the secretly guarded mysteries of No. 6 city. They learned a lot about themselves and, more significantly, about their love for one another on their voyage.

Unlike usual BL anime, this anime’s story takes place in a utopian world. Apart from the romance between the main characters, the story is very deep and explores the utopian world. Thus, No.6 is easily a great watch for the various factors combined and presented together with the BL romance.

Xiao Lu He Xiao Lan

• Title: Beryl and Sapphire
• Author: Ocarina
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Comedy
• Episodes: 72
• IMDB/MAL: -/7.38

Beryl and Sapphire is a very famous manhua created by Ocarina and later adapted as an anime. The story of this anime is as follows: Beryl and Sapphire are best friends, and like all best friends, they can become enemies with each other for some time. In each episode, they are sent into a different world and cross paths again and again. What does fate have in store for them?

Beryl and Sapphire’s anime is considered to be an underrated gem in the BL genre, as many people don’t know about this one. While you consider it to be a long series for having 72 episodes, each episode is just 8 minutes long. So you can binge-watch it easily. This anime is incredibly fun, and its genre expands from fantasy to mysteries. Each episode is fun and grows the bond between the main characters in a great way. Thus, Beryl and Sapphire is an underrated BL anime show you should not miss at any cost.

Classmates

• Title: Doukyuusei
• Author: Asumiko Nakamura
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
• Duration: 1 Hour
• IMDB/MAL: 7.7/8.3

Classmates is an anime movie adaptation of the first volume of the manga series, Doukyusei: Classmates, by Asumiko Nakamura. Rihito Sajou and Hikaru Kusakabe are second-year students at a high school. The former is a topper student with amazing grades, while the latter is a nonchalant boy and is a member of a rock band. Hikaru meets Rihito when he is practicing his singing for an upcoming chorus festival, but he can’t get the song right. Hikaru decides to help Rihito, and the polar opposite students are drawn together as feelings start to develop between them.

This anime movie is one of the highest-rated BL anime movies in my anime list history, and that speaks a lot about the quality of this movie. It has a quirky animation style like something you have never seen before, and it is captivating to the eye. The characters are the special thing about this movie, with a simple romance tale. In the end, you will be left grinning after watching a wholesome romantic story. Thus, Classmates is one of the best BL anime movies on our list.

World’s Greatest First Love

• Title: Sekaiichi Hatsukoi
• Author: Shungiku Nakamura
• Genre: Animation, Comedy, Romance
• Episodes: 24
• IMDB/MAL: 7.6/7.7

World’s Greatest First Love is the anime adaptation of the manga series Sekai Ichi Hatsukoi by Shungiku Nakamura. The story of the anime is as follows: Ritsu Onodera is a literary editor, and he works in his father’s publishing company. He was always surrounded by jealous co-workers who all considered him to be a product of nepotism. So he quits his work and moves to a different company as a rookie manga editor. There, he encounters the new editor-in-chief named Masamune Takano, who happens to be Ritsu’s high school love.

As a result, this high school reunion makes Ritsu fall in love with Takano again, and additionally, the anime has two more bonus romantic relationships within the manga industry. World’s Greatest First Love is a simple anime filled with fun moments. It doesn’t have a complicated storyline and focuses on multiple relationships like Junjou Romantica. It is a light-hearted BL anime show to witness some good moments.

Cherry Magic!

• Title: 30-sai made Doutei dato Mahoutsukai ni Nareru Rashii
• Author: Yuu Toyota
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Comedy, Romance
• Episodes: 12
• IMDB/MAL: 7.5/7.64

Next up, we have one of the most recent additions to the BL genre, which came out last year. It’s Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?! Now that’s a strange title, right? And the plot is the same as the title gives away. Kiyoshi Adachi is a 30-year-old man who lives quietly, but his life takes a sudden turn (for good reasons) when he awakens his mind-reading powers. One day, Adachi learns that his famous colleague at the office has a massive crush on him

Cherry Magic! is a perfect modern BL choice for viewers beginning their BL journey. There are no mind-blowing character developments here, but it got all the basic tropes of BL anime right. Thus, it introduces the BL anime genre to you in a way.

Junjou Romantica

• Title: Junjou Romantica
• Author: Shungiku Nakamura
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Comedy
• Episodes: 36
• IMDB/MAL: 7.7/7.5

Junjou Romantica is the anime adaptation of the manga Junjo Romantica: Pure Romance by Shungiku Nakamura. It showcases the romantic relationships of three different couples, and of course, that involves their dramas, feelings, longings, and romance.

Whilst the main story may sound so clichéd, it presents you with all the BL elements in a good way, which makes you forget about other things. Various types of anime characters may seem relatable and carry the show with their charming performances. Therefore, Junjou Romantica is a good watch for you in our list of best BL anime shows.

Mignon

• Title: Mignon
• Author: Nil
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
• Episodes: 12
• IMDB/MAL: NA/7.7

Mignon, which aired and concluded in August 2023, is the most recent addition to the list of Boys Love anime. It is one of the hospitable additions to this genre and has drawn a wide range of fans since its release. Instead of being adapted from a manga, manhwa, or manhua, this South Korean BL anime was first produced as an anime. As such, it is a thrilling new series that is suitable for one-sit binge-watching.

The story centers on Mignon, a boxer, and Young-on Oh, a vampire doctor, and the beautiful yet strange relationship between them. You might have seen Hyperventilation anime above; the creators of that anime are the ones who made this anime. So, you now know how beautiful it is going to be. So start watching it without any doubts.

Love Stage

• Title: Love Stage!!
• Author: Eiki EIKI
• Genre: Animation, Romance, Comedy
• Episodes: 11
• IMDB/MAL: 7.3/7.2

Sena Izumi was born into a family full of star-studded celebrities who work in various fields of entertainment. As much as his family wants him to become a star like them, he is a hardcore otaku who wants to become a mangaka. When he gets called for a 10th-anniversary advertisement (which he featured for when he was a kid), he gets reunited with Ryouma Ichijou, whom he had a crush on since his first meeting with him. What will happen after their reunion is carried on for the rest of the plot.

The anime has well-written characters, and that was more than enough to offer hilarious comedies and heartwarming romance simultaneously. Thus Love Stage!! has even been celebrated by audiences all over the world and is one of the best boys’ love anime we have here on our list.

Dakaichi

• Title: Dakaretai Otoko 1-i ni Odosarete Imasu.
• Author: Hashigo Sakurabi
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Comedy
• Episodes: 13
• IMDB/MAL: 7.3/7.4

Dakaichi is the anime adaptation of the manga of the same title by Hashigo Sakurabi. The plot of the anime is as follows: Takato Saijou is a famous, award-winning actor with over 20 years of experience in the acting field. He is currently the lead of a trending drama show. But things start to fall upside down in his life when a new actor named Junta Azumaya steals his spotlight. These two get caught in a series of funny Kim Kardashian-esque events, and how will they end up together?

Dakaichi is a totally fun anime to watch if you’re looking for just a plain dumb fun anime. The characters aren’t well-written, nor is the story, but at the end of the day, you will find it entertaining. You can also watch the follow-up movie titled: Dakaichi – the Movie: Spain Arc to complete watching. Thus, we have included it in our list of best BL anime shows.

Heaven Official’s Blessing

• Title: Tian Guan Ci Fu
• Author: Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Adventure
• Episodes: 11
• IMDB/MAL: 8.2/8.4

Heaven Official’s Blessing is the Chinese anime adaptation of the donghua of the same name by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. This Chinese anime tells the tale of Crown Prince Xie Lian, who ultimately rose to heaven after 800 years of “Cultivation.” As soon as he enters heaven, he gets exiled back to the mortal realm for unknown reasons. Now he embarks on an astonishing journey to discover the original truth about the gods in heaven.

Blessing by Heaven Official is another outstanding Chinese anime, similar to the Mo Dao Zu Shi we previously discussed. These two shows elevated Chinese anime to a new level and became extremely well-known worldwide. It is a completely delightful experience, thanks to outstanding animation and music. You should watch it since it’s among the greatest anime about boys’ love that we have on our list.

Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation: Mo Dao Zu Shi Series

• Title: Mo Dao Zu Shi
• Author: Mo Xiang Tong Xiu
• Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure
• Episodes: 35
• IMDB/MAL: 8.5/8.5

Mo Dao Zu Shi is the series adaptation of the same-name dongua (Chinese web novel) by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. The series’s plot is as follows: Wei Wu Xian’s reign came to an end when one of his allies assassinated him. He is reincarnated as a madman thirteen years later and reunites with his former classmate Lan Wang Ji. They begin practicing and collaborating to unravel the mysteries that surround their world.

This show is extremely popular among the BL community and has various awards in China. It is packed with breathtakingly beautiful visuals and an interesting storyline that keeps you hooked throughout. The studios behind the current Donghua sensation, Lord of Mysteries, animated Mo Dao Zu Shi before. This takes place in Ancient China, and they incorporated the BL story beautifully here. Thus, Mo Dao Zu Shi is a must-watch for all BL anime lovers, as it is one of the best anime shows available at present.

The Stranger by the Shore

• Title: Umibe no Étranger
• Author: Kanna Kii
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Romance
• Duration: 58 Minutes
• IMDB/MAL: 7.1/7.9

The Stranger by the Shore is an anime movie adaptation of the manga of the same name by Kanna Kii. It follows the life story of two men named Shun Hashimoto and Okinawa. Shun is a novelist and was disowned by his parents after coming out to them. On the other hand, Okinawa is an orphaned high school student who likes to spend his time sitting by the sea. One day, they cross paths with each other, and a bond starts to grow between them.

This slice-of-life anime is just a 1-hour watch and is strikingly beautiful with its visuals. It has delightful characters searching for love at first sight to grow their bond together later. That said, slice-of-life lovers wouldn’t want to miss out on this boys’ love anime.

Sasaki and Miyano

• Title: Sasaki and Miyano/ Sasaki to Miyano
• Author: Shō Harusono
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Comedy
• Episodes: 12
• IMDB/MAL: 7.7/8.24

The most recent addition to the list of the finest BL anime is Sasaki and Miyano. It is an anime adaptation of the same-named ongoing manga by Sh Harusono. It features a fourth-wall-breaking kind of storyline and is as follows: Miyano is a bashful person who keeps his BL Manga reading a secret. He meets the annoying Sasaki by chance and unwittingly exposes his secret to him. When the curious Sasaki borrows one of his manga, things start to shift between them.

This anime explores the beautiful relationship that blooms between Sasaki and Miyano. It’s funny and heartwarming to see the dynamic between those two characters. Thus, for a perfect slice-of-life Boys Love anime, Sasaki and Miyano should be your first pick out of here. A new Sasaki and Miyano: Graduation movie was released in 2023, which we recommend you check out after watching the anime.

Given

• Title: Given
• Author: Natsuki Kizu
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Music
• Episodes: 11
• IMDB/MAL: 8.3/8.3

Given is the anime adaptation of Natsuki Kizu’s manga of the same name. It depicts the life of Mafuyu Satou, who meets another student, Ritsuka Uenoyama, who scolds him for allowing his guitar strings to rust and snap. Mafuyu is astonished by Uenoyama’s guitar skills and expertise and asks him to teach him how to play the guitar. Later, he joins Uenoyama’s rock band, which marks the beginning of a soulful musical adventure.

This anime explores the musicians’ romantic relationship as well as their musical career’s rise. Everything a BL anime lover could desire is present in this high school band drama: captivating romance, endearing characters, and great songs to jam to. Given is a BL anime series that you should definitely watch if we could recommend one to you from this list. Furthermore, three new Given movies have been released recently, which you should watch after binge-watching the main anime.

Yuri!!! On Ice

• Title: Yuri!!! On Ice
• Author: Mitsurou Kubo
• Genre: Animation, Drama, Comedy
• Episodes: 12
• IMDB/MAL: 8.3/7.9

Yuri on Ice is a sports anime based on Mitsurou Kubo’s manga of the same title. Much like Banana Fish, this BL anime series is developed by MAPPA Studios. This story follows the adventures of our protagonist and figure skater, Yuuri Katsuki. Yuuri chooses to hang up his ice skates after being annihilated in the finals. However, later on, he caught the attention of Russian figure skater Victor Nikiforov, who chose to become Yuuri’s coach to restore him to his glory days.

This BL anime show is recognized as one of the top sports anime and offers newcomers a variety of experiences. It captures the main characters’ romantic relationships most endearingly. It also includes ice skating dances, which fans perceive as incredibly romantic and dreamy. The song and choreography for each dance are amazing, too.

Banana Fish

• Title: Banana Fish
• Author: Akimi Yoshida
• Genre: Animation, Action, Adventure
• Episodes: 24
• IMDB/MAL: 8.2/8.5

If you’re looking for a distinctive BL anime that stands out from the norm, Banana Fish is the right choice for you. Banana Fish is an anime adaptation of Akimi Yoshida’s manga of the same name. The plot of this anime revolves around a feud between the Mafia boss Dino and a young character named Ash Lynx. The story delves further into the romantic relationship between Ash and another character, Eiji Okumura, during the war.

This anime is created by MAPPA Studios, which has also produced works like Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, Vinland Saga, and more, so you know it is going to be visually stunning like the others. The narrative is set in the 1980s, and as the storyline indicates, it revolves around Mafia groups and drug traffickers, so there is plenty of action in addition to the core boys’ love anime story. Thus, Banana Fish is a BL anime show that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride.

Best BL Anime Releasing in 2026

With the start of a new year, new BL anime releases are right around the corner. If you are done watching the best BL anime we have listed above, you can also keep an eye on these new BL anime releasing in 2026:

• Isekai Office Worker: The Other World’s Books Depend on the Bean Counter: Ever wondered if there is a BL anime with an Isekai twist? The Isekai Office Worker is the answer. Seichiro Kondo gets reincarnated in a fantasy land and gets an accountant job at the Royal Palace. Soon, his life gets entangled with the Knight Captain Aresh, and it develops into something else. This Isekai BL anime is currently airing in the Winter 2026 season, and you can stream the latest episodes weekly at the moment.
• Go For It, Nakamura!: Another BL anime you should look out for in 2026 is Ganbare! Nakamura-kun!! It takes place in a high school setting where the shy Okuto Nakamura gets the ultimate chance to be with his crush, Aiki Hirose, at school. There is no concrete release date for this anime as of now.
• Saioshi no Gikei o Mederu Tame, Nagaikishimasu!: 2026 seems to be the year of Isekai BL anime, as another title is airing in the Winter 2026 anime. This is the story of Alba, who is reincarnated in a frail body, but he reunites with his favorite person in the new world. So, he aims to cherish the little time he has left with Orsis. This anime began broadcasting on January 6, and you can catch the new episode sweekly.

That’s a wrap on our big list of the best anime in the Boys Love genre. This genre is expanding with many new excellent additions, and we will be updating our list regularly to let you know of the best ofthe best BL anime. That said, if we have missed including any fan-favorite BL anime, feel free to mention them in the comments below.