Prove to your girlfriend that not all anime is a variation on Slam Dunk and Dragon Ball Z.
You’ve been trying to get your female partner into anime for ages, but, for some reason, she just doesn’t seem to care about Saitama’s emotional hero journey at all. She didn’t find Misa that adorable either.
Perhaps you started in the wrong place, but don’t worry: we’ve prepared a short list for those clueless about the world of anime beyond the male-oriented series it’s often associated with.
5. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
Recommended if she likes: compelling stories with intense drama plots
The only shonen entry on our list that needs no introduction. Most women's complaints about anime are flat, underwritten female characters and uncomfortable “comic relief” scenes that border on sexual harassment. These issues are entirely evaded in Fullmetal Alchemist, as it was written and illustrated by a woman.
If you yourself are not interested in romance shojo, but still want to watch something together with your partner, this anime is the perfect place to start.
4. Natsume’s Book of Friends (2008)
Genre: drama, supernatural
Recommended if she likes: mythology, Asian folklore, “comforting” shows
Natsume’s Book of Friends is a slice-of-life with a paranormal flair about a man who can see spirits. Even though it’s centered around a male protagonist, it is actually based on a shojo manga, but the series’ quiet, meditative atmosphere can be enjoyed by both genders. As a bonus, you will get to learn a thing or two about yokai and other mythical creatures of Japan.
3. Yona of the Dawn (2014-2015)
Genre: action, fantasy, romance
Recommended if she likes: fantasy stories with great action, powerful female characters
Yona of the Dawn is a coming-of-age story about a princess forced to flee her castle after a staged coup. The young fugitive has to learn how to survive on her own and grow into a capable leader.
This is a battle shojo, and one of the best of its kind. It explores war, politics, and presents interesting moral dilemmas, so it’s a must-watch for sophisticated fantasy fans.
2. Chihayafuru (2011-2012)
Genre: drama, sports
Recommended if she likes: romance but with an actual plot
Chiyahyafuru is a perfect balance between a comedy and a sports drama. Mostly centered around a poem-based Japanese card game called karuta, it features high-tension matches and explores the psychological warfare involved in beating your opponents in this competitive game. Basically, it’s like Haikyuu!!, but with more romance and better written female characters.
1. Nana (2006-2007)
Genre: drama, romance
Recommended if she likes: mature love stories, fashion, and rock music
Nana is an anime about two young women named Nana who move to Tokyo and befriend each other despite their different personalities and lifestyles, complete with stellar soundtracks and visuals. This is not a feel-good story for a relaxing night in; it can be sad and, at times, takes on a nihilistic and cynical tone. But that’s what makes Nana so good: it’s a breath of fresh air in a genre dominated by high school melodrama.
If your partner ends up watching Nana alone, she’ll definitely try to force you to join her, so you might as well start it together.