Don't Miss Out: One of Crunchyroll's Newest Anime Is a Classic In the Making

Honey Lemon Soda proves that while most romance anime may be cliché, that doesn’t mean they can’t be done perfectly. Romance anime has often been criticized for its repetitive plots, stripping away the lovable twists that fans enjoy. However, the newest romance anime streaming on Crunchyroll, Honey Lemon Soda, brings back the soothing charm of classic anime, reminding fans that clichés aren’t necessarily bad, so long as they’re done right.

Adapted from the manga series written and illustrated by Mayu Murata, Honey Lemon Soda embodies the essence of a classic. A true classic anime tells a story that leaves a lasting impact, resonating with audiences beyond its time. These are the stories that stand the test of time, and among today’s modern romance anime, Honey Lemon Soda holds the greatest potential.

Honey Lemon Soda's Protagonist Overcomes Anxiety with Heartfelt Moments

Honey Lemon Soda Features a Heroine Determined to Make the Most of Her High School Experience

Uka Ishimori looking up in Honey Lemon Soda

The female protagonist of the romance anime, Ishimori Uka, is not only shy but also struggles with severe social anxiety. Before entering high school, Uka was always the student on the sidelines, never standing out. While many characters dream of experiencing romance during their high school years, Uka tries to convince herself that she is content with her quiet social status, until Kai Miura walks into her life. With his flashy blond hair, Kai is impossible to miss, especially for Uka, whom he saves from sinking deeper into her social anxiety.

Having suffered from bullying, Uka became accustomed to the loneliness and isolation that came with it. Many might have wished for revenge, but Uka remained a damsel in distress even in high school. However, things gradually change when Kai begins offering her encouragement. Kai doesn’t use the sweetest words with Uka. Instead, his words can be heavy, proving that a "prince charming" male protagonist isn’t always necessary for a romance anime to have the potential to become a classic.

Unlike some heroines who remain in a damsel-in-distress mode, Uka’s most heartfelt moments aren’t just when Kai comes to her rescue but when she stands up for herself. In episode #3, she begins expressing herself more, like confidently telling the whole class she wants to sit in the front row with Kai beside her. In episode #4, she also starts to gain more courage in facing the pains of her past by deciding to proudly show her classmates the yearbook picture she was once too scared and too embarrassed to reveal. While her feelings for Kai may be a strong motivation, Uka’s growth proves that standing up for herself is just as important.

Uka Ishimori and Sawako Kuronuma Struggled to Make Friends

Honey Lemon Soda key visual with the protagonists touching

Another classic anime that reminds fans of Honey Lemon Soda's potential to become a timeless romance series is the all-time favorite Kimi ni Todoke. Uka and Sawako both struggle with social anxiety, which leads them to isolate themselves or be greatly misunderstood. Sawako was labeled "Sadako" because of her eerie appearance, which caused people to be wary of her, while Uka was mocked as "Stony" or "Stone," a name that humiliated her and deepened her anxiety. Despite these challenges, both girls initially accept their lonely realities, unsure of how to break free from them.

However, while their experiences share similarities, Uka's struggles are more severe. Sawako's social difficulties stem from misconceptions and rumors, making her internal battles the primary obstacle to forming friendships. In contrast, Uka’s trauma is rooted in painful bullying, as shown in episode #2, where her former classmates even attempt to physically harm her, and flashbacks showing how her former classmates acted like she didn't exist. Unlike Sawako, Uka is painfully conscious of her situation but feels powerless to change it.

With Kai’s help, Uka gradually faces her anxiety and realizes she doesn’t have to live the way she once did. Her character arc strengthens the series' potential to become a timeless romance anime. This is because her determination to grow can resonate deeply to the audience. More than impressing the boy she likes, Uka strives to build genuine connections with her new-found friends, and enjoys high school with a happy heart.

The Slow-Burn Romance of Honey Lemon Soda That Captures Fans

Honey Lemon Soda’s Protector-Protected Bond Sparks a Better Romance

Not only do Uka and Sawako share similar struggles, but the slow-burn pacing of Honey Lemon Soda romantic relationship also echoes Kimi ni Todoke. Classic anime convey universal themes that keep fans engaged across generations, and while many prefer fast-paced series to avoid unnecessary scenes,Honey Lemon Soda proves that slow-burn romances can become timeless when executed well. Its deliberate pacing allows the emotional depth of Uka’s journey and her bond with Kai to develop naturally, making every moment feel more meaningful.

Kazehaya from Kimi ni Todoke is calm and shy in his approach to Sawako, whereas Kai is braver and more direct in helping Uka overcome her social anxiety. This distinction sets Honey Lemon Soda apart, as Uka surpasses her internal struggles faster, which in turn allows her romantic relationship to progress at a steadier pace. While Kimi ni Todoke is filled with heartfelt romance, Kazehaya and Sawako’s constant hesitation makes their relationship take longer to evolve. In contrast, Kai and Uka are more open with each other, and although they don’t immediately become a couple, their dynamic as protector and protected is emphasized through frequent and meaningful interactions.

The slow-burn romance in Honey Lemon Soda should not be seen as a disadvantage. Uka’s character development, alongside Kai’s support, strengthens the emotional core of the series and elevates its potential as a classic romance anime. While every romance anime has its unique way of capturing fans, Honey Lemon Soda stands out by carefully balancing Uka’s personal growth with her deepening bond with Kai. Its timeless appeal lies in how it intertwines emotional healing, self-acceptance, and romance, creating a love story that resonates across different audiences.