New To Shojo? Here Are 10 Great Starter Anime for Beginners

Anime fans who are new to shojo might feel as if they’re in for an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With so many stories to choose from, it can be daunting to find the right place to start. There is a perfect shojo anime for everyone, ranging from high school romances and magical adventures to dramatic love triangles.

Shojo is a genre that is particularly targeted at young women, yet it appeals to a broader audience with its rich narratives, romance, and relatable themes. For those new to shojo, the best way to start is with a series that combines engaging storytelling, beautiful animation, and memorable characters without being too complex or drawn out. To assist on this journey into the realm of shojo, this list offers the perfect anime to begin with.

10 Yona of the Dawn

Based on the Manga by Mizuho Kusanagi and Produced by Studio Pierrot

Yona of the Dawn

Yona of the Dawn blends action and adventure with romance, making it a unique and standout choice for those just beginning to explore shojo. The story follows Princess Yona, who is forced to flee her kingdom after her cousin betrays her. As she begins her journey to reclaim her throne, she evolves from a sheltered princess to a capable leader.

What sets this anime apart is its powerful female protagonist, Yona, who proves herself a worthy leader in battle. Yona’s relationship with her companions and those she crosses along her adventure grows through trust and mutual respect. Yona of the Dawn balances adventure with romantic subplots and intriguing character development, making it a perfect introduction to shojo for those who want more than high school romance.

9 Kamisama Kiss

Based on the Manga by Julietta Suzuki and Produced by TMS Entertainment

Kamisama Kissis a supernatural romantic comedy that ran for two seasons and received several OVAs. The story follows Nanami Momozono, a young girl who, down on her luck, unexpectedly becomes a shrine deity. As the goddess of the shrine, she forms an initially reluctant partnership with Tomoe, a powerful fox yokai.

The narrative follows their evolving relationship, which is filled with playful banter and genuine moments of emotional growth. Kamisama Kiss explores themes of self-worth and resilience in a lighthearted narrative. Nanami and Tomoe’s dynamic is reason enough to watch, but the series is also known for its magical world, unique characters, and meaningful themes scattered throughout the storyline.

8 My Little Monster

Based on the Manga by Robico and Produced by Brain's Base

My Little Monsterstands out on this list for its unique take on romance and quirky humor mixed with unexpected emotional depth. The story follows Shizuku Mizutani, a studious and detached girl who develops an unlikely bond with a misunderstood troublemaker, Haru Yoshida. Their relationship grows from an awkward and unpredictable pairing to one of mutual understanding. Together, they show how two very different personalities can complement and challenge each other.

At its heart, the anime is a story that explores vulnerabilities and personal growth. Shizuku’s emotional walls slowly crumble as she opens up to Haru. Similarly, Haru learns the value of kindness and connection while he’s with Shizuku. Their dynamic breaks each other out of their comfort zones and makes the narrative perfect for anyone seeking a shojo filled with laughs and heartfelt developments.

7 Maid Sama!

Based on the Manga by Hiro Fujiwara and Produced by J.C.Staff

Maid Sama!is a perfect blend of romance, comedy, and empowerment and offers a refreshing take on shojo. The series centers on Misaki Ayuzawa, the student council president at what was formerly an all-boys school. She secretly works at a maid café to support her family. The clash between her tough, no-nonsense persona and her softer, more vulnerable side creates an engaging dynamic after her secret is discovered by popular student Takumi Usui.

Misaki’s determination to defy traditional gender roles while facing her fears and insecurities offers a unique perspective within shojo. Takumi’s support and ever-growing affection for her add depth to their romance and show how trust and mutual respect challenge Misaki’s personal barriers. With its humor and empowering narrative, Maid Sama! is a fantastic shojo anime to watch.

6 Say "I Love You"

Based on the Manga by Kanae Hazuki and PRoduced by Studio ZEXCS

Say “I Love You”is a refreshing take on high school romance that focuses on trust and healing between its two protagonists. Mei Tachibana is a shy girl whose world gets turned upside down after she’s drawn into a relationship with Yamato Kurosawa. This series thrives on the complexity of opening up to love and breaking down emotional barriers, making it a perfect gateway for beginners exploring shojo anime.

Mei’s transformation from an isolated figure to emotional openness resonates deeply as she learns to trust those around her. Yamato’s support and patience created a solid foundation for their relationship to blossom, demonstrating how love can be a powerful force for personal growth and healing. Say “I Love You” stands out among shojo anime because of its balance of drama and tenderness.

5 Horimiya

Based on the Manga By Daisuke Hagiwara and Produced by CloverWorks

Horimiya explores the complexities of teenage love and self-discovery. It follows Hori, a popular and seemingly perfect high school girl, and Miyamura, a quiet and seemingly ordinary boy, as their unexpected connection unfolds. Their bond slowly evolves into a heartfelt romance built upon mutual understanding and shared vulnerabilities, with a focus on their public personas in contrast to their private selves.

At its core, Horimiya is a story about acceptance and being true to oneself. Hori and Miyamura’s growth in the series, both individually and as a couple, demonstrates the beauty of trust and vulnerability in a relationship. The two have a refreshing dynamic that balances humor with emotional moments, making it one of the most relatable shojo series.

4 Sugar Apple Fairy Tale

Based on the Light Novel By Miri Mikawa and Produced by J.C.Staff

Sugar Apple Fairy Tale is a blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure. Following Anne Halford, a young sugar artisan who dreams of becoming a Silver Sugar Master like her mother before her. She is accompanied on her journey by Challe Fen Challe, a warrior fairy who serves as Ann's bodyguard. The anime explores themes of trust and freedom and an examination of the societal structures that bind the characters.

What sets Sugar Apple Fairy Tale apart is its handling of power dynamics within the series. While many shojo anime focus on romance, this series emphasizes the importance of autonomy, making Anne and Challe’s growth central to the storyline. The pacing allows for thoughtful character development, making it the perfect anime for new fans to shojo who are seeking more than just romance.

3 Snow White with the Red Hair

Based on the Manga By Sorata Akidzuki and Produced by Studio Bones

Snow White with the Red Hair is a refreshing take on the classic fairytale, focusing on personal agency and self-discovery. The story follows Shirayuki, a strong-willed herbalist with, as the title suggests, striking red hair. Shirayuki escapes an unwanted marriage proposal and embarks on a journey to live life on her own terms.

This leads her to the kingdom of Clarines, where she meets Prince Zen and forms a partnership with him based on mutual support and respect. The anime has a character-driven narrative and lighthearted romance in a beautiful setting. At its heart, Snow White with the Red Hair is a tale about independence, self-empowerment, and finding love on equal footing.

2 Ouran High School Host Club

Based on the Manga by Bisco Hatori and Produced by Studio Bones

Ouran High School Host Club is a beloved classic shojo that effortlessly combines humor, satire, and romance, making it an excellent starting point for beginners. The protagonist is Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student at an elite school who becomes entangled with the members of the Host Club after breaking an expensive vase. This anime cleverly critiques societal expectations and class differences while simultaneously delivering heartfelt character growth and scenes that will truly make viewers laugh out loud.

Ouran High School Host Club tackles themes of identity, self-worth, and breaking free of societal norms. Haruhi’s journey with the Host Club is full of comedic and touching moments that add to the series’ depth. Ouran is an ideal introduction to rom-com shojo anime and will absolutely leave fans wanting more of Haruhi’s story.

1 Fruits Basket (2019)

Based on the Manga By Natsuki Takaya and Produced by TMS Entertainment

Fruits Basketis the shojo anime to watch. The series first aired in 2001 and then received a remake in 2019, which ran for three seasons. This shojo anime masterfully blended romance with comedy and deeply emotional themes, including personal growth, trauma and healing, and acceptance.

The story follows Tohru Honda, a kind-hearted girl who stumbles upon the mysterious Sohma family’s secret. When hugged by someone of the opposite sex, they transform into animals from the Chinese zodiac. Each character’s struggles in Fruits Basket feel personal and raw, making the story resonate with viewers on a deeper level. The anime has the perfect mix of lighthearted moments and heartrending drama that will leave viewers wanting more.

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