Best Anime Series (Shojo) in 2025

Fruits Basket is a beloved classic in the Shojo genre, known for its blend of romance, comedy, and profound emotional exploration. The story follows Tohru Honda, an orphaned girl who stumbles upon the Sohma family's secret: they transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac when embraced by the opposite sex (or when they are in a moment of weakness). The series artfully handles themes of trauma, family bonds, and self-discovery. The character development is one of its strongest points, each member of the Sohma family having a unique and complex backstory that's gradually revealed. The animation is visually appealing, complementing the emotional tone of the series. Music and soundtrack are another strength, adding to the overall tone of the series. Its plot is easy to follow and keeps the viewer invested in the characters.

Ouran High School Host Club is a delightful romantic comedy that cleverly satirizes the Shojo genre. The series features Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student at a prestigious high school who accidentally stumbles upon the school's host club. To pay off her debt, she’s forced to work as a host, attracting both laughter and affection. The show's strength lies in its hilarious situations, witty dialogue, and charming character dynamics. Visuals are bright and colorful, with a classic anime style that’s pleasant to watch. It's a strong choice for those seeking a lighthearted, entertaining anime series. Music and sound are also strong points for Ouran High School Host Club, as they support the tone.

Sailor Moon stands as a cornerstone of the magical girl genre and a significant influence on Shojo anime. The series follows Usagi Tsukino, a clumsy schoolgirl who transforms into the powerful Sailor Moon to protect Earth from evil. The story combines elements of romance, action, and friendship, with a wide cast of characters adding depth to the plot. The animation is iconic, with transformations and battles that capture the imagination. Music and voice acting are also essential, supporting the tone of this anime series. The narrative is focused on the characters.

Kimi ni Todoke, or From Me to You, is a heartwarming story about Sawako Kuronuma, who is often misunderstood because of her resemblance to the character Sadako from The Ring. The series focuses on her wish to make friends and experience the joys of high school life, and about her friendship with the popular Shouta Kazehaya. The strength of this anime series is its sweet and touching storyline. It balances the themes of romance, friendship, and self-discovery. Animation is visually good, with an appealing style. The character development is a highlight, showcasing emotional growth. Music and sound support the tone of the anime, with the use of sound effects and background scores.

Cardcaptor Sakura is a beloved series that blends the magical girl genre with themes of friendship and adventure. The story follows Sakura Kinomoto, a cheerful fourth-grade girl who accidentally releases magical cards, the Clow Cards, and must capture them again. She gathers help from her best friend and also Keroberos, a guardian of the Clow Cards. The series is known for its charming characters and lighthearted tone. The animation is bright and colorful, with a lot of attention to detail. The plot is easy to follow and offers enough depth to capture the viewer. This combination is a strong advantage to the series.