35+ Best Josei Anime To Entertain YOU!

Updated September 10, 2022 by Ernie

Manga, Manhwa, and Anime target a wide-scale audience with a bundle of genres. It makes them jack-of-all-trades. It is also why these entertainment mediums have a huge fan following, and the numbers are increasing only. I just love how Japanese and Koreans go all out with their ideas and imaginations and bring something to us that is much closer to reality.

Josei is a genre that focuses on a significant aspect of life. It specifically targets women. I repeat, it is not girls who only go after a teenage crush but women who have a practical approach towards life. You can say Josei is the mature version of Shoujo.

So, today, I present 36 Best Josei Anime for my fellow otaku who want to see life in a different light and enjoy their adulthood. It will be like usual, full of laughter, unique experiences, and heartbreaks but a bit closer to reality.

Now then, shall we begin!!!

 

BEST JOSEI ANIME THAT WILL ENTERTAIN YOU TO THE FULLEST

 

36. Orenchi No Furo Jijou

INFORMATION
Title	Orenchi No Furo Jijou
Genre	Fantasy, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	Asahi Production
Premiered	Fall 2014
Episode Count	13 episodes
Duration	4 min. per ep.

Let’s start with something funny, short, and epic. Orenchi No Furo Jijou is a perfect blend of fantasy and laughter. Forget about the story; you will fall for the animation and the adorable characters with a serious touch.

This short anime revolves around a teenager and a high schooler named Tatsumi. His mundane life gets a makeover when he helps a stranger out of pity, who happens to be a merman named Wakasa.

The plot develops when Wakasa returns the kindness, frequents Tatsumi, and becomes fond of human life. This anime will make you laugh hard.

 

35. Norn 9

INFORMATION
Title	Norn 9
Genre	Adventure, Fantasy, Josei, Action, Sci-fi, Mystery
Type	TV
Studio	Kinema Citrus, Orange
Premiered	Winter 2016
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

Women taking the lead and becoming the star instead of the young and cute girls are always classy. Norn 9 is one such anime that showcases women struggling with their powers and trying to find meaning for their existence. The art, plot and close-to-real characters are to die for.

Norn 9 is a giant flying ship with very few people on board. They are tasked to keep world peace in check with their unique powers. When Norn 9 is to return to its creator, she gets an extra passenger.

As the search for the extra passenger begins, many mysteries are revealed. Three women are at its center. You must watch this one to see how a woman can have a will stronger than others.

 

34. Shin Strange+

INFORMATION
Title	Shin Strange+
Genre	Slice of life, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	Seven
Premiered	Summer 2014
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	3 min. per ep.

If you think being a detective is only looking cool and uncovering mysteries, put aside your thoughts. Shin Strange+ is an anime that will give you a sneak peek into the daily life of hardworking detectives and their personal lives with laughing therapy.

The plot begins with Kou, an intelligent, handsome fella, looking for his brother. Unexpectedly, his search ends sooner when he finds that his brother, Takumi, is working as a detective. Unable to convince him, Kou decides to join his brother and experience his life.

The story is not top-notch. However, the touch on real life and laughter makes it worth watching.

 

33. Massugu Ni Ikou

INFORMATION
Title	Massugu Ni Ikou
Genre	Slice of life, Romance, Josei, Comedy
Type	Yumeta Company
Studio	Pierrot
Premiered	Summer 2003
Episode Count	4 episodes
Duration	21 min. per ep.

This one is a particular case. It is for those who love to have pets. If your dog is your best friend, you will love Massugu Ni Ikou. The effort of the creators to display a dog’s point of view and their love for the owner is praiseworthy. This anime relates to everyone who is raising a dog.

The plot centers on Mametaru, a cross-breed, energetic, jealous, and talking dog. There are only 4 things in Mametrau’s life. He adores his girlfriend and loves exploring and going on walks. Mametaru is very possessive of his owner Iku and hates her boyfriend, Akihoshi.

It is full of cute and hilarious moments. It is highly recommended to make your life a bit easier if you have a pet.

 

32. Devils and Realist

INFORMATION
Title	Devils and Realist
Genre	Fantasy, Supernatural, Josei, Mystery
Type	TV
Studio	Doga Kobo
Premiered	Summer 2013
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

Devils and Realist is an eccentric anime. As the name suggests, with a touch of fantasy, it focuses on devils. It displays their political and power struggles and a realist who chooses not to believe in devils.

The plot focuses on William, a study freak and a nobleman undergoing bankruptcy. He mistakenly summons a devil named Dantalion, the Grand Duke of Hell. William’s life twists with every passing moment. He is dragged into the battles of Hell when all he wanted was to study peacefully.

William is a unique case who prefers to use his own brain instead of relying on the power of Devils. For an exciting and fun-packed fantasy, you must give this one a try.

 

31. Servamp  

INFORMATION
Title	Servamp
Genre	Action, Comedy, Josei, Supernatural
Type	TV
Studio	Brain’s Base, Platinum Vision
Premiered	Summer 2016
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

It depends on what you perceive from this anime. However, for me, there is only one lesson. Choose not to be the do-gooder because you will regret it either way. Your ideas of vampires and blood-drinking demons will be shaken after you see the unusual ones here.

The anime showcases Mahiru, a kind and simple high schooler. His motto of keeping his life simple is destroyed when he picks up a stray cat. The cat turns into a lazy vampire. After a series of events, Mahiru ends up in a contract with Kuro.

This marks the beginning of his adventurous life surrounded by dangerous creatures. Servamp is one of the best action comedy anime highlighting the difficulties of the lives of its main characters.

 

30. The Saint’s Magic Power Is Omnipotent

INFORMATION
Title	The Saint’s Magic Power Is Omnipotent
Genre	Isekai, Slice of Life, Josei, Fantasy
Type	TV
Studio	Diomedea
Premiered	Spring 2021
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

It is one of my favorites in terms of plot. Strong female leads are always the best. Seijo no Maryoku wa Bannou Desu is an anime that portrays one such MC named Sei. She is confident, bears a strong will, and has a positive attitude towards life.

The story drags Sei, a regular office worker, into its magical world, thinking she is a saint. Sei is cast aside when she lands in the new world for reasons. Yet, she chooses to settle down in a world she has no one.

She was getting used to her new profession of making potions and medicines with her knowledge of herbs. However, things change when her help as a saint is needed again. So, my ladies, if you think changing a profession is difficult or can’t find the right path. Here, get some inspiration and guidance from Sei.

 

29. Libra of Nil Admirari

INFORMATION
Title	Nil Admirari No Tenbin/ Libra of Nil Admirari
Genre	Fantasy, Romance, Josei
Type	TV
Studio	Zero-G
Premiered	Spring 2018
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

The next one on my list is an exciting otome game-style anime. The beauty of the characters, their development, and the use of cursed magic books are exceptional. The anime is set in the Taisho Era. It displays the sacrifices and problems of an aristocratic girl raised in a privileged world.

The dramatic story begins with Tsugumi as she opts for a political marriage to save her family. However, the sudden death of her brother leaves her with unanswered questions and a cursed book categorized as Maremono.

A new world opens for her as she goes deeper to find the truth about Maremono. This is one of the best historical anime. Libra of Nil Admirari is perfect if you want to know how things worked back in the old days.

 

28. Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan

INFORMATION
Title	Life Lessons with Uramichi Oniisan
Genre	Slice of Life, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	Studio Blanc
Premiered	Summer 2021
Episode Count	13 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

As the name of the anime tells, it is undoubtedly about life lessons. All the characters portray the reality of life and how to cope with it. The anime focuses on teaching the children how to grow up as down-to-earth humans.

Uramichi is a 31-year-old lead artist in a children’s TV show. He has this spectacular ability to teach children what others can not. Uramichi delivers real-life examples of harsh reality in ways that children can understand.

However, in his life, he seeks rest and peace far from his reach. This anime will make you fall off your chairs, along with some smart tips to raise your children.

 

27. Super Seisyun Brothers

INFORMATION
Title	Super Seisyun Brother
Genre	Slice of life, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	AIC PLUS+
Premiered	Fall 2013
Episode Count	14 episodes
Duration	4 min. per ep.

Super Seisyun Brother is a blend of fun, life lessons, and the little problems everyone faces as they move through different phases of life. The plot centers on the life of two pairs of siblings.

They are the university-going Chiko, the part-timer Mako, and the two high schoolers Chika and Mao. The plot showcases their daily lives. It includes their problems, relationships, studies, and interactions with others.

I bet at least one of the characters here will resonate with you. It is highly recommended for some fun and entertaining time with some life tips.

 

26. My Sweet Tyrant

INFORMATION
Title	Akkun To Kanojo/ My Sweet Tyrant
Genre	Romance, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	Yumeta Company
Premiered	Spring 2018
Episode Count	25 episodes
Duration	3 min. per ep.

So, this one is another shoujo-style anime. Still, it focuses on one of the topics that can help many save their relationships. You will love how the creators have displayed that not showing your heart and using words to express yourself sometimes affects your life drastically.

Akkun, short for Atsuhiro, is adored by his dream girl, Non. However, he is unable to use sweet words to express his feelings. People around him misunderstand Akkun for his harsh words and behavior. However, the charming Non knows the real Akkun, so it isn’t a problem.

The plot revolves around their daily lives, and Akkun’s struggles to be confident in showing his care for his girl. Fun to watch anime with a cute yet meaningful message is undoubtedly worth watching, no?

 

25. Hakuouki: Otogisoushi

INFORMATION
Title	Hakuouki: Otogisoushi
Genre	Slice of life, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	DLE
Premiered	Spring 2016
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	3 min. per ep.

The theme of this one is serious as a girl is out to find the missing father. However, you will laugh until you cry, and the adorable chibi characters are one of a kind. This anime is undoubtedly on the funny side, but the protagonist’s life is filled with struggles. Even if she is a chibi one!

The plot focuses on Chizuru, a regular girl looking for her missing father. Things take a turn, and she ends up living with the shinsengumi

of the town. Chizuru can see past the handsome men (Chibi versions) with swords and kimonos.

Their personalities and the reasons behind their specific behavior, Chizuru will discover all during her stay. Undoubtedly it is fun to watch anime with some historical background and sneak peek at the life of Shinsengumi.

 

24. Karneval

INFORMATION
Title	Karneval
Genre	Mystery, Josei, Fantasy, Sci-fi
Type	TV
Studio	Mangalobe
Premiered	Spring 2013
Episode Count	13 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

Karneval is a mystery. Yes, when I say mystery, I mean it. One thing leads to another, and then the next, mysteries continue leaving only questions like why, how, where, and who. This is undoubtedly interesting as long as you have an active brain willing to dwell in fantasies.

The plot portrays Nai as a regular human looking for his brother and Gareki as an expert thief. In a world filled with sinister creatures, Nai and Gareki become friends. The duo ventures to find Nai’s brother but discover darker deadly secrets of their world.

The character development and the plot are truly remarkable. It is a must-watch for a fantasy-driven mystery.

 

23. Hatenkou Yuugi 

INFORMATION
Title	Hatenkou Yuugi
Genre	Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	Studio DEEN
Premiered	Winter 2008
Episode Count	10 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

This anime will prove you wrong if you think every wealthy family is the same. Hatenko displays the daily lives of the unprivileged. How do things turn out when one does not have money.

The plot focuses on Rahzel and her two escorts, Alzeid and Boroqueheat. The trio travels without any objective. In other words, a rich lady is out on the roads to see the world for herself. They encounter many people; some become allies, and some turn into enemies.

It is undoubtedly worth watching anime that depicts life from different points of view.

 

22. 07-Ghost

INFORMATION
Title	07-Ghost
Genre	Action, Fantasy, Drama, Josei
Type	TV
Studio	Studio DEEN
Premiered	Spring 2009
Episode Count	25 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

07-Ghost is one of the best action-oriented fantasy anime. The said anime envelops ghosts, quirky powers, assassins, soldiers, nobility, and mysteries driven by thrill. The plot focuses on one individual named Teito against the world.

He is an exceptionally talented and powerful soldier of the Military Academy. With no memories of his past, he is living a tough life, and yet it goes darker when he is chased by the military for suspected murder. His only best friend, Mikage, helps him in fleeing.

However, mysteries and trials seem to be unending for Teito. With constant chills and thrills followed by suspense and trials, 07-Ghost is one of the best thriller anime  worth-watching anime.

 

21. Natsuyuki Rendezvous

INFORMATION
Title	Natsuyuki Rendezvous
Genre	Drama, Josei, Romance, Supernatural
Type	TV
Studio	Doga Kobo
Premiered	Summer 2012
Episode Count	11 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

It is one of the best josei anime on my list here. Albeit a touch of the supernatural, this anime didn’t fail to portray the life of a widow. Also, how a young man helplessly falls in love with her. You will taste the sweetness of this one through and through.

The plot centers on Hazuki, a young man. To get close to his longtime crush Rokka he opts to work at her flower shop. Hazuki knows Rokka’s sad past and desperately tries to show his heart. However, there is a twist…a big one at that.

The ghost of Rokka’s deceased husband is Hazuki’s love rival. If you wanna know whether Hazuki succeeds or not, then get down to your screens and start.

 

20. Polar Bear Café

INFORMATION
Title	Polar Bear Café/ Shirokuma Café
Genre	Slice of life, Gourmet, Josei, Comedy
Type	TV
Studio	Pierrot
Premiered	Spring 2012
Episode Count	50 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

Polar Bear Café is another famous josei anime that targets a wide range of audiences. The unique blend of seriousness, fun, and life lessons makes it a masterpiece. The creators made sure to reconstruct a real café with all sorts of conversational topics and people.

The Polar Bear Café is run by a polar bear named Shirokuma. His best friends Panda and a Penguin are the light of his life, along with his café. This café is open to everyone, including humans. The cozy atmosphere and the smell of food give a homely feeling.

I never thought animals could initiate conversations regarding relationships, breakups, and technology unless I watched Shirokuma and his friends.

 

19. Otona Joshi No Anime Time

 

INFORMATION
Title	Otona Joshi No Anime Time
Genre	Slice of life, Josei, Comedy
Type	Special
Studio	Bones, Production Reed, The Answer Studio
Premiered	2011
Episode Count	4 episodes
Duration	25 min. per ep.

Otona Joshi is one of the best short anime targeting josie. This anime has a collection of short episodes. You will love how each story shows an aspect of life worth watching. Every episode highlights a particular woman. It tells about their lifestyles, tragedies, and how they deal with their past and move on to the future.

Each story has its own charms. You will witness the strength of a single mother coping with the hardships. You will see how conscious a middle-aged woman is going to her class reunion. The same is the case with others. It is a one-of-a-kind anime, undoubtedly not one to miss.

 

18. Tomie

INFORMATION
Title	Tomie
Genre	Horror, Josei, Supernatural, Drama
Type	Special
Studio	Studio DEEN
Premiered	2018
Episode Count	2 episodes
Duration	10 min. per ep.

Tomie, I just had to mention this one here. If you are into horror, you must have heard of this one. It is a masterpiece with fear at your tail. Tomie is based on the manga of the same name. It focuses on Tomie, a bewitching young beauty that is nothing more than a curse.

She is a demon in the form of a human. Tomie lures men into loving her and then feeds on them. One look in her eye, and you are a prisoner of hers. For a change of pace, try this short anime. You can binge it if you have the guts to handle the fear.

 

17. Holiday Love: Fuufukan Renai

 

INFORMATION
Title	Holiday Love: Fuufukan Renai
Genre	Drama, Romance, Josei
Type	ONA
Studio	Production I.G
Premiered	2018
Episode Count	20 episodes
Duration	1 min. per ep.

This one is exceptional because it highlights a bitter reality of life that many people face. This anime focuses on married life and its misunderstandings followed by a lot of romance. The plot revolves around Azu and Junpei, two adults in their 30s.

They are faced with the biggest challenge of their married life. They seem to be falling out of love with no time to give each other. Azu is worried about her married life getting darker. Just then, hints arrive for Azu, telling her about her husband’s betrayal.

However, you must watch this one to know the unexpected ending.

 

16.  Saiyuki Reload Gunlock

 

INFORMATION
Title	Saiyuuki Reload Gunlock
Genre	Action, Adventure, Supernatural, Josei
Type	TV
Studio	Pierrot
Premiered	Spring 2004
Episode Count	26 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

If you are into warriors and fantasy, you must have heard of this. This anime showcases that the problems of soldiers from back in the day were much more severe.

The plot focuses on the dangerous adventures of Son Goku, Cho, Sha, and Genjo as they travel to save the world. Their mission is to stop the revival of the deadly demon. However, it is the fate of heroes to face trials at every turn.

This one is an adventure into ancient times with a touch of fantasy.

 

15. Ristorante Paradiso

INFORMATION
Title	Ristorante Paradiso
Genre	Gourmet, Josei, Drama, Slice of Life
Type	TV
Studio	David Production
Premiered	Spring 2009
Episode Count	11 episodes
Duration	22 min. per ep.

You may have watched many best romance anime, but I bet this one differs from all. This anime is bound to shake your hearts with a touch of revenge, a sprinkle of actual life events, and Italian love.

The anime centers on Nicoletta. She follows her runaway mom to Italy to seek revenge on her. However, the plan fails miserably as she encounters a sober middle-aged man named Claudio in a famous restaurant.

She decides to work in the restaurant only to get closer to Claudio, who is already working there. A 21-year-old falling for a man much older than her and how her life follows makes it closer to reality. It is a must-watch if you are looking for a unique love story.

 

14. Gokusen

 

INFORMATION
Title	Gokusen
Genre	Josei, Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life
Type	TV
Studio	Madhouse
Premiered	Winter 2004
Episode Count	13 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

Gokusen is another one of my favorites. The comedy is splendid, and the plot is utterly gripping. This anime has many hearts in its favor. The story focuses on Kuniko; she is the heir to the Yakuza group and much stronger than she may look from her fragile appearance. Her biggest dream of being a teacher becomes a reality after a lot of struggle.

However, now she has to hide her delinquent side and yakuza work to avoid getting fired. Things get extremely funny and exciting when Sawad, one of her delinquent students, suspects her and discovers her secret. It will make you laugh till you cry.

 

13. Utakoi

INFORMATION
Title	Utakoi
Genre	Romance, Josei, Comedy, Drama
Type	TV
Studio	TYO Animations
Premiered	Summer 2012
Episode Count	13 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

This anime beats many in terms of aesthetics, character development, and love stories. If you have an eye for historical anime, you will fall in love with Utakoi’s beauty.

The anime is based on different love stories from historical times. The plot centers mainly on the noble consort Fujiwara and the man she loves, Ariwara. The implementation of classic poetry makes this anime a masterpiece.

Plus, the struggles of a consort and how she deals with her heart are genuinely breathtaking. The artistic touch in this anime is one surely not to miss.

 

12. Hakuoki ~Demon of the Fleeting Blossom~

 

INFORMATION
Title	Hakuoki
Genre	Supernatural, Drama, Action, Josei
Type	TV
Studio	M.S.C
Premiered	Spring 2010
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

For josei lovers, this anime is a feast. Hakuouki is an anime based on the otome game styles. This anime’s art, plot, and action are one cut above the others.

The plot centers on Chizuru. She is a young girl searching for her lost father, who used to make magical potions. The problem is that she lives in a time where freedom for women is nowhere to be seen. She disguises herself as a man and starts her journey.

However, soon she finds herself dragged into the war between the Shinsengumi and the evil vampires. No matter how much she tries to lay low, problems keep adding to her plate. Also, you will get the vibes of an idol from her.

 

11. Pet Shop of Horrors

INFORMATION
Title	Pet Shop of Horrors
Genre	Josei, Horror, Mystery, Supernatural
Type	TV
Studio	Madhouse
Premiered	Winter 1999
Episode Count	4 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

Josei, with horror, is undoubtedly a deadly combination. Pet Shop of Horrors is one of the few best horror anime based on the horror manga of the same name. The characters are portrayed maturely with mysteries surrounding them.

The anime is based on Count D, a secretive young man who owns many mystical pets. People would give their fortune to buy one. But misfortune follows whoever buys a mystical pet. The sharp detective Leon is in the city and keeps tabs on Count D.

He is suspicious of Count D being involved in the brutal murders. Their encounters help develop the plot excitingly and lead to more mysteries as you go by each episode.

 

10. Princess JellyFish

INFORMATION
Title	Princess JellyFish/ Kuragehime
Genre	Comedy, Slice of Life, Josei
Type	TV
Studio	Brain’s Base
Premiered	Fall 2010
Episode Count	11 episodes
Duration	22 min. per ep.

If someone could prove what a true otaku is, then Kurugahime’s Tsukimi would be at the top. This is one of the last decade’s best and most popular comedy anime targeting josei. The plot revolves around a cute, chubby, unemployed Tsukimi who would die for a jellyfish.

She was living her dream life surrounded by women like her and jellyfish enthusiasts peacefully. Until one day, a dolled-up princess saves a jellyfish for Tsukimi. The plot develops as they befriend each other.

Unbeknownst to Tsukimi, the princess she adores is a handsome and wealthy prince who might have fallen for her cuteness. Try this one to vibe with Tsumiki as an otaku and undergo laughing therapy.

 

9. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu

INFORMATION
Title	Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu
Genre	Josei, Romance, Drama
Type	TV
Studio	StudioDEEN
Premiered	Winter 2016
Episode Count	13 episodes
Duration	26 min. per ep.

Okay, so it is time for the best among the best of the josei genre. This anime is based on the art of storytelling. Japan has a unique way of showcasing one’s talent, and storytelling is one such artistic way.

The plot revolves around an ex-goon named Yotarou, freshly out of prison. His short time in prison has led him to discover his passion for storytelling. Hence, to pursue his passion, he lands at the door of an expert storyteller and his inspiration, Yakumo.

There begins the story of the upcoming talented storyteller Yotarou followed by the golden memories of prodigy Yakumo.

 

8. Code: Realize ~Guardian of Rebirth~

 

INFORMATION
Title	Code: Realize ~Guardian of Rebirth~
Genre	Romance, Josei, Fantasy
Type	TV
Studio	M.S.C
Premiered	Fall 2017
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

Code: Realize is one of the twisted fairy tales with romance, fantasy, mind games, and power struggles at their peak. This anime is famous for portraying the desperate wishes of a person cursed to touch no one. To top it off, the plot, character writing, and animation are just too smooth. The plot centers on a girl named Claudia.

The world around her is desperate to control her because she has a powerful heart named Horologium. After living a life of isolation, she has only one wish to become close to another human.

Fate finally listens to her plea, and a gentle and handsome thief named Lupin comes after her. Their adventures begin and lead them to discover secrets she never knew existed. It is one of the best fantasy anime with romance following it.

 

7. Nana

INFORMATION
Title	Nana
Genre	Romance, Drama, Slice of Life, Josei
Type	TV
Studio	Madhouse
Premiered	Spring 2006
Episode Count	47 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

Okay, fellas, this is one of the best josei anime with a taste of real life. It is equally popular among teenagers and women. The character writing, character development, and the challenges that relate to life are exceptional.

The anime focuses on two young girls sharing the same name Nana. However, their personalities are different. After a few fateful encounters, they decide to live together. As they start their lives, both Nana’s learn from each other and grow.

One learns to be confident, and the other learns to accept her flaws. The fact that they support each other in growing and moving forward is admiring. It is one of the reasons this anime is highly praised.

 

6. Paradise Kiss

INFORMATION
Title	Paradise Kiss
Genre	Josei, Romance, Drama, Slice of Life
Type	TV
Studio	Madhouse
Premiered	Fall 2005
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	24 min. per ep.

Paradise Kiss is yet another spellbinding anime that highlights the life of a model. It also depicts what seems like all gold glitter might just be superficial.

The story follows Yukari, a regular high schooler with mundane life. Things change when she gets an offer to become a model for Paradise Kiss. Without second thoughts, she opts for the chance. As she steps into the modeling industry, she discovers many things.

Most important of all is that she was living a privileged life before. However, now that she has chosen to be free, she has to pay the price. Yukari learns that there are responsibilities that come with freedom. It is one of the anime you will binge on once you start.

 

5. Honey and Clover

INFORMATION
Title	Hachimitsu to Clover/Honey and Clover
Genre	Josei, Comedy, Drama, Slice of Life
Type	TV
Studio	J.C. Staff
Premiered	Spring 2005
Episode Count	24 episodes
Duration	23 min. per ep.

College life is always a turning point of life. You have to make timely decisions for the future. Plus, love problems are another thing that never leaves you alone. Honey and Clover is an anime that showcases all these aspects of life in a bittersweet way.

The plot follows five different students of the same art college. Each has his own troubles and things they specialize in. Yuuta, our MC, is among them as well. He is trying to figure out what to do for his future. Plus, he also has to deal with his crush on one of the talented beauties of the college.

The plot develops as the lives of five people intervene, and they find themselves stuck in a love triangle. It is a must-watch if you want to have some inspiration and tricks for a happy love life.

 

4. Usagi Drop 

 

INFORMATION
Title	Usagi Drop
Genre	Drama, Slice of Life, Josei
Type	TV
Studio	Production I.G
Premiered	Summer 2011
Episode Count	11 episodes
Duration	22 min. per ep.

Bunny Drop is one of the best anime overall. It has a unique plot and is overloaded with cuteness. I love how the creators went out of the box with this one. Over and above that, Bunny Drop anime portrays a real-life scenario with details and perfection.

Daikichi Kawachi is a 30-year-old careless man enjoying his mundane life. A tragedy befalls him, and he takes care of a 6-year-old girl named Rin. He decides to be a father to her. However, he is a bachelor and has no experience with kids whatsoever.

Daikichi struggles to change his lifestyle while the father-daughter duo grows closer. If you want some parenting guidelines, then watch this one. You will regret missing out on Bunny drop.

 

3. Kids on the Slope 

INFORMATION
Title	Sakamichi no Apollon/ Kids on the Slope
Genre	Josei, Romance, Drama, Musical
Type	TV
Studio	MAPPA Tezuka Productions
Premiered	Spring 2012
Episode Count	12 episodes
Duration	22 min. per ep.

You must have heard that music brings people together. Kids on the Slope is an anime based on the same concept. The way this anime highlights the problems the children have to face because of their parent’s occupation is phenomenal.

Kaoru is an exceptional pianist but is a lonesome high schooler. Because of his father’s frequent transfers, he couldn’t make friends anywhere. However, this time he landed in Kyushu. His dull and lonely life becomes sparkling when he encounters the famous Jazz enthusiast Sentarou.

As their friendship deepens, Kaoru experiences many things new to him and develops a passion for music stronger than ever.

 

2.  Chihayafuru

INFORMATION
Title	Chihayafuru
Genre	Sports, Josei, Drama, Slice of Life
Type	TV
Studio	Madhouse
Premiered	Fall 2011
Episode Count	25 episodes
Duration	22min. per ep.

I bet you all know about this one. Chihayafuru is an anime adaptation of its manga because of the immense popularity it gained in a short time. The anime is based on a popular Japanese card game, aka Kurata.

The plot centers on the charming and energetic Chihaya and her two friends. They made a promise before going their separate ways. The trio will face off against each other in Kurata in nationals.

The plot progresses as Chihaya follows her dream and meets her longtime friends again. Even if you don’t know what the game is, this anime will succeed in giving you an adrenaline rush every now and then.

 

1. Nodame Cantabile

INFORMATION
Title	Nodame Cantabile
Genre	Josei, Comedy, Romance, Musical
Type	TV
Studio	J.C. Staff
Premiered	Winter 2007
Episode Count	23 episodes
Duration	22 min. per ep.

Nodame Cantabile is one of the best musical anime following the josei genre. This musical journey depicts many aspects of life. The plot, the characters, and the musical background are awe-inspiring. It became a popular anime among otaku because it was so moving and exceptionally well portrayed.

Nodame Cantabile is a love story of two polar opposites brought together through music. The plot centers on Chiaki, an exceptionally skilled pianist on the verge of losing everything. His falling life catches on a straw when he meets another young prodigy named Nodame.

Playing the piano is the only similarity they share, which is enough. Their journey starts filled with hitches and glitches, but indeed it leads to a better tomorrow. You will simply love this masterpiece of the josei genre.

 

Conclusion

With this, we end our list of 36 best josei anime. Starting from married women, single mothers, a bachelor father, two girls backing each other up, and a loner making friends, this list has it all.

Since josei is specifically aimed at women in their late 20s or early 30s, this list contains anime with a serious theme. However, there are no restrictions here, you will find some of the best shoujo anime along the way because here they are based on the the josei demographics. So everyone can enjoy them. I would love to know your favorite josei anime.

Let me know in the comments below. I’ll leave for a short while and will bring another treat for you soon. Until then, keep watching anime. Adios babies!!!