Top 10 Best Romance Manga You Must Read
Romance manga has the ability to pull on your heartstrings, whether through slow-building tension or whirlwind love stories.
If you're looking for your next read, this list of the top 10 romance manga from Shogakukan Asia has something for everyone.
From sweet high school crushes to epic fantasy tales, these are the series that should be on your radar in 2025.
1. Firefly Wedding by Oreco Tachibana
New Release Alert!
Satoko, a noblewoman in the Meiji era, is bound by duty to arrange a marriage that will secure her family’s future, but her life takes an unexpected turn when a deadly assassin targets her.
Struggling with a heart condition and knowing she doesn’t have much time left, Satoko is desperate to fulfill her familial obligations before she dies.
But when she’s marked for death by the mysterious Shinpei, she makes an unexpected move—offering him her hand in marriage.
Though her proposal is meant to be a mere bargaining chip, Shinpei, a man who loves as fiercely as he kills, takes it seriously.
Now, Satoko must figure out how to escape her unthinkable engagement without losing her life in the process.
With Volume 1 and 2 released just this month, Firefly Wedding is a fresh new series for romance fans to indulge in.
Click here for the full series.
2. Komi Can't Communicate by Tomohito Oda
The story of Komi Can't Communicate has captured the hearts of readers around the world, and with the series nearing its end, now is the perfect time to catch up on this emotional and charming romance.
Shoko Komi is a high school girl who struggles with severe social anxiety, making it nearly impossible for her to communicate with others. However, she’s a popular girl at school, admired by her peers for her beauty and grace.
Enter Tadano, a somewhat ordinary classmate who becomes determined to help Komi fulfill her goal of making 100 friends.
What starts as a journey of friendship soon evolves into a touching romance, as Tadano and Komi’s relationship grows deeper with each passing chapter.
This series is beloved for its mix of humor, heartwarming moments, and a slow-burn romance that will leave you rooting for these two.
Komi Can't Communicate also has a highly successful anime adaptation, bringing the quirky characters and heartwarming moments to life on screen.
Anime: Yes, available on Netflix.
Click here for the full series.
3. The Apothecary Diaries by Natsu Hyuuga
If you’re into historical romance with a touch of mystery and intrigue, The Apothecary Diaries is a must-read.
Set in a fantastical version of ancient China, the story follows a young woman, Maomao, who becomes an apothecary in the imperial palace.
As she becomes more involved with the royal family, she uncovers numerous secrets and plots, all while navigating the complex relationships within the palace.
While the central focus is on Maomao’s cleverness and resourcefulness, the series also delves into a slow-building romance that unfolds amid a politically charged environment.
Released in October 2024, this manga promises a compelling blend of romance, intrigue, and historical drama that will captivate readers who enjoy layered narratives.
Anime: Yes, available for streaming.
Click here for the full series.
4. Teasing Master Takagi-san by Soichiro Yamamoto
For fans of sweet, lighthearted high school romances, Teasing Master Takagi-san is an absolute gem.
The manga centers around Takagi, a smart and mischievous girl who loves teasing her classmate Nishikata.
Every day, Takagi finds new ways to outwit Nishikata, and her teasing is enough to drive him crazy—especially since Nishikata is constantly trying to get revenge.
However, despite the teasing, there’s a warmth between the two, and their playful back-and-forth hides a much deeper connection.
What makes this series so endearing is the gradual development of their relationship.
While it starts with innocent teasing, it becomes clear that there’s real affection underneath, making every chapter heartwarming and fun.
The series is nearing its conclusion, so it’s the perfect time to jump in and see how Nishikata and Takagi’s relationship finally unfolds.
Anime: Yes, multiple seasons available.
Click here for the full series.
5. Promise Cinderella by Oreco Tachibana
If you're in the mood for a romance full of drama, Promise Cinderella will satisfy that craving.
This series takes inspiration from the classic Cinderella fairy tale but gives it a bold, modern twist.
The story follows a young woman named Hayame, who, after being suddenly abandoned by her husband, finds herself struggling to make ends meet.
Her life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters a man who promises to help her, but with the condition that she must be at his beck and call.
What begins as a contract with a lot of tension quickly develops into a deep, passionate romance filled with unexpected twists.
The manga’s completed status makes it perfect for binge-reading, and the story’s blend of romance and drama will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Anime: Yes, available for streaming.
Click here for the full series.
6. The Saviour's Book Cafe in Another World by Oumiya, Reiko Sakurada, Kyouka Izumi
A relaxing, slow-burn fantasy romance that blends cozy vibes with a charming narrative, The Saviour’s Book Cafe in Another World is the perfect pick for readers who want a little escape into a magical world.
The story follows a young woman named Tsukina, who is transported to another world and opens a book cafe.
Here, she helps the various customers by serving them delicious drinks and, most importantly, offering them a safe space to heal.
As Tsukina’s bonds with the people around her deepen, a quiet and heartwarming romance begins to bloom.
With its completed status, this is a great series to dive into if you’re looking for a gentle, fantasy-infused romance that focuses more on personal growth and emotional connections.
Click here for the full series.
7. Insomniacs After School by Makoto Ojiro
This ongoing series offers a unique take on romance, with a focus on insomniac high school students.
The two protagonists, Ganta and Isaki, both suffer from insomnia, which brings them together after school hours. Together, they seek solace in each other’s company, bonding over late-night conversations and shared experiences.
Their connection gradually evolves into a tender romance, with themes of understanding, vulnerability, and emotional support.
The quiet, introspective nature of this manga makes it perfect for fans who enjoy slow-burn relationships that explore the nuances of human connection.
Anime: Yes, available for streaming.
Click here for the full series.
8. You Are Ms Servant by Shotan
In You Are Ms Servant, the story revolves around a young woman working as a maid in a luxurious mansion.
While her life is initially mundane, she develops a complicated relationship with her employer, who is enigmatic and often aloof.
The tension between them slowly turns into something more intimate, and their story explores themes of power dynamics, loyalty, and the complexity of emotions in close relationships.
The ongoing nature of this series keeps readers intrigued, as they await each new chapter to see how the relationship evolves.
Anime: Yes, available for streaming.
Click here for the full series.
9. Blue Iris by Yu Yabuuchi
For readers who want a completed series with a more dramatic and intense romance, Blue Iris is the perfect choice.
The story delves into the passionate, tumultuous relationship between two characters who have a complicated history.
As the two characters navigate their feelings for each other, the story explores themes of trust, healing, and self-discovery, making it both a deeply emotional and rewarding read.
With its completed status, Blue Iris is perfect for readers who want to binge an emotional rollercoaster.
Click here for the full series.
10. As The Demon King's Right Hand, I'm Going to Rewrite the Script! by Kimula
For fans of fantasy and action with a romantic twist, As The Demon King’s Right Hand, I’m Going to Rewrite the Script! brings a unique premise to the table.
Set in a world filled with magic and mythical creatures, the story follows the right-hand person of the Demon King, who becomes determined to rewrite their own destiny.
As this character interacts with various other powerful figures, a romance develops, set against a backdrop of adventure and political intrigue.
This ongoing series combines romance with epic fantasy elements, offering an exciting read for those who want a mix of action, magic, and love.
Click here for the full series.
These top 10 romance manga from Shogakukan Asia offer a little something for every type of romance reader.
Whether you’re into sweet school romances, historical dramas, or fantasy adventures, this list has you covered. So grab your favourite, settle in, and get ready for a deep dive into love stories that will warm your heart and keep you turning pages! (✿◠‿◠)
