10 hopeless romantic anime characters, ranked by popularity

Anime characters often captivate audiences with their deep emotions and relatable experiences. Some of them stand out for their romantic spirits as they wholeheartedly embrace love as a core belief. Despite facing challenges, they cling to the dreams of finding true connections. Their tales of longing for intimacy resonate powerfully with viewers.

Romance anime series naturally feature many such characters. However, unexpected genres sometimes showcase unyielding romantics too. Their quests for meaningful relationships move fans. These anime characters' genuine pursuit of love showers compassion and admiration from audiences. Though fictional, their emotions feel authentic and engaging for viewers to experience.

From Boa Hancock to Maki Oze: Here are 10 hopeless romantic anime characters, ranked by popularity

1) Nakamura (Go For It, Nakamura!)

A panel from the manga series (Image via Akane Shinsha)

In the lighthearted anime Go For It, Nakamura! we meet Nakamura, a shy high school student with a secret crush on Aiki Hirose. This anime character's vivid imagination often transports him into the world of romantic manga, where he envisions himself in a passionate relationship with Hirose.

Despite his introverted nature, Nakamura's deep affection for Hirose motivates him to ask a classmate to create a manga depicting their fictional romance. His daydreaming and reliance on romantic advice from his favorite manga highlight his hopeless romantic tendencies.

2) Narciso Anasui (JoJo's Bizarre Adventure)

Narciso Anasui (Image via David Production)

In the unusual world of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Anasui's unexpected expression of love for Jolyne surprises the audience. Anasui develops feelings for Jolyne, despite minimal interactions between the two anime characters.

He declares his love while fighting alongside Foo Fighters, demonstrating his steadfast devotion. Although Jolyne does not reciprocate his feelings, Anasui firmly believes he will eventually win her heart, making him a persistent and idealistic romantic.

3) Hinata Hyuga (Naruto)

Hinata Hyuga is a beloved anime character from the Naruto series. Her feelings for Naruto exemplify steadfast devotion and affection. Since their academy days, Hinata has admired Naruto's self-assurance and tenacious spirit. This admiration gradually evolves into a deep, genuine love.

During Naruto's fierce battle with Pain, Hinata's brave confession reveals her unwavering determination to support him, solidifying her status as a resilient romantic figure adored by fans.

4) Haruki Nakayama (Given)

Haruki Nakayama (Image via Studio Lerche)

The anime movie Given portrays the intricate journey of Haruki's romantic feelings for Akihiko. Haruki is an anime character whose deep affection for Akihiko becomes apparent through his blushing cheeks and enthusiastic admiration, reminiscent of an ardent fan.

Despite the turbulent ups and downs they encounter in their relationship, Haruki remains steadfast in his belief in Akihiko's personal growth and his unwavering desire to become a better person for the sake of their connection. This unwavering dedication and hopeful optimism cement Haruki's status as a devoted and passionate romantic partner.

5) Boa Hancock (One Piece)

Boa Hancock was a pirate who did not care about love. She was a powerful woman who many men admired. But when she meets Monkey D. Luffy, everything changes as she starts having strong romantic feelings for Luffy. Although Luffy does not realize that Boa loves him, she remains devoted to him.

Boa transforms from someone who disliked love into a hopeless romantic anime character because of her crush on Luffy. She would do anything for Luffy, even though he does not return her affection. Boa's undying love for Luffy shows how dramatically a person's feelings can shift once they find someone special.

6) Nanami Momozono (Kamisama Kiss)

Nanami Momozono (Image via TMS Entertainment)

Nanami, the central character in Kamisama Kiss, initially struggled with forming connections due to past experiences. She distanced herself from intimate bonds and romantic involvement.

However, a pivotal event reshapes this anime character's life when she unexpectedly becomes the land god overseeing the Mikage shrine. This transformative development marks a turning point in Nanami's journey.

During her time at the shrine, Nanami encounters Tomoe, a formidable fox demon. She swiftly develops romantic feelings for him. Undeterred by Tomoe's initial indifference and rejection of her advances to pursue a romantic relationship, Nanami persists relentlessly in her quest to win his heart.

7) Hatsuharu (Fruits Basket)

Hatsuharu Sohma from the anime Fruits Basket may seem like an unlikely romantic character, but this anime character's love for Yuki and later Rin shows how much he truly cares. Hatsuharu supports those he loves with all his heart and will do anything to protect them. This proves his romantic side.

He is ready to go to great lengths for love. Even if Hatsuharu seems tough on the outside, he has a very caring nature deep down. He is willing to do whatever it takes for the people he loves most. Hatsuharu's determination to stand by his loved ones no matter what makes him a true romantic hero.

8) Maki Oze (Fire Force)

Maki Oze is a brave fire soldier from Fire Force. She fights blazing fires without fear. But Maki also has a gentle side where she dreams of finding true love. Maki often daydreams about romantic situations and imagines herself falling deeply in love. When Maki first met Shinra, she instantly developed a huge crush on him.

This anime character's vivid imagination runs wild with romantic thoughts about Shinra. Maki cannot stop picturing the two of them as a happy couple. While Maki is tough on the outside, she is a hopeless romantic on the inside. She longs for a fairy tale romance filled with passion and devotion. Maki's infatuation with Shinra reveals her soft, sentimental nature.

9) Risa Koizumi (Lovely Complex)

Risa is the protagonist of the feel-good anime Lovely Complex. This anime character is a hopeless romantic at heart. Even though Risa is very tall, and she argued with Otani at first, her feelings slowly turn into real love. Risa keeps trying hard to have a romantic relationship. She never gives up, even when things are difficult.

This makes Risa a likable main character. Many people can relate to her struggles and determination to find true love. Initially, Risa's towering height was a source of insecurity and conflict with Otani. The two engage in playful banter and teasing, masking their underlying feelings. However, as time passes, their interactions reveal a deeper emotional connection.

10) Kaori Miyazono (Your Lie in April)

Kaori, the main character from the emotional anime series Your Lie in April, is a true representation of someone who dreams of finding everlasting love. Her unwavering passion for music is deeply interwoven with her longing to experience a profound romantic connection.

Kaori's relentless pursuit of forming deep emotional bonds with others, combined with her ability to captivate audiences through her mesmerizing musical performances, makes her a truly enchanting yet tragic figure that strikes a chord with viewers.

Final thoughts

Love is an emotion that captivates the heart and soul. Anime illustrate this sentiment through characters whose unwavering spirits inspire hope for finding true affection. From Nakamura's daydreams in Go For It, Nakamura! to Kaori's artistic journey combining music and romance in Your Lie in April, these anime characters exemplify the pursuit of intimate connections.

Despite challenges, their stories remind us to cherish dreams and persevere in seeking profound bonds. Whether unrequited, unexpected, or enduring, these characters celebrate the intricacies of the human experience of love. Within anime's immersive worlds, we encounter personalities that impart valuable insights about love, resilience, and the power of hope.

Edited by Meenakshi Ajith