8 Yaoi Anime that Broke Boundaries (Worth a Watch)

In the wide world of anime, yaoi seems to be one of the most controversial genres, yet some of the most amazing shows are yaoi. This niche, yet profoundly impactful category, delves into the intricate relationships between male characters, weaving tales of romance, drama, and passion. From heart-wrenching narratives to light-hearted romances, these anime offers a unique blend of emotion and artistry that resonates with fans worldwide.

As we journey through this article, we’ll uncover the top 8 titles that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers, showcasing the depth and diversity of this beloved genre.

List of Best Yaoi Anime:

1. Banana Fish (2018)

2. Yuri!!! On Ice (2016)

3. Given (2019)

4. Sasaki and Miyano (2022)

5. The Stranger by the Shore (2020)

6. No. 6 (2011)

7. Heaven Official’s Blessing (2020)

8. Dakaichi (2018)

1. Banana Fish (2018)

Number 1 on the list, we have my personal favorite! Set against the gritty backdrop of New York City in the 1980s, Banana Fish is a tour de force in the world of yaoi anime. At its core, the series is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and the haunting shadows of the past. The narrative revolves around Ash Lynx, a beautiful but deadly gang leader, and Eiji Okumura, a Japanese photographer’s assistant. Their paths cross in a whirlwind of fate, leading to a bond that transcends the chaos surrounding them.

What sets Banana Fish apart from other anime is its intricate plot, which seamlessly blends elements of action, drama, and romance. The story delves deep into the underworld of Mafia bosses, drug traffickers, and the enigmatic drug known as “Banana Fish.” As Ash seeks to unravel the mysteries of this drug and its connection to his traumatic past, he finds solace and strength in his relationship with Eiji. Their bond becomes the beacon of hope in a world filled with darkness and treachery.

2. Yuri!!! On Ice (2016)

Dazzling audiences with its breathtaking figure skating sequences, Yuri!!! On Ice is more than just a sports anime. It’s a heartfelt journey of self-discovery, ambition, and love. The series follows Yuuri Katsuki, a figure skater whose career is on the brink of collapse. However, a chance encounter with the world-renowned Russian figure skater, Victor Nikiforov, reignites Yuuri’s passion. Their evolving relationship, set against the backdrop of competitive figure skating, is both touching and inspiring. The anime’s portrayal of their bond breaks barriers, making it a standout in the genre. The animation for this one is definitely some of the best you’ll find as Yuri on Ice has been animated by MAPPA.

3. Given (2019)

Given is a poignant tale that masterfully intertwines the worlds of music and romance, creating a symphony of emotions that resonates deeply with its audience.

The narrative unfolds around four main characters: Mafuyu Satou, Ritsuka Uenoyama, Haruki Nakayama, and Akihiko Kaji. Mafuyu, a high school student, carries the weight of a traumatic past, symbolized by the Gibson guitar he always carries but never plays. Ritsuka, a fellow student and guitarist, stumbles upon Mafuyu and becomes intrigued by his silent demeanor and the guitar that seems to be an inseparable part of him. As their paths converge, Mafuyu’s voice and the story behind it become the catalyst for the formation of a band, with each member grappling with their own emotional baggage.

Given doesn’t shy away from delving deep into the emotional landscapes of its characters. It addresses themes of loss, love, and the process of healing with a sensitivity that’s rare in anime. The series beautifully portrays how music becomes an outlet for the characters, allowing them to express their pain, hopes, and desires.

4. Sasaki and Miyano (2022)

Diving deep into the intricacies of high school relationships, Sasaki and Miyano is a heartwarming portrayal of young love. Sasaki, with his assertive nature, finds himself drawn to Miyano, a more reserved individual with a penchant for Boys’ Love manga. As their worlds intertwine, viewers are treated to a series of humorous and touching moments that highlight the beauty of mutual understanding and growth. Beyond its romantic storyline, the anime also delves into themes of self-acceptance, the challenges of adolescence, and the transformative power of genuine connections.

5. The Stranger by the Shore (2020)

Set against the picturesque backdrop of a coastal town, The Stranger by the Shore is a cinematic exploration of love’s complexities. Shun Hashimoto, with dreams of becoming a novelist, finds his world changed when he meets Mio Chibana, a quiet high schooler grappling with his past. Their relationship, though tender, is tested by societal judgments and personal traumas. The film’s evocative animation and soulful soundtrack amplify the emotions, making it a poignant reflection on love, acceptance, and the courage to move forward.

6. No. 6 (2011)

In the dystopian city of No. 6, No. 6 weaves a tale of resistance, friendship, and forbidden love. Shion, living a life of privilege, has his world upended when he meets Nezumi, a rebel with a cause. Their journey together uncovers dark secrets about their city, pushing them to challenge its oppressive regime. The anime brilliantly juxtaposes the bleakness of its setting with the warmth of Shion and Nezumi’s relationship, offering a commentary on the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity.

7. Heaven Official’s Blessing (2020)

Transporting viewers to a realm of divine beings and ancient legends, Heaven Official’s Blessing is a visual and narrative spectacle. Following the adventures of Prince Xie Lian, the series unravels the mysteries of the heavenly domain. His path crosses with Hua Cheng, a enigmatic figure whose past is intertwined with Xie Lian’s own. Their bond, filled with trials and tribulations, is a testament to love’s enduring power. The anime’s rich lore, combined with its stunning animation, makes it a captivating experience from start to finish.

8. Dakaichi (2018)

Navigating the glamorous yet cutthroat world of showbiz, Dakaichi is a delightful blend of comedy and romance. Centered on Takato Saijou, an actor at the pinnacle of his career, his life takes a comedic twist when Junta Azumaya, a newcomer, challenges his top position. Their rivalry soon evolves into a romantic entanglement, filled with playful banter and heartfelt moments. Beyond its central romance, the anime offers a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry, adding depth to its narrative.

If you’re trying to watch these anime on Netflix or any other streaming platform that geo-locks certain anime titles, you can get around these restrictions by using a VPN.

How to Watch these Yaoi Anime in Geo-Restricted Countries via VPN

This method works on both desktop PCs and mobile phones or tablets.

1. 1. Purchase (or start a free trial) of a VPN. NordVPN works for this purpose.
   2. In the settings, choose the country that you know has the title you want to watch as your location.
   3. Fire up the VPN.
   4. Once you’re connected, navigate to Netflix (or whatever streaming app you’re using)
   5. Search the anime name in the search bar and you should see it pop up.
2. 

Enjoy! Please note that if your Netflix library doesn’t update to reflect the country you selected in your VPN, you may have to clear the Netflix cache first and try again. This may be the same for other streaming platforms as well.

To to do this, go to settings -> apps -> Netflix -> clear cache.

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