Top 10 Best Shoujo Manga

When manga talk turns into the usual shonen shouting match, Naruto and One Piece tend to grab the mic before anyone else gets a word in. Meanwhile, shoujo is over here serving slow-burn romance, chaotic school drama, supernatural twists, painful character growth, and the kind of tiny blush panel that can ruin your whole afternoon in the best way. If you have ever screamed at two characters to just confess already, you already know this genre deserves way more love.

This list gives you a place to cheer for the shoujo manga that made you laugh, cry, reread your favorite scenes, and maybe develop standards no real person can meet. Vote for the stories you think belong at the top, because your favorites have waited long enough behind all those ninja headbands and pirate hats.

The Top Ten

Ouran High School Host Club

Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student at the elite Ouran Academy, accidentally breaks an expensive vase and is forced to work for the school's Host Club to repay her debt. The club, composed of eccentric and wealthy boys, entertains female students while slowly uncovering Haruhi's true identity.

Definitely the best for me. The characters are all well-rounded, and who couldn't love the host club? (Spoilers! You have been warned...) Especially Tamaki's emo attitude! The plot has many twists and turns, some of which can beat the sanity out of you!
Bisco Hatori is probably the best author out there yet, with her humorous comments and heart-breaking storyline that keeps you reading Ouran over and over. When you've finished the story, it just makes you swoon and cry out "WHY IS THIS IT?!" at the same time.
The lively attitude brought through all of the mishaps and mischief keeps you choking with laughter right to the end! I recommend this to every manga fan, whether boy or girl! 1st place definitely!
Kaichou wa Maid-sama!

Misaki Ayuzawa, the strict and hardworking student council president of a formerly all-boys school, secretly works at a maid café to support her family. Her secret is discovered by Takumi Usui, a popular and perceptive classmate who takes an interest in her.

Love it so much!
The first time I read Kaichou wa Maid-sama was when my sister bought a magazine that included some chapters of other awesome mangas, like LALA in Japan. I don't know which chapter it was anymore, but it was the chapter where Usui rescues Misaki from Igarashi. So AWESOME!
Usui looked so HOT! And the drawing is mesmerising! The plot is also great, not like a typical shoujo manga, but it has more of a meaning. I just love it! And in the beginning of this manga, it is hilarious!
Everybody needs to read the first volume to really judge it. So, try it out, please!

I really like it. Usui is so hot. It's so cute when Misaki and Usui are together. I prefer that it'll be really nice if she writes more. I'm in love with it. It's the best manga I've read till now.
I really wish I was in Misaki's place. I really envy her. She looks pretty in the maid outfit. It suits her well.
I can't believe I read the manga more than 5 times and I'm still not bored with it. In fact, I don't think I'd be bored of it. I think everyone should read it. Even if they think it's not nice, they should give it a try. I'm sure they will like it.
Skip Beat!

Kyoko Mogami enters the entertainment industry seeking revenge against her childhood crush, Sho Fuwa, after he betrays her trust. As she pursues acting, she discovers a deep passion for the craft and works to prove her talent.

First off, Skip Beat shows Yoshiki-sensei's style in drawing. It's rather different, to the point that some of my friends don't like the drawing, but hey, it's still very good. When an exceptional, quite unique style of drawing is coupled with a unique, refreshing plot that has almost every genre and amazing characters that people can relate to in one way or another, Skip Beat is really one of my all-time favorite manga after 8 years of reading manga and counting. It's highly recommended.
While the story ships Ren and Kyoko, I don't know why people hate me for this, but maybe I have first love attachments because Shou x Kyoko also has so many feels. I love you, Yoshiki Nakamura-sensei!
Dengeki Daisy

After losing her brother, Teru Kurebayashi receives emotional support through messages from a mysterious figure known as "Daisy." Unbeknownst to her, the school janitor, Kurosaki, is secretly the person behind the messages, hiding a deeper connection to her past.

It started off with a cliché hook of "I'll always protect you." But then it turned out to be so much better with a new and interesting plot. The book manages to keep the familiar ties with the shoujo mangas we know and love while making it more realistic and easier to relate to.
There's also a completely new, in-depth, and more nuanced view of the characters, rather than the standard scenario where a lonely hot guy meets a simple girl who thinks she's ugly and plain but is really pretty. The art style is also beautiful, and on top of that, the manga artist is male, which makes this manga even better! In my eyes, this is the absolute best shoujo manga out there.
Gakuen Alice

Mikan Sakura follows her best friend, Hotaru, to the prestigious Alice Academy, where students possess supernatural abilities called Alices. As she adjusts to her new life, she uncovers hidden secrets about the school and her own powers.

I completely agree that Gakuen Alice should be in the top 3. It was also the moment when I truly got into manga, and just wow. Since I'm terrible with words, I don't know how to explain how amazing and wonderful it truly is.
If a character is sad, you'll cry. If a character is angry, mad, or just feeling alone, you'll feel that character's loneliness and anger, and then you'll cry. If a character is quiet in their expressions but honestly cares about someone dear to them, you'll care about their immense compassion, and then you'll cry.
If there's a character who is happy and a bit ditzy, you'll feel just as silly and happy, and then crying. If a character is humorous and amazingly outgoing, you'll want to be just as outgoing and make people laugh, and then cry because the comedy in this manga is over the top.
If a character is in love or has a strong bond of friendship, you'll feel that love and want it, or maybe already have it. You'll understand that all of this is possible. And then you'll cry because it's all so beautiful, warm, and full of the kind of unselfish love and caring anyone could want.
I wrote a bit much, but oh well, I loved it that much. And I agree, Natsume would be my everything if he existed. Even though he doesn't, I still see him as my everything.
Vampire Knight

Yuki Cross, a student at Cross Academy, works to maintain peace between the human Day Class and the vampire Night Class. As she uncovers secrets about her past, she becomes entangled in the conflicts between pureblood vampires and vampire hunters.

The manga that didn't let me sleep a blink. I couldn't stop reading it. I thought I'd pick it up from where the anime left off, but then I was consumed by the first chapter. Reading it all over felt so refreshing, and I have to say this is one of the best love triangle/vampire romances ever!
As I type, my feelings for the amazing cast of Vampire Knight flood all over my mind. Mysteries unravel, plot twists here and there, perfect pacing, gets heart-wrenching as the story progresses. Read it and you won't regret it.
On a side note: don't forget a pack of tissues. You might need it, for all we know.

It is an amazing manga, and for me, reading it, you really feel for the characters Yuki, Zero, and Kaname. You fall for them and their struggles.
The love triangle is amazing, and the anime was excellent. The manga has a mysterious quality about it that pulls you in from the first page. If you've never read a manga, I recommend this. You will not be disappointed. It's so good.
Kamisama Hajimemashita

Homeless after her father abandons her, Nanami Momozono becomes the land god of a shrine and is aided by a fox familiar named Tomoe. She navigates her new responsibilities while developing a complex relationship with Tomoe and encountering various spirits and gods.

Even though I started this awesome manga series a month ago, finished, and saw all the anime, I want more. This manga takes normal fantasy and throws it out the window. The villains, well, they do what they want and get away with it before the protagonist even has time to think.
It's funny, beautiful, deep, and emotional all at the same time. Tomoe is just perfect as a character, the protagonist has the most awesome personality, and all the other characters just fit in perfectly. Who says demons and a mortal land god don't get along? This one, in the best way possible!

Personally, I think this should really be higher on the list. This manga has all the elements of a good shoujo weaved seamlessly together. The love story was touching, passionate, and at the same time, funny.
Moreover, it also includes wild adventures of the characters that keep the manga thrilling and not boring. The supporting characters were also very likable.
I hope that they'll publish an update soon and that the second season of the anime will already be released. Overall, this is a must-read.
Fruits Basket

Tohru Honda, an orphaned high school girl, ends up living with the mysterious Sohma family, who are cursed to transform into zodiac animals when hugged by the opposite sex. As she grows closer to them, she helps heal emotional wounds and uncovers the origins of their curse.

This shoujo manga has the perfect mixture of romance, life lessons, comedy, drama, and other psychological elements. Reading this feels like you are actually with the Sohma family. You'll be heartbroken and won't wish to leave them so soon.
Unlike those typical shoujo mangas where the problem is only about getting the hottest guy in school, this manga truly depicts how people are emotional because of serious life problems. The author creates characters that you grow with, drawing them as if their features mature at some point in the story. The chemistry between the characters doesn't feel rushed, so you'll completely understand how they develop feelings for each other. Overall, it's the best shoujo manga I have ever read. Strongly recommended!
Nana

Two young women with the same name, Nana Komatsu and Nana Osaki, meet on a train to Tokyo. Nana Komatsu is chasing after her boyfriend, while Nana Osaki aims to become a successful punk rock musician. They end up becoming roommates and supporting each other through love, heartbreak, and the challenges of adult life.

This is my second favorite. If I hadn't read Gakuen Alice first, Nana might have taken the top spot. This particular manga opened my eyes to reality. Among all the other manga, this one really focuses on how hard it is to live the life you've chosen with your career.
It starts with a fated meeting between two complete opposites who become best friends. The story follows their dreams, relationships, obstacles, struggles, love, choices, decisions, and even tragedy. There are so many complications in life that are portrayed here. Whenever I think of this manga, I end up in a trance, and I can't help but empathize with the characters.
It would be amazing if Ai Yazawa, the author, finally continued the story until its conclusion. Right now, the scans are all on hiatus, and I still don't have any news of a continuation.
Kimi ni Todoke

Shy and misunderstood, Sawako Kuronuma struggles to make friends due to her resemblance to a horror movie character. Her life changes when the outgoing and well-liked Shota Kazehaya befriends her, helping her break out of her shell.

I'm absolutely in love with this manga. Both the manga and anime are great. It's adorable how the story develops. The main character, Sawako, starts off as a really shy but kind girl, who is satisfied with making others happy. She just wants to be a normal girl, have friends, and carry on the typical life of a student.
She tries really hard but she still scares people until Kazehaya shows up. He helps her gain confidence in herself, introduces her to new people, helps the classroom see a new side of her, and eventually, he falls in love with all the things she has to offer. Everything is perfect.
The supporting cast is also great. I have to admit I hated some of the characters as they were introduced (the antagonists, of course), but even the bad guys end up being cuties.

The Newcomers

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Sweat and Soap

Asako Yaeshima, self-conscious about her excessive sweating, works at a toiletry company and relies on their products to manage her condition. She catches the attention of a perfumer named Natori, who becomes fascinated by her natural scent.
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Mikansei Lovers

The Contenders

Sailor Moon

Usagi Tsukino is a clumsy middle school student who transforms into the pretty guardian of love and justice, Sailor Moon. Along with her fellow Sailor Guardians, she fights to protect the world from the Dark Kingdom and other evil forces. The series is a landmark in the magical girl genre and remains one of the most popular manga of all time.

Ah... Where it all began. Even if you don't like this magical girl sensation, you have to appreciate that it, along with others, influenced the manga that we have today.
The tale of a normal schoolgirl who turns out to be a princess from another planet, saves the world along with her best friends. And of course, wins love from her true love over and over again.
With much respect, Sailor Moon takes first place and is a legend that will never be forgotten.

Best manga ever! I loved this manga. It revolutionized the shoujo manga world. It will remain in my heart forever.
Ghost Hunt

Mai Taniyama is a high school student who becomes involved with the Shibuya Psychic Research center after accidentally breaking a camera. She works alongside Kazuya Shibuya, a narcissistic young psychic she nicknames Naru, to investigate paranormal occurrences. The series blends horror, mystery, and romance as the team tackles various ghost stories.

Well, it's more about ghost hunting and psyches than romance in general. But it's interesting to have the female lead alternating between being irritated and enamored with the male lead because he is mostly ice-cold and rude in real life.
However, he often appears in her dreams like some astral projection and becomes borderline angelic to her there. Their relationship is not boring, to say the least, both because of their obvious line of work and many of their cute moments.
Additional info: there is a big bomb somewhere in the series, and because of that, I have never moved on from this series at all.
If you are not too much of a scaredy-cat, I recommend this manga.
Hana Yori Dango

Tsukushi Makino is a student from a poor family attending the prestigious Eitoku Academy. She clashes with the F4, a group of four wealthy boys who rule the school with bullying tactics. Her refusal to back down catches the attention of the group's leader, Tsukasa Domyoji.

Why is this not in the top five? This manga is incredible. The characters go through so much development, and the emotions they evoke from the reader... the feels are strong with this one. It left me wallowing in the feels weeks after I finished it.
Although the art style can be hard to read, it really improves as the story progresses. The plot is interesting and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The tears, the laughter, the frustration, the hurry-up-and-kiss-already! feeling, it's all there. I loved it, and you will too!

I'm confused why this manga isn't one of the top fives. I recently read it, and I thought that it won't get out of my head. It is amazing how slowly the writer changes someone that is impossible to find love, into someone who can't live without love.
I was drained by different emotions while reading and sometimes I thought that Makino and Domyouji would be impossible to get back together again. The rollercoaster, the hills, the ups and downs of the relationship were so amazing that it could make us cheer or cry at one episode.
Last Game

Naoto Yanagi, a popular and intelligent young man, has always competed with his quiet and unassuming classmate, Kujou, but never managed to surpass her. As they enter university, he realizes his rivalry has turned into love and sets out to win her heart.

It's hilarious, refreshing, dynamic, innocent, and honest. There is this boy who, despite being rich, handsome, smart, and talented, has flaws. Then there's this girl who is pure and dense to the bone but is independent, intelligent, practical, and strong.
I adore the fact that Hisato is such a girl when it comes to Mikoto, blushing and becoming insecure, but he is still manly and reliable (and very attractive). I kind of hated how slow Mikoto was to realize her own feelings towards Hisato, but when we finally know why she was reluctant to admit them, it makes perfect sense. I only wish there was more development with the secondary characters, but oh well.
The art is amazing. The jokes are hysterical (for me at least), and some expressions and dialogues are to die for. Hisato is very sexy. The sweet parts are very, very sweet. It's warm and so realistic, like the definition of true love.
Ao Haru Ride

Futaba Yoshioka reinvents her image in high school to fit in, but her life is shaken when she reunites with her first love, Kou Tanaka. Kou has changed his name and personality since middle school, becoming cold and distant. Futaba tries to understand what happened to him and see if they can rekindle their past relationship.

This manga is absolutely beautiful. It doesn't have to be hilarious to be loved, unlike Ouran High School Host Club or Kaichou wa Maid-sama, which mostly focus on comedy. For me, the main couples in those series don't even match - like a perfect, caring guy with a loudmouth, bossy girl who doesn't appreciate him. Though, I do kind of agree with Haruhi and Tamaki a little.
Now, back to Ao Haru Ride. It's relaxing and fits the description of a shoujo romance manga perfectly. The characters and plot are amazing, and the main couple is super cute and has great chemistry. I would love to read this all over again.
The drama is very real, and the story feels extremely realistic. It's full of emotions, the art style is beautiful and detailed, and I love this manga so much. While it's not my favorite, I still think this manga is truly one of the best. Some of you are being too biased, though.
Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun

Shizuku Mizutani is a studious girl who cares only about her grades until she is tasked with delivering notes to Haru Yoshida. Haru is a troublemaker who stopped coming to school, but he immediately latches onto Shizuku after their meeting. Their relationship unfolds as two socially awkward individuals try to understand human connection.

When I first heard about Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun during my summer vacation, I was delighted and immediately looked for the anime. Upon realizing that the anime was not available on YouTube, I decided to read the manga instead.
And then, before I knew it, I had finished the whole manga. It was a beautiful story of Shizuku and Haru, and the fact that Haru was feared rather than respected was a surprising twist on the usual shoujo manga.
Shizuku is shy and hardworking like a lot of female protagonists, but she has a flair of confidence that makes her stand out. This was the first manga I read in full. I highly recommend it.

In English, it translates to My Little Monster.
This manga is a newer release, maybe from a year ago. It is one of the most unique and phenomenal love stories you will ever come across.
The two main characters are Shizuku and Haru. It's about how they meet and a whole lot more. There is also an anime. I'm up to the latest chapter of the manga and I'm addicted! It's definitely a must-read for everyone.
Enjoy!
Tokyo Mew Mew

Ichigo Momomiya gains the DNA of an endangered animal after a mysterious experiment, giving her the ability to transform into a magical cat-themed warrior. Alongside four other girls, she fights alien invaders threatening Earth.

Before I watched Tokyo Mew Mew, I couldn't stand anime. Once my friend showed it to me, I was completely intrigued by the characters and plot, and it even got me watching plenty of other anime!

Tokyo Mew Mew was the first anime I watched, and I loved it a lot, even though my ship didn't sail. The manga is also cute, but I didn't really like the A la Mode part. Then again, this is a really cute one!

Tokyo Mew Mew is nice. But since she ends up with the wrong guy, I must admit I got pretty angry! It made me mad! I don't even know why I voted for this anyway.
Say I Love You

I wasn't so sure about this manga at first, but I fell completely in love with it. Of all the manga I read, I get most excited when a new chapter is released for this one. The side characters are amazing, too. Great character development pretty much all around.

The closed-off Mei finds the right kind of guy for herself. Her chrysalis is indeed a sight to behold, and I loved the way they cherish each other and are there regardless of all the trouble they may face.
Faster Than a Kiss

After losing their parents, Fumino Kaji and her younger brother are taken in by her high school teacher, Kazuma Ojiro, whom she impulsively marries to secure a stable home. As they hide their marriage, their relationship gradually deepens. The story balances comedic moments with the challenges of their secret life.

Faster Than a Kiss was the first manga I read, and it definitely was worth it! Amazing plot and wonderful characters.
This has lots and lots of comedy that makes you cringe with laughter. Also, the character development is done with perfection.
I love the interaction between the lead characters. They have this undefinable chemistry that cannot be put into words, and they look so cute together that it makes your eyeballs jump out! Plus, their "secret romantic moments" will definitely make you all giddy.
Highly recommended. Must read!

This manga is what got me into student/teacher romances!
I'll highly recommend it to any shoujo fan who enjoys pure romance with great characters. Fumiko and Ma-kun are both lovable and one of my favorite manga couples. The story is not overly dramatic like most shoujo. Just a cute, sweet, funny, and heart-warming manga with unique art. Teppei's the cutest baby ever!
We Were There

I just shared my opinions and love for Gakuen Alice and Skip Beat, and I was scrolling along, hardly stopping myself from commenting on just about the nominated ones in here, but I just don't have the power to pass by We Were There or Bokura Ga Ita. This is also one of the best manga I've read, one of my all-time favorites as well, and a manga I could read a million times and be satisfied every time I finish.
The plot is great, and the characters were so real to themselves that I applaud the mangaka for not altering anything, given that she has all the power to manipulate them. But really, I feel that the characters were real people dealing with the circumstances in their lives and that choosing to grow or lose is all up to them. I love this manga and forever will.
Strobe Edge

Ninako Kinoshita falls in love with the popular Ren Ichinose, only to discover that he already has a girlfriend. Despite the rejection, she chooses to remain friends with him and keep her feelings to herself. The story explores the complexities of unrequited love and the emotional growth of its characters.

Ah~ I love the heroine. She's simply so innocent, and after a certain event made her interact with the boy lots of girls adore, she ended up feeling attracted for the first time.
I think this manga has a very pure romance, as the heroine looks so childlike but knows how to act according to her feelings. She's just an honest girl, and I find her really brave. Moreover, the guy is really hot, and I love him!
This manga has mild drama and is kind of refreshing. It ended well, and it was enough. I feel happy whenever I see this manga or hear its name.

This shoujo lacks the drama which has become almost a standard for most shoujo mangas. This story, though, shines because of that. With a refreshingly different lead male, it tells the story of a pure and unrequited (initially) love.
With great art as well, this manga is a must-read.
High School Debut

Haruna Nagashima, a former middle school athlete, is determined to find romance in high school but struggles with attracting boys. She enlists the help of a handsome upperclassman, Yoh Komiyama, who agrees to coach her on how to be more appealing.

This is my all-time favorite manga! The characters aren't annoying. Also, I fell in love with the lead guy. You have to read this book no matter what. I literally finished it in 2 days. I strongly recommend you read this book.

To me, this is the best of the best of what I've ever read.
I fell in love with it from the first chapter and couldn't stop reading. The story is really good, and the art is well done too. Without a doubt, this manga is a MUST-READ.

Among all, it is the best. It really is a romantic comedy. Their relationship is too adorable, and they never stay apart.
Nodame Cantabile
Clannad

Tomoya Okazaki is a delinquent high school student who finds his life changing after meeting the quiet Nagisa Furukawa. He decides to help her achieve her dream of reviving the school's drama club. Their relationship grows as they interact with other students and face the struggles of adolescence and adulthood together.

To be honest, I'm not a fan of Clannad... At all. But still, I give it 4th place, because it made me cry! And also, because people are nuts about it!
Clannad follows the life of Tomoya Okazaki, your average teenage boy protagonist, as he helps his cute friends with their life crises. Despite their stories being quite depressing, the characters stay happy, making you laugh at their unique charm. At first, it seems entirely average, but if you read between the lines, it's actually a very deep and heartwarming story.

Clannad is a very emotional and sad story, sometimes filled with happiness and sadness too. It's really the best anime out there and also the saddest one.
It touches the bottom of your heart.
Hapi Mari

Great manga!
I sometimes go back to reread the story. As long as you put in effort, you can get anywhere!

Really good manga. Very romantic and heart-warming. Chiwa is a great manga character, and Hokuto is as well. Love this.

No doubt that this is a fantastically awesome manga!