Yaoi - more commonly known now as BL anime (boys love) - is a genre within anime and manga that features romantic relationships between male characters. Simply put, it's the male equivalent of yuri anime. Some of these titles fall into the shonen-ai anime genre, while others are more explicit in nature. Other anime like Free! - Iwatobi Swim Club and SK8 the Infinity aren't technically yaoi anime, but they're included on this list as these shows cater towards the BL fanbase.
If you're interested in BL anime or gay anime TV shows, then you'll love the anime on this list. Many of the anime below may intersect with different sub-genres, but they're all in the yaoi genre in one way or another.
On this list, you'll find anime like Junjo Romantica, Yuri!!! on ICE, and Given. If you want to know what fans think are the greatest BL anime of all time, scroll down to find out!
- 1
When Ritsuka Uenoyama reluctantly takes on teaching guitar to Mafuyu Sato, the two slowly develop a connection through music. As Ritsuka helps Mafuyu heal from past trauma, their band bonds through creating songs together. But the road to romance has challenges when confronting buried pain.
- 2
The Stranger by the Shore
2020Aspiring novelist Shun Hashimoto finds inspiration when he encounters gay cafe owner Mio Chibana in his seaside town. As Shun's stay grows extended, he faces his true feelings for Mio despite lingering shame. An intimate yet bittersweet summer romance unfolds.
- 3
Introverted bookworm Miyano is surprised when outgoing classmate Sasaki declares them best friends and grows curious about Miyano’s reserved nature. As Sasaki draws Miyano out of his shell through cheerful persistence, Miyano realizes his growing feelings go beyond friendship.
- 4
Street gang leader Ash Lynx finds his life endangered when he uncovers dark secrets surrounding a mysterious substance called Banana Fish. Along with journalistic ally Eiji Okumura, the jaded Ash seeks to solve the mystery while navigating New York’s criminal underworld and corrupt elites.
- 5
The Founder of Diabolism
2018Cultivator Wei Wuxian dutifully serves his clan until he falls victim to the “demon path.” This ultimately leads to his death, which then leads to him being reincarnated and eventually reuniting with his former classmate Lan Wangji. Together the two uncover the secrets and mysteries of the supernatural world, and maybe find love along the way.
- 6
Figure skater Yuri Katsuki faces a crisis of confidence until becoming inspired by his idol Viktor Nikiforov to reboot his career. With Viktor's coaching, Yuri rebounds from failure and starts excelling in competition while growing feelings for Viktor. Their journey together blurs the line between mentor and love interest.
