Romantic relationships have always been an integral part of anime. As in real life, love in the medium is often imperfect and has its own set of ups and downs. Ultimately, this helps characters become better versions of themselves. The following is a list of anime couples that constantly remind audiences what the true meaning of love is.
Cutest anime couples | Asuna and Kirito (Sword Art Online)
At the start of Sword Art Online, main character Kirito’s top priority is to escape Aincrad no matter the cost. This completely changes when he meets Asuna, a capable fighter that complements the hero’s skills and makes up for his weaknesses. Because they work so well with one another, the pair decides to tackle each floor together. Kirito soon shifts from thinking only about himself to thinking almost exclusively about Asuna and her safety. The romance that brews between the two proves that having someone by your side is one of love’s best benefits.
Cutest anime couples | Winry and Edward (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Winry and Edward frequently argue throughout the course of Fullmetal Alchemist. Despite this, it’s clear that the two are dedicated to one another from the get-go. The budding mechanic comes to the alchemist’s need during his accident without any hesitation, and fixes up his robotic appendages whenever he busts them. In turn, Ed defends Winry when she confronts the man who killed her parents. Though they may not express their feelings properly, each person’s actions speak volumes on how deeply they care.
Cutest anime couples | Hinata and Naruto
Hinata falls in love with Naruto at first sight during the original series. Though the protagonist is flattered, he’s too dense to respond to her emotions properly. Despite this, Hinata remains persistent and decides to train to become the best fighter she can be, bettering herself so that one day she can step in for Naruto when the going gets tough. She does, in fact, help out her crush multiple times in Shippuden, and the protagonist finally understands the emotions she feels for him. Eventually he grows to love her too, and the two decide to start a family. Sometimes when it comes to relationships, persistence is the key. Just make sure to read the room.
Cutest anime couples | Bulma and Vegeta (Dragon Ball Franchise)
Vegeta certainly doesn’t seem like a family man at first glance. Throughout the course of Dragon Ball Z, the Saiyan prince is more concerned with besting Goku and surpassing his power levels. Dragon Ball Super does shed some like on his relationship with Bulma and Trunks, however, showing fans how important it is for a power-hungry rival to devote some time to his family every know and then. Vegeta would rather not eat ice cream and ride amusement park rides all day, but he’ll do it if it makes the people he loves happy.
Cutest anime couples | Nagisa and Tomoya (Clannad)
The evolution of Nagisa and Tomoya’s relationship in Clannad is one of the greatest marvels the medium has to offer. Tomoya’s transformation from a delinquent with no goals in life to a husband who wants nothing but the best for his wife is astounding, as it shows how love can completely change one’s outlook for the better. Nagisa also grows from a cowardly girl to a caring, compassionate wife that isn’t afraid to knock her significant other to his senses when he starts saying irrational things. Nagisa and Tomoya love each other so much that it’s hard not to feel the emotion pouring out of the screen, especially during Clannad: After Story.
Cutest anime couples | Kagome and Inuyasha
Kagome and Inuyasha’s relationship is complicated, to say the least. After having his heart broken, the half-demon guards his affection for others closely, as he’s afraid of being hurt again. Kagome treats him with kindness and respect despite his cynicism and sarcasm. Over time, Kagome’s unwavering charm breaks down Inuyasha’s defenses, and he begins to fall in love with her. At the same time, he wrestles with the emotions he still has for the person that broke his heart, thinking she might one day return and want to be with him again.
The intricate nature of Inuyasha’s love life is extremely relatable, as pieces of ourselves often cling to slight chances of salvaging a relationship long after it’s over. Fortunately, the mythical creature does wind up sorting out his thoughts properly and makes what he feels is the best decision.
Cutest anime couples | Lucy and Natsu (Fairy Tail)
Fairy Tail‘s Lucy and Natsu hold an inexplicable bond that simply boils down to chemistry. Natsu is the male version of Lucy while Lucy is the female version of Natsu. The two possess outgoing personalities that seamlessly meld into one another, as the pair oftentimes says the same words or thinks the same thoughts. It helps that during the show’s first episode, Lucy’s curse is broken when she lays eyes on her one true love, the likes of which just so happens to be Natsu. To call the two soulmates would be an understatement.
Cutest anime couples | Yamato and Takeo (My Love Story!!)
My Love Story!!‘s protagonist Takeo isn’t what many people would call attractive. He’s big, awkward, and not too bright, especially when it comes to relationships. Despite this, a shy girl named Yamato winds up falling head over heels for him after he saves her from being sexually harassed on public transportation. Yamato helps the giant build his self-confidence — a quality that Takeo severely lacked with prior women in his life. The pair are gentle and kind with one another, which is all anyone could ask for in a worthwhile relationship.
The couples above give new meaning to the phrase “relationship goals.” Each pair serves as a great example on how to care for a partner and gradually fall in love with him or her. This Valentine’s Day, remember to give your significant the time and attention he or she deserves. If you’re single, remember that there’s someone out there for everyone. Of course, anime will always be there in case things don’t work out.
