Last updated on April 8th, 2024 at 03:54 pm
First Love to Lasting Connections: 10 Heartwarming Mangas for you to try
Looking for your next manga obsession? I’ve handpicked 10 romance mangas spanning various genres including Shoujo, Drama, Ecchi, School Life, Slice of Life, Office Workers, and my favourite, Childhood Friends. These heartwarming reads are centred on love, relationships, and personal connections, each offering unique twists and standout characters.
With stunning art, compelling plots, and endearing characters, these manga have the power to capture your heart. Among them, my most recent discovery, How I Met My Soulmate, has reignited my obsession with romance, and I can’t wait to share these great mangas with you.
Mangas that made the list (skip to a manga via the title):
- Ao Haru Ride
- Tsurenai Kanojo no Hitorijime
- How I Met My Soulmate
- Koigakubo-kun Stole My First Time
- Gomen ne, Hatsukoi
- Koi ni Dokubari
- Yojouhan no Ibara Hime
- Kimi to Barairo no Hibi
- Anyway, I’m Falling in Love With You
- Kare First Love
Disclaimer: The release date and status are based on the English-online released versions. Some feature female leads who undergo a transformation from glasses to contact lenses, a trope I’m not particularly fond of. However, the compelling romance story ultimately wins me over. What’s with authors and their aversion to glasses?
This blog contains affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through those links.
Tier ranking all 52 shoujo mangas I read last year
Watch me tier rank the mangas featured in this blog, and every shoujo manga I read in 2023 the remaining shoujo mangas I read in 2023. View part 1 on YouTube here, or watch part 2 below. Or continue on with this blog here.
1. Ao Haru Ride (Blue Spring Ride)
Genre: Shoujo, Comedy, Drama, Romance, School Life, Slice of Life.
Status: Released 2011 – 2015.
Latest: Volume 13. | Buy on: Amazon.
View next manga rec 
This manga follows Futaba Yoshioka, who once believed all boys were loud and obnoxious until she met Kou Tanaka in junior high. Years later, Kou reappears in high school, but he’s different. Futaba has tried to avoid popularity among boys and reinvent herself, but her first love’s return challenges her identity.
The story explores the search for true love and friendship while staying true to oneself. Ao Haru Ride is a beloved romance manga due to its relatable characters, emotional depth and well-balanced storytelling. It successfully captures the essence of first love and personal growth, making it a compelling and enjoyable read for fans of the genre.
2. Tsurenai Kanojo no Hitorijime
Genre: Ecchi, Drama, Romance, School Life, Slice of Life.
Status: Released 2021 – ongoing.
Latest: Volume 6. | View next manga rec
Embark on a journey of youth and sensuality in this compelling manga. Meet Nachi Shinohara, a charismatic high schooler who effortlessly connects with everyone he meets. On the flip side, there’s the enigmatic loner, Takizawa Yuuri. Their chance encounter sparks a passionate relationship hidden from everyone they know, weaving a story of forbidden love and hidden desires.
Tsurenai Kanojo no Hitorijime is a thrilling high school love story. With one-sied love and characters with complex personalities and struggles (Can we just give Takizawa a big hug!!), and heartfelt emotions. The beautiful artwork alongside the writing offers a touching and engaging read with some added spice, that’s sure to capture romance enthusiasts.
3. How I Met My Soulmate
(Unmei no Hito ni Deau Hanashi)
Genre: Shoujo, College Life, Comedy, Drama, Romance.
Status: Released 2021 – ongoing.
Latest: Volume 5. | Buy on: Amazon.
View next manga rec
In the manga How I Met My Soulmate, we follow Yuki, a 20-year-old college sophomore in Tokyo, as she yearns to find her soulmate. After feeling disheartened by her prolonged singleness, she reluctantly accompanies a friend to a noisy club, hoping for a change. There, she unexpectedly encounters Iori, a stranger with a tough exterior, prompting Yuki to wonder if destiny has a surprising twist in store for her romantic life.
In Lovesick Alley, this manga is a must-read for romance fans. It stands out by exploring fate and destiny in contrast to conventional romance plots. The well-developed characters make it easy to connect with their journeys and personal growth, and the art and panel layouts enhance the overall reading experience. The dynamic between Iori and Yuki is marked by undeniable chemistry, yet the story poses the question of their compatibility, keeping readers engaged.
4. Koigakubo-kun Stole My First Time (oigakubo-kun ni wa Hajimete wo Ubawaremashita)
Genre: Josei, Smut, Romance, office workers, slice of life, video games.
Status: Released 2021 – ongoing.
Latest: Volume 5. | Buy on: Amazon.
View next manga rec
Eiko Kagehara is devoted to her 15-year MMO love affair, living a fantasy life as a skilled blacksmith. But as her friends move on to marriage and new jobs, she’s left adrift. Unexpectedly, she shares her gamer ID with her attractive new colleague, whom she once helped in the game. He then offers to teach her the ways of love.
Similar to My Lv999 Love for Yamada-kun but with adult characters and spice, Koigakubo-kun Stole My First Time is a popular romantic manga by Ichika Tachihara. While it might take a few chapters to get used to the characters, especially Aren Koigakubo, the story is worthwhile. If you’re a fan of romance where the male protagonists fall harder without being overly forceful and prefer older FL and younger Ml, this manga is a great pick for you.
5. Gomen ne, Hatsukoi
(I'm sorry, First Love)
Genre: Shoujo, Childhood Friends, Drama, Romance, School Life.
Status: Released 2023 – ongoing.
Latest: Volume 1. | View next manga rec
This manga follows Mahiro, who regularly transfers schools due to her father’s job. She was ready to spend her last year of junior high alone until she met Sousuke and his childhood friend Chiho. As her bond with them grows stronger, Sosuke awakens a feeling inside Mahiro’s chest. Will Mahiro act on her feelings, or will she remain silent in order to keep something she always yearned for—friends?
Gomen ne, Hatsukoi is a new captivating romance manga that offers a unique take on the childhood friend trope. The unexpected pairings and emotional depth make it a compelling read. The quiet and caring secondary MC, Ohno Kun, adds a heartwarming element to the story, while the oblivious Sosuke creates a desire to see different romantic outcomes than one might initially expect. It’s a delightful manga for fans of romantic stories.
6. Koi ni Dokubari
(Love's Poisonous Needle)
Genre: Shoujo, Romance, School Life.
Status: Released 2019 – 2019.
Latest: Volume 2. | View next manga rec
This manga centres on Aya Kurata, who harbours feelings for Kouta Yokomizo but discovers he’s dating her friend Sara. Aya tries to help them, but her own emotions complicate matters. Her heartbreak intensifies until she meets Ryuu, an older boy who challenges her perspective on love. This leads Aya on a journey of self-discovery and learns that love can lead to her own happiness.
Koi ni Dokubari is a captivating romance manga celebrated for its emotionally resonant storytelling. It delves into themes of love and heartbreak. It delves into themes of love and heartbreak, and beyond romance, the manga explores personal growth, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships, adding depth to the story.
7. Yojouhan no Ibara Hime
Genre: Shoujo, Romance, Drama, School Life, Reverse Harem.
Status: Released 2023 – ongoing.
Latest: Volume 2. | View next manga rec
In this heartwarming Seishun Scans manga, join Shinra on her journey from a lonely, challenging life to discovering the true value of life. Abandoned by her mother and struggling to make ends meet, she has a bleak outlook on love and youth (both unaffordable), so she resigned to a life of work. However, when three boys enter her life, her perspective shifts, showing her a world beyond mere survival.
Yojouhan no Ibara Hime offers a unique approach to romance, initially emphasising friendships and gradually introducing deeper connections with the primary romance being a mystery. Shinra’s growth and challenges create a captivating journey. As you read you’ll be torn between multiple characters, rooting for their love and personal lives. Dive into this compelling and touching romance today.
8. Kimi to Barairo no Hibi
Genre: Shoujo, Romance, School Life, Slice of Life.
Status: Released 2023 – ongoing.
Latest: Volume 2. | View next manga rec
Another Seishun Scans gem: This manga follows Mochizuki Nobara, a second-year high school girl yearning for romance as she hasn’t experienced her first love yet. At the request of a teacher, she becomes involved with a boy whose life is shrouded in mystery and nasty rumours. It’s the beginning of a story about a secretive boy injecting a bit of excitement into the life of a serious girl.
Kimi to Barairo no Hibi manga’s stunning artwork sets the stage for this love story, while the blossoming romance between Nobara and Setohara-Kun takes centre stage. The intriguing dynamics between the two characters enhance the narrative, and Nobara’s genuine efforts to help Setohara-Kun open up lie at the heart of this blossoming romance. With Mochizuki Nobara’s adorable presence, you’ll find yourself wholeheartedly rooting for her journey.
9. Anyway, I'm Falling in Love With You (Douse, Koishite Shimaunda)
Genre: Shoujo, Childhood Friends, Drama, Romance, School Life.
Status: Released 2020 – Ongoing.
Latest: Volume 6. | Buy on: Amazon.
View next manga rec
In this manga, Mizuha’s 17th birthday takes an unexpected turn when her crush appears disinterested but her childhood friend asks her out. Her feelings and their long-standing relationship become a central focus. They both navigate a tumultuous emotional stage, and Mizuha grapples with the potential impact on not just their friendship, but on the entire group.
Anyway, I’m Falling in Love With You” (Douse, Koishite Shimaunda) earned its beloved status in the romance manga world due to its relatable portrayal of teenage characters and romance. The intriguing timeline alternates between 2020 (COVID era) and 2030, creating curiosity about Mixuha’s love interests and her future happiness. This blend of romance and mystery will keep you hooked.
10. Kare First Love
Genre: Shoujo, Drama, Romance, School Life, Slice of Life.
Status: Released 2002 – 2004.
Latest: Volume 10. | Buy on: Amazon.
Lastly, this manga follows Karin Karino, an awkward and shy high schooler, who had never bothered with boys until she met Kiriya, a well-liked student from a nearby all-boys school. Karin and Kiriya navigate the ups and downs of young love, however, Karin soon realises that happiness doesn’t always come easy as she becomes the object of Kiriya’s affection and the target of Yuka’s jealousy.
Kara First Love is a captivating romance manga that explores themes of love and jealousy. Despite revisiting it multiple times, the romance still draws me in! The story takes an atypical approach with Karino’s resistance to male peer pressure and frustrations, setting it apart from typical manga tropes. Whilst Kiriya reveals depths beyond initial appearances. The dynamic of their friendship group adds humour and depth to the story, making Kare First Love a timeless favourite.
Closing thoughts
In conclusion, these 10 romantic manga selections span diverse genres and themes, offering something special for every romance enthusiast. From the heartwarming nostalgia of childhood friends to the thrilling discoveries of forbidden love, each story has its own unique charm. I hope this list guides you toward your next manga obsession and helps you find the perfect read. Happy reading!
If you enjoyed these recommendations read our other 2 other manga blog; 12 great Shoujo Romance manga series to read in 2023 & 10 Romance-Comedy Mangas you need to read.
Latest blogs
Follow us on socials
*ML = Male Lead, FL = Female Lead