19 Saddest Romance Manga: Grab Your Tissues And Prepare To Cry

In the vast and emotionally charged world of manga, few genres can tug at the heartstrings quite like romance. Within this realm of love, passion, and heartbreak, some narratives stand out for their ability to elicit profound emotions from readers. As we embark on a journey through the bittersweet landscapes of love and loss, we delve into the pages of the saddest romance manga, where poignant storytelling and beautifully rendered characters leave an indelible mark on the soul. Join us as we explore the delicate dance between joy and sorrow, weaving a tale that transcends the pages and resonates deeply within the hearts of readers. Welcome to a world where the phrase saddest romance manga takes on a profound and poignant meaning, inviting us to experience the beauty and tragedy that love can unfold.

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Saddest Romance Manga List

Embarking on an emotional rollercoaster, the world of manga offers an array of stories that skillfully navigate the delicate nuances of love, heartbreak, and the human spirit. As we dive into the realms of emotion, we invite you to explore a curated collection that transcends the ordinary, taking you on a poignant journey through the saddest romance manga ever crafted. These narratives are not mere tales; they are windows into the profound intricacies of the human heart. Brace yourself for a list that will leave an indelible imprint on your soul, as we navigate the complex landscapes of love in the world of manga. Get ready to discover, feel, and empathize with the characters who have etched their stories into the annals of the saddest romance manga ever written.

Bitter Virgin

saddest romance manga

Bitter Virgin tells the story of Daisuke Suwa, a high school student, who learns about the painful past of Hinako Aikawa, the girl he admires. Hinako harbors a dark secret involving abuse, trauma, and the consequences of her actions. The manga unfolds as Daisuke endeavors to understand and help Hinako heal while navigating the complexities of their evolving relationship.

A Silent Voice

saddest romance manga

A Silent Voice follows the journey of Shoya Ishida, a former bully seeking redemption, and Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he once tormented. The narrative explores the repercussions of bullying, the struggle for forgiveness, and the power of genuine connection. The characters grapple with guilt, self-discovery, and the transformative nature of empathy, resulting in a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story.

I Want to Eat Your Pancreas

saddest romance manga

In this emotionally charged manga, the reserved high school student discovers the secret diary of a terminally ill girl. The narrative explores the unlikely friendship that blossoms as they navigate the challenges of her illness together. As the girl’s days grow shorter, the story delves into themes of love, loss, and the profound impact of shared experiences, creating a poignant and touching narrative.

Your Lie In April

saddest romance manga

Your Lie In April centers on Kosei Arima, a piano prodigy who lost his ability to hear music after a traumatic event. The arrival of the vibrant violinist, Kaori Miyazono, breathes new life into his world. The manga beautifully explores themes of loss, grief, and the healing power of music, taking readers on an emotional journey filled with moments of joy and heartbreak.

No Longer Human

saddest romance manga

Adapted from Osamu Dazai’s novel, No Longer Human follows Yozo Oba, a troubled artist grappling with the weight of societal expectations and his own identity. The manga provides a dark and introspective look into the human condition as Yozo navigates a world that often feels alien. His internal struggles and quest for acceptance result in a somber exploration of mental health, alienation, and the search for meaning.

Goodnight Punpun

saddest romance manga

Goodnight Punpun follows the life of Punpun Punyama, depicted as a bird-like caricature, as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. The manga delves deep into Punpun’s complex family dynamics, relationships, and struggles with mental health. It explores themes of loneliness, existentialism, and the impact of trauma on one’s journey through life.

5 Centimeters per Second

saddest romance manga

5 Centimeters per Second unfolds in three interconnected parts, portraying the evolving relationship between Takaki Tono and Akari Shinohara from childhood to adulthood. The manga explores the theme of distance, both physical and emotional, as the characters grapple with the complexities of love, separation, and the passage of time.

Twin Spica

saddest romance manga

Twin Spica revolves around Asumi Kamogawa, a young girl with dreams of becoming an astronaut. Set against the backdrop of a fictional space academy, the manga explores Asumi’s journey, friendships, and the challenges she faces in pursuing her aspirations. The story touches on themes of loss, perseverance, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.

Orange

saddest romance manga

Orange centers on Naho Takamiya, who receives letters from her future self advising her on how to prevent the regrets of a new transfer student, Kakeru Naruse. The narrative unfolds as Naho and her friends attempt to change the course of events, addressing themes of friendship, love, and the impact of small actions on the future.

Sekai no Hate

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Sekai no Hate, also known as “The End of the World,” explores the intertwined lives of four characters who, despite their differences, form a close bond. The manga delves into themes of friendship, love, and the transient nature of existence, taking readers on an emotional journey through the characters’ interconnected stories.

Fruits Basket

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Fruits Basket revolves around Tohru Honda, an orphan who discovers a family secret: members of the Sohma family are cursed to transform into zodiac animals. The manga explores themes of family, acceptance, and breaking the cycle of generational trauma. Tohru’s journey involves healing the emotional wounds of the Sohma family members.

Nana

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Nana follows the lives of two young women, both named Nana, who become unlikely friends while pursuing their dreams in Tokyo. The manga explores their contrasting personalities, relationships, and the challenges they face in the worlds of music and fashion. Themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of adult life are central to the narrative.

The Garden of Words

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The Garden of Words tells the story of Takao Akizuki, a high school student aspiring to become a shoemaker, and Yukari Yukino, a mysterious woman he encounters in a garden on rainy days. The manga explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the transformative power of shared moments amid life’s challenges.

Honey and Clover

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Honey and Clover follows the lives of art students navigating the complexities of relationships, friendship, and personal growth. The manga delves into unrequited love, self-discovery, and the pursuit of artistic passion. The characters’ intertwining journeys create a nuanced and emotional exploration of the transitional phase from youth to adulthood.

Clannad

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Clannad centers around Tomoya Okazaki, a delinquent high school student, who forms deep connections with fellow students, including Nagisa Furukawa. The manga explores themes of family, friendship, and the impact of choices on the characters’ lives. Emotional and heartwarming, Clannad unfolds as a powerful story of love and personal growth.

Ao Haru Ride

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Ao Haru Ride follows the story of Futaba Yoshioka, who reconnects with her first love, Kou Mabuchi, in high school. The manga explores themes of second chances, identity, and the challenges of young love. The characters navigate their complex emotions and past traumas, creating a compelling and emotional narrative.

Bokura Ga Ita

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Bokura Ga Ita chronicles the tumultuous relationship between Nanami Takahashi and Yano Motoharu from high school into adulthood. The manga delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships. The characters grapple with personal growth and the enduring impact of past decisions on their lives.

Paradise Kiss

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Paradise Kiss revolves around Yukari Hayasaka, a high school student pulled into the world of fashion by a group of aspiring designers. The manga explores themes of self-discovery, romance, and the pursuit of artistic passion. Yukari’s journey involves navigating the challenges of love and the unconventional path of the fashion industry.

My Youth Romance Comedy Is Wrong as I Expected

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Also known as “Oregairu,” the manga follows Hachiman Hikigaya, a high school student with a cynical worldview. Tasked with assisting the school’s Service Club, he navigates complex interpersonal relationships and discovers unexpected connections. The manga explores themes of social dynamics, friendship, and personal growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the saddest manga ever?

Widely acknowledged as one of the most emotionally impactful manga, “Goodnight Punpun” (Oyasumi Punpun) by Inio Asano stands out for its raw portrayal of life’s challenges, offering a poignant narrative that delves into themes of depression, loss, and the harsh realities of existence.

What is the best romance manga ever?

Determining the best romance manga ever is subjective, but Clannad and Your Lie in April frequently top lists for their compelling love stories and emotional depth. Each offers a unique exploration of relationships, making them highly regarded in the romance manga genre.

Can manga make you cry?

Manga can absolutely make you cry. It has the power to evoke strong emotion and many readers experience tears while engaging with emotionally charged narratives. Well-crafted stories, particularly in genres like drama and romance, can elicit a range of emotions, including sadness and joy.

What manga is romance about a deaf girl?

One notable manga featuring romance with a deaf character is “A Silent Voice” (Koe no Katachi). This story beautifully explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and love, with the female lead being deaf. It’s praised for its emotional depth and portrayal of communication challenges.


As we conclude our exploration of the saddest romance manga, we’ve traversed landscapes of love, loss, and the profound human experiences that bind them together. These narratives, each a masterpiece in its own right, have not only stirred emotions but have also left an enduring mark on the hearts of readers. As you venture into these emotionally charged realms, may you find solace, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry that is romance in manga. In the end, it is through the tears shed and the hearts touched that these stories etch themselves into our memories, reminding us of the timeless power of love and storytelling.

Looking for some more Manga suggestions? Check out our picks of the best Office Romance Manga here >>

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