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

Bitter Virgin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.