7 Must-Watch Romance Anime of Summer 2026

The Summer 2026 anime season launched in full force this July, and the romance lineup is especially impressive — ranging from interspecies contract marriages and fantasy mermaid rebirths to laugh-out-loud kaiju love comedies and tender school pure-love stories. Here are seven of the most exciting romantic new series of the season to help you lock in your watchlist fast!

Fantasy Romance and Contract Marriages: Love That Breaks Every Rule

1. The Ogre's Bride

Adapted from a highly popular fantasy source, the story follows Yuzuko Shinonome, a girl who has long been neglected by her own family, only to be chosen as the destined bride by Reiya Kiryuuin, the immensely powerful king of the ogre clan. Voiced by Hayami Saori and Umehara Yuichiro, the series features gorgeous visuals and devotedly portrays an exclusive, doting love that transcends racial boundaries — making it one of the season's surest bets for sweet romance fans.

2. The Duke’s Son Claims He Won’t Love Me Yet Showers Me with Adoration

The cash-strapped noble daughter Elsa Jukarainen and the next duke Julius Roias enter into a contract marriage out of mutual practicality. The duke initially declares coldly that he has no intention of falling in love, yet as the two spend their days together, he gradually reveals a surprisingly tender and affectionate side — making this one of the season's best tsundere comedy offerings.

3. The Oblivous Saint Can't Contain Her Power

Set in another world, the heroine Carolina Sanchez, who considers herself talentless, is arranged to marry a prince rumored to be violent and brutish for the sake of diplomacy between two nations — only to find he is actually gentle and refined. Even more surprising, Carolina Sanchez unknowingly radiates extraordinary saintly power in their daily life together, setting off an unexpectedly warm and twist-filled love story.

Unconventional Fantasy and Classic Reimaginings: Stories Full of Surprises

4. KAIJU GIRL CARAMELISE

Bursting with creativity and contrast, this series stars Kuroe Akaishi, a girl who yearns for romance but harbors a secret: whenever her heart races and she falls in love, she transforms into a giant kaiju. High-school romance collides with tokusatsu monster elements in a wonderfully odd pairing, as the warm acceptance of her love interest Arata Minami gives rise to a relationship that is both hilarious and genuinely moving.

5. Goodbye, Lara

An original project marking the animation studio's 15th anniversary, directed by Koide Takushi. Drawing inspiration from a classic fairy tale, mermaid princess Lara awakens on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga and sets out anew in the form of a human girl, searching for true love and her own sense of worth. The series stands out for both its visual quality and musical presentation.

School Romance and Gap-Moe Comedy: Tender, Heartwarming Moments

6. Love Unseen Beneath the Clear Night Sky

Adapted from an award-winning light novel, this series follows university student Kakeru Sorano, who habitually hides his true self, as he meets Koharu Fuyutsuki, a girl who has lost her sight due to illness. The two slowly draw closer through mutual companionship and support, with the series earning praise for its emotionally resonant music and the delicate, healing portrait of love it creates.

7. Rich Girl Caretaker: I'm Secretly the Caregiver of the Most Popular Girl in This Rich Kid School

High school student Itsuki Tomonari ends up becoming the personal caretaker of Hinako Konohana, the adored and seemingly flawless daughter of a prestigious wealthy family — who turns out to be completely helpless at everyday life behind closed doors. As the two grow closer through their chaotic domestic routine, their sweet caretaker-and-charge dynamic is sure to put a smile on your face.

Summer 2026 Romance Anime Arrives in Full Force

Whether you prefer fantasy sweetness, classic fairy-tale reimaginings, or down-to-earth school love stories, the July 2026 romance anime lineup has something to make your heart race. Pick your favorites from the list and let this summer be filled with all the romantic warmth you could want!