BL stands for Boys’ Love, a genre that focuses on romantic relationships between male characters and has long been popular in Japan through manga and anime. In recent years, Japanese BL dramas have gained wider attention, with several titles becoming well known beyond dedicated BL audiences. This article introduces 10 recommended Japanese BL dramas that represent the genre and are frequently highlighted by viewers.
1. A Man Who Defies the World of BL (Japanese: 絶対BLになる世界VS絶対BLになりたくない男)
This series, which aired on Asahi Television in 2021, is an adaptation of the manga of the same name. The first season, consisting of 4 episodes, was well-received, and in 2022, the second season with 3 episodes was released, making a total of 7 episodes.
The story revolves around the male protagonist, Mobu, who one day finds himself living in a world where male-male romance is everywhere, and female characters have little presence. Despite his determination to be a straight guy and not get involved in any BL relationships, he becomes an expert in the BL genre and is surrounded by various handsome men.
The series features 20 different types of attractive guys, providing eye candy while also delivering various BL tropes in the plot. The main character, Mobu, provides humorous commentary on the unfolding events, making it entertaining for both BL enthusiasts and those who may not be familiar with the genre.
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2. Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?! (Japanese: 30歳まで童貞だと魔法使いになれるらしい)
This series, released in 2020 and also known as "Cherry Magic," received accolades such as "Best Supporting Actor" and "Best Drama" at the Japanese Television Drama Academy Awards. It is an adaptation of the manga of the same name by Yuu Toyota, which was the winner of the "2019 National Bookstore Staff Recommended BL Manga."
The drama consists of a total of 12 episodes and features the talents of rising actor Eiji Akaso alongside Keita Machida from the "EXILE" theater group. The story revolves around Kiyoshi Adachi, who remains a virgin until the age of 30 but gains the magical ability to "read" the inner thoughts of people he touches. When Adachi accidentally "reads" the inner thoughts of the handsome Yuuichi Kurosawa, a colleague in the Sales Department, he discovers Kurosawa's feelings of admiration for him.
This series is known for its heartwarming and humorous storyline, often bringing smiles to the faces of viewers and making them cheer for the characters as the plot unfolds.
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3. My Love Mix-Up! (Japanese: 消えた初恋)
This series, released in 2021, features joint leads from Johnny's Entertainment talents, Shunsuke Michieda (from Naniwa Danshi) and Ren Meguro (from Snow Man). Netflix also distributed this drama to global viewers on a bi-weekly basis. It is an adaptation of the manga by Wataru Hinekure , which ranked 9th in the "This Manga Is Amazing! 2021 Women's Division" ranking. The series consists of a total of 10 episodes.
Set against the backdrop of a youthful high school, the story revolves around the male protagonist, Aoki (played by Shunsuke Michieda), who lends an eraser to his crush, Mio Hashimoto (played by Riko Fukumoto). To his surprise, Aoki finds the eraser has "Iida-kun❤" written on it, and it's discovered by Ida (played by Ren Meguro), who happens to sit right in front of him. To protect Hashimoto's secret, Aoki lies and claims the eraser is his own, which leads to Iida misunderstanding that Aoki has feelings for him.
The series doesn't have a complex plot but offers a fresh and adorable youth story. Despite some exaggerated performances by the main characters, given that it's based on a manga, the exaggeration can be quite charming. With the handsome looks of the two lead actors and the careful cinematography and storytelling techniques, this finely crafted production is worth watching and should not be missed.
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4. My Beautiful Man (Japanese: 美しい彼)
This series, released in 2021, consists of a total of 6 episodes and is an adaptation of the light novel written by Yuu Nagira. Upon its release, it garnered an extremely enthusiastic response, even winning the Galaxy Award for "MY BEST TV" and securing the top spot in the 2022 BL Awards in the "Best Visual Department." There is also a movie adaptation of the series!
The story revolves around Kazunari Hira (played by Riku Hagiwara), a high school student who has struggled with a speech impediment since childhood and has difficulty interacting with others. He falls in love at first sight with a new transfer student in his senior year, So Kiyoi (played by Yusei Yagi). A significant factor contributing to the success of this series is the casting, as the character So Kiyota is described in the novel as an otherworldly beautiful boy, and Yuusei Yagi, in his first acting role, manages to perfectly embody the character.
Japanese media also highlighted the 5 key charms of this series: first, Riku Hagiwara's skillful portrayal through his expressive eyes; second, Yusei Yagi's flawless depiction of the beautiful Kiyoi; third, the perspective switching between the male protagonists, which enriches the story; fourth, the theme song reflecting the characters' emotions; and fifth, the subtle development of Kazunari's feelings for Kiyoi. This series has been praised as a pinnacle in the BL genre and is worth watching.
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5. Pornographer (The Novelist) (Japanese: ポルノグラファー)
This series, released in 2018, features dual leads played by Terunozuke Takezai and Kenta Izuka. It consists of a total of 6 episodes. It is an adaptation of the manga by Maki Marukido and portrays the love story between an innocent university student and an erotic novelist.
In an unexpected accident, university student Haruhiko Kuzumi accidentally caused a fracture to erotic novelist Rio Kijima while riding his bicycle. With no other options available, Kusumi suggests that Kijima dictate his novel, and thus begins the tangled emotional journey between the two. Kizuki exudes sensuality in every gesture and expression. The manga's storyline is faithfully adapted into the live-action drama, which is quite commendable.
This series also has a prequel titled "Mood Indigo," (インディゴの気分), and as the name suggests, it has a darker tone and pacing compared to the previous works. Instead of the sweet and heartwarming stories, this one leaves viewers feeling conflicted, with a mix of emotions after watching.
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6. Old Fashion Cupcake(Japanese: オールドファッションカップケーキ)
This series, released in June 2022, consists of a total of 5 episodes and is an adaptation of the immensely popular BL manga. The manga received recognition as the first-place winner in the "2021 BL Awards" for the Best Manga category and second place in the "2021 This BL is Incredible" ranking. It has sold over 500,000 copies in total.
The story revolves around an approximately 40-year-old boss named Nozue, who has no desire for career advancement or romance. However, his handsome and charming personality has the power to heal the female staff members, making him a genuine warm-hearted man. On the other hand, there's his slightly unfriendly but highly talented subordinate in his early 30s, Togawa, who secretly loves Nozue. The ten-year age gap between the two gradually narrows as they bond over desserts. The series is filled with a healing atmosphere and a heartwarming romantic ambiance.
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7. What Did You Eat Yesterday? (Japanese: きのう何食べた?)
This series, released in 2018 and based on the manga that began serialization in 2007 by Shunju Aono. Despite neither of the actors are young newcomers, they are well-known faces in Japanese drama, and the series consists of 12 episodes. Additionally, a movie adaptation was released in 2021.
The story revolves around the meticulous lawyer Shirou (played by Hidetoshi Nishijima) and the easygoing and carefree hairstylist Kenji (played by Seiyo Uchino), who are a gay couple living together in a two-bedroom apartment. With an eye toward their future financial and physical health in old age, Shirou prepares various dishes on a modest budget that are both delicious and healthy. The story unfolds against the backdrop of their daily life and the meals they share.
This is a highly heartwarming BL work that lacks dramatic ups and downs but instead focuses on the everyday life of a regular couple. Despite being a gay couple, their relationship is portrayed as happily mundane, complete with arguments and bickering, yet they continue to support each other and share a deep bond. It leaves viewers with a warm and content feeling after watching.
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8. Mr. Unlucky Has No Choice But to Kiss!
(Japanese: 不幸くんはキスするしかない！)
This series, released in 2022, is an adaptation of the popular BL manga of the same name.. It consists of a total of 8 episodes.
The protagonist, Kota Fukuhara, is a university student with an "extreme misfortune" condition, where he encounters various unlucky incidents every day. Despite this, he maintains an optimistic and cheerful personality. One day, he meets Naoya Shinomiya, who has a "good luck" constitution. The story revolves around the handsome straightforward guy and the stubbornly unfortunate man, creating an anxious romantic comedy. This marks the beginning of their story.
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9. Wash My Heart (Japanese: みなと商事コインランドリー)
This series, released in 2022 and also known as "Minato-san's Self-Service Laundromat," is an adaptation of a BL manga with the same name, written by Yuzu Tsubaki (椿ゆず) and illustrated by Sawa Kantsume (缶爪さわ).
It's a BL work that crosses generational boundaries. The story revolves around Minato Akira, who is about to turn 30 and inherits his grandfather's old coin-operated laundromat, and Shintaro, a handsome high school student who becomes a customer at the laundromat. Both of the lead actors have experience in BL dramas. Kusakawa mentioned that in his previous work, there wasn't a romantic storyline, but after being involved in this project, he felt that the BL world is a beautiful one. He also didn't consciously think of it as a "BL work" while shooting, treating it as a pure romance story.
The series is filled with sweetness and explores a cross-generational romance, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy dreamy and heartwarming stories.
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10. Ossans Love(Japanese: おっさんずラブ)
You're right that the BL market in the Japanese drama industry gained momentum after "Ossan's Love," a same-sex romantic comedy starring Kei Tanaka. Following a well-received single-episode special in 2016, the TV series was released in 2018, consisting of 7 episodes.
The story revolves around Soichi Haruta, a heterosexual protagonist with no luck in romantic relationships. He receives confessions from his respected boss, Musashi Kurosawa, and his junior coworker and roommate, Ryota Maki. This sets the stage for a workplace romantic comedy. Due to its popularity, the series also spawned a movie adaptation and a sequel with the same cast, although it's not a direct continuation of the original storyline.
The series exudes a cheerful and comedic atmosphere, and it's known for its memorable line: "I don't have big breasts, but is a big...ok?" While it's dedicated to making viewers laugh, it also provides a good portrayal of the challenges of same-sex relationships. It's a show that can be enjoyed with a light-hearted and fun attitude.
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Conclusion
BL dramas have evolved from a niche genre into a mainstream phenomenon, winning over both long-time fans and general audiences with their charm, storytelling, and emotional depth. From lighthearted comedies to heartwarming romances and intense dramas, these series showcase the diversity of BL narratives. Whether you’re a seasoned fujoshi/fudanshi or simply curious, this list of must-watch BL dramas offers the perfect gateway into the world of Boys’ Love.
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