20 Anime That Aired a Same-Sex Kiss Before 2005

Anime has a long history of exploring diverse relationships and often preceded Western animation in depicting same-sex intimacy. During the 1980s and 1990s, the medium began to feature more explicit romantic gestures between characters of the same gender in both television series and original video animations. These moments range from dramatic plot devices and accidental encounters to genuine expressions of love. The following list highlights twenty productions that featured a same-sex kiss prior to the year 2005.

‘Fight!! Iczer-One’ (1985)

This science fiction OVA features a strong bond between the alien android Iczer-1 and a human girl named Nagisa. Throughout the series, their relationship deepens as they pilot the mecha Iczer-Robo together to save Earth from the Cthulhu-like invaders. A pivotal scene involves Iczer-1 kissing Nagisa to synchronize their minds and unleash their full power. This moment is often cited as an early example of yuri themes in action-oriented anime.

‘Dirty Pair: Project Eden’ (1987)

The ‘Dirty Pair’ franchise follows the chaotic adventures of Lovely Angels Kei and Yuri as they solve crimes across the galaxy. In the opening animation sequence of this theatrical film, the two protagonists share a brief kiss on the lips. While the series typically frames their relationship as a close partnership with comedic undertones, this visual confirmed the romantic subtext for many fans. The film remains a cult classic for its high-quality animation and 80s aesthetic.

‘Kaze to Ki no Uta Sanctus: Sei Naru Kana’ (1987)

Based on a pioneering manga in the boys’ love genre, this OVA adapts the tragic romance between students Serge and Gilbert. Set in a boarding school in late 19th-century France, the story tackles heavy themes of abuse and obsession. The anime features intimate scenes between the male leads that were groundbreaking for the time. It remains a significant title in the history of shonen-ai animation for its serious dramatic tone.

‘Zetsuai 1989’ (1992)

This OVA centers on the intense and melodramatic relationship between a famous rock star named Takuto and a soccer player named Koji. Takuto develops an overwhelming obsession with Koji after a chance encounter and pursues him relentlessly. The narrative is known for its emotional volatility and the controversial nature of Takuto’s aggressive love. The anime includes scenes that depict the physical and emotional intensity of their bond.

‘Ai no Kusabi’ (1992)

Set in a futuristic caste system governed by hair color, this OVA tells the story of Riki and Iason Mink. Riki is a mongrel from the slums who becomes the “pet” of Iason, a high-ranking elite. The series explores complex dynamics of power, consent, and affection within their unequal relationship. It contains explicit scenes of intimacy that established it as a seminal work in the yaoi genre.

‘Sailor Moon R: The Movie – The Promise of the Rose’ (1993)

The first theatrical film of the ‘Sailor Moon’ franchise introduces an alien antagonist named Fiore who has a deep history with Mamoru Chiba. Fiore returns to Earth to reunite with Mamoru and expresses a possessive love that drives the conflict of the movie. In a climactic moment, Fiore kisses Mamoru to transfer life energy to him. This gesture creates a romantic parallel that mirrors the bond between Mamoru and Usagi.

‘Blue Seed’ (1994)

This supernatural action series incorporates Japanese mythology and modern monster hunting. The show features a scene where the character Kome Sawaguchi kisses the protagonist Momiji Fujimiya. This act is performed to transfer vital energy and save Momiji from a critical situation. While the context is magical in nature, it stands as a clear on-screen kiss between two female characters in a mainstream TV anime.

‘Kizuna’ (1994)

Focusing on the relationship between yakuza heir Ranmaru and his lover Enjouji, this OVA mixes crime drama with romance. The story follows the couple as they navigate dangerous rivalries and threats to their relationship. It features passionate kisses and intimacy that define their established partnership. The anime is a direct adaptation of a popular manga that helped popularize boys’ love tropes in the 90s.

‘El-Hazard: The Magnificent World’ (1995)

In this isekai adventure, a high school student named Makoto is transported to a fantasy world along with his friends. One of the key characters in this new world is Princess Fatora, who openly prefers the company of women. She initiates a kiss with the character Alielle, who becomes her devoted attendant. Fatora’s predatory but comedic pursuit of female partners is a recurring gag throughout the series.

‘Miyuki-chan in Wonderland’ (1995)

Created by the group CLAMP, this surreal OVA follows a girl named Miyuki who is transported to various strange dimensions. In every world she visits, she encounters female characters who are instantly attracted to her. Miyuki is constantly pursued and kissed by these women as she frantically tries to find her way home. The entire premise serves as a comedic subversion of the ‘Alice in Wonderland’ story with a yuri twist.

‘Revolutionary Girl Utena’ (1997)

This surrealist series deconstructs fairy tale tropes through the story of Utena Tenjou and the Rose Bride Anthy Himemiya. While the TV series relies heavily on symbolic intimacy, the 1999 movie ‘Adolescence of Utena’ features a visually stunning kiss between the two leads. Their relationship is the emotional core of the franchise and challenges heteronormative standards. The kiss in the film serves as a definitive confirmation of their romantic connection.

‘Strange Love’ (1997)

This short TV series focuses on the unconventional romance between two high school girls, Chizuru and Azumi. Chizuru initially tries to manipulate Azumi but eventually develops genuine feelings for her. The show depicts their developing relationship with several kissing scenes throughout its run. It stands out as an early attempt to portray a lesbian romance in a school setting without magical elements.

‘Devil Lady’ (1998)

A darker and grittier entry in the ‘Devilman’ franchise, this series follows Jun Fudo as she battles beastly monsters while transforming into a devil herself. Jun forms a complex relationship with Kazumi, a fellow model who deeply admires and loves her. The two share intimate moments and kisses that underscore the tragic nature of their bond. The series uses these relationships to explore themes of humanity and monstrosity.

‘Fake’ (1996)

This OVA is a buddy cop story involving two detectives, Dee Laytner and Ryo Maclean, who are partners in the San Francisco Police Department. Dee is openly in love with Ryo and frequently makes advances toward him during their investigations. The anime balances action and mystery with the developing romance between the two men. It culminates in a romantic kiss that pays off the tension built throughout the story.

‘Steel Angel Kurumi’ (1999)

In this sci-fi harem anime, androids known as Steel Angels are activated through a kiss. While the main character Nakahito accidentally activates Kurumi, other Steel Angels like Saki are also introduced. Saki is activated by a kiss from another female character, establishing a precedent for same-sex activation within the series lore. This mechanic plays a central role in the relationships and rivalries between the androids.

‘Gravitation’ (2000)

This musical romance series follows the energetic singer Shuichi Shindou and his turbulent relationship with the novelist Eiri Yuki. The show details their struggles with fame, past traumas, and their commitment to one another. It features multiple kisses between the two male leads as they navigate the highs and lows of the entertainment industry. ‘Gravitation’ became a gateway title for many international fans of the boys’ love genre.

‘Descendants of Darkness’ (2000)

Supernatural detectives work for the Ministry of Hades to solve cases involving the undead in this gothic fantasy series. The protagonist Tsuzuki Asato attracts the dangerous obsession of the villainous Dr. Muraki. Muraki frequently invades Tsuzuki’s personal space and forces a kiss upon him in a chilling display of dominance. The series blends dark fantasy elements with the tension of this unwanted romantic pursuit.

‘Yamibo – Darkness, the Hat, and the Travelers of the Books’ (2003)

The story follows a girl named Hazuki who travels across multiple dimensions within books to find her missing sister and love interest, Hatsumi. Hazuki is explicitly driven by her romantic love for Hatsumi and rejects other suitors along the way. The series features kisses between the female leads and explores various yuri dynamics in the different worlds they visit. It is recognized for its serious approach to the protagonist’s devotion.

‘Destiny of the Shrine Maiden’ (2004)

Himeko and Chikane are the reincarnations of the Solar and Lunar priestesses destined to fight the evil Orochi. Chikane harbors a secret, intense love for Himeko that drives much of the dramatic tension in the series. The show is famous for its emotional storytelling and a pivotal, heartbreaking kiss between the two girls. It remains a landmark title in the yuri genre for combining mecha action with a tragic romance.

‘Kyo Kara Maoh!’ (2004)

High school student Yuuri Shibuya is transported to a fantasy world where he becomes the Demon King. Early in the series, he accidentally proposes to the nobleman Wolfram von Bielefeld by slapping him, which is a custom in that culture. Wolfram takes the engagement seriously, and the two share a kiss that seals their betrothal. The show plays their relationship for both comedy and genuine character growth over its long run.

Which of these classic moments surprised you the most when you first saw it? Share your thoughts in the comments.