If You Didn't Have a Crush on These Anime Characters, Are You Even a Fan?
Anime has given us some of the most unforgettable characters, but let’s be real—some of them surpassed the term cool, and entered crush-worthy territory. Whether it was their charm, looks, badassery, or sheer presence, these ladies made an impact so strong that it felt almost mandatory to fall for them.
If you watched anime during certain eras, chances are at least one of these female icons had you feeling some type of way. From femme fatales from Bleach to muscle-bound warriors in JuJutsu Kaisen, and childhood crushes that never really faded, these characters defined what it meant to have a crush on a girl who is just out of your league.
10 Bulma
Dragon Ball
Bulma is a classic anime waifu, so much so that she could easily be painted on the side of a military aircraft like a vintage pin-up girl. Her most risqué moments were in the original Dragon Ball, where she often used her feminine charm—and even flashed her panties—to get her way.
For many fans, she was their first anime crush, and it’s easy to see why. As one of the few recurring female characters early on, she stood out even more. Beyond her looks, Bulma is a genius and one of the funniest and smartest characters in the series, fully aware of when and how to use manipulation to her advantage. While her suggestive moments significantly decreased in Dragon Ball Z, she remained a fashion icon, constantly changing her hairstyle and wardrobe, proving that she was always a striking presence in the series.
- Created by
- Akira Toriyama
- First Film
- Dragon Ball: Curse of the Blood Rubies
- Latest Film
- Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero
- First TV Show
- Dragon Ball
- Latest TV Show
- Super Dragon Ball Heroes
- First Episode Air Date
- April 26, 1989
9 Sailor Mercury
Sailor Moon
Sailor Moon, a gateway anime for many North American fans, introduced five unique heroines, but Sailor Mercury always stood out. Whether it was her signature blue hair, intelligence, or calm demeanor contrasting her more fiery teammates, Ami remained one of the series’ most recognizable characters, second only to Sailor Moon herself.
As the team’s strategist, she was the brains behind their operations, embodying kindness and a gentle shyness that made her endearing. She set the precedent for later reserved yet brilliant characters like Hinata from Naruto. Ami consistently came across as the most thoughtful of the group, exuding a quiet charm that made her feel like the ideal girlfriend—so much so one would proudly introduce her to their family. Her blend of intellect, grace, and warmth ensured she would stand out amongst her classmate counterparts.
- Created by
- Naoko Takeuchi
- First Film
- Sailor Moon R
- Latest Film
- Sailor Moon Cosmos
- First TV Show
- Sailor Moon
- Latest TV Show
- Sailor Moon Crystal
- First Episode Air Date
- March 7, 1992
35 Best Female Anime Characters of All Time, Ranked
Anime is filled with a plethora of great female characters, but the following are some of the best-written women in all anime history.
8 Nico Robin
One Piece
For a time, Nami holds the title of best girl in One Piece, but that changes when the sophisticated Nico Robin joins the crew. Where Nami is youthful and energetic, Robin exudes elegance and mystery. Nami craves money, while Robin hungers for knowledge, often seen lounging with a book in hand. Introduced with a tan and a cowgirl aesthetic from her time in Alabasta, she later returns from the winter islands with porcelain skin and long hair tucked behind her ears, adding to her allure.
Robin’s striking figure is complemented by her Devil Fruit ability, which lets her sprout limbs anywhere—even enlarging herself temporarily. Her intelligence, poise, and unique power make her an easy character to admire. The more you think about her, the easier it is to develop a lasting crush on the enigmatic devil child.
- Created by
- Eiichiro Oda
- First Film
- One Piece: The Movie
- First TV Show
- One Piece
- Cast
- Kazuya Nakai, Akemi Okamura, Kappei Yamaguchi, Hiroaki Hirata, Ikue Ôtani, Yuriko Yamaguchi
- Video Game(s)
- One Piece: Unlimited World Red, One Piece: Pirate Warriors 3, One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4, One Piece: World Seeker, One Piece Odyssey
- Character(s)
- Monkey D. Luffy, Roronora Zoro, Nami (One Piece), Nico Robin, Usopp (One Piece), Vinsmoke Sanji, Tony Tony Chopper, Franky (One Piece), Jimbei (One Piece)
7 Hinata
Naruto
Although Sakura had the most screentime and was once the object of Naruto’s affection, true fans always knew Hinata would be his bride—especially after the time skip. No female character in Shippuden had a better glow-up than Hinata, surpassing Sakura and Ino as the Hidden Leaf’s most beautiful. Beyond her looks, she remained a true sweetheart.
From childhood to adulthood, Hinata embodied kindness, compassion, and unwavering support, making her one of the franchise’s most nurturing shinobi. Her admiration for Naruto’s tenacity was evident for years, and in Boruto, she ultimately becomes the best wife, standing by the boy who inspired her to be great. With her gentle nature, inner strength, and undeniable charm, Hinata proved that she was more than just a love interest—she was the perfect partner in every way; especially for Naruto.
- Latest Film
- Boruto: Naruto the Movie
- First TV Show
- Naruto
- Latest TV Show
- Boruto: Naruto Next Generations
- First Episode Air Date
- October 3, 2002
- Cast
- Junko Takeuchi, Maile Flanagan, Noriaki Sugiyama, Chie Nakamura, Kazuhiko Inoue, Nana Mizuki, Hideo Ishikawa, Yûko Sanpei
6 Urd
Ah! My Goddess
While Belldandy embodies the perfect wife, her sister Urd brings the spice and excitement that ensures life with her would never be dull. If Belldandy is all sweetness, Urd is the fiery contrast—seductive, savvy, and mischievous. It’s a wonder Keiichi never gave in to her playful advances, all intended to make him a better lover for her sister. That’s a fantasy few could resist, and not many would be as selfless as Ah! My Goddess’s main protagonist.
Beyond her flirtatious nature, Urd possesses both strength and determination, using them to get her way when needed. Her striking bronze skin, silver hair, and voluptuous figure set her apart from her sisters, making her an easy favorite for first-time viewers. With her mix of charm, power, and allure, Urd remains one of anime’s most captivating and unforgettable goddesses.
5 Rangiku
Bleach
Rangiku easily earns a spot on the Mount Rushmore of anime crushes with her mature beauty and undeniable sex appeal. Bleach is filled with stunning women, but Rangiku reigns supreme with her signature mole, flowing strawberry-blonde hair, and revealing kimono. It’s impossible to watch the series without stealing a second or third glance at her—just like many characters onscreen do. Her playful and confident nature only adds to her charm, making her a scene-stealer whenever she appears.
This is especially true when she visits Ichigo in the real world, trading her Soul Reaper attire for stylish outfits that highlight her allure even more. Whether she’s fighting on the battlefield or teasing her comrades, Rangiku’s “spiritual pressure” is undeniable, solidifying her as one of Bleach and anime’s most iconic ladies.
- Created by
- Tite Kubo
- First Film
- Bleach: Memories of Nobody
- First TV Show
- Bleach
- Cast
- Johnny Yong Bosch, Michelle Ruff, Stephanie Sheh, Jamieson Price, Derek Stephen Prince, Wally Wingert
- TV Show(s)
- Bleach, Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War
- Movie(s)
- Bleach, Bleach: Hell Verse, Bleach: Fade to Black, Bleach: Memories of Nobody, Bleach: The DiamondDust Rebellion
4 Mikasa
Attack on Titan
Despite the cruel world of Attack on Titan, there’s the beautiful Mikasa Ackerman to make it easier to endure. As powerful as she is stunning, Mikasa is fiercely protective of those she loves, balancing tenderness with deadly efficiency. She can be gentle when the moment calls for it, yet in an instant, she’s capable of taking down enemies with lethal precision. It’s no wonder fans fell for her immediately—unlike Eren, who took far too long to realize her worth.
Watching Mikasa devote herself to a one-sided relationship was frustrating for both characters and fans alike. She deserved better, and plenty of people—Jean included—were more than willing to give her that. She stands out as a unicorn amongst the people of Eldia due to her nationality, which broadens her appeal even more among her friend group. Mikasa’s love runs deep and her devotion and killer instinct make her the most cherished woman in the series.
- Created by
- Hajime Isayama
- First Film
- Attack on Titan: The Crimson Bow and Arrow
- Latest Film
- Attack on Titan: The Final Chapters (2023)
- Upcoming Films
- Attack on Titan The Movie: The Last Attack (2024)
- First TV Show
- Attack On Titan
- Latest TV Show
- Attack On Titan
3 Faye Valentine
Cowboy Bebop
Faye Valentine is the ultimate femme fatale in anime, with no real competition. She’s sexy, dangerous, and knows how to use her charm to get what she wants, often donning revealing outfits as part of her tactics. While she isn’t shy about using seduction as a weapon, there’s much more to her than meets the eye. Beneath her bold exterior lies a vulnerable, complex woman searching for her past, making her more than just eye candy.
She embodies the classic noir heroine but with a tsundere twist, adding a unique edge to her character. Her sharp wit and sarcastic humor make her not only alluring but also genuinely entertaining. Whether outwitting bounty hunters or reflecting on her tragic past, Faye remains one of anime’s most unforgettable leading ladies.
Cowboy Bebop
- Release Date
- 1998 - 1999
- Network
- TV Tokyo, WOWOW Prime
- Directors
- Yoshiyuki Takei, Ikuro Sato, Hirokazu Yamada
- Writers
- Keiko Nobumoto, Michiko Yokote, Dai Sato, Sadayuki Murai, Akihiko Inari
- Franchise(s)
- Cowboy Bebop
Cast
Koichi YamaderaSpike Spiegel / Ein (voice)- Unsho IshizukaJet Black (voice)
2 Maki
JuJutsu Kaisen
Maki undergoes one of the most drastic transformations in Jujutsu Kaisen, evolving from a long-haired, glasses-wearing weapons expert with an attitude into a true powerhouse. Her shift into the “female Toji” comes with short hair, immense physical strength, and a commanding presence.
Much like Mikasa, she embodies the muscle mommy archetype, but what makes her stand out is the sheer satisfaction of watching her growth. Her transformation isn’t just about power—it’s about resilience, proving her worth despite being born without cursed energy. Her battle scars add to her allure, enhancing her already tough exterior with undeniable sex appeal. It was hard not to catch feelings for her in Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (especially after that split), but once the Perfect Preparation arc begins, falling for her becomes inevitable.
- Created by
- Gege Akutami
- First Film
- Jujutsu Kaisen 0
- Latest Film
- Jujutsu Kaisen 0
- First TV Show
- Jujutsu Kaisen
- Latest TV Show
- Jujutsu Kaisen
- Upcoming TV Shows
- Jujutsu Kaisen
1 Makima
Chainsaw Man
Every Chainsaw Man fan has a crush on Makima, but they should pray she doesn’t return the favor—her idea of affection is pure control. Beneath her sweet smile and enigmatic charm lies a deeply manipulative and ruthless woman who bends people to her will, especially Denji, whom she exploits without remorse.
No one truly knows her motives at first, making her all the more mysterious and dangerous. Her intelligence, dominance, and chilling composure make her an unforgettable character, one who commands fear and admiration in equal measure. She embodies the perfect blend of elegance and horror, capable of both seducing and terrifying in the same breath. Makima isn't just a crush—she’s an obsession, one that lures you in before revealing the terrifying reality of what it means to be under her control.
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- Created by
- Tatsuki Fujimoto
- Upcoming Films
- Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc (2025)
- First TV Show
- Chainsaw Man
- Latest TV Show
- Chainsaw Man
- First Episode Air Date
- October 12, 2022
- Cast
- Kikunosuke Toya, Tomori Kusunoki, Shôgo Sakata, Ai Fairouz, Mariya Ise, Kenjiro Tsuda, Shiori Izawa, Reina Ueda
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