When it comes to anime that tugs at your heartstrings and dives deep into themes of drama and romance After the Rain stands as a shining example.
The series delicately explores the intricate emotions that develop between a high school girl and an older man, a formula that resonates with viewers seeking a poignant narrative.
If you’ve found yourself captivated by the emotions of After the Rain and are in search of similar anime experiences, look no further.
In this article, we’ll delve into a curated list of 10 anime that share the essence of After the Rain, captivating you with their unique tales of love, growth, and connection.
From “The Garden of Words”, and “Koikimo”, to “Sweetness & Lightning”, Here are the 10 best anime like After the Rain (Koi wa Ameagari no You ni).
So, let’s get started.
1. The Garden of Words
The Garden of Words is a visual masterpiece directed by Makoto Shinkai. The story centers around a high school student who seeks solace in a garden during rainy days and encounters an older woman. As they share their dreams and struggles, an unlikely bond forms between them.
Like After the Rain, this anime beautifully explores the connection between two individuals from different walks of life. The characters find solace in each other’s company, and their interactions provide a heartwarming narrative that transcends age.
2. The Ancient Magus Bride
The Ancient Magus’ Bride follows Chise, a young girl with a troubled past who is sold into slavery but finds herself in the care of a mysterious magus. As she discovers her own magical abilities, Chise’s relationship with her magus savior deepens.
The anime delves into a unique and complex relationship, similar to After the Rain. The dynamics between Chise and her magus master are laden with emotional growth and connection.
3. Higehiro: After Being Rejected, I Shaved and Took in a High School Runaway
Higehiro tells the story of Yoshida, a salaryman who offers shelter to a high school girl, Sayu after she runs away from home. Their unconventional cohabitation leads to unexpected feelings and self-discovery.
Just as After the Rain explores an age-gap relationship, Higehiro delves into the complexities of an office worker’s bond with a younger girl. The anime takes a sensitive approach to their growing connection.
4. Koikimo
Koikimo, short for It’s Disgusting to Call This Love, introduces Ryo Amakusa, a womanizing playboy who falls for a high school girl. Despite the unconventional premise, the anime navigates their relationship with humor and sincerity.
While the premise differs, both anime series delves into unconventional romantic dynamics, highlighting the challenges and growth that arise when characters from different stages of life find themselves drawn to each other.
5. My Love Story!!
My Love Story!! centers around Takeo, a high school student with an imposing appearance, and his blossoming romance with Rinko, a sweet and gentle girl. The series balances heartwarming moments with comedic elements.
Like After the Rain, this anime emphasizes the importance of inner qualities over appearances. The characters’ connection is built on genuine understanding and acceptance.
6. Lovely Complex
Lovely Complex revolves around Risa and Otani, two high school students who are taller and shorter than average, respectively. Despite their bickering, their close friendship evolves into something deeper.
The anime shares the theme of friendship blossoming into romance, akin to the connection between characters in After the Rain. The protagonists’ banter adds a relatable and endearing touch.
7. Sweetness & Lightning
Sweetness & Lightning follows a single father who strives to create delicious meals for his young daughter after his wife’s passing. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when they befriend one of his students.
Both anime emphasizes the importance of shared experiences, building bonds through moments of vulnerability. Sweetness & Lightning portrays the essence of human connections in a heartwarming manner.
8. Sing Yesterday for Me
Sing Yesterday for Me captures the lives of three individuals navigating uncertainties in love and career. The story explores the complexities of relationships and the choices that shape them.
The anime resonates with the emotional depth found in After the Rain, delving into the complexities of relationships and personal growth.
9. Inu x Boku Secret Service
Inu x Boku Secret Service centers on a group of individuals with supernatural powers who live in a luxury apartment building. The story focuses on Ririchiyo, a girl with a guarded past, and her connection with her assigned Secret Service agent.
Both anime explore the layers of connection and understanding between characters, as well as their personal growth. The series delves into the intricacies of emotional barriers and vulnerability.
10. Koi Kaze
Koi Kaze confronts a taboo subject – the romantic attraction between siblings. The anime delves into the challenges and emotional turmoil faced by characters dealing with forbidden feelings.
Like After the Rain, this anime challenges societal norms and delves into complex emotional territory. It showcases characters grappling with their feelings and the consequences of their choices.
