Once again, OTAKUSMART brings the list of the best anime waifu of 2025, and they are coming for your heart (and probably your wallet). These anime waifu of 2025 are all over the place and trust us, they’ll keep you up at night, questioning your life choices.
But before you dive into this life-changing list of characters, let’s take a moment to explore what exactly a waifu is and why fans are fighting tooth and nail over which anime girl reigns supreme in every comment section known to mankind.
Once we get the deeply philosophical definition of an anime waifu, we can move on to the important stuff—the best anime waifu of 2025 from the most popular TV shows and movies.
The Need for Waifus in Anime and Manga
So, the term “waifu” was originally coined in Japan. It’s a term that’s been lovingly hijacked by anime fans worldwide to describe the perfect female characters in anime, manga, and video games (because, apparently, your real-life spouse just doesn’t cut it). The word itself comes from the Japanese katakana ワイフ, which is just a fancy, anime-friendly way of saying “wife.” Of course, in traditional Japanese, “wife” is 妻 (tsuma), but who’s counting? “Waifu” is way catchier.
And if you think waifus are just a Japan-only phenomenon, think again. These hot, fictional characters are taking over the globe, one merch purchase at a time. Fans are dropping insane amounts of money on everything from figures to pillowcases because, hey, who needs real relationships when you can have an anime waifu?
In fact, modern anime has basically become required to feature some sort of sexy waifu to keep viewers interested. As we inch closer to 2025, the demand for more hot waifus in anime will only grow. So, now that we’ve philosophically examined what an anime waifu is, let’s get to the essential stuff—the best anime waifu 2025 candidates, ready to officially ruin your sleep schedule and take over your life.
Best Anime Waifu of 2025 (Best Anime Girl of the Next Year)
1. Emilia (Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World)
Emilia is the main heroine of Re:Zero, because obviously, every isekai needs a half-elf princess with a tragic backstory. She’s a candidate for the 42nd King of the Dragon Kingdom of Lugunica—because why not add royalty to the mix? She meets Natsuki Subaru on the day he’s dragged into this world, which is, you know, so convenient. Born in Elior Forest, she was frozen for 100 years (totally normal, right?) and had her memories locked away. Spirits adore her, yet somehow spends most of her time being discriminated against—go figure. But, like every self-respecting protagonist, she’s come through with some achievements, including defeating the Sin Archbishop of Greed and forming alliances that make her seem even more important. Truly, Emilia is the epitome of “I’ve got issues, but I’ll still save the day.”
2. Momo Ayase (Dandadan)
Momo Ayase is the main female protagonist of Dandadan, the latest suspense and thriller anime where she spends her days helping her friend, Ken Takakura—who, for some reason, has the worst luck imaginable—find his missing kintama after being cursed by a Turbo Granny. Clearly, a normal Tuesday. Momo’s got psychic powers (because, sure, why not?) and, like any good teenager, gets roped into dealing with paranormal chaos because her life wasn’t complicated enough already. She’s 17, has auburn hair, brownish crimson eyes (very specific), and works part-time as a waitress—because school, psychic powers, and saving the day still don’t pay the bills.
3. Chinatsu Kano (Blue Box)
Chinatsu Kano, the “totally unique” third-year basketball player in Blue Box, is every high school’s dream character—if your dream is a generic, hoodie-wearing, short-haired girl who plays basketball and falls into a completely normal high school romance. At 16-18 (because why bother with consistency?), she’s the pinnacle of relatable, with her oversized shirts and gym shorts, like any teenager who just lives for those intense basketball practices. She also juggles a love life with Taiki Inomata, because what’s a plot without a little teenage angst and sports drama? With friends, rivals, and maybe a few existential crises, Chinatsu checks all the boxes for “school life with a twist”—though, honestly, it’s mostly just basketball.
4. Hina Chono (Blue Box)
Hina Chono is a second-year student at Eimei Senior High and a proud member of the Rhythmic Gymnastics Team. Standing at an average height of 150 cm, she’s got pink hair that she wears in two adorably awkward puffs, because why not make a statement with your hair? When she’s not busy twisting herself into impossible shapes in a leotard, she’s probably throwing on a jacket to “blend in” like any other gymnastic prodigy. Hina’s got the energy of a toddler on sugar, and she’s always way too interested in other people’s love lives. She claims to hate working hard, but don’t worry—she’ll put in just enough effort to make sure she achieves whatever random goal she’s set for herself. Friends? She’s got a bunch of those, too, and she’s always looking out for them—mainly by sticking her nose into their business.
5. Akane Tendo (Ranma1/2 (2024))
Akane Tendo is the 16-year-old youngest daughter of Soun Tendo, the martial artist with a slightly terrifying temper, and the unwilling fiancée of Ranma Saotome. Known as the “Violent Tomboy” (thanks, Ranma), Akane’s cooking skills are legendary—for all the wrong reasons—except when it comes to her curry, which somehow doesn’t poison people. Raised in a dojo, she’s a skilled martial artist but has zero interest in traditional feminine duties, leaving that to her older sister, Kasumi. And despite her charming nickname collection, she’s somehow the object of affection for half the male cast. How does she do it?
6. Aira Shiratori (Dandadan)
Aira Shiratori is that girl from Dandadan—the one everyone at Kami High recognizes as “the popular one” because, obviously, being attractive is her most important skill. At 17, she’s got short light pink hair, dark pink eyes, and a wardrobe that screams “I’m too cool for you” with her perfectly styled school uniform. When she’s not basking in the admiration of every guy at school (because she knows she’s hot), she’s busy being one of Momo and Okarun’s go-to allies in their endless battle with the paranormal. Oh, and did we mention she’s got yokai powers? Because, naturally, being gorgeous and popular wasn’t enough—she’s also got some mystical abilities.
7. Orihime Inoue (BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict)
Orihime Inoue is the beloved character from Bleach, whose life consists of being married to Ichigo Kurosaki (because, of course, she ends up with the main character) and raising their son, Kazui, in the blissful town of Karakura. At 29 years old, she’s a human with long, burnt orange hair that’s practically a personality trait—not to mention the fact that she wears hairpins to honor her dead brother (so, you know, very deep). Despite her curvy teenage body (let’s not pretend we didn’t notice), she’s a defender of the world with her totally unique Shun Shun Rikka powers, which are way more practical than her hairstyle changes every few years. Her most notable talent? Changing her hairdo to match the emotional turmoil of the plot. Truly, a woman of great depth and great hair.
8. Yuki (You are Ms. Servant)
Yuki, also known as Yuki Yokoya (横谷 雪) or Xue, is a former assassin turned maid—because who wouldn’t want to go from silently eliminating targets to silently scrubbing floors? At around 21 years old, she stands tall at 5’8″ with obsidian green eyes and hair that’s black with a subtle greenish-blue tint (because she’s too mysterious to just have plain black hair). Now employed as a maid for the Hitoyoshi Yokoya family, she’s trying to figure out how to live a “normal” life (good luck with that) while wearing her signature maid dress, white gloves, and steel-toe boots. Oh, and let’s not forget the hairpin with a bell—because nothing screams “I used to be an assassin” like a cute little bell on your head.
9. Asahi Amagami (Tying the Knot with an Amagami Sister)
Asahi Amagami, 14, is the “Twilight Princess of Running” (her words, not ours). Born into neglect, she was ditched by her parents and adopted by the Amagamis, which of course led to her dramatic escape in a fit of anger. She’s cute, self-aware, and definitely too mature for her age—until it’s time to tease her sisters or get a little attention. Track star, shrine maiden, and part-time drama queen, Asahi’s determined to excel at everything, even if it’s as trivial as learning to ride a bike (spoiler: she’s not good at it). But hey, at least she’s trying, right?
10. Seiko Ayase (DAN DA DAN)
Seiko Ayase, aka Santa Dodoria (because why not have a dramatic alias), is the “youthful” grandmother of Momo Ayase. She’s a well-known spirit medium, chain smoker, and apparently, a beauty so young yet old that people mistake her for Momo’s mom—awkward, right? With her long white hair and flashy outfits, Seiko is as eccentric as they come, mixing spiritual wisdom with a heavy dose of “I don’t care what you think.” Her magical skills are only rivaled by her ability to teach her granddaughter Momo how to become an outcast. But hey, at least they’ve worked through their issues, kind of.
11. Winry Rockbell (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
Winry Rockbell, the human embodiment of sunshine in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, is here to remind you that no one’s ever allowed to feel sad around her. With her endless optimism and “I-can-fix-anything” attitude, she’s the friend you definitely need, especially when you’re knee-deep in emotional turmoil or metal limbs. Her unshakable positivity ensures no failure ever goes unchallenged, and she’s always ready to fight for her friends—probably while fixing a prosthetic arm or two. So, if you need someone to remind you that life’s not so bad (despite everything), Winry’s your girl. How refreshing.
12. Alice Nakiri (Shokugeki no Soma)
Alice Nakiri is a talented and fabulous chef in the Shokugeki no Soma, a fanservice anime serving mouth-watering food. Alice belonged to the famous Nakiri family from the series. Alice is a very determined girl who would do anything for which she has set her heart. She is an ambitious girl who gets what she wants and did a great job in Molecular Gastronomy. Alice is a calm and down-to-earth girl with many skills and talents up her sleeves. She has always practiced her cooking skills with her cousin, Erina Nakiri. She got her charm and beauty from her mother, and she is the perfect waifu of 2025 you could find.
13. Mai Sakurajima (Rascal Does Not Dream Of Bunny Girl Senpai)
Mai Sakurajima from Rascal Does Not Dream Of Bunny Girl Senpai is a lovable tsundere who wants to stay on the down-low despite her status as a model and actress. Her mother forced her into the industry at a very young age, so Mai feels disenchanted since most people only see her for the characters she’s played instead of who she really is. Mai’s Adolescence Syndrome grants her the anonymity she’s always wanted, but it also gradually erases her from existence. However, Sakuta loved her for who she was and helped stop the syndrome from getting worse. Mai may have a cold exterior, but she’s loyal and protective over the people she cares about.
14. Kitagawa Marin (My Dress-Up Darling)
Kitagawa Marin made her debut on the small screen with My Dress-Up Darling. After a long halt of waifus in the fall of 2021, the anime studio CloverWorks finally created a smug-faced waifu who reminds me of someone named Miss Nagatoro. Anyway, that aside, Kitagawa Marin is the best waifu for January 2022, and Hina Suguta did a fantastic job by lending her voice to this character. So far, Kitagawa Marin looks promising for this series but wait until you see the next waifu on this list.
15. Akeno Himejima (Highschool DxD)
Akeno Himejima appears in the popular anime High School DxD. She adores her friends and is willing to do everything for them. However, her character has a major drawback: Akeno is a sadistic masochist who enjoys seeing people in pain. She enjoys seeing her enemies suffer and is willing to go to extreme lengths to harm them and make their lives miserable. Akeno also enjoys teasing and irritating her closest friends. Overall, she is a lovable girl who is mostly seen wearing her uniform.
16. Miko Nakano (Quintessential Quintuplet)
Miko Nakano is a timid and meek sister out of five sisters. The Quintessential Quintuplet is a story about five sisters having unique personalities and intriguing characters. Niko Nakano has a very flexible attitude, and she wears an impassive face which reveals little to no confidence. She is obsessed with Generals from the Sengoku Period. She has a fascination for their theories, and she is very intrigued by these experiments and ideas. These philosophers and their philosophies so plague her that she consumes them into her own life.
17. Yor Forger (Spy X Family)
Spy X Family’s Yor Forger lives in the best of both worlds as an unassuming city hall employee by day and master assassin by night. Despite her reputation as the Thorn Princess, Yor’s real personality isn’t intimidating at all. She gets flustered easily and even seems naive in most situations. However, Yor’s martial arts skills and weapon expertise make her a truly deadly assassin. She can instantly cut down mobs of people without giving it a second thought and come out relatively unscathed.
18. Vermeil (Vermeil In Gold)
Vermeil is the leading lady in “Kinsou no Vermeil (Vermeil In Gold)” and is often perceived as a wicked figure. However, this is not entirely accurate. Alto Goldfield conquered Vermeil using a tome that locked her away for a century. Now that she’s been unleashed, she’s determined to make the most of her newfound freedom. She quickly becomes a fan favorite in the summer of 2022, landing a spot on the anime waifu list and emerging as the top-picked character in the series.
19. Chika Fujiwara (Kaguya-Sama: Love is War)
Chika is a cheerful and energetic character from the anime Kaguya-Sama: Love is War. Her playful and childlike demeanor often leads to misunderstandings, but she’s also highly intelligent. Chika knows how to have a good time and is a romantic at heart. Her endearing personality makes her a fan-favorite.
20. Mirko (My Hero Academia)
Mirko, also known as Rumi Usagiyama, is a powerful pro-hero in My Hero Academia. She’s a skilled fighter known for taking down entire mobs of villains with just one kick. Mirko is tough and independent, making her a formidable force. Her design and personality make her an unforgettable character.
21. Yunyun (KonoSuba)
Yunyun, from the comedy anime KonoSuba, is a relatable character for many. Growing up without friends, she was shy and awkward. Despite her background, Yunyun possesses magical abilities and is a key player in the series.
22. Princess Shuna (That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime)
Shuna is a princess from the Ogre tribe in the anime That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. Despite her sheltered upbringing, she’s skilled and powerful with magic. She’s kind and caring towards her friends, and also serves as an advisor to the protagonist, Rimuru.
23. Yui Yuigahama (OreGairu)
Yui is a cheerful and friendly character from the anime OreGairu. Her amicable attitude and ability to read people’s moods make her a popular figure at Sobu High School. She’s conscious of others’ feelings and always tries to bring happiness and cheer. Yui dislikes being left out and hates the thought of hurting others.
24. Shinobu Kocho (Demon Slayer)
A demon slayer saved Shinobu from a life-threatening encounter with demons who killed her parents. To honor her rescuer, she joins the demon slayer corps with a vow to eradicate demons. Shinobu’s relentless spirit, combined with her kind-heartedness and ingenuity, make her an exceptional demon slayer. Despite hardships in life, Shinobu shines with a radiant personality and is determined to eliminate all demons.
25. Makima (Chainsaw Man)
Makima, the primary antagonist in Chainsaw Man, has garnered a huge following despite her villainous actions. Her well-crafted character design and demeanor have left fans entranced, making her one of the most popular female characters in anime and manga. Although she is morally questionable, Makima’s manipulation skills and charisma are unmatched.
26. Nana Ebina (Himotou! Umaru-chan)
Nana Ebina is the beloved friend of Umaru in the animated series Himotou! Umaru-chan. She has a flustered demeanor and is easily recognizable by her long brown pigtailed hair and school uniform of a white shirt, red skirt, and big red bow.
27. Kaguya Shinomiya (Kaguya-Sama: Love Is War)
Kaguya is a high school student and part of the student council, as well as the archery club. Her once cold demeanor has been replaced with a caring personality after joining the council, but she still believes that money can solve all problems. Kaguya is quick-witted with a good sense of humor.
28. Ram (Re: Zero)
Ram, one of the twin sisters in Lugnica, is a skilled Oni with a single horn to connect with her magic. After a cultist attack, Ram’s horn is broken, causing her to lose her power, but she gains the ability to absorb mana. Despite losing her horn, Ram remains determined and strong. She and her sister, Rem, become maids for a powerful mage. Ram’s unwavering spirit makes her a desirable anime waifu for fans who appreciate strong women.
29. Maki Oze (Fire Force)
Maki Oze is a fiery force in Fire Force, known for her fearlessness in danger and her bold, unapologetic personality. Despite criticism for her blunt behavior and lack of conventional “feminine” manners, Maki remains true to herself and refuses to back down. Beneath her tough exterior lies a romantic heart, showing her emotional depth.
30. Kosaki (Nisekoi)
Kosaki, a shy character from the popular anime Nisekoi, is a fan favorite and often considered one of the best anime waifus. Adorably bashful, she harbors feelings for the male protagonist Raku Ichijou. Kosaki is a sweet and kindhearted young woman who follows her heart and is always there to lend a hand.
31. Chizuru Ichinose (Rent-A-Girlfriend)
Chizu Ichinose, also known as Chizuru Mizuhara, is the female lead in Rent-A-Girlfriend. She has a split personality, alternating between her true self and her “rental girlfriend” persona. As her true self, Chizu is clever with a touch of cunning, but as a rental girlfriend, she is calm and considerate. She is a calculating individual who used to be clingy but has since overcome that habit.
32. Lenalee Lee (D. Gray-Man)
Lenalee Lee is one of the main characters in D. Gray-Man, an exorcist tasked with eliminating Akumas. After the loss of her parents, Lenalee attempted to take her own life, but failed. This experience strengthened her resolve to protect her friends, who she considers her family. She is a fierce fighter and a determined girl, making her a great waifu choice for those who appreciate strong-willed characters.
33. Hinata Hyuga (Naruto)
Source: Pinterest
Hinata Hyuga made her debut in Naruto as a shy and awkward girl with a secret crush on the titular character. Over time, Hinata gained confidence and revealed her feelings to Naruto, eventually marrying him and becoming the mother of two children, Boruto Uzumaki and Himawari Uzumaki. Hinata remains a classic in the shy girl genre.
34. Tatsumaki (One Punch Man)
Tatsumaki, also known as Tornado of Terror, is a tritagonist in One Punch Man. She is an S-Class Rank 2 Esper and a professional hero, known for her petite stature and hot-headed personality. With emerald green hair and
35. Mikuru Asahina (The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya)
A shy and awkward character in one of the most iconic anime series of all time, Mikuru Asahina has captured the hearts of fans with her cute and timid demeanor. Despite being bullied by Haruhi, Mikuru remains kind and endearing, making her a top 5 favorite among anime viewers who appreciate shy girls.
36. Rei Hino (Sailor Moon)
One of the beloved characters from the “Sailor Moon” franchise, Rei Hino, also known as Sailor Mars, is a fiery young girl with a heart of gold. Her strong spirit and determination to become a world-hopping entrepreneur and a musical idol set her apart from the other Sailor Guardians. Despite her short-temperedness, she is fiercely loyal to Sailor Moon and always shows her love and support. This fiery spirit and her long black locks and black eyes make her a fan-favorite, ranking 16th in a popularity poll conducted by Japanese broadcaster NHK.
37. Sheele from (Akame ga Kill!)
Clumsy but powerful, Sheele from “Akame ga Kill!” is an assassin who can turn from a bumbling glasses-losing character to a cold-hearted killer on the battlefield. With her long violet hair and piercing eyes, Sheele strikes fear into her enemies, but she also has a soft side, showing her care and affection for her fellow Night Raid members. Her popularity among fans led to her ranking 7th in a poll conducted by the Akihabara Gamers Main Store’s Akame ga Kill Memorial Museum.
38. Megumi Tadokoro (Food Wars)
Megumi Tadokoro may be a nervous wreck, but her clumsiness and lack of confidence only add to her charm as a chef in the Totsuki Generation. Though she may be fidgety and stressed, her fellow chefs encourage her, and when she is calm and collected, she creates delicious dishes that delight all who taste them. With her generous spirit and culinary skills, Megumi is an admirable chef that viewers can’t help but root for.
39. Eru Chitanda (Hyouka and Classic Literature Club Series)
A model of grace and poise, Eru Chitanda is the epitome of a perfect teenager in the anime world. Hailing from a wealthy farmer family, Eru does not let her privilege get to her head and is always polite, sensible, and well-behaved. As the President of the Classic’s Club, she approaches life with a positive outlook and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Cooking is one of her passions, and she is especially fond of matcha milk. However, her tendency to pry into others’ affairs and lack of respect for personal space are the only blemishes on an otherwise ideal character.
40. Sumi Sakurasawa (Rent a Girlfriend)
Sumi is a standout in the anime “Rent a Girlfriend,” quickly becoming a fan favorite in her debut season. Her impact on the series has split the fandom into three groups, and despite rarely speaking without frustration, she is the second most popular girl in the show.
41. Bulma (Dragon Ball Z)
Bulma is one of the strongest and longest-running female characters in the DBZ universe, with a crucial role as the wife of Vegeta, mother of Trunks and Bulla, and daughter of Dr. Brief. She’s a versatile character, alternating between tomboyish and girly and sporting 18 different hairstyles. She’s also a brilliant scientist and often uses her gadgets in battles. In popularity polls, she ranks #9 and #17.
42. Kyoko Mogami (Skip Beat!)
Kyoko is the protagonist of the 2000s anime “Skip Beat!” who seeks revenge on her childhood friend and crush Sho Fuwa after he uses her as a maid. She transforms into a hardworking, determined actress and tops popularity polls with 2699 and 2640 votes.
43. Nao Tomori (Charlotte)
Nao is a first-year student at Hoshinoumi Academy and the head of the Student Council. She is the main female protagonist of the anime Charlotte and never leaves her camera, which she uses to capture the abilities of others. Despite her hardworking and determined personality, Nao can be arrogant at times. She loves spending time with children and playing with them. Her unique ability is to make a single person invisible at a time. Nao stands out with her striking grey hair and blue eyes and often wears her school uniform. She is considered a charming and cute anime character.
44. Saber (Fate Series)
Saber, also known as Artoria Pendragon, is a formidable Saber-class servant. With her fearlessness in battle and unrelenting determination, she earns the respect of her peers. Saber refuses to be underestimated because of her gender and strives to be just and fair in all her actions. Her unwavering moral code and immense popularity in the Fate series solidify her place as one of the strongest female characters.
45. Komi Shouko (Komi San Can’t Communicate)
Komi Shouko, also known by her nickname Komi San, is a character that embodies shyness and introversion. She experiences social anxiety, resulting in humorous scenarios in the anime. Yet, she is not alone in her journey, as those around her offer encouragement and assist her in breaking free from her shyness.
Summing Up!
And there you have it, folks—your completely life-altering list of the best anime waifus of 2025, guaranteed to make you rethink every single relationship decision you’ve ever made. From tragic princesses to high schoolers with psychic powers, this diverse array of fictional women will undoubtedly redefine your standards for romance and human connection.
Forget real-life intimacy; who needs it when you can have a waifu with more personality quirks than you can count? So go ahead, grab your wallet, and your collection of body pillows, and prepare for another year of futile debate over which anime girl will dominate your heart—and your bank account. You’re welcome.
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