Anime Similar to Fruits Basket 2019

Natsume can see spirits and spends his days returning their names to release them from contracts. It’s a quiet, beautiful journey about belonging.

Why it's similar: Like Tohru, Natsume is a kind-hearted soul dealing with a supernatural burden that others don't understand. Both shows explore how kindness can break cycles of bitterness and isolation.

Power comparison: While both involve spirits, Natsume uses a physical book to interact with Yokai rather than transforming into animals.

Why watch after Fruits Basket 2019: This is the best pick if you preferred the episodic growth and the bittersweet supernatural encounters in Fruits Basket.

→ See anime similar to Natsume's Book Of Friends

A girl receives a letter from her future self asking her to save a new transfer student from a tragic fate. It’s a heavy, emotional look at regret.

Why it's similar: The core of the story involves a group of friends trying to save one person from their own internal darkness. The heavy themes of guilt and the desire to change a fixed destiny will resonate with Sohma fans.

Power comparison: The only supernatural element is the time-traveling letter, which serves as a plot device for the emotional drama.

Why watch after Fruits Basket 2019: Pick this if the Kyo or Yuki redemption arcs were your favorite parts of the show. It deals with similar emotional stakes.

→ See anime similar to Orange

Sawako is misunderstood and feared by her classmates because she looks like a horror movie character. Her life changes when the most popular boy starts talking to her.

Why it's similar: This captures the pure, slow-burn romance and the theme of being an outcast finding a place to belong. It’s lighter than Fruits Basket but shares that same genuine, heart-tugging sincerity.

Power comparison: This is a grounded school romance with zero supernatural elements or curses.

Why watch after Fruits Basket 2019: If you need a break from the trauma but want that same feeling of a kind girl finding her voice, this is essential viewing.

→ See anime similar to Kimi Ni Todoke: From Me To You

A delinquent student helps a sickly girl revive the school's drama club, leading to a life-changing series of events. It is famous for its emotional impact.

Why it's similar: Both shows start as lighthearted school stories before diving into heavy, tear-jerking explorations of family and loss. The character growth spans years, making the payoff feel earned and massive.

Power comparison: It features subtle magical realism (light orbs) that represents the power of happiness, but it stays largely realistic.

Why watch after Fruits Basket 2019: Watch this if you want another 'emotional gauntlet' that will make you cry just as much as the final season of Fruits Basket.

→ See anime similar to Clannad