The Most Popular Ship in Anime, Ranked

Choose the ship you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 06:49
In the world of anime, the relationships between characters can sometimes steal the spotlight from the main plot. Fans passionately debate which couples should end up together, leading to vibrant discussions and communities dedicated to their favorite pairs. By ranking these beloved ships, fans gain insight into broader community preferences and see how their personal favorites stack up against the rest. The collective input from numerous enthusiasts provides a dynamic snapshot of current trends in anime relationships. This not only promotes engagement within the community but also introduces newcomers to the most cherished dynamics. Voting on these rankings enables fans to contribute to the evolving landscape of anime popularity, ensuring that their voices are heard and appreciated.

What Is the Most Popular Ship in Anime?

  1. 1
    23
    votes

    Naruto and Hinata from Naruto

    Masashi Kishimoto
    This ship is popular because it started as a one-sided crush but eventually developed into a romantic relationship that fans had been rooting for.
    The ship 'Naruto and Hinata' refers to the romantic relationship between Naruto Uzumaki and Hinata Hyuga from the anime series Naruto. Naruto is the main protagonist, a young ninja who aspires to become the Hokage, the leader of his village. Hinata is another ninja and a member of the Hyuga clan, known for their powerful 'byakugan' eye technique.
    • Anime Series: Naruto
    • Ship Name: Naruto and Hinata
    • Canon Status: Canon
    • First Appearance: Chapter 78 (manga) / Episode 33 (anime)
    • Ship Type: Romantic
  2. 2
    36
    votes
    Kirito and Asuna are one of the most popular ships in anime because their relationship started in a virtual world but eventually developed into a real-life romance.
    Kirito and Asuna is one of the most popular ships in anime, originating from the series Sword Art Online. The ship refers to the romantic relationship between the main characters Kirito and Asuna, who meet and eventually fall in love within the virtual reality game called Sword Art Online. Their relationship is a central focus of the series and has gained a significant following among fans.
    • Anime Series: Sword Art Online
    • Ship Name: Kirito and Asuna
    • Characters: Kirigaya Kazuto (Kirito) and Yuuki Asuna
    • First Appearance: Sword Art Online Light Novel (Volume 1), Aired in 2012
    • Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Romance
  3. 3
    24
    votes
    Ichigo and Rukia's relationship has been a topic of debate among fans, with some arguing that they should have ended up together instead of Ichigo and Orihime.
    Ichigo and Rukia from Bleach is a popular ship in the anime community. They are characters from the anime series Bleach, created by Tite Kubo. The ship refers to the romantic pairing of Ichigo Kurosaki, the main protagonist, and Rukia Kuchiki, a Soul Reaper who becomes a central figure in Ichigo's journey. The relationship between Ichigo and Rukia is a complex one, filled with loyalty, friendship, and deep understanding.
    • Anime Series: Bleach
    • Main Characters: Ichigo Kurosaki, Rukia Kuchiki
    • Ship Type: Romantic Pairing
    • Relationship Dynamics: Loyalty, Friendship, Understanding
    • Emotional Depth: Intense
  4. 4
    22
    votes
    Lelouch and C.C.'s relationship is one of the most popular in anime because of the chemistry between the two characters and the fact that they both have a tragic past.
    Lelouch and C.C. is a popular ship in the anime Code Geass. Lelouch vi Britannia, the protagonist, forms a complex and intriguing relationship with C.C., a mysterious girl who grants him the power of Geass. Their connection evolves throughout the series, as they navigate political intrigue, rebellion, and personal growth.
    • Anime Series:: Code Geass
    • Characters:: Lelouch vi Britannia and C.C.
    • Genre:: Drama, Mecha, Political thriller
    • Debut:: Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (2006)
    • Relationship dynamics:: Complex, mysterious, and occasionally romantic
  5. 5
    18
    votes
    Edward and Winry's relationship is popular because of the slow burn romance between the two characters and the fact that they grew up together.
    Edward and Winry is a romantic ship in the anime series Fullmetal Alchemist. It refers to the blossoming relationship between the main protagonist, Edward Elric, and his childhood friend, Winry Rockbell. The pair share a deep bond that develops throughout the series and is characterized by moments of care, support, and understanding.
    • Series: Fullmetal Alchemist
    • Anime Type: Shonen
    • First Appearance: Fullmetal Alchemist (manga) - Volume 1, Chapter 9
    • Relationship Type: Romantic
    • Main Characters: Edward Elric and Winry Rockbell
  6. 6
    24
    votes
    Natsu and Lucy's relationship is popular because of the chemistry between the two characters and the fact that they have been through a lot together.
    Natsu and Lucy is a popular ship from the anime series Fairy Tail. It refers to the romantic relationship between the main characters Natsu Dragneel and Lucy Heartfilia.
    • Anime Series: Fairy Tail
    • Ship Name: NaLu
    • Creator: Hiro Mashima
    • Status: Canon (confirmed in the series)
    • Romantic Relationship: Yes
  7. 7
    32
    votes
    Gon and Killua's relationship is popular because of the strong bond between the two characters and the fact that they have been through a lot together.
    Gon and Killua is a popular ship in the anime series Hunter x Hunter. It refers to the close bond and friendship between the two main characters, Gon Freecss and Killua Zoldyck.
    • Anime Series: Hunter x Hunter
    • Main Characters: Gon Freecss and Killua Zoldyck
    • Ship Type: Friendship
    • Status: Non-romantic
    • Canonical Pairing: No
  8. 8
    9
    votes
    Yusuke and Keiko's relationship is popular because of the slow burn romance between the two characters and the fact that they have been friends since childhood.
    Yusuke and Keiko is a popular ship in the anime series Yu Yu Hakusho. The ship refers to the romantic relationship between the main protagonist, Yusuke Urameshi, and his love interest, Keiko Yukimura. Throughout the series, Yusuke and Keiko's relationship evolves from childhood friends to a deep romantic connection, often portrayed with heartfelt moments and emotional interactions.
    • Anime Series: Yu Yu Hakusho
    • Ship Name: Yusuke and Keiko
    • Origin: Yu Yu Hakusho manga
    • First Appearance: Chapter 1 of Yu Yu Hakusho manga
    • Romantic Status: Canon
  9. 9
    13
    votes
    Usagi and Mamoru's relationship is popular because they are the main couple in the series and their relationship develops over the course of the show.
    Usagi and Mamoru, also known as Serena and Darien in the English version, is a popular romantic pairing from the anime and manga series Sailor Moon. They are the main romantic couple and the primary love interests of the story. Usagi Tsukino, also known as Sailor Moon, is the clumsy and ditzy protagonist, while Mamoru Chiba, also known as Tuxedo Mask, is the mysterious masked hero and Usagi's true love. Their relationship goes through various ups and downs as they face numerous challenges while protecting the Earth from evil forces.
    • Status: Canon
    • Relationship: Romantic couple
    • Anime/Manga: Sailor Moon
    • First Appearance: Manga: Codename: Sailor V (1991), Sailor Moon (1992) Anime: Sailor Moon (1992)
    • Characteristics: Usagi: Clumsy, emotional, caring Mamoru: Mysterious, protective, loyal
  10. 10
    9
    votes
    Kagome and Inuyasha's relationship is popular because of the chemistry between the two characters and the fact that they come from two different worlds.
    Kagome and Inuyasha is a popular romantic pairing from the anime series Inuyasha. Kagome Higurashi and Inuyasha are the main characters in the show, and their complex and deep relationship has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. The story follows Kagome, a modern-day high school girl who gets transported to feudal Japan, where she meets Inuyasha, a half-demon with a troubled past. Together, they embark on a quest to retrieve the scattered shards of the powerful Shikon Jewel while battling various enemies and uncovering their own emotions.
    • Anime Series: Inuyasha
    • Year: 2000-2010
    • Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Romance
    • Episodes: 167
    • Manga Source: Inuyasha manga

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular ship in anime. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or ship is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 4271 views
  • 186 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each ship once every 24 hours. The rank of each ship is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular ship in anime

Anime has become a global phenomenon over the years, with millions of fans worldwide. One of the most popular themes in anime is romance, and what better way to showcase it than through ships? A ship is a term used by fans to refer to a romantic relationship between two characters in a show. From classic anime like Sailor Moon to newer shows like Attack on Titan, ships have become an essential part of the anime fandom. But with so many ships out there, which one reigns supreme as the most popular? Let's take a closer look at some of the contenders and find out.

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