5 Best BL Anime to Watch Before Banana Fish on Netflix

There are some anime that not only present wonderful love stories but also make you feel broken inside. And that is the exact reason why Banana Fish continues to be one of the most memorable BL-related anime ever made, thanks to its mix of action, tragedy, and the close relationship between Ash Lynx and Eiji Okumura.

But if you intend to watch Banana Fish on Netflix, which will be released on the streaming platform on August 12, 2026 (via Netflix), here are some BL anime that might help you prepare for the emotional journey of Banana Fish in different ways – some will teach you about healing, some about the wonder of first love, and some about loss and grief. With that said, here are five BL anime worth watching before you dive into one of anime’s most emotional journeys.

1 Given Turns Music Into a Story of Love and Healing

At first look, Given and Banana Fish have absolutely nothing in common. One focuses on a high school band, whereas the other focuses on gangs and crime in New York. However, both of these shows stand out because they show how one person can change another’s life forever. Mafuyu’s journey of dealing with loss is handled with care, especially during Episode 9, where his emotional performance finally lets him express everything he has been holding inside.

Just like Ash and Eiji, the relationship between the main characters of Given develops gradually, not rushing to get romantic right away. The series features a lot of healing, friendship, and overcoming trauma. If the emotional side of Banana Fish is what interests you the most, Given is the perfect place to start.

2 Sasaki and Miyano Is the Perfect BL for Beginners

Not all BL anime need a heavy dose of drama to leave an impression; Sasaki and Miyano perfectly fits into that category. The anime tells the story of two young boys who start out as friends and gradually develop romantic feelings towards each other as they spend time together in daily life.

Although Sasaki and Miyano is way less intense compared to Banana Fish, both anime have one thing in common – good relationships are based on mutual trust and respect. As you watch Sasaki carefully take care of Miyano, you’ll easily understand why so many people consider Sasaki and Miyano the best BL anime for newcomers.

3 Yuri!!! on Ice Blends Sports With Heartfelt Romance

Figure skating may seem very different from Banana Fish, but Yuri!!! on Ice tells another powerful story about finding someone who believes in you. Yuri Katsuki’s partnership with Victor Nikiforov grows stronger with every competition, especially during the Grand Prix Final, where both characters show how much they have changed together.

One reason this anime still stands out is that the romance never takes away from the characters’ personal growth. Just as Eiji helps Ash find hope beyond violence, Victor gives Yuri the confidence to believe in himself again. That emotional support is what makes both series feel so memorable.

4 Cherry Magic Makes Adult Romance Feel Magical

Most BL anime focus on students, but Cherry Magic! takes a different path by following working adults. The story begins when Adachi gains the strange ability to read minds after turning 30, leading to plenty of funny moments. Behind the comedy, however, is a touching romance built on kindness and honest communication.

Like Banana Fish, this series shows how one meaningful relationship can completely change a person’s outlook on life. The tone is much lighter, but the emotions feel just as real. If you want a break from heavy drama before watching Ash and Eiji’s story, this is an easy recommendation.

5 The Summer Hikaru Died Mixes Horror With Heartbreak

Among recent BL-like anime, The Summer Hikaru Died probably comes closest to matching the emotional tension of Banana Fish. One cannot overlook the queer themes of the series. Yoshiki knows that the being standing beside him is no longer the real Hikaru, yet he cannot bring himself to walk away. That painful choice drives the story from the very beginning.

The supernatural mystery adds plenty of suspense, but the real strength of the series is its emotional depth. Like Banana Fish, it explores grief, identity, and the fear of losing someone you care about. Both anime remind viewers that love is not always simple, and sometimes the hardest part is learning when to hold on and when to let go.

Here is a quick overview of all the anime titles we have discussed above, along with Banana Fish –

AnimeAnime Rating (IMDb) (as of July 30, 2026)Where to Watch

Given	8.2/10	Crunchyroll
Sasaki and Miyano	7.8/10	Crunchyroll
Yuri!!! on Ice	8.2/10	Hulu, Crunchyroll
Cherry Magic!	7.6/10	Crunchyroll
The Summer Hikaru Died	7.9/10	Netflix
Banana Fish	8.1/10	Coming to Netflix on August 12, 2026

Now the big question: Which BL anime would you recommend to someone before they watch Banana Fish on Netflix? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.