Let’s start with an anime by Studio Gonzo, based on a classic, shall we? Romeo X Juliet takes us to the world of Neo Verona, where the Montagues reign with an iron fist. They have exterminated their rivals, the Capulet family… or so they believe. The mysterious “Red Whirlwind” patrols the streets of Neo Verona, waiting for an uprising. What almost nobody knows is that this hero is Juliet, the Capulet’s daughter, seeking revenge for her family’s demise.

Here we have two strong, independent leading characters (Shirayuki and Juliet), who happen to also be redheads! But the similarities don’t end there. Their partners (Zen and Romeo) are the perfect gentlemen. So yeap, they are the best compliments to give balance to animes that would be very boring if the couples were simply lovey-dovey, because while the guys are well behaved, the girls are bubbly and active. With a good dose of adventure, Romeo X Juliet is a great anime version of the English theatrical play.

What happens when a Kami (God spirit) is not required anymore? Apparently, they go back to the place where they were born. This is the case for Holo, a female wolf spirit who strikes a deal with the merchant, Kraft Lawrence. They will travel together to the north, facing several dangers until they finally reach Holo’s birthplace.

If Akagami no Shirayuki Hime is about herbalism, Ookami to Koushinryou is about economics. We also have a very interesting and self sufficient couple leading here, although they are more into the mischievous side of things. Also, both Shirayuki and Holo are seeking for a place to belong, using the best of their abilities and courage. Originally written as a light novel by Isuna Hasekura, this world full of fantastic and magical adventures was later adapted to manga, anime, ovas and games. If you like a bit of Japanese traditional flavor on your fairy tales, this anime by the studio Imagin is just for you.

So far, our recommendations are about anime with a lot of travelling involved, but how about checking out an anime set in Victorian England next? A certain Earl Edgar is in great need of an expert on fairies. So, Earl Edgar finds a beautiful and capable young lady under the name of Lydia. Together, they will go into a quest to find a sword that is supposed to be a heirloom of Edgard´s family.

Here we also have a noble and servant relationship that transforms in romance, just like in the case of Akagami no Shirayuki Hime. Our heroine is also quiet capable herself, although the Earl is more interested in seduction. There is also a talking cat thrown in the mix. Written by Mizue Tani as a light novel, Hakushaku to Yousei was later adapted into a manga, an anime by Studio Artland, and a game. What is better than a story inspired on England, the land of fairies? It’s worth checking it out!

So maybe romance is not your thing. Don’t worry, because we have you covered. Let’s try an action and adventure anime. Yes, if you are fond of self sufficient heroines like Shirayuki, we give you Kemono no Souja Erin. This story originally was a series of novels by Nahoko Uehashi, later adapted as manga and the anime by Production I.G. and Trans Arts.

The protagonist is Erin, a girl who is fascinated with animals and wishes to become a beast keeper. Erin is a girl who takes matters into her own hands and seeks her own place in the world while trying to stop the war, just like Shirayuki. She lives in a fantastical world submerged in war, so she ends up being sent to help protect the ruler Shin-Oh along with her beast friend Lilan. Now that is what I would call a bestie (bad joke, I know). The anime art style brings to mind very old shows from the eighties, with rather angular human characters. It could look plain and boring, but believe me, the epicness of the war and Erin’s adventures compensate the old style look.

This story was born as a play posted by Mamare Touno in 2chann. It later became a light novel, a manga series… and an anime of course! Brought to you by Studio Arms, we have a world torn by a war between humans and demons. The greatest Hero goes to slay the Demon Queen, who ends up convincing him to help with a complicated plan in order to bring a peaceful resolution to all the conflicts. Thus, the talented Demon Queen ventures forth to the human world disguised as a scholar, protected by her knight (the Hero).

The style of this anime is epic and kawaii at the same time. There are enough tender moments between the two leading characters. But the most important part is the strategy of the talented Demon Queen, who comes from a long lineage of wise Demons and doesn’t hesitate to help those in need (like Shirayuki Hime). This is a great anime with a big lesson: instead of fighting against your enemy, find what you have in common and join forces for the greater good!

Let’s go to outer space! We have an interesting couple of strong individuals working for the greater good here as well! However, instead of a noble guy and a civilian girl, here we have the opposite. Our protagonist’s name is Banagher Links, from the Anaheim Industrial College. He encounters the legendary Gundam Unicorn and aims to protect the mysterious Audrey Burne, who is trying to stop the imminent war between the Earth and the Colonies.

This anime by Sunrise is everything you would expect from a Gundam story. Great space opera sequences, interesting plot twists, the best in technology to recreate the beauty of the universe, a character design that reminds classicals like Galaxy Express 999, superb music… In sum, the best of the old and the new anime world. We also have a love story linked to the old European legends of the unicorn. So, you can expect a combination of space opera with fantasy which will remind you of the world of Shirayuki Hime and its protagonists. Don’t miss it out!