Respawn & Reload
Otaku Thoughts from Boss Fights to Binge Nights8 Unforgettable Anime Heroines That Ruled Spring 2025
Spring 2025 gave us some unforgettable anime leading ladies—each with her own quirks, charm, and emotional depth. Let’s take a look at 8 standout heroines who’ve captured our hearts this season.
1. Maomao
From “The Apothecary Diaries”
Named after her mother’s favorite nail-dyeing herb, Maomao is a curious and intelligent girl raised by her apothecary foster father. Skilled in medicine and sharp in deduction, she’s no stranger to experimenting—often on herself, which is why her left arm is frequently bandaged.
She ends up in the imperial court as a maid, where she assists noble consorts and medical officers, all while hiding her true appearance behind plain makeup. Though frail in figure, she’s mentally tough, morally grounded, and often switches effortlessly between a cold beauty and an awkward goofball.
As one of the most popular new characters abroad, Maomao’s mix of brains, values, and charm makes her an unforgettable protagonist.
2. Nicole Wakatsuki
From “The Witch and Her Familiar”
Nicole is the cheerful, energetic childhood friend of the male lead, Morihito. After six years of magical training, she returns to live with him—leading to all kinds of magical mayhem and cozy chaos.
Naïve and clumsy, Nicole is quick to get carried away with praise and tends to act before thinking. With magical gadgets and a never-ending stream of wild ideas, her antics often spiral out of control—leaving Morihito to clean up the mess.
Think Yuno Gasai, but fluffier.
3. Banri Shiunji
From “The Shiunji Siblings”
Banri is the oldest sister in the Shiunji family and a first-year nursing student at a prestigious university. With orange hair, a gentle nature, and a big-sister vibe, she’s adored by both the elderly and her peers.
At home, she’s more laid-back and loves teasing her siblings. Despite the mixed biological ties among the Shiunji children, Banri acts as the emotional anchor, helping them grow closer over time.
Your classic cool big sis with a playful side—what’s not to love?
4. Reiko Kujirai
From “Romantic Killer Kowloon”
Reiko works at a real estate company in the dense, chaotic Kowloon Walled City. She’s got an effortlessly cool vibe: stylish short hair, a qipao, a beauty mark under her eye, and a laid-back attitude.
She enjoys watermelon, cigarettes, and exploring new eateries. But beneath her cheerful facade lies a mysterious past and a growing affection for her colleague, Kudou.
Summer + smoky qipao vibes = anime perfection.
5. Oguri Cap
From “Uma Musume: Grey Cinderella”
With silver-gray hair and a gentle spirit, Oguri Cap is shy and slow to warm up, but she cares deeply for her friends and family. Despite being soft-spoken, she has tremendous stamina and instinct in races.
A quiet underdog, she stunned everyone by winning a major commemorative race. She’s also unbeatable in eating contests and never gains weight—a true legend with no noble lineage, just sheer grit.
6. Hinata Inuzuka
From “Can Boys and Girls Just Be Friends?”
Hinata is the classmate of protagonist Yu Natsume and the model student type. Bright, outgoing, and graceful, she’s admired for both brains and beauty.
Beneath her ladylike exterior lies a playful side. Though she seems to always be surrounded by smiles and friendship, her romantic life hasn’t been smooth. Her relationship with Yu is getting more complicated—and maybe only she knows the answer to whether boys and girls can really stay just friends.
7. Yuki Sasone
From “The Little Citizens Series”
Yuki is a short, quiet girl with a bob haircut who’s often mistaken for an elementary student. She’s soft-spoken and gentle—but mess with her, and you’ll see her vengeful side.
She partners with Kogure to pursue a peaceful, “normal” life while avoiding drama. She’s also a sweets lover with deep knowledge of desserts—a quiet force of sugar-fueled determination.
8. Lilysa Suzunomiya
From “Rock is a Lady’s Hobby”
Lilysa may look like your typical refined rich girl, complete with a gravity-defying ponytail and perfect manners—but deep down, she’s a rock ‘n’ roll rebel.
A guitar genius since childhood, Lilysa works hard to uphold her “lady” image at school, even though she yearns for freedom and authenticity. She’s serious about everything she does—but won’t let anyone put her in a box.