What does “bishonen” mean?
“Bishonen” (美少年) is a Japanese term that literally translates to “beautiful young boy” used to describe young boys whose beauty transcends gender boundaries. In the non-Japanese otaku world, “bishonen” and its abbreviation “bishie” are mainly used to refer to any anime guy that makes someone’s heart go doki-doki. This differs slightly from the original Japanese usage where it strictly refers to a certain attractiveness found in adolescents. In recent years, you may have come across the term “ikemen” to describe your best boys, which is the catch-all Japanese word for “hot guy.”
Anime Bishonen Figures
Japan makes plenty of figures of anime girls showcasing their sexier side, but what about something for those who want a little bishonen action? Fear not, as over the years Japan has been producing a plethora of figures featuring some of anime’s dreamiest dudes. Read on to see our picks for some bishonen figures that are sure to make you swoon!
Touken Ranbu 1/8 Scale Figures
What better way to start our bishonen figure roundup than with the period heartthrobs themselves – the Touken Danshi. Good Smile Company has created a line of gorgeous 1/8 scale figures featuring characters from Touken Ranbu, a game that turns swords from Japan’s history into handsome men. With GSC’s renowned craftsmanship, each of the Touken Danshi’s unique personalities shine through in this collection, making them the perfect addition for any fan of these gallant sword boys.
Shirotani Tadaomi and Kurose Riku Ten Count 1/8 Scale Figures
Ten Count is the BL manga that has been on everyone’s lips since its debut in 2013. The story follows OCD patient Shirotani Tadaomi and his sadist psychotherapist Kurose Riku, who recommends exposure therapy treatment to Shirotani in order to help cure his mysophobia. Based on an illustration by Ten Count’s manga-ka Rihito Takarai, the couple don bunny suits in these beautifully detailed figures, reflecting their respective dominant and submissive personalities.
Gintama G.E.M. Series
Gintama is a hit shonen series set in a sci-fi version of the late Edo period of Japan, where aliens rule the streets of Tokyo. The world of Gintama is home not just to extraterrestrial beings but also plenty of bishonen samurai! You can enjoy fan-favorite ikemen from the series including Gintoki, Sougo, and Kotarou in all their glory with this awesome collection of bishonen figures from MegaHouse.
Free! Eternal Summer 1/8 Scale Alter Figures
You couldn’t have a bishonen figure roundup without the iconic Free! Boys. The legendary series introduced some of the most recognizable anime ikemen of our generation, with loyal fans still keeping up with their best boys over six years since its debut. This series of 1/8 scale figures by Alter has the boys looking for some poolside action in their swimming gear. Have the bishonen Free! dive into your hearts with this collection of Alter figures!
Kuroko’s Basketball Figure Series MegaHouse
You couldn’t have a bishonen figure roundup without the iconic Free! Boys. The legendary series introduced some of the most recognizable anime ikemen of our generation, with loyal fans still keeping up with their best boys over six years since its debut. This series of 1/8 scale figures by Alter has the boys looking for some poolside action in their swimming gear. Have the bishonen Free! dive into your hearts with this collection of Alter figures!
Kotobukiya Ikemen Series
Kotobukiya’s Ikemen Series features bishonen from the American comic book world, showcasing the sultry side of characters from the DC Universe. The figures are based on artwork by Japanese illustrator Rikken, with the current lineup featuring the likes of Batman, Red Robin, and Nightwing. If you’ve ever dreamed of a cloaked hero sweeping you off your feet, then look no further than Kotobukiya’s Ikemen Series.
Add to your bishonen figure collection with FROM JAPAN
Inspired by our list to add to your bishonen figure collection? Many of the figures listed in this article are exclusive to Japan, but that doesn’t mean you need to give up on your ikemen figure dreams. The shopping and bidding proxy service FROM JAPAN can help you buy all these beautiful boys and have them shipped directly to your door. Start your figure shopping now on FROM JAPAN!
