Citrus

The story takes place primarily at the prestigious Aihara Academy for Girls, a private all-girls school known for its strict rules and elite student body.

The world is filled with a contrast between outward appearances and inner struggles, as characters navigate conservative school norms amidst personal and forbidden feelings.

The Aihara family home, where Yuzu Aihara and Mei Aihara suddenly find themselves living under the same roof as stepsisters, becomes a central space where their emotional tension unfolds.

Society within the setting reflects typical attitudes towards same-sex relationships, featuring both supportive and not-so-understanding reactions from classmates and family.

Yuzu Aihara, a fashionable and lively high school girl, transfers to Aihara Academy after her mother remarries.

On her first day, Yuzu meets the stern student council president, Mei Aihara, only to discover they are now stepsisters.

Yuzu hopes her new life will bring romance but instead faces rigid discipline and cold indifference from Mei.

Initially, their relationship is full of misunderstandings, clashing personalities, and secret feelings.

As the two navigate new family dynamics, school tension, and personal growth, Yuzu becomes increasingly aware of her romantic attraction towards Mei.

Mei, burdened by responsibilities and her family’s expectations, is at first emotionally distant, yet gradually begins to respond to Yuzu’s sincere affection.

Other students and extended family members add layers of drama: from jealous friends to enigmatic rivals and secret confessions.

The plot follows their evolving relationship as they face obstacles, reconcile with their feelings, and support each other through coming-of-age challenges.

Yuzu Aihara (藍原 柚子)

Yuzu is the protagonist, a cheerful and expressive teenager known for her gyaru style—curly hair, stylish clothes, and impeccable fashion sense.

She presents herself as confident and outgoing, but Yuzu is inexperienced in love and prone to blushing or flustered reactions.

Despite her playful personality, Yuzu is nurturing and diligent, skilled at housework and cooking, always striving to take care of those around her.

Her journey is about discovering her true feelings for Mei and learning self-confidence amidst doubt and adversity.

Mei Aihara (藍原 芽衣)

Mei is the stoic, reserved student council president, admired for her cool beauty and intelligence.

Her past is marked by emotional repression due to a strict upbringing and being raised as the heir to the academy.

Mei appears cold and unapproachable but gradually reveals vulnerability, especially in her quiet yearning for affection and acceptance.

Her arc revolves around breaking from expectations and choosing her own happiness with Yuzu.

Harumi Taniguchi (谷口 はるみ)

Harumi is Yuzu’s first friend at her new school, known for her hidden “stealth gyaru” side and unmistakable twin pigtails.

Warmhearted and dependable, she is both comedic relief and a source of wisdom for Yuzu.

Despite academic excellence and a pragmatic approach, she struggles with strict authority figures, including her own older sister.

Matsuri Mizusawa (水沢 まつり)

Matsuri is Yuzu’s playful and cunning childhood friend.

Although younger, she frequently tries to manipulate those around her, driven by deep loneliness and a craving for love.

Through her rivalry and eventual friendship with Yuzu and Mei, Matsuri confronts her own vulnerabilities.

Himeko Momokino (桃木野 姫子)

Himeko is Mei’s elegant childhood friend, marked by elaborate twin curls and aristocratic mannerisms.

Deeply loyal to Mei, she initially views Yuzu as a rival and often acts as a comic antagonist.

Her personality melds jealousy, intensity, and hidden warmth.

Kayo Maruta (丸田 加代)

Kayo, a senior with short hair and glasses, upholds school rules and provides grounded support to both Yuzu and her friends.

She is perceptive, respected, and often plays peacekeeper amidst school politics.

Shō Aihara (藍原 翔)

Shō, Mei’s father and Yuzu’s stepfather, is a well-meaning but emotionally distant figure who shapes Mei’s upbringing.

After severing ties with his prestigious family to become a teacher abroad, his actions indirectly catalyze Mei’s desire for independence.

Ume Aihara (藍原 梅)

Ume, Yuzu’s caring mother, is supportive and pragmatic, doing her best to blend their new family.

Her optimism and warmth provide a safe anchor for Yuzu during turbulent times.

Supporting Cast

The story features a vibrant ensemble, including charming twins Nina and Sara Tachibana, the wise but intimidating Mineko Fuji, and numerous classmates who add humor and complexity to school life.

Aihara Academy for Girls is a prestigious, all-girls private school known for its uncompromising rules and traditional values.

"Momoiro Sisters" is a meta-fictional yuri manga and game popular among the characters, influencing Yuzu’s perspective on same-sex romance.

"Ansoniko" is the name of Yuzu’s treasured teddy bear, a recurring symbol of care and connection throughout the series.

By November 2022, Citrus reached over 3 million copies in circulation, demonstrating its strong impact within the yuri genre.

While not a major award-winner, it received notable attention for its bold themes and was adapted into a televised anime series.

Citrus revitalized the yuri manga and anime landscape by foregrounding a dramatic, emotionally charged romance between young women in a high school setting.

It sparked conversations about depiction of same-sex relationships, both praised for its honest, sometimes messy portrayal of first love, and critiqued for its melodramatic tropes.

Its unique character dynamics, blending of family drama with romantic tension, and eye-catching art style helped set new standards for mainstream yuri works.

The series inspired merchandise, artbooks, radio programs, and special exhibitions, and maintains a devoted fanbase worldwide.

The opening theme is "Azalea" by nano.RIPE, capturing the vivid, dramatic tone of the series.

The ending theme, "Dear Teardrop" by Mia REGINA, offers a gentle, poignant contrast to the show’s emotional highs.

Citrus includes the original manga (ten volumes), its direct sequel Citrus+, which continues the narrative, and a full season of anime aired from January to March 2018.

Other media include drama CDs, radio shows, artbooks, collector’s editions, and various merchandise.

The anime was broadcast on multiple Japanese networks and widely distributed online and internationally, increasing its global reach.

The anime adaptation was produced by studio Passione and brought to TV by the Citrus Production Committee.

Direction was led by Takeo Takahashi, with series composition by Naoki Hayashi and character design by Izuro Ijuuin.

A special effort was made to authentically capture both the gyaru subculture and everyday school life, including consulting real gyaru and food specialists.

Production teams intentionally balanced realism, humor, and drama to create an engaging adaptation faithful to the manga.

Citrus creator Saburouta was inspired to explore the boundaries of forbidden love, blending traditional shoujo romance conventions with yuri themes.

The story draws on common school-life motifs but pushes boundaries by confronting taboos around step-sibling romance and same-gender attraction.

Citrus+ began serialization after the original manga’s conclusion, building on fan demand to see the couple’s continuing relationship after their confession.

The creator’s vivid character designs and sharp sense of comedic timing, as well as deep emotional moments, are signature qualities that kept fans invested over time.

In 2023, the series celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special exhibition event and new collectible goods.

Citrus' cast and staff engaged in online radio shows featuring the main voice actresses and invited guests, making production insights and behind-the-scenes details accessible for fans.

The work remains active through sequels and commemorative events, continuing to influence the yuri genre and maintain relevance in fan communities.

The approachable, deeply emotional character stories, along with a blend of lighthearted and intense moments, secure Citrus as a touchstone in modern yuri media.