Apologies for the warped colors on this pic. They were originally very different. Adobe hates me.

Bish-ou-nen ~ A Japanese term literally meaning "pretty young man" However, it's since been used to describe any animated male that one deems harem worthy. Often shortened to "Bishie".

Konnichiwa! With that all important definition out of the way, welcome to my harem! Here you will find rambles about all my favorite bishounen - the ones I daydream about when I should be studying for my philosophy tests! For the most part, I've only included one picture of each bishie; if you wish to see more of any of them, check out the official home of the Animated Harem, my good friend Kat's Animated Lust page. I have been a little original and included hand-made sound clips of my favorite quotes for several of the boys since, for me, a character's voice can mean as much as their appearance.


Current Harem Count: 19

I actually have a small harem compared to some, but, like everything else, I'm extremely picky when it comes to putting guys in here! They not only have to be my physical type, but I must be able to connect to them emotionally as well. After all, what fun are they to daydream about if there's nothing behind that handsome face?! ;-D

I've listed my top five Harem boys first followed by everyone else in alphabetical order below. Here we go!



#1 Kenshin Himura ~ Rurouni Kenshin

In the Meiji Era of Japan there lived a warrior seeking to atone for his sins of the past by protecting those in need and never again taking a life… his name was Kenshin Himura.

Such is the story in a nutshell of my #1 harem member. Those who know me often give me a strange look when I tell them who my favorite is and wonder, "Why not one of those tall, dark, sarcastic badass boys you always like? Why a slight, humble wandering swordsman from medieval Japan?" To tell the truth, I have been unable to put a finger on exactly why I love this guy so much. It goes way beyond the way I like all the others in this group - I'm simply not rational when it comes to him. I can give you a whole list of little reasons: His sweet, gentle personality and his obvious love of the beauty in the simple things in life or the cute way he's adapted his syntax to fool others into thinking him simple. My admiration for the courage and strength it must have taken him to just keep on living and repent for his sins as a manslayer.

The pure animalistic physical attraction of his killing grace when he springs into action in battousai mode. His beautiful mop of red hair and stunning violet eyes that just make me melt; that friendly smile, or perhaps even the sadness and pain that forever lurk behind that smile. Everyone knows I'm a sucker for a tragic past, and Ken-chan's sad story is as tragic as they come. It's heart-wrenching to watch him try so hard to escape the past, yet be unable to. On top of all that, there's much to be said for a bishie who completely forgets he's nekkid and proceeds to run around! *g*};-D However, none of these things are THE reason. I suppose what it comes down to is the fact that as attractive as tall, dark, handsome and sarcastic may be, it's the gentle, friendly personality of Kenshin that I would love to find in a real man someday, somewhere.

You cut my scrunchie. Now you die.

Favorite Quote:
"We once fought together for an ideal with our swords. It wasn't for power or for glory, but to create a peaceful world where people could live without fear. And, if you should forget about that, then what did we fight the revolution for?"

For more piccies of my hero, check out my gallery Scar-Crossed Wanderer that I threw together one night to house all my screencaps that were eating hard drive space. ;-D



#2 Inu-Yasha ~ Inu-Yasha: A Feudal Fairy Tale

Like the rest of the guys listed in the top five, I knew that Inu here was going to end up in my harem after seeing him in action for just a few minutes. This half-demon, half-human is just so cute, who could resist? Before I knew it, here he was at number two! I love how he tries so hard to be a real bad-ass demon, but thanks to the gentle, loving heart he inherited from his human mother, he always does the right thing in the end. True, he does it with much grumbling to try to cover the fact that he really is sincere, but that's part of his charm as well. Physically, just look at those cute little ears! Like Kagome, I just wanna pet them! That, and he has beautiful, long, silvery hair and flashing yellow eyes inherited from his demon father. Very cool. Also, the way he moves is fascinating to watch! He can move with equal speed and grace on four legs or two and is even able to fly for a short while. There's also that little advantage that if he ever gets out of line, all one has to do is yell "Sit!" and the magical necklace that he's forced to wear will body-slam him right back into good behavior for ya. };-D


Favorite Quote:
"I'm not the nicest guy in the world, but you guys really disgust even me!"



#3 Zelgadis ~ The Slayers

Before Kenshin, Zelgadis was the #1 in my harem for a very long time… in fact, from the very beginning when Mirana and I first coined the phrase "harem" when referring to our *ahem* favorite animated guys! Even though he's no longer #1, he's still one of my all time favorite characters, and despite how much he hates his appearance, I still find it quite fetching! Gotta love that steely, "I'm a mystical, heartless swordsman and I don't give a damn." gaze. What I like about Zelgadis (besides the obvious *g*) is the fact that his bitter, sarcastic attitude pretty much sums up the way I feel a lot of the time! The two of us could sit, chug our coffee, and just bitch about the world in general for a good long time. I also love his voice as done by the wonderful Crispin Freeman in the dub. His dry, sarcastic tone is priceless. The one problem with Zel-chan is that his rock hard skin (No vulgarisms please!) makes him extremely hard to cuddle… *pout*

Favorite Quote:
"That's great. Just make a fist and say, "Alright! Let's go get 'em!" Is that what you expect?"



#4 Sanosuke Sagara ~ Rurouni Kenshin

I have a really soft spot in my character favorites for Sano here. He very often gets overlooked because he spends 90 some episodes playing second fiddle to Kenshin, but there's no denying that he definitely has an appeal that's all his own! First is that "Bad!" attitude and laid back personality. I love the way he swaggers around and pretends that he doesn't give a damn, but when Kenshin needs him, he's always there to back up his buddy. He's also a closet big softie... a softie with a tragic past, a combination I fall for everytime! Physically, he has a great crooked smile, deep brown eyes, and that awesome spiky hair that is just too cool. The fact that he does all of this swaggering around with his shirt open is nice too. He really does have one of the sexiest outfits in all of animation and the body to pull it off... not to mention that big sword. *COUGH* Ahem, Sano is also another bishounen whose voice, as does by the wonderful Lex Lang, I just love. In some scenes it makes the character for me.

Favorite Quote:
"Usually, I don't have any choice about who I fight with, but I can't stand watching people abuse those weaker than them. Something about that sort of bugs me. Especially when it's a bunch of hypocrites talking about the virtues of freedom and justice for all. That really pisses me off."



#5 Prince Ashitaka ~ Princess Mononoke

Am I good? I'm good.

In all honesty, I have to agree with Kat when she says that Ashi here is so perfect, that he almost seems above lust… almost. Then he starts to walk! Wow, but the boy can strut! Then the shirt comes off and so much for my high ideals about him being above lust. };-D *Zora slaps self* Ahem, besides those physical attractions, Ashi once again has the gentle "always looking out for others" personality that I love so much in Kenshin. While his body is slowly being consumed by a horrible demon's curse, he never once thinks of himself, but rather throws his entire being into stopping a war between two groups he's come to love and respect. He single-handily fights against one of the worst foes - bigotry. This passion and the fact that he deserves WAY better than San led me to put him at #3 in my harem. Those things, and that walk! Don't believe me? Watch the movie. ;-D


Favorite Quote:
"I go to see with eyes unclouded by hate."



Allen Schezar ~ Vision of Escaflowne

Simple, I use Pantene ProV.

Now, Allen is one of the bishies I have to admit is mainly here because of his physical attraction since his attitude towards women and "chivalrous" ego are generally big turn offs for me. Not to say that he isn't a very likeable character - because he really is considering what he's been through. He does his best to do what's honorable and is loyal to those who deserve it. However, honestly? He's here because I LOVE that long, flowing blonde hair (how does he achieve that three inch lift?!) and impeccable sense of dress. The way his hair undulates and billows with just the gentlest wind… Whoo! Okay, so even someone with my high ideals is allowed to slip into pure lust occasionally, hai? Allen is my slip. ;-)

Favorite Quote:
"There's nothing brave about rationally choosing to die!"




Anubis/Sh'ten ~ Samurai Troopers

Anubis (Sh'ten) was my very first anime bishie… before I was really an anime fan, actually! Can you tell I have a thing for warriors with red hair and violet eyes looking to atone for their pasts? I have to say, I like him much better as a monk than as a warlord. Besides, who knew a monk cassock could look so sexy? };-D

Favorite Quote:
"I knew I was not born to live with this hate and evil."




Duo Maxwell ~ Gundam Wing

Yeah, I know, I'm, what, the 123,000,001 girl to have him in her harem? Oh well! What's not to like about a cuddly 15 year old with big blue eyes who calls himself the God of Death and considers mass destruction a hobby? And, to coin a phrase, "It's all about the braid, baby!" It fascinates me. *petpetpet* *ahem*

Favorite Quote:
"Just you wait! The God of Death will ride again!! But RIGHT NOW.......I need some sleep."




Gene Starwind ~ Outlaw Star

I've heard a lot of people say they found Gene's scars to be a turn off, and thus didn't put him in their harem. Well, we already know that Zora finds scars to be quite sexy, so is it really any surprise that Gene's here? };-D With every episode, I just liked this guy better and better. His "bite me!" attitude and colorful use of the language are great… and that skintight outfit ain't bad either. He always tries so hard to be a tough guy on the outside, but inside he really is just a big softie who's always doing for others. The times he lets that real side of his personality shine through are the times I like him the very best. :-)

Favorite Quote:
"Hey! We're the good guys and don't you forget it. Our income is just a little unstable, that's all."




Gren ~ Cowboy Bebop

Damn, my bra strap is falling down.

While many people tend to judge this guy instantly by his exterior, I don't see exactly what there is not to like about it - at least from the neck up! This saxophone player is incredibly handsome, even by anime standards! That long black hair and beautiful blue eyes… wow. I'm not sure how they achieved it, but those eyes seem so deep, so sad, as if you really could see right to his soul if you looked into them long enough. He's so graceful in everything he does from saving Faye to pouring a drink… and that grace extends to his personality.

Favorite Quote:
"He said that you didn't need comrades, but I'm attached to that word... to the point of tears..."



Kaworu Nagisa ~ Neon Genesis Evangelion

This angel (pun intended!) combines Shinji's personality and Rei's mystery mixed with an exotic appearance that creates a fascinating character both physically and emotionally. While I generally draw my harem age line at 14, I make an exception for Kaworu since he really isn't. Besides, who can resist that smile?

Favorite Quote:
"Since the heart feels pain so easily, some believe that life is pain."




Miguel ~ The Road to El Dorado

Riiiiiiiight!

One of two Western guys who made it into my harem! For the most part, Western heroes tend to have a lot in common, but Miguel is different. Exactly what it is that makes him different and makes me like him so much can be summed up during just one scene in the movie: when he's walking around El Dorado - just basking in it's beauty. I think his childlike excitement and optimism throughout to be extremely attractive personality wise and a lot of fun to watch. Physically, he has a great smile (see picture!) and the brightest pair of green eyes. I also just love his voice and comments (Stars. Can't do it. Not today.). What else, oh yes, he's adorable when he purrs. ((;-D KT!))

Favorite Quote:
"'Look, Tzekal Khan, forget the sacrifices, we don't want ANY sacrifices! The Gods are speaking for themselves now. This city and these people have no need for you anymore. There will be NO sacrifices, not now, not ever!"



Nicholas Wolfwood ~ Trigun

Normally, smoking would automatically take a character off my harem list since I find it disgusting in both real people and animated characters -- however, the Bebops and Wolfie here are the exceptions. Wolfwood is a wandering priest who is just so cool in everything he does -- very reminiscent of Spike Spiegel. However, his eyes and the way he leaves his shirt unbuttoned gives him the little oomph into my main harem. He's another one that I can't give you an exact reason why I like him so much - I just do.

Favorite Quote:
"That's because it's so full of mercy."




Prince Lyle ~ Ruin Explorers

Unlike Wolfie up there, I can tell you exactly why Lyle gets a place in my harem - that voice. *melts* I could listen to this guy read the phone book, no problem! It also helps that he has the red hair and violet eyes that my sister says "just do it for me." ;-) However, personality wise, he's very attractive too. He's one of those rare guys who is simply gorgeous to look at, but they don't realize just how good they look, so they don't have an ego over it. That's the way Lyle is -- and his bemusement over all the girls hanging on him is adorable.

Favorite Quote:
"Seeking and destroying Raguteral is something I've sworn to do, but you're under no such oath. Neither you or the others have to come with me."




Tarzan ~ Tarzan

Hey, Allen, can I borrow some of that Pantene?!

The only Western guy besides Miguel who qualified when I finally sat down here and started thinking about it seriously. And really, what's not to like in both looks and personality with this guy? ;-D Even though I'm not particularly big on muscles, Tarzan is muscular in a wiry way, and in a couple of those shots (right after he killed Sabor comes to mind) I could definitely feel the blood flowing much faster! His physical grace while swinging through those trees is awesome to watch as well. I'll swing through those trees with him anytime - it looked oh so romantic in the movie. Also, as Jane noted, he has incredible eyes. Personality wise, his gentleness and boyish charm are wonderful. No wonder Jane couldn't leave!


Favorite Quote:
"No matter where I go, you'll always be my mother."



Tasuki/Genro ~ Fushigi Yuugi

Whhaaattt? Don't point that thing at me, I don't have anything catchy to say, alright?!

Tasuki is another character I have a real soft spot for - and the only thing that kept him from getting a higher ranking in my harem is the fact that he really gets gypped on screen time on the show he's in. So, I really didn't get to learn much about his personality beyond that I liked what little I saw. I love his hot-headed attitude and the way he's always teasing "Tama-homeboy". However, through all his big talk, he's fiercely loyal to his friends - a virtue I always find very attractive. Physically, I absolutely LOVE his flaming hair, and of course those cute little ever-present fangs that have earned him his nickname "fang-boy". The way he yells his battle attack is great too! *bg*

Favorite Quote:
"Reeeekkkaaa-Shinen!"





Van Fanel ~ Vision of Escaflowne

Here's one bishounen that I didn't like at all when I first started watching the series. His arrogant, stick-up-his-arse personality really got on my nerves. However, as the character has developed, I've come to love him way more than my original Esca fav, Allen. He's a sweet kid who really is trying his very best under extremely difficult conditions for one so young. I mean, he apologized to Hitomi for being inconsiderate! How many guys are going to do that? Physically, those beautiful wings… 8-D Wow. That romantic image of him swirling Hitomi up in that winged embrace makes me feel faint every time - I just wish it were me instead of her. ;-D

Favorite Quote:
"I was trying to save you... But you ended up saving me again."




Vash the Stampede ~ Trigun

Like his partner Wolfwood, and my Kenshin, what exactly it is that I like so much about Vash is something I can't quite put to words - not surprising since he's very similar to Kenshin in many ways. I'd imagine that whatever that thing is, it's the same for both of them. Some things I can name that I love about him are his boyish personality, his "Love and PEACE" philosophy (that sign is priceless), those glasses, that spiky hair and winning smile, and the fact that he can look damn sexy when he wants to and be his normal silly self again 10 seconds later. Just really an all around great guy - and my oft-mentioned sister's #1!


Favorite Quote:
"My name is Vash the Stampede. I have been a hunter of peace, chasing the elusive mayfly known as love for many, many moons now. There is no rest for me in my search for peace. I meditate diligently every morning. The subjects are life and love. I quit after three seconds."



Xelloss Metallium ~ The Slayers

Last, but most definitely not least is this sneaky little trickster - or twisted little crawler as I affectionately call him. Once again, proof that evil can be very sexy… just not too evil. ;-D Honestly, what I like about him is the danger and mystery involved with even knowing him - let alone anything else! Of course, there's no denying that he's also cute as heck when he's wandering around with his eyes closed, waggling his finger. However, when he stops being cute, lets his eyes open and his true nature show through… Whooo! I love those eyes… you can see the danger in them, and I find that very intriguing. Then again, I've always loved the trickster personality. Just the right mix of fun and danger!

Favorite Quote:
"If you can fool your friends, you can always fool your enemies."