bishnen

Bishōnen (美少年) is a Japanese term meaning “beautiful boy” and is used to describe male characters with refined, androgynous beauty. In English, the term is usually romanized as bishōnen or bishounen; “bishnen” is sometimes encountered as a misspelling or variant. The concept is widely used in manga, anime, and related media to denote a youthful, aesthetically delicate male appearance.

Typical bishōnen characters feature a slender build, smooth skin, refined facial features, large eyes, and stylish clothing. They may convey a sense of mystery, sensitivity, or emotional depth, and are often portrayed in emotionally expressive or idealized roles. The archetype appears across genres, including shōjo and josei works, fantasy and historical settings, and sometimes in Boys’ Love (BL) fiction where male appeal is central to the narrative.

Historically, the bishōnen aesthetic emerged from Japanese art and theater traditions and gained prominence in modern pop culture during the late 20th century. It became especially influential in shōjo manga of the 1970s and beyond, shaping character design in anime, light novels, video games, and fan communities. The trope has also influenced fashion and cosplay, where fans emulate the look of bishōnen characters.

Related concepts include bishōjo (beautiful girl) and ikemen, a term for a more masculine, conventional handsome man. Discussions about bishōnen often address gender presentation, audience expectations, and the way beauty and vulnerability are portrayed in male characters.