This is honestly one of the top manga on my list (and I've read a LOT). I can't recommend it enough and I hope the rating will increase because it really does deserve a higher one.

But don't pick it up expecting fluffiness and sugary love-doveyness galore. The 'history' part of the manga plays an important role in directing the plot but it's not THAT heavy that it overshadows the relationships that form the core of the story (battles/fighting is kept to a minimum, not like in Rurouni Kenshin). It's a gender bender that stems from something more than just trying to win the heart of the hot guy who the girl saw on TV or on a billboard.

For those who don't enjoy the story of the Shinsengumi very much, this manga might seem unappealing but the author really does a beautiful job of developing likable, lovable, and interesting characters that are multi-faceted (silly but skilled, gentle but strong, etc). I've really come to care about the three-dimensional characters and I really think that you will too if you give this manga a chance.

The characters are met with the gray aspects of life, make mistakes and grow from them. And they learn from and about each other and it's just a pleasure to see the relationship grow between the two main protagonists as well as between the members of the Shinsengumi. The story is just a great mixture of humor, history, friendship, drama, and romance.

I understand why this series wouldn't be everyone's (especially younger readers') cup of tea since it isn't as 'girly' as, say, Vampire Knights (which I also like). It's storytelling style is subtle and thoughtful, where the comedy isn't as exaggerated as in Skip Beat and the romance less direct than in something like Fruits Basket. The artwork is really great (detailed backgrounds, consistent) but the characters aren't the usual prettiness you find in something by CLAMP (that took some getting used to for me, but now I simply love it! -- and for the most part they are distinguishable from one another unlike in many other manga).

Sorry for the writing such a long review but I really hope you'll give it a read. Please message me with any comments, especially if you're a Kaze Hikaru fan!