Manga has become a global phenomenon, captivating millions of readers worldwide. With its rich art style, unique storytelling, and diverse genres, manga has become a central part of pop culture, influencing everything from anime to video games. Whether you're a long-time manga fan or new to the medium, the sheer variety of stories and characters offers something for everyone.
In this article, we'll examine the top 30 most-read mangas globally. These mangas have not only achieved massive readership but have also significantly impacted the manga industry. From action-packed adventures to emotional dramas, these stories continue to captivate audiences worldwide, shaping the manga landscape.
1. One Piece
Created by Eiichiro Oda, One Piece began serialization in 1997. Set in a world of pirates, it follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy as he searches for the legendary treasure known as "One Piece." This action-packed series combines humor, adventure, and drama, making it a favorite among manga fans worldwide.
One Piece is the best-selling manga of all time, with over 500 million copies sold globally. Its widespread appeal is reflected in its long-running anime adaptation, films, and an expansive merchandise line. The manga’s intricate world-building and lovable characters have cemented its place as one of the greatest manga series in history.
2. Naruto
Written and illustrated by Masashi Kishimoto, Naruto follows the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest in his village. Through his journey, Naruto learns about friendship, rivalry, and self-discovery. The series combines action, humor, and themes of perseverance.
With over 250 million copies sold worldwide, Naruto has become one of the most popular manga series. Its anime adaptation further boosted its success, and the franchise includes films, video games, and a continuation series, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations. Naruto’s journey from a mischievous outcast to a respected hero resonates with fans everywhere.
3. Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan, created by Hajime Isayama, takes place in a world under siege by massive creatures known as Titans. The story follows Eren Yeager and his friends as they join the military to fight these terrifying giants. The series is known for its dark tone, complex plot, and thrilling action sequences.
Since its debut in 2009, Attack on Titan has gained immense popularity, with over 100 million copies sold. Its anime adaptation has further expanded its reach, becoming a worldwide sensation. The manga's shocking twists and mature themes have captivated a diverse, international audience.
4. Dragon Ball
Dragon Ball, created by Akira Toriyama, revolutionized the action genre of manga when it began in 1984. The series follows Goku, a powerful fighter with a pure heart, as he battles enemies, trains, and seeks the mystical Dragon Balls. Its influence on pop culture is undeniable and often credited with popularizing manga outside Japan.
With over 300 million copies sold, Dragon Ball remains one of the most beloved manga franchises. Its anime adaptation, films, and merchandise have made it a global brand. Goku’s iconic battles and the series’ rich universe continue entertaining fans of all ages.
5. Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer, or Kimetsu no Yaiba, is a manga series written by Koyoharu Gotouge. It follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is killed by demons. The series is set in Taisho-era Japan and features breathtaking battles and emotional character development.
With over 150 million copies sold, Demon Slayer quickly became a global sensation. The anime adaptation, known for its stunning animation by Ufotable, skyrocketed in popularity, making it one of the top-selling manga series in recent years. Its themes of family, sacrifice, and courage resonate profoundly with fans.
6. Bleach
Created by Tite Kubo, Bleach follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who gains the powers of a Soul Reaper and must protect the living from evil spirits. The series is known for its high-stakes battles, intricate lore, and vast array of unique characters.
With over 120 million copies sold, Bleach has maintained a strong fanbase. Its anime adaptation, along with the revival of the new arc, has contributed to its lasting appeal. The series continues to influence the shonen genre with its fast-paced action and complex characters.
7. My Hero Academia
Written by Kohei Horikoshi, My Hero Academia is set in a world where nearly everyone possesses superpowers known as "Quirks." The story follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero. It blends superhero elements with school life, appealing to many readers.
With over 50 million copies sold worldwide, My Hero Academia has become a modern Shonen classic. Its relatable characters, themes of heroism, and epic battles have earned it a dedicated global following. The anime adaptation has further fueled its success, reaching fans worldwide.
8. Fullmetal Alchemist
Written and illustrated by Hiromu Arakawa, Fullmetal Alchemist follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, searching for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. The series explores themes of sacrifice, the consequences of one's actions, and the value of human life.
With over 80 million copies sold, Fullmetal Alchemist has garnered widespread acclaim. Its philosophical depth and action-packed scenes have made it a fan favorite. It was also adapted into two successful anime series, further solidifying its place in manga history.
9. Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter, created by Yoshihiro Togashi, follows Gon Freecss, a young boy who aspires to become a Hunter and find his estranged father. The series blends adventure with complex character development and moral dilemmas, making it a standout in the shonen genre.
With over 75 million copies sold, Hunter x Hunter remains one of the most influential mangas of the modern era. Its deep world-building and unpredictable plot twists have earned it a loyal fanbase, and the anime adaptation has helped elevate its global recognition.
10. One Punch Man
Created by ONE and illustrated by Yusuke Murata, One Punch Man follows Saitama, an ordinary man who becomes so powerful that he can defeat any opponent with a single punch. This parody of superhero tropes uniquely combines action, comedy, and satire.
One Punch Man has gained a massive following, with over 30 million copies sold. Its fresh take on the superhero genre and its quirky humor have made it a global phenomenon. The anime adaptation has been widely praised for its animation and humor.
11. Tokyo Ghoul
Sui Ishida’s Tokyo Ghoul is set in a world where ghouls—creatures that feast on human flesh—live among humans. The story follows Ken Kaneki, a college student who becomes a half-ghoul after a near-fatal encounter. The manga explores identity, humanity, and the darkness within us all.
With over 40 million copies sold, Tokyo Ghoul has become a significant success worldwide. Its dark themes and emotional depth have resonated with readers, while its anime adaptation has increased popularity.
12. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, created by Hirohiko Araki, is known for its extravagant and surreal storytelling. Each arc follows a different member of the Joestar family, who battles supernatural forces across generations. The series blends action, comedy, and supernatural elements in a way that few mangas do.
With over 100 million copies sold, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has become a cultural phenomenon. Its distinct art style, memorable characters, and over-the-top battles have earned it a dedicated fanbase. The anime adaptation has made it even more popular outside of Japan.
13. Black Clover
Black Clover, written and illustrated by Yūki Tabata, follows Asta, a boy born without magic in a world where magic is everything. Determined to become the Wizard King, he embarks on an adventure to prove his worth. The series is known for its intense action and character development.
With over 16 million copies sold, Black Clover has gained significant popularity. Its thrilling battles and themes of perseverance resonate with fans, while its anime adaptation has expanded its reach to a global audience.
14. Fairy Tail
Fairy Tail, created by Hiro Mashima, follows Natsu Dragneel and his friends in the Fairy Tail guild as they embark on various missions and adventures. The series is known for its strong emphasis on friendship, loyalty, and magical battles.
With over 72 million copies sold, Fairy Tail has a devoted fanbase. Its blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments has made it one of the most beloved long-running mangas. The anime adaptation further enhanced its global reach.
15. Death Note
Death Note, created by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, follows Light Yagami, a high school student who gains possession of a notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. The series delves into themes of morality, justice, and the consequences of absolute power.
With over 30 million copies sold, Death Note is one of the most influential psychological thrillers in manga history. Its gripping plot and intellectual battles between Light and the detective L have made it a timeless classic, with a popular anime adaptation and live-action films.
16. Rurouni Kenshin
Written by Nobuhiro Watsuki, Rurouni Kenshin follows Kenshin Himura, a wandering swordsman in Meiji-era Japan. The series blends action with historical fiction, exploring themes of redemption and the consequences of violence.
With over 70 million copies sold, Rurouni Kenshin has been an enduring classic in the samurai genre. Its anime adaptation and live-action films have expanded its reach globally, further cementing its place in manga history.
17. Attack on Titan: No Regrets
Attack on Titan: No Regrets, a spin-off of the main Attack on Titan series, focuses on the backstory of Levi Ackerman, one of the series’ most popular characters. This prequel explores his rise to become the legendary soldier known as the "Humanity’s Strongest."
The spin-off has achieved critical acclaim for its deeper exploration of Levi’s character and his past. Fans of the original Attack on Titan series appreciate this manga's rich storytelling and action-packed sequences.
18. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War
Continuing the Bleach series, Thousand-Year Blood War delves deeper into the ongoing battle between the Soul Reapers and the Quincy. This arc introduces new characters, powerful enemies, and high-stakes battles that elevate the series to new heights.
The Thousand-Year Blood War arc has reignited interest in Bleach with new manga chapters and an upcoming anime adaptation. Fans eagerly await the conclusion of this epic storyline.
19. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - The Story of Tanjiro Kamado
A companion series to the original Demon Slayer, this manga focuses more on Tanjiro Kamado's journey and the development of his character in the world of demon hunting. It delves into additional background stories of Tanjiro and his companions.
Like the original Demon Slayer manga, this companion series has garnered a large following, boosting the franchise's global reach. The manga continues to inspire both new fans and long-time readers.
20. One Punch Man: A Hero Nobody Knows
This spin-off of One Punch Man focuses on new characters and heroes in Saitama, giving more context and background to the superhero landscape. It’s set in the same universe and offers a fresh perspective on the struggle to balance power and purpose.
Though not as popular as the main One Punch Man series, this spin-off has contributed to expanding the franchise’s lore. It introduces new heroes and villains, providing fans with a deeper look at the world Saitama inhabits.
21. Tokyo Revengers
Tokyo Revengers, written and illustrated by Ken Wakui, follows Takemichi Hanagaki, a down-and-out man who discovers he can travel back to his youth. By infiltrating dangerous gang activities, he aims to save his friends and change the course of history.
With over 40 million copies sold, Tokyo Revengers became a surprise hit. It blends time travel, gang violence, and heartfelt drama. The series' anime adaptation has contributed significantly to its popularity, bringing it to an international audience.
22. Dr. Stone
Dr. Stone, created by Riichiro Inagaki and Boichi, follows Senku Ishigami, a brilliant scientist who plans to rebuild human civilization after a mysterious phenomenon petrifies humanity. The series combines science, adventure, and survival in an exciting, educational way.
With over 10 million copies sold, Dr. Stone has gained a strong following for its unique premise and intelligent exploration of science. The anime adaptation has brought the series to a broader audience, furthering its success.
23. The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland, written by Kaiu Shirai and illustrated by Posuka Demizu, follows a group of children living in an orphanage who discover the terrifying truth about their existence. They must plan a daring escape to survive.
With over 30 million copies sold, The Promised Neverland has received praise for its suspenseful narrative and well-developed characters. Its anime adaptation has contributed to its global success, cementing its place as one of the most popular recent mangas.
24. Vagabond
Vagabond, created by Takehiko Inoue, is a fictionalized retelling of the life of the famous samurai, Miyamoto Musashi. The manga focuses on his development as a swordsman and his philosophical journey.
With over 25 million copies sold, Vagabond is often hailed as one of the most beautifully drawn mangas. Its deep character study and breathtaking artwork have earned it critical and fan acclaim worldwide.
25. Fairy Tail: 100 Years Quest
Fairy Tail: 100 Years Quest is a sequel to the original Fairy Tail series, written by Hiro Mashima and illustrated by Atsuo Ueda. It follows Natsu and the Fairy Tail guild as they embark on a dangerous new quest that could alter the world's fate.
Though not as long-running as its predecessor, 100 Years Fans have a received quest. It continues the beloved characters' adventures, keeping the original Fairy Tail charm while introducing fresh challenges and enemies.
26. Black Lagoon
Black Lagoon, created by Rei Hiroe, is set in Southeast Asia and follows a group of mercenaries known as the Lagoon Company. The series delves into the darker side of human nature, exploring crime, violence, and survival.
With a dedicated fanbase, Black Lagoon has earned critical praise for its gritty storytelling and complex characters. Though it’s not as widely known as other series, its mature themes and compelling action have garnered a global cult following.
27. Soul Eater
Soul Eater, written and illustrated by Atsushi Ōkubo, follows a group of students at the Death Weapon Meister Academy fighting to protect the world from evil souls. The series combines dark fantasy with humor and action.
With over 20 million copies sold, Soul Eater has gained significant popularity. Its distinctive art style, unique premise, and successful anime adaptation have made it a fan favorite in the supernatural genre.
28. Attack on Titan: Lost Girls
A spin-off of Attack on Titan, Lost Girls focuses on the backstory of Mikasa Ackerman, one of the series’ most beloved characters. It explores her past and journey before joining the fight against the Titans.
Lost Girls provides deeper insight into Mikasa’s character, which has resonated with fans. The additional exploration of her emotions and past has made it a must-read for Attack on Titan enthusiasts.
29. Attack on Titan: Junior High
A lighthearted spin-off of the main Attack on Titan series, Junior High reimagines the characters as middle school students who deal with comical situations while still maintaining the essence of their personalities.
Though it presents a much lighter tone, Junior High has been popular with fans who enjoy the humorous side of Attack on Titan. Its quirky premise contrasts the main series, appealing to younger readers and fans looking for something fun.
30. Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic
Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic, created by Shinobu Ohtaka, is a fantasy adventure inspired by One Thousand and One Nights. The series follows Aladdin, Alibaba, and Morgiana as they journey through magical lands filled with mighty dungeons and mysterious forces.
With over 38 million copies sold, Magi blends adventure, magic, and politics in a world inspired by ancient myths. Its anime adaptation and captivating storylines have contributed to its popularity worldwide.
The Bottomline
These 30 mangas are a testament to the medium's vast diversity and incredible storytelling.
Each series offers something unique: thrilling action, heartfelt drama, or profound philosophical questions.
Whether you’re new to manga or a long-time fan, there’s always a new adventure waiting to be discovered in the world of manga.
