Japanese manga has become a significant part of global pop culture, attracting readers of all ages with its compelling stories and diverse genres. Over the decades, some manga series have reached extraordinary popularity, becoming best-sellers worldwide. Here is a look at the top 10 best-selling manga of all time, based on sales figures.
1. One Piece
- Author: Eiichiro Oda
- Sales: Over 500 million copies
- Summary: "One Piece" follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew as they search for the legendary treasure known as One Piece. The series is renowned for its vast world-building, memorable characters, and thrilling story arcs, making it the highest-selling manga in history.
2. Golgo 13
- Author: Takao Saito
- Sales: Over 300 million copies
- Summary: Golgo 13" is the longest-running manga series still in publication. It centers on Duke Togo, a professional assassin who takes on dangerous missions worldwide. Its unique episodic format and storylines have kept readers engaged for decades.
3. Dragon Ball
- Author: Akira Toriyama
- Sales: Over 260 million copies
- Summary: "Dragon Ball" follows the adventures of Goku from childhood through adulthood as he trains in martial arts and explores the world in search of the Dragon Balls, which grant wishes. The manga's influence on both manga and anime genres is immense, spawning countless adaptations and inspiring generations of creators.
4. Detective Conan (Case Closed)
- Author: Gosho Aoyama
- Sales: Over 270 million copies
- Summary: This long-running series follows teenage detective Shinichi Kudo, who is transformed into a child after being poisoned. He adopts the alias Conan Edogawa and continues solving criminal cases while searching for the antidote to regain his true form.
5. Naruto
- Author: Masashi Kishimoto
- Sales: Over 250 million copies
- Summary: "Naruto" tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest ninja and the leader of his village. The series explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery, resonating deeply with fans worldwide.
6. Doraemon
- Author: Fujiko F. Fujio
- Sales: Over 170 million copies
- Summary: "Doraemon" is a beloved manga about a robotic cat from the future who helps a young boy named Nobita with various gadgets. Its light-hearted and imaginative stories have made it a staple in Japanese culture and beyond.
7. Slam Dunk
- Author: Takehiko Inoue
- Sales: Over 170 million copies
- Summary: This sports manga focuses on a high school basketball team and the personal growth of its main character, Hanamichi Sakuragi. Known for its realistic portrayal of basketball, "Slam Dunk" has inspired many to take an interest in the sport.
8. Black Jack
- Author: Osamu Tezuka
- Sales: Over 176 million copies
- Summary: "Black Jack" follows a highly skilled, unlicensed doctor who performs dangerous surgeries for a high price. Created by the "God of Manga," Osamu Tezuka, this series is known for its medical drama and moral dilemmas.
9. Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo (KochiKame)
- Author: Osamu Akimoto
- Sales: Over 156 million copies
- Summary: Often referred to simply as "KochiKame," this comedy series centers on the daily life of Kankichi Ryotsu, a middle-aged policeman in Tokyo. The series holds a Guinness World Record for the most volumes published for a single manga series.
10. Attack on Titan
- Author: Hajime Isayama
- Sales: Over 110 million copies
- Summary: Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures known as Titans, "Attack on Titan" explores themes of survival, freedom, and humanity's darker sides. Its intense and thought-provoking story has captivated readers globally.
Why These Manga Series Stand Out
These top-selling manga series are not just popular; they have significantly impacted the world of storytelling, inspiring countless adaptations, including anime, movies, and merchandise. They showcase various genres, from action-packed adventures and detective tales to heartwarming comedies and thrilling sports stories. These best-sellers demonstrate the power of storytelling and creativity within Japanese manga.
The success of these manga series highlights the global appeal of Japanese manga and its influence on entertainment and culture. For newcomers and longtime fans alike, these series offer a glimpse into the rich and diverse world of manga, solidifying their place as the best-selling manga of all time.
