The Most Popular Manga Writers in Japan and Globally

Japanese manga has captured the hearts and imaginations of young and old, with its immersive storytelling, vivid art, and rich themes. Among the many talented manga artists, some stand out as both the most popular and the most impactful, captivating both Japanese and global audiences alike. In this article, we delve into the careers and contributions of some of the most celebrated manga creators, exploring their legacies and the impact of their works.

Who Are They?

Manga writers are the creative powerhouses behind some of the world's most beloved and enduring stories. These talented individuals have crafted worlds that capture the hearts of readers through compelling narratives and ingenious plot devices, often setting new standards in the manga genre. Here are some prominent manga writers and the works that have made them household names.

Eiichiro Oda - Creator of One Piece

Eiichiro Oda is a manga artist and author most famous for creating the globally beloved series One Piece. Since its debut in 1997, One Piece has transcended beyond the pages of manga, evolving into a multimedia franchise that includes anime, video games, and live-action films. The series follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy, a boy who acquires a super strength rubber body after accidentally eating the "Gomu Gomu no Fruit." Through his journey, he collects a diverse crew of crew and aims to find the legendary treasure known as the "One Piece," making it the ultimate prize for every pirate. Oda's ability to blend thrilling adventure, humor, and well-developed characters has made One Piece a crowd favorite and a perennial bestseller.

Akira Toriyama - Creator of Dragon Ball

Renowned manga and anime artist Akira Toriyama is deeply embedded in the world of anime, named for his creation Dragon Ball. Since its beginning in 1984, Dragon Ball has grown into one of the most popular manga and anime series. Centering around Goku, a young martial artist who gains immense energy after training with a sage, the story follows his life, beginning with his search for the legendary Dragon Balls, which can grant any wish. Toriyama's dynamic artwork and heartfelt storylines have influenced countless artists, and the legions of fans continue to grow, even many years after the series' conclusion.

Kentaro Miura - Creator of Berserk

Kenjira Miura, better known simply as Kentaro Miura, is the undisputed master of fantasy manga with his series Berserk. Set in a dark, medieval-like reality filled with demons and violence, Berserk follows the path of Guts, a young man branded as a monster and on the run with his sword. The series is noted for its raw, brutal realism and fast-paced, action-packed sequences. Miura's unique storytelling techniques and his ability to create deeply emotive and gripping scenes have earned Berserk a dedicated fanbase that spans multiple generations. The series continues to be a celebrated masterpiece, with a reputation for challenging both readers and critics alike.

Hirohiko Araki - JoJo's Bizarre Adventure

Hirohiko Araki's manga series JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is one of the most iconic and influential works in the manga industry, with its unique blend of adventure, humor, supernatural elements, and historical references. The story is complex, spanning several parts (or arcs) starting with JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Phantom Blood and continuing to the present day with JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind. Each arc introduces new protagonists, rivalries, and pivotal events, always entwined with a theme of family and destiny. Araki's innovative storytelling and inventive use of character design have made JoJo's Bizarre Adventure beloved among manga fans and influenced many other artists.

Osamu Tezuka - Kimba the White Lion, Astro Boy, and Princess Knight

Referred to as the "God of Manga," Osamu Tezuka is one of the most groundbreaking and influential manga artists in history. Known for creating iconic characters like Astro Boy, Kimba the White Lion, and Princess Knight, Tezuka's works have profoundly shaped the manga landscape. Tezuka's early series Astro Boy, which premiered in 1952, introduced the concept of the robot with human qualities, elements considered common today in many forms of media. His use of lengthy panels, humor, and a wide variety of genres revolutionized the industry and helped establish manga as an art form worthy of serious critical acclaim.

Katsuhiro Otomo - Creator of Akira

Katsuhiro Otomo is renowned for his critically acclaimed and groundbreaking series, Akira. Released in 1982, Akira is a dystopian manga series that combines elements of science fiction and Japanese mythology. The story follows a group of teenage motocross racers in a future where a destructive power known as "Akira" threatens the world. Otomo's visionary artwork, intricate plot, and the complex layers of political and social themes made Akira a landmark in manga. Many see Akira as one of the best manga series ever written, and it has inspired generations of creators both in Japan and internationally.

Naoki Urasawa - 20th Century Boys, and Beyond

Naoki Urasawa, known for masterfully blending genres, has established himself as one of the most gifted storytellers in manga. His series 20th Century Boys, which won many awards and was published in the 90s, is a testament to his innovative narrative techniques and storytelling prowess. This series delves into the lives of several young boys who have superhuman abilities, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and conspiracy. Urasawa's works are known for their intricate plot twists, complex characters, and stunning artwork. He has been praised for his ability to create compelling and emotionally engaging stories, making him one of the best mangaka of all time, according to some.

Makoto Yukimura - Vinland Saga

Makoto Yukimura's Vinland Saga, which won the 2009 Grand Prize at the Japan Media Arts Festival, has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. The series, set in the 11th century, follows the adventures of Bj?rn Ironside, a Viking warrior navigating the political and social upheavals of his time. Yukimura's unmatched storytelling abilities, vivid depiction of historical events, and striking artwork make Vinland Saga a modern classic. The intense narrative and mature themes of the series have earned it a place among the finest manga works of recent times.

Takehiko Inoue - Slam Dunk, Vagabond, and Basketball Violence

Takehiko Inoue, creator of Slam Dunk and Vagabond, is not just a manga artist but a legend in the genre. Slam Dunk, which began in 1990, is a sports manga about basketball, but it is also a story about personal growth, friendship, and the challenges of going to school. Vagabond, his historical manga series, tells the life of Miyamoto Musashi, a swordsman from the 17th century. Inoue's ability to combine action, humor, and deep character development has made him a beloved figure, and his works are celebrated for their detailed artwork and complex narratives.

Junji Ito - Master of Horror Manga

Junji Ito is perhaps best known for his work in horror manga, where he has earned a reputation as the master of the genre. His series, such as Nights, Gear, and Cano, are renowned for their unsettling and often gruesome depictions of horror. Ito's unique drawing style and narrative techniques have influenced countless other horror manga artists, and his works are celebrated for their ability to evoke a strong emotional response. His storytelling often utilizes complex and sometimes disturbing imagery, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in the horror genre.

Conclusion

These manga writers have not only contributed significantly to the rich tapestry of Japanese manga but have also expanded the horizons of what manga can achieve as a form of art. They have resonated with readers across the globe, making them household names and inspiring new generations of creators. From the stirring adventures of One Piece to the haunting narratives of Nights, these manga artists have left an indelible mark on the world of storytelling.