26 Manga to Read in 2026
Manga fans are in for a treat in 2026! This curated list of 26 must-read manga covers a diverse array of genres — from shonen action and seinen epics to romance, slice-of-life, horror, BL, GL, and more. Whether you’re a longtime otaku or new to the medium, these titles offer something for everyone. We’ve included standout classics and recent favorites (like Jujutsu Kaisen and Frieren) that remain highly recommended this year. Each entry comes with a brief description (without spoilers!) and a link to where you can buy the book, so you can easily add these gems to your collection. Dive into these stories filled with unforgettable characters, thrilling adventures, and heartfelt moments. Read on for our manga recommendations for 2026 — and get ready to discover your next favorite series!
(Note: All manga listed are available in English, and we’ve noted a mix of shonen, seinen, romance, slice-of-life, horror, BL, GL, and more to ensure full genre diversity. )
1. Jujutsu Kaisen — Dark Fantasy, Supernatural Shonen
Jujutsu Kaisen has quickly become a global phenomenon — by December 2025 it boasted over 150 million copies in circulation, making it one of the best-selling manga of all time. The story follows Yuji Itadori, a high schooler who joins a secret order of Jujutsu Sorcerers after he becomes host to a powerful Curse named Ryomen Sukuna. With its blend of exorcist-style battles, horror elements, and complex moral themes, Jujutsu Kaisen delivers adrenaline-pumping action and surprisingly deep storytelling. The series’ dark fantasy world is filled with cursed spirits, and Yuji’s determination to protect his friends drives him through increasingly intense conflicts. If you enjoy slick fight scenes, well-developed characters, and a touch of horror, Jujutsu Kaisen is a must-read manga in 2026, especially as the story hurtles toward its epic climax.
(Buy Jujutsu Kaisen Vol. 1 on Amazon)
2. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End — Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
What happens after the hero’s journey ends? Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End offers a poignant answer. This award-winning fantasy follows Frieren, an elf mage who defeated the Demon King with her party and brought peace to the land — but being virtually immortal, Frieren now grapples with outliving her human friends. The series is a reflective adventure as Frieren travels to fulfill her fallen comrades’ last wishes and learn what life means to the people around her. It’s a thoughtful twist on fantasy tropes, exploring themes of loss, friendship, and the passage of time. Don’t be fooled by the quiet tone — Frieren has earned critical acclaim (winning the Manga Taishō and other major prizes) and sold over 32 million copies as of late 2025. With a beautiful art style and heartfelt storytelling, this manga is a refreshing journey that will resonate long after you close the book.
(Buy Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Vol. 1 on Amazon)
3. Chainsaw Man — Horror, Action, Dark Comedy
Chainsaw Man is a wild ride that took the manga world by storm. It follows Denji, a downtrodden young man who makes a contract with his chainsaw-like devil dog Pochita and gains the ability to transform parts of his body into chainsaws. After being betrayed and killed, Denji is resurrected as “Chainsaw Man” — a devil-hybrid who joins the Public Safety Devil Hunters. This manga is known for its over-the-top violence, unpredictable plot twists, and dark humor. Denji’s simple dream of tasting the good life (and perhaps getting a girlfriend) clashes with nightmarish devils and corrupt enemies in a story that’s equal parts gory horror and sharp satire. Chainsaw Man won the 66th Shogakukan Manga Award and has amassed a huge fanbase for its eccentric style. If you’re looking for something edgy, fast-paced, and wholly unique, this manga will rip and tear its way into your must-reads.
(Buy Chainsaw Man Vol. 1 on Amazon)
4. Spy × Family — Action, Comedy, Slice of Life
Blending espionage action with wholesome family comedy, Spy × Family became an instant classic. It follows master spy Twilight (a.k.a. Loid Forger), who must “build a family” as part of an undercover mission — not realizing the wife he recruits is an assassin and the adopted daughter he brings home is a telepath. This unlikely trio’s antics are both hilarious and heartwarming. Watching Loid, Yor, and little Anya conceal their secrets while striving to behave like a normal family is pure joy, filled with comedic misunderstandings and bursts of action. Spy × Family is one of the most commercially successful manga of the 2020s, with over 38 million copies in circulation by 2024, and it has received critical acclaim for its storytelling and lovable characters. If you want a fun, feel-good series with plenty of laughs and a dash of spy intrigue, Spy × Family is a top recommendation.
(Buy Spy × Family Vol. 1 on Amazon)
5. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba — Adventure, Historical Fantasy
It’s hard to overstate the impact of Demon Slayer — this saga reignited a global manga boom. Set in Taisho-era Japan, the story follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy whose family is slaughtered by demons and whose sister Nezuko is turned into a demon herself. Tanjiro vows to become a Demon Slayer to avenge his family and find a cure for Nezuko. What unfolds is an exhilarating quest brimming with sword fights, supernatural powers, and emotional stakes. Demon Slayer is praised for its stunning art and heartfelt narrative; it often balances intense battles with themes of family, grief, and hope. The manga concluded in 2020, but remains a must-read — by 2025 it had over 220 million copies in circulation worldwide, cementing its status as one of the best-selling manga ever. If you haven’t experienced this modern classic, 2026 is the perfect time to dive into Tanjiro’s journey alongside the Demon Slayer Corps.
(Buy Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Vol. 1 on Amazon)
6. My Hero Academia — Superhero, Shonen Action
For a dose of superhero excitement with a Japanese twist, My Hero Academia is the go-to choice. Set in a world where 80% of people have superpowers (called “Quirks”), the story follows Izuku Midoriya — a boy born Quirkless who nonetheless dreams of becoming a hero. When the world’s greatest hero, All Might, passes his power to Izuku, he enrolls at U.A. High, a prestigious hero training school. My Hero Academia combines classic shonen themes of hard work and friendship with the style of American comics, featuring a large cast of colorful heroes and villains. The series is action-packed and full of heart, celebrated for its explosive battles and inspirational moments. By April 2024, the manga had over 100 million copies in circulation, and it remains wildly popular as it heads toward its finale. If you love superhero stories or just crave an uplifting ensemble adventure, My Hero Academia should be on your 2026 reading list.
(Buy My Hero Academia Vol. 1 on Amazon)
7. One Piece — Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy
One Piece isn’t just a manga — it’s a cultural icon. Eiichiro Oda’s pirate epic is the best-selling manga series in history, with over 516 million copies in circulation worldwide as of 2022. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy, a spirited young pirate with a rubbery body (thanks to a magical Devil Fruit he ate) who dreams of becoming the Pirate King and finding the ultimate treasure, the “One Piece”. Luffy assembles a lovable crew of misfits — swordsman Zoro, navigator Nami, and many more — and together the Straw Hat Pirates sail a world full of bizarre islands, formidable foes, and endless adventure. One Piece masterfully balances humor, heartfelt friendships, and high-stakes battles, all within an imaginatively rich world. It’s a long journey (1000+ chapters and counting), but absolutely worth it: the series’ depth of storytelling and character development is virtually unmatched. If you haven’t yet ventured into One Piece, 2026 offers plenty of time to catch up on this legendary manga that continues to captivate readers of all ages.
(Buy One Piece Vol. 1 on Amazon)
8. Naruto — Action, Adventure, Ninja
No list of essential manga is complete without Naruto, a series that defined a generation. This shonen classic tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a mischievous orphaned ninja who dreams of becoming Hokage (the leader of his village) so that he’ll be respected and no longer alone. Naruto’s journey from outcast to hero is packed with thrilling battles, ninja training, and emotional moments that resonate. Along with teammates Sasuke and Sakura, Naruto faces dangerous enemies and uncovers secrets surrounding the Nine-Tailed Fox sealed inside him. Naruto ran for 15 years and sold over 250 million copies worldwide, making it one of the top best-selling manga series ever. Its themes of perseverance, friendship, and forgiveness are timeless. If you grew up with the anime or are entirely new to the saga, reading the manga offers deeper insight into Masashi Kishimoto’s epic story and iconic characters. Don’t miss this cornerstone of shonen manga in 2026.
(Buy Naruto Vol. 1 on Amazon)
9. Berserk — Dark Fantasy, Seinen
For mature readers who crave intense storytelling and lush artwork, Berserk stands at the pinnacle. Kentaro Miura’s dark fantasy follows Guts, a lone mercenary swordsman, and Griffith, the charismatic leader of the Band of the Hawk mercenaries. Set in a medieval Europe-inspired world plagued by demons and corruption, Berserk is equal parts brutal and beautiful. The narrative centers on Guts’ journey of revenge and survival after a horrific betrayal shatters everything he once knew. Miura’s detailed art brings to life harrowing battles, grotesque monsters, and moments of quiet humanity amidst the darkness. Widely acclaimed for its deep characters and unflinching exploration of themes like fate and free will, Berserk has over 70 million copies in circulation as of 2025. Note that it’s a graphic series with violence and adult themes, but if you’re up for a grim and gripping saga, Berserk is a must-read masterpiece of the seinen genre.
(Buy Berserk Deluxe Edition Vol. 1 on Amazon)
10. Vinland Saga — Historical, Seinen, Adventure
Set in the age of Vikings, Vinland Saga is a riveting historical epic that combines action with profound character development. The story centers on Thorfinn, a young Icelandic warrior who as a boy watched his father (a legendary ex-warrior) be killed by the mercenary leader Askeladd. Thorfinn joins Askeladd’s band, driven by a burning desire for revenge, while also holding onto childhood dreams of the fabled peaceful land called “Vinland”. Vinland Saga starts as a tale of vengeance but evolves into a broader saga about finding purpose beyond violence. The series is renowned for its realistic portrayal of 11th-century Europe and its deconstruction of the war epic — expect fierce battles, political intrigue, and philosophical introspection. Created by Makoto Yukimura, the manga won the Japan Media Arts Grand Prize and Kodansha Manga Award, and as of 2022 had over 7 million copies in circulation. If you appreciate deep seinen stories like Berserk or Monster, give Vinland Saga a read — it’s an outstanding Viking adventure with a soul.
(Buy Vinland Saga Volume 1 (Hardcover) on Amazon)
11. Monster — Psychological Thriller, Crime
Naoki Urasawa’s Monster is often hailed as a masterpiece of suspense. This gripping thriller follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant Japanese neurosurgeon in Germany whose life falls apart after he saves the life of a young boy — only to discover that child, Johan, grows up to be a sociopathic serial killer. Monster is part murder mystery, part cat-and-mouse psychological duel between Tenma (as he pursues Johan to stop his killing spree) and other parties trying to uncover the truth. The story delves into questions of morality and what creates a “monster,” set against a realistic post-Cold War European backdrop. Urasawa’s storytelling is taut and layered, keeping you on edge through each twist. The series is complete in 18 volumes, so you can experience the full journey. If you enjoy shows like Death Note or crime novels, Monster will captivate you with its intense plot and complex characters — it’s widely regarded as one of the best thriller manga ever created.
[Buy Monster (Perfect Edition) Vol. 1 on Amazon]
12. One-Punch Man — Action, Comedy, Superhero Parody
What if the mightiest hero was also the most bored? One-Punch Man answers that with gut-busting hilarity. This manga follows Saitama, an overpowered hero who can defeat any opponent with a single punch — a power that leaves him feeling incredibly unchallenged and bored. As Saitama seeks a worthy opponent, he navigates a world full of quirky heroes and outrageous monsters. Created by ONE and illustrated by Yusuke Murata, One-Punch Man brilliantly parodies superhero and shonen tropes while still delivering amazing fight scenes (Murata’s dynamic art is a huge draw). The series is laugh-out-loud funny — imagine a bald, deadpan hero obliterating world-ending threats and fretting over grocery sales. Yet it also offers clever satire on society’s obsession with rankings and fame. One-Punch Man has been wildly popular, spawning a hit anime and meme-worthy moments galore. For a refreshing blast of action-comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously, join Saitama and his cyborg disciple Genos in One-Punch Man.
(Buy One-Punch Man Vol. 1 on Amazon)
13. Fruits Basket — Romance, Drama, Supernatural (Shoujo)
A beloved classic in the shoujo genre, Fruits Basket blends romance, comedy, and fantasy in a moving tale about empathy and healing. It tells the story of Tohru Honda, an orphaned teenage girl who ends up living with the Soma family — and discovers that twelve members of the Soma clan are possessed by the animals of the Chinese zodiac and turn into those animals when hugged by the opposite sex. Tohru’s kindness begins to break the generations-long curse binding the Soma family. Fruits Basket shines for its endearing cast (each Soma has personal emotional scars) and the gentle strength of its heroine Tohru. The series navigates serious themes like grief, abuse, and self-worth with a warm, uplifting touch. Natsuki Takaya’s manga was a huge hit in the early 2000s and its popularity endures — a testament to its heartfelt storytelling. If you want a manga that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon, Fruits Basket is the perfect choice for 2026. (Bonus: the anime adaptation is also excellent once you’ve read the manga.)
(Buy Fruits Basket Collector’s Edition Vol. 1 on Amazon)
14. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War — Romantic Comedy
One of the funniest modern manga, Kaguya-sama: Love Is War turns high school romance into a battle of wits. The setup: Kaguya Shinomiya (the elegant student council vice president) and Miyuki Shirogane (the overachieving council president) like each other — but both are too proud to confess, believing that whoever confesses first “loses” in love. Thus ensues a hilarious war of psychological tactics as each tries to make the other one show affection or admit feelings, all while maintaining a cool facade. With its inventive chapters structured as comedic “battles,” Kaguya-sama delivers consistent laughs and surprisingly sweet moments. As the series progresses, the supporting cast (like chaotic Chika and gloomy Ishigami) shine as well, and the story grows beyond the central duo’s mind games. Aka Akasaka’s rom-com has been a breakout hit (over 19 million copies sold) and even won the Shogakukan Award. If you’re looking for a unique romantic comedy that’s equal parts clever and heartwarming, join the student council antics in Kaguya-sama: Love Is War.
(Buy Kaguya-sama: Love Is War Vol. 1 on Amazon)
15. Given — BL (Boys’ Love), Drama, Music
A poignant blend of music and romance, Given has captured many hearts as a standout BL series. The story centers on an amateur rock band and the relationships between its members. Guitarist Ritsuka Uenoyama’s life changes when he meets Mafuyu Sato, a quiet boy carrying a broken guitar — and a heavy emotional burden. As Ritsuka teaches Mafuyu to play and discovers Mafuyu’s astonishing singing talent, the two bond and gradually heal from past traumas. Meanwhile, the band’s bassist Haruki and drummer Akihiko have their own complicated love story. Given is praised for its realistic portrayal of young love and grief: it tackles topics like loss, coming out, and mental health with sensitivity. Natsuki Kizu’s artwork conveys the characters’ emotions beautifully, and the original songs (you can listen via the anime) add an extra layer of depth. This series is perfect for fans of music-themed or LGBTQ+ romances, or anyone who appreciates a moving drama about finding hope through connection.
(Buy Given Vol. 1 on Amazon)
16. Bloom Into You — GL (Girls’ Love), Romance, Drama
Bloom Into You offers a tender and introspective take on first love between two young women. Yuu Koito is a first-year high school student who has never felt the “spark” of romance, even when someone confessed to her. She meets Touko Nanami, the sophisticated student council president who turns down her own confessions without a second thought. When Touko unexpectedly confesses to Yuu, Yuu is taken by surprise — she doesn’t feel ready to reciprocate. Yet Touko isn’t dissuaded, and the two begin a complex relationship where Yuu supports Touko’s emotional struggles while trying to understand her own feelings. This beautifully drawn yuri manga is lauded for its nuanced character writing and avoiding clichés. It explores identity, expectation, and the gradual process of opening one’s heart. If you’re interested in a contemporary romance that’s gentle, realistic, and deeply heartfelt, Bloom Into You is a must-read GL title that has resonated with many readers.
(Buy Bloom Into You Vol. 1 on Amazon)
17. Uzumaki — Horror
From the master of horror manga Junji Ito comes Uzumaki, a spine-chilling classic that will crawl under your skin. Set in the quiet coastal town of Kurouzu-cho, the story follows a teen girl, Kirie, and her boyfriend Shuichi as they witness their town become cursed by spiral patterns — “uzumaki” in Japanese. What starts with strange spiral obsessions and occurrences quickly escalates into a series of grotesque, sanity-shattering events as the spiral curse consumes the townspeople. Ito’s genius lies in turning an innocent shape into a source of cosmic horror; you’ll never look at snail shells or whirlwinds the same way again. Uzumaki is presented in three volumes (also collected in a deluxe edition), delivering one horrific vignette after another with escalating dread and jaw-dropping art. It’s a must-read for horror fans, showcasing Ito’s trademark combination of eerie atmosphere and nightmarish imagery. As one of the most iconic horror manga, Uzumaki will leave you unsettled, fascinated, and utterly engrossed in its spiral of madness.
[Buy Uzumaki (3-in-1 Deluxe Edition) on Amazon]
18. Attack on Titan — Dark Fantasy, Post-Apocalyptic
Attack on Titan became a worldwide sensation for good reason — its high-stakes story and plot twists are the stuff of legend. The series is set in a grim world where the last of humanity cowers inside colossal walled cities to hide from giant man-eating Titans. When a Colossal Titan breaches Wall Maria, monsters flood in to massacre the town. Young Eren Yeager watches his mother be devoured and vows to exterminate every Titan in revenge. Eren, along with his friends Mikasa and Armin, joins the elite Survey Corps to venture outside the walls and fight back. Hajime Isayama’s manga starts as a horror-survival tale but evolves into an intricate epic with political intrigue, moral ambiguity, and jaw-dropping revelations about the Titans’ origin. It’s full of intense battles and tragic moments — no character is safe. Now that the manga has concluded, new readers can enjoy the complete story from start to finish. If you want a gripping page-turner about humanity’s fight for survival, with themes of freedom and sacrifice, Attack on Titan is essential reading.
(Buy Attack on Titan Vol. 1 on Amazon)
19. Death Note — Supernatural Thriller
Death Note is a modern classic that poses the ultimate cat-and-mouse question: If you had the power to kill anyone anonymously, what would you do? High school genius Light Yagami finds a mysterious notebook called the Death Note, dropped into the human world by a bored shinigami (death god) named Ryuk. Any person’s name written in the notebook will die. Light, disgusted by crime, uses the Death Note to secretly execute criminals and aims to create a “utopian” world free of evil, adopting the alias “Kira”. His mass vigilante killings soon attract the attention of L — a brilliant, eccentric detective — and so begins a tense battle of intellects between Kira and L. Death Note is celebrated for its clever plotting and ethical dilemmas; it’s a rollercoaster of psychological warfare and suspense with each trying to outsmart the other at every turn. This series is only 12 volumes, making it an addictive, fast-paced read. If you love smart thrillers with anti-hero protagonists, Death Note is a must-read manga that will keep you guessing until the end.
(Buy Death Note Vol. 1 on Amazon)
20. Fullmetal Alchemist — Action, Fantasy, Steampunk
Hiromu Arakawa’s Fullmetal Alchemist is often cited as one of the best manga ever created — and it’s as engaging now as it was when it finished over a decade ago. In the steampunk world of Amestris, where alchemy is a powerful science, brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric commit the taboo of human transmutation in a desperate attempt to resurrect their dead mother. The experiment backfires catastrophically: Edward loses limbs and Alphonse loses his entire body (surviving only as a soul bound to armor). The two set out in search of the legendary Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies, joining the State Alchemists and uncovering a nationwide conspiracy involving immortal beings called Homunculi. Fullmetal Alchemist has it all — thrilling action, political intrigue, humor, and deeply emotional moments — all anchored by Ed and Al’s unbreakable brotherly bond. The series (complete in 27 volumes) delivers a perfectly paced narrative with a satisfying ending. Whether you’re new to manga or a longtime reader, FMA is essential reading that combines shonen excitement with seinen depth. Few stories are as flawlessly executed as this one.
(Buy Fullmetal Alchemist Fullmetal Edition Vol. 1 on Amazon)
21. Haikyu!! — Sports (Volleyball), Comedy, Drama
Get ready to cheer — Haikyu!! (“Volleyball!!”) is an exhilarating sports manga that will spike your spirits. Shoyo Hinata is a short but fiercely determined boy who adores volleyball and idolizes a player nicknamed “Little Giant.” In junior high, Hinata suffers a crushing defeat against the “King of the Court,” Tobio Kageyama. But in high school, Hinata joins Karasuno High’s volleyball team and finds (to his horror) that Kageyama is now his teammate! Haikyu!! follows Hinata and Kageyama’s journey from bitter rivals to the ultimate setter-spiker duo as they push Karasuno back to nationals. The manga shines in portraying teamwork and character growth — every member of Karasuno (and their opponent teams) gets moments to love. Haruichi Furudate’s dynamic art captures the thrill of each match, making you feel every serve, spike, and block. It’s an uplifting tale about passion, friendship, and overcoming limits. Even if you’re not into sports, Haikyu!!’s infectious energy and humor will win you over. This series concluded recently, so you can enjoy the full satisfying story of Karasuno’s comeback. Go team!
(Buy Haikyu!! Vol. 1 on Amazon)
22. Yotsuba&! — Slice of Life, Comedy
Sometimes you need a break from high-stakes drama — and Yotsuba&! is the perfect palate cleanser. This delightful slice-of-life manga depicts the everyday adventures of Yotsuba Koiwai, an energetic and endlessly curious five-year-old girl. Newly moved to a suburban neighborhood with her adoptive dad, Yotsuba approaches everything with wide-eyed wonder — from discovering how swings work to catching cicadas to drawing with crayons. Guided by her patient father and the friendly neighbor family, Yotsuba finds joy and excitement in the mundane. The humor in Yotsuba&! is sweet and gentle, often coming from Yotsuba’s hilarious misunderstandings of the world (she doesn’t know what doorbells or air conditioners are!). Created by Kiyohiko Azuma (of Azumanga Daioh fame), the manga’s artwork beautifully captures the warm, sunny vibe of childhood summers. Crucially, Yotsuba&! has no overarching plot — it’s all about savoring the little moments. Its motto, “Today is always the most enjoyable day,” truly fits. If you need a feel-good read that will make you smile and appreciate life’s simple pleasures, spend some time with Yotsuba — you’ll be glad you did.
(Buy Yotsuba&! Vol. 1 on Amazon)
23. Oshi no Ko — Drama, Mystery, Supernatural
One of the hottest new series making waves is Oshi no Ko, an engrossing drama that peels back the curtain on the Japanese entertainment industry. It begins with a shocking twist: a doctor and his terminally ill teenage patient are reincarnated as twin babies of the famous pop idol Ai Hoshino. As Aquamarine (a boy) and Ruby (a girl), these siblings grow up navigating the highs and lows of showbiz while holding memories of their past lives. When Ai is tragically murdered, Aqua swears to find the perpetrator — setting the stage for a gripping mystery and revenge plot within the glitzy yet treacherous world of idols, acting, and celebrity. Oshi no Ko (meaning “My Favorite Idol’s Children”) deftly blends supernatural elements with a dark exploration of fame’s price. Written by Aka Akasaka (Kaguya-sama) and drawn by Mengo Yokoyari, the manga has been praised for its unpredictable story and critique of industry pressures. With over 25 million copies in circulation and an anime adaptation fueling its popularity, Oshi no Ko is a must-read 2020s hit — especially if you’re intrigued by the dark side of stardom.
(Buy Oshi no Ko Vol. 1 on Amazon)
24. Akira — Science Fiction, Cyberpunk
Travel back to the ’80s cyberpunk future with Akira, Katsuhiro Otomo’s groundbreaking manga that still feels fiercely relevant. Akira is set in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo in the year 2019, 38 years after a mysterious explosion obliterated the original Tokyo and triggered World War III. The story follows Shotaro Kaneda, the leader of a motorcycle gang, whose best friend Tetsuo Shima gains dangerous psychic powers after a bike accident involving a government secret project. As Tetsuo’s abilities spiral out of control, Kaneda gets swept up in a conflict involving the military, revolutionaries, and the enigmatic child known as Akira. Akira is a tour de force of detailed art and kinetic action — from high-speed bike chases to mind-bending psychic showdowns — all set against a backdrop of societal chaos. This manga’s influence on pop culture (and anime) is immeasurable, and its exploration of youth disenfranchisement and power’s corrupting nature still resonates. The complete story is available in a six-volume set. If you’re a fan of cyberpunk or sci-fi, Akira is absolutely essential — a masterpiece of manga that earns its legendary status.
(Buy Akira 35th Anniversary Box Set on Amazon)
25. Nana — Josei, Drama, Music, Romance
Ai Yazawa’s Nana is a stylish and deeply emotional drama that became a cultural phenomenon. It follows two young women, both named Nana, who meet by chance on a train to Tokyo and end up becoming roommates. Nana Osaki is a cool, independent punk rock singer chasing her big break, while Nana “Hachi” Komatsu is a cheerful, naive girl moving to Tokyo for love and excitement. Despite their opposite personalities, the two Nanas form a powerful friendship as they navigate love, ambition, heartbreak, and the rock music scene in 2000s Tokyo. Nana realistically portrays the struggles of early adulthood — messy relationships, career dilemmas, and the solace of found family — all with Ai Yazawa’s chic art and punk fashion sensibilities. The series is on hiatus (due to the author’s health) and thus unfinished, but the volumes that exist are so rich and engaging that Nana remains highly acclaimed. It’s a must-read josei manga for its frank depiction of women’s lives and its rollercoaster of emotions. Many fans (myself included) are still hoping for Yazawa’s return to finish the story — but even as is, Nana is unforgettable.
(Buy Nana Vol. 1 on Amazon)
26. The Promised Neverland — Thriller, Dark Fantasy
Closing out our list is a modern suspense classic: The Promised Neverland. At first glance, Grace Field House is a paradise for its orphans — 11-year-old Emma and her 37 siblings live a happy life with tasty food, comfy beds, and a loving “Mom” caretaker. But when Emma and friends Norman and Ray discover the horrifying truth behind the orphanage — that it’s a farm raising children to be fed to demons — their idyllic life shatters. The clever trio hatch an ambitious escape plan to save all the kids from their fate. The Promised Neverland is a masterclass in tension: think stealth, strategy, and psychological games akin to Death Note, but set in a dark fairy-tale scenario. As the children venture beyond the orphanage, the story expands into a rich dark fantasy world of monsters and human survival. Kaiu Shirai’s plot twists will keep you guessing, and Posuka Demizu’s art expertly shifts from cute to creepy. Now complete in 20 volumes, this manga offers a gripping beginning-to-end ride. If you’re looking for a page-turner with equal parts heart and horror, join Emma in The Promised Neverland — just be prepared to lose some sleep!
(Buy The Promised Neverland Vol. 1 on Amazon)
Conclusion
Each of these 26 manga titles offers a unique journey — whether it’s the pulse-pounding battles of a shonen hit, the tender moments of a romance, or the eerie chill of a horror tale. As of 2026, these mangas stand out as top recommendations spanning the entire spectrum of genres and readerships. They are linked, so you can easily find where to buy them and start reading. In the world of manga, there’s always another great story waiting to be explored.
(“Today is always the most enjoyable day!” as Yotsuba would say.
So enjoy everything — and enjoy your manga adventures in 2026!)