Japanese comics have centuries-old historical and cultural roots. Manga as we know it today was born and developed more or less seven decades ago. Since then, the world has witnessed the emergence of several masterpieces that have earned top spots on the best-selling manga list of all time.
Sales show that a work not only attracts the attention of a wide audience but also maintains a fan base over a long period of time.
Leading the list of the most popular comic books in Japan, the following manga have achieved a huge number of copies sold, becoming the dream of many publishers. Even though many generations have passed, the influence of these series has not diminished over time, but on the contrary has spread to all over the world, not just Japan.
Here are the 20 best-selling manga of all time, ranked by revenue:
1 – One Piece – 516.6 million copies
With a staggering 516.6 million copies sold, Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece is a living legend. Released in 1997, the pirate-themed series continues to become a phenomenon with a large fan base. In addition, the One Piece brand has accumulated billions of dollars in revenue from related products.
2 – Golgo 13 – 300 million copies
Takao Saito’s long-running manga Golgo 13 has sold more than 300 million copies. This seinen manga stands out because of its length and its exploration of the life of the Duke of Togo, a professional assassin. The work makes those who believe that manga is only for young people change their perspective, proving that this genre has room for mature and complex stories.
3 – Dragon Ball – 300 million copies
With 300 million copies sold since 1984, Dragon Ball has become one of the mainstays of the shounen world. Dragon Ball also influenced later mangakas, including the creators of “three pillars” shounen.
Goku’s epic adventures in his quest to find the Dragon Balls have attracted generations of audiences from past to present.
4 – Famous Detective Conan – 270 million copies
Since 1994, Gosho Aoyama’s Detective Conan has kept readers on the edge of their seats. With 270 million copies sold, the manga follows Shinichi Kudo, a child-turned-detective prodigy, as he solves cases and searches for a cure for his condition. It is one of the few manga that has maintained its high quality and public interest for decades.
5 – Doraemon – 250 million copies
Although it is a comic for children, Fujiko F. Fujio’s Doremon is a cultural icon in Japan. Since its release in 1969, it has sold 250 million copies and inspired countless movies and anime series.
6 – Naruto – 250 million copies
With over 250 million copies sold, Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto is a formidable work. Created in 1999 and completed in 2014, this story about the ninja world has captivated generations of audiences. The plot revolves around the dreams and growth process of character Naruto Uzumaki.
7 – Slam Dunk – 170 million copies
Slam Dunk by author Takehiro Inoue, with 170 million copies sold, was not only a publishing success, but it was also a catalyst for the popularity of basketball in Japan.
Published from 1990 to 1996, this classic sports work has become a touchstone for young basketball players.
8 – KochiKame – 156.5 million copies
Osamu Akimoto’s work has sold more than 156.5 million copies since its debut in 1976. It is one of the longest-running titles, with 201 volumes and several adaptations, from anime to series. live-action movie. The story follows the humorous adventures of Kankicki Ryotsu in the Tokyo police force.
9 – Kimetsu No Yaiba – 150 million copies
Although Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga Kimetsu No Yaiba only has 23 volumes, it has sold 150 million copies. In addition, the anime adaptations and movies all received enthusiastic attention from the audience.
10 – Oishinbo – 135 million copies
When you think about manga, genres like Shonen or Seinen come to mind. But Oishinbo broke all the molds. Focusing on the world of cuisine, this manga series written by Akira Hanasaki and Tetsu Kariya was a huge success with 135 million copies sold.
With a total of 111 episodes and an anime of 136 episodes, this work is a miracle in the manga universe.
11 – Bleach – 130 million copies
12 – JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure – 120 million copies
13 – Attack on Titan – 110 million copies
14 – Astro Boy – 100 million copies
15 – Fist of the North Star – 100 million copies
16 – Hajime No Ippo – 100 million copies
17 – The Kindaichi Case Files – 100 million copies
18 – Touch – 100 million copies
19 – Kingdom – 99 million copies
20 – Captain Tsubasa – 90 million copies