10 Popular Fantasy Manga in Japan

James Tomioka

The world of fantasy manga is truly one of endless possibilities!
From magic to other worlds to mysterious creatures, the unimaginable unfolds one after another, making the reader feel as if they are on an adventure.
And the fantasy worlds, with their beautiful artwork, are full of a charm that you can’t experience in real life, which captivates me every time I read them!

table of contents

10 Popular Fantasy Manga That Will Take You to Another World Full of Dreams

James Tomioka

Fantasy comics are fantastic because they offer adventures that would be impossible in the real world.
Diving into a world filled with magic and dragons is already an exhilarating experience.

Tomahawk Shinobu

Fantasy comics aren’t merely tales of adventure.
They weave stories with profound messages and feature touching character development that resonates deeply with me.

Brian Tanjiro

Fantasy worlds are a treasure trove of creative ideas.
It’s as if we, the readers, become a part of that world.

1st: Fullmetal Alchemist

Brian Tanjiro

No matter how many times you delve into “Fullmetal Alchemist,” you’re bound to discover something new.
The journey of Ed and Al isn’t merely an adventure; it’s a deep exploration of their growth and their approach to facing challenges.

James Tomioka

Indeed, the portrayal of the psychology of the characters they encounter is remarkably realistic, and Ed’s line, “Stand up, walk forward, you’ve got two good legs,” never fails to resonate, no matter how many times I come across it.

Tomahawk Shinobu

Every character is captivating, encompassing the battles against the Homunculi and the burdens of the past that the adults bear.
The brilliance of how everything intertwines and resolves in the end is truly masterful.

Author: Hiroshi Arakawa

Synopsis
“Fullmetal Alchemist” is a classic manga by Hiroshi Arakawa that centers on two brothers, Edward Elric and Alphonse Elric. They lose their mother and attempt forbidden human body alchemy, but pay a heavy price. Edward loses his left leg and his brother’s body but manages to rescue them by affixing his brother’s soul to a suit of armor. The brothers embark on a long journey in search of the Philosopher’s Stone, their ultimate goal as alchemists, in order to regain what they have lost. During this journey, they meet many people and face numerous challenges as they move closer to the truth of the world.

Reasons for Recommendation

A story that makes you want to read it over and over again: The deep narrative and complex character relationships provide new discoveries each time you read it.
Heartwarming character relationships: The brotherly love between Ed and Al, as well as their relationships with the people around them and with their enemy, the Homunculi, are fascinating and inspiring.
Touching messages: The characters confront their pasts and grow as they mature, yielding many touching messages.
Clever storytelling: The story is masterfully constructed, and the buildup to the conclusion, where all foreshadowing is resolved, is remarkable.
Exploration of diverse themes: The story deeply explores a variety of themes, including human psychology, family love, friendship, and romance, offering readers a rich emotional experience.

2nd: Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

James Tomioka

“Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” presents a refreshing perspective on the world after the adventure has concluded.
Frieren’s journey evokes a sense of serenity and change, highlighting the passage of time following the conclusion of the heroes’ tale.

Tomahawk Shinobu

Reading about the relationships that Frieren, an elf, forms as she navigates the long years of her life and her unique perception of time is indeed poignant.
The world as seen through her eyes, where time flows differently, is both profound and beautiful, isn’t it?

Brian Tanjiro

The construction of the worldview is outstanding.
It adds depth to the story by exploring the relationship between demons and humans, the significance of words, and the lives of heroes after their adventures.
Additionally, the comedic elements are perfectly interspersed, providing just the right touch to lighten the reader’s heart.

Author: Kaneto Yamada / Abetsukasa

Synopsis
“Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” is a post-apocalyptic fantasy manga by Kaneto Yamada and Abetsukasa. The story unfolds in a world after the defeat of the Demon King, from the perspective of Frieren, a long-lived elf wizard. She played a role in vanquishing the Demon King as part of a group of heroes. However, after parting ways with her human companions, she explores her own existence in the world and the passage of time. Frieren embarks on a journey towards a deeper understanding and reconciliation between humans and demons, along with reconnecting with the bonds of the past heroes. This narrative marks a new journey that commences at the adventure’s conclusion, serving as an after-story to the lives of the heroes and their subsequent paths.

Reasons for Recommendation

Deep backstories of characters: Each character has a unique life and emotions that deeply move readers when revealed.
Compelling worldview: The detailed setting, including the relationship between demons and humans and their shared language, makes the world feel real and immerses the reader in the story.
Unique perspective: The story of relationships and memories, unique and fascinating, arises from Frieren, an elf, experiencing a different passage of time compared to humans.
A fresh approach: By depicting what happens “after” the heroes, the story offers a new perspective not commonly found in fantasy, creating a fresh experience for the reader.
Portrayal of the passage of time: The gentle but profound depiction of the beauty and cruelty of time offers readers deeper insight into life.

3rd: Black Butler

James Tomioka

Sebastian’s line, “I’m simply one hell of a butler,” from “Black Butler” is indeed memorable. His flawlessly impeccable performance as a butler, coupled with the mystery surrounding his true nature, truly makes the story stand out, don’t you think?

Brian Tanjiro

The artwork is indeed stunning. Sebastian’s portrayal, in particular, is charismatic, embodying a captivating dark aura. Additionally, the story’s unpredictable progression adds a layer of suspense that keeps you on edge at every turn.

Tomahawk Shinobu

The depth and detail of the manga’s world are indeed impressive. It’s also noteworthy how the artwork evolves with each volume. The story of an eccentric butler and his master stands out as a true masterpiece of dark fantasy.

Author: Yana Toboso

Synopsis
“Black Butler” is a dark fantasy masterpiece by Yana Toboso. The manga centers around Sebastian Michaelis, a butler serving a noble family. Sebastian is no ordinary butler; he is an exceptional being, endowed with impeccable work ethic and dark powers, devoted entirely to his master’s cause. His master, Ciel Phantomhive, is a young noble who faced great tragedy early in life and is determined to avenge his family’s downfall. A profound pact underlies the relationship between Sebastian and Ciel, with Sebastian loyally executing Ciel’s commands and working from the shadows to fulfill his young master’s ambitions. Set in Victorian-era London, the story unfolds the adventures and development of its main characters against the backdrop of society’s elite and the underworld’s secrets.

Reasons for Recommendation

Attractive Worldview and Beautiful Depiction: The intricately detailed setting and beautiful artwork set in Victorian-era London captivate readers.
The Charm of Sebastian: The overwhelming charisma and abilities of the perfect butler, Sebastian Michaelis, enchant readers.
Beauty of the Artwork: The delicate and beautiful illustrations enhance the story further. The synergy with the anime doubles the visual enjoyment.
Unpredictable Developments: The story’s unpredictable twists keep readers on the edge of their seats, constantly providing fresh surprises.
Improvement in Artistry and the Essence of Dark Fantasy: The evolving artistry with each volume and the deep allure of dark fantasy offer a unique pleasure to readers.

4th: The Heroic Legend of Arslan

Brian Tanjiro

“The Heroic Legend of Arslan” captivates with its grand worldview and deep storyline.
The journey of Arslan’s development is indeed a heroic saga in its own right.

Tomahawk Shinobu

While Arslan starts off as timid, the depiction of his growth through various trials is inspiring.
As readers, we find ourselves increasingly rooting for him as he confronts and rises above his challenges.

James Tomioka

The characters illustrated by Hiromu Arakawa are indeed captivating.
Particularly, the powerful battle scenes enhance the atmosphere of the original work, adding depth and vibrancy.
The distinct charm of each character further enriches the story, making it all the more engaging.

Author: Hiromu Arakawa / Yoshiki Tanaka

Synopsis
“The Heroic Legend of Arslan” is a manga adaptation by Hiromu Arakawa, based on the novel of the same name by Yoshiki Tanaka. The narrative centers around Arslan, the young prince of the formidable kingdom of Pars. Initially depicted as “unreliable,” “feeble,” and “lacking in ability,” he participates in his first battle at the tender age of 14. Contrary to everyone’s expectations of a decisive victory for the Parsian army, the outcome is far from what was anticipated, thrusting Arslan into a destiny filled with epic challenges. This saga is an enthralling account of Arslan’s maturation, the diverse cast of characters he encounters, and the intricate web of conflicts between nations that unfold. Through his journey, Arslan confronts numerous trials, growing into a sovereign of true virtue, and comes to understand the profound essences of friendship, faith, and warfare.

Reasons for Recommendation

Stunning fusion with the original work: The exquisite artwork by Hiromu Arakawa and the profound storyline by Yoshiki Tanaka merge seamlessly, elevating the impactful scenes to new heights of memorability.
Massive worldview and characters: The meticulously crafted universe and characters, each with their own intriguing backstory, will captivate readers across all age groups.
Foreshadowing and storytelling: Skillfully woven foreshadowing and unpredictable narratives keep readers eagerly turning the pages.
A story of growth and friendship: The narrative of Arslan’s personal development and the relationships he builds adds a rich layer of depth and emotion to the tale.
Lively characters: While staying true to the essence of the original narrative, Hiromu Arakawa’s portrayal brings out the distinct appeal of each character even more vividly.

5th: HUNTER×HUNTER

Tomahawk Shinobu

You truly can’t go wrong with “HUNTER x HUNTER.”
The growth and adventures of Gon and his friends are thrilling, offering new surprises and discoveries at every turn.

James Tomioka

The intricate foreshadowing and its unveiling are quintessential elements of Yoshihiro Togashi’s storytelling.
The detailed settings are vividly portrayed within the expansive storyline, and no matter how many times I revisit the series, I always discover something new.

Brian Tanjiro

Absolutely, each character’s uniqueness, along with their original backgrounds and abilities, stands out.
The evolving bond and growth among Leorio, Kurapika, Killua, and Gon truly make this story special, highlighting the depth and richness of their journeys together.

Author: Yoshihiro Togashi

Synopsis
“HUNTER x HUNTER” is a masterpiece of adventure and friendship by Yoshihiro Togashi. The narrative kicks off with Gon Freecss’s journey, a young boy who aspires to become a “hunter” like his father. Along the way, Gon encounters Leorio, Kurapika, and Killua, friends with rich personalities, as he participates in the rigorous Hunter Examination. Each individual has their own compelling reasons for undergoing the Hunter test, and through facing various challenges, they forge a strong camaraderie. This manga transcends the typical adventure genre, presenting complex human dynamics, an expansive narrative, and a meticulously developed world and system. Through the trials and exploits of Gon and his companions, the story imparts reflections on the essence of friendship, bravery, and perseverance.

Reasons for Recommendation

Innovative worldview and system: The distinctive universe crafted by Yoshihiro Togashi, along with the sophisticated system surrounding the hunter profession, offers an allure that sets it apart from other manga.
Unique characters: Characters such as Gon, Killua, Leorio, and Kurapika have profound backgrounds and distinctive charms that captivate readers’ attention deeply.
Deep themes: The themes of friendship, adventure, trials, and personal growth are intricately woven throughout the narrative, revealing new insights with each read.
New discoveries every time: The complex storylines and carefully placed foreshadowing enrich the reading experience, ensuring that each revisit to the series uncovers new delights.
Influence and persistence: Despite the series’ intermittent publication schedule, its charm remains undiminished, continuing to garner a dedicated fanbase and exerting a significant influence on subsequent generations.

6th: Ranking of Kings

Brian Tanjiro

The friendship between Bojji and Kage in “Ranking of Kings” is indeed heartwarming.
Watching Bojji take on challenges is truly inspiring.

Tomahawk Shinobu

The lizard’s presence in Bojji’s life is immense.
The moments where their bond deepens are incredibly moving, often bringing tears to the eyes.
The absence of clear-cut villains in “Ranking of Kings” offers a refreshing take on storytelling, making it an enjoyable series for the whole family.

James Tomioka

The picture-book-like character design is indeed appealing.
The illustrations are vibrant and cute, yet the story is peppered with deep themes.
The way characters develop, transcending their initial appearance and impressions, adds a layer of depth to the manga, making it a fascinating read.

Author: Sōsuke Tōka

Synopsis
“Ranking of Kings” is an online manga with a unique worldview created by Sōsuke Tōka. The story centers around a prince named Bojji who, despite being born to giant parents, is very small, frail, deaf, and unable to speak. Overlooked as the next king, he spends his days in solitude until he befriends a mysterious figure named “Kage.” This friendship marks the beginning of Bojji’s transformative journey. Through his connection with Kage, Bojji embarks on a quest to understand the true essence of strength and the qualities that make a great king. The narrative tracks Bojji’s growth as he seeks to discover his own strength and value, moving beyond surface appearances or initial circumstances.

Reasons for Recommendation

Unique character design: The character designs, reminiscent of those found in a picture book, offer a fresh appeal that deeply draws readers into the story’s world.
Profound themes: Characters, even those with dark pasts, exhibit redeeming qualities such as perseverance and the support of understanding individuals, delivering a powerful message to the audience.
Complex characterization: The story features characters that are neither wholly enemies nor allies, presenting a multi-dimensional portrayal that enriches their development and adds depth to the narrative.
Heartwarming development: Amidst challenging developments, the presence of Bojji as a “ray of hope” provides warmth and encouragement to readers.
Family-friendly content: With no clear-cut villains, the story becomes accessible to the entire family, earning it a cherished place among readers of all ages.

7th: Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card

Tomahawk Shinobu

Sakura, now a junior high school student in “Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card Arc,” has indeed become even more appealing.
The reunion scene with Syaoran was a highly anticipated moment, delighting fans who had been eagerly awaiting it.

James Tomioka

The transformation of the Sakura Cards into their transparent form in this sequel indeed adds a layer of suspense, signaling the start of a new adventure.
CLAMP’s works are remarkable for their attention to detail and story depth, making them captivating and hard to look away from.

Brian Tanjiro

As a longtime fan, it’s understandable to have mixed feelings of worry and anticipation for the development of the Clear Card Arc, especially following the journey through the Clow Cards and Sakura Cards.
The suspense of how Sakura and her friends will navigate and overcome new obstacles is gripping, yet it’s exciting to witness their growth and how they mature through these challenges.

Author: CLAMP

Synopsis
“Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card Arc” is the continuation of “Cardcaptor Sakura,” created by CLAMP, and ushers in a fresh chapter of the saga. Sakura Kinomoto, now a first-year junior high school student, reunites with her beloved Syaoran, and together they embark on their school life. However, following a peculiar dream, Sakura discovers that her Sakura Cards have turned transparent, rendering their powers unusable. Concurrently, a series of mysterious events unfold in Tomoeda Town, propelling Sakura into a magical quest for a new power known as the “Clear Card.” This arc chronicles the latest challenges faced by the matured Sakura and her friends, along with the deepening of their bonds.

Reasons for Recommendation

Grown-up Sakura and her friends: Fans will delight in the matured appearances and experiences of Sakura and Syaoran, now navigating junior high school, and their evolution alongside their friends.
New adventures and cards: The introduction of “Clear Cards” heralds the start of new and thrilling adventures, appealing to both fans of the original series and newcomers.
High-quality artwork: CLAMP’s artwork, with its stunning backgrounds, characters, effects, and meticulous details, continues to be of exceptionally high quality, captivating the audience’s visual senses.
Disturbing storyline: The mystery surrounding the evolution from the Sakura Cards and Clow Cards to the Clear Cards, along with a suspenseful storyline, ensures that readers remain riveted.
A gift to longtime fans: The continuation from the Sakura Card Arc offers a nostalgic yet fresh journey for longtime fans, effectively bridging the gap between the original audience and new fans.

8th: Dr. STONE

Brian Tanjiro

“Dr. Stone” is indeed fascinating.
The concept of rebuilding civilization from the ground up using the power of science captures the imagination and excites the mind.

James Tomioka

The way Senku (perhaps you meant him instead of “Chisora”) faces and solves any challenges unflinchingly, armed with his scientific knowledge, truly showcases his genius.
This manga serves as a reminder of both the enjoyment and the significance of science.

Tomahawk Shinobu

It’s great to hear that this manga has sparked your interest in the science behind everyday objects.
The beautiful artwork and fascinating characters, especially Senku (assuming you’re referring to him as “Chisora”), with his compelling drive and intelligence, indeed make it hard to put down.

Author: Riichiro Inagaki / Boichi

Synopsis
“Dr. Stone” is a science fiction survival adventure manga crafted by Riichiro Inagaki and Boichi. The story unfolds in a world where civilization has been obliterated by a mysterious phenomenon that turns all of humanity to stone in an instant. Thousands of years later, high school student Taiju and the genius scientist Senku (you might have meant Senku when referring to “Chisora”) awaken to a vastly changed world. Determined to rebuild civilization from the ground up, they use the power of science to tackle and overcome the myriad challenges they encounter, painstakingly recovering lost human technologies one by one. “Dr. Stone” is a celebration of human knowledge, creativity, and the indomitable belief in human potential to navigate adversities and forge a new future.

Reasons for Recommendation

Exploring Scientific Knowledge: The series excels in educating readers on scientific principles behind the creation of everyday objects and materials. Engaging with the story naturally enhances one’s scientific knowledge.
A Story of Civilization Rebuilt: Witnessing the reconstruction of human civilization from its foundations offers a novel and captivating experience. This theme fuels creativity and curiosity.
Excellent Artwork and Storytelling: Boichi’s intricate illustrations combined with Riichiro Inagaki’s adept narrative skills deeply immerse readers in the unfolding adventure.
Captivating Characters: The series showcases a rich human drama, presenting characters with unique and compelling backstories. Readers are bound to find someone they passionately support.
Fusion of Science and Fantasy: Grounded in scientific realism yet illustrated with a touch of fantasy, the story presents an innovative narrative style, merging two genres into an unprecedented storytelling experience.

10th: The King’s Beast: Arcana of the Hidden

James Tomioka

It’s great to hear your excitement for “The King’s Beast: Arcana of the Hidden,” where Aizuki disguises herself as a man to become a follower of the beast.
The tension in the story, coupled with Aizuki’s strength, indeed makes for a compelling read.

Tomahawk Shinobu

The contrast between Prince Tianyao’s outward ruthlessness and his inner gentleness is indeed striking and adds depth to his character.
It’s these complexities that often make characters more relatable and memorable.
The juxtaposition of his public persona with his private self makes for a fascinating dynamic, and it’s understandable why you’d be drawn to that contrast.

Brian Tanjiro

Fujima-sensei’s exquisite artwork truly enhances the allure of the fantasy world, bringing it to life with vivid detail and creativity.
The addition of a romantic storyline adds an exciting layer of anticipation, making readers eager to see how the relationships and affections between characters will unfold.
It’s this combination of stunning visuals and engaging narrative that keeps fans captivated and looking forward to each new development.

Author: Rei Toma

Synopsis
“The King’s Beast: Arcana of the Hidden” is a captivating imperial fantasy manga by Rei Toma. This narrative revolves around Aizuki, a unique half-human, half-beast girl living under the oppression of humans. In a bold move to avenge her brother, she masquerades as a man to become a “follower” of the fourth prince, Tianyao, with plans to assassinate him. Yet, within the imperial palace, Aizuki encounters an unexpected aspect of Tianyao, revealing a complex character beyond his outward appearance. This manga unfolds a new epic fantasy, exploring the evolving relationship and ensuing conflicts between the enchanting beast-girl and the prince. Additionally, the volume concludes with a special chapter that delves into the aftermath of Rei Toma’s preceding work, “The Water Dragon’s Bride,” enriching the saga’s universe.

Reasons for Recommendation

Beautiful Artwork: Rei Toma’s artwork is exceptionally beautiful, vividly bringing the fantastical world to life. The characters’ expressions and the meticulous detail in the scenes are captivating, drawing the eye with their allure.
Fusion of Complex Fantasy and Romance: The integration of romance, a hallmark of shoujo manga, within a fantasy framework adds depth to the narrative. Themes such as a quest to find a lost brother, love that transcends social status, and a myriad of other complex themes intertwine throughout the story.
A Tale of Melancholy Yet Filled with Hope: The story weaves a poignant yet hopeful narrative through characters from different backgrounds and statuses. It naturally evokes a desire for a happy ending among readers.
Captivating Characters: The charm of characters, including the protagonist Aizuki and the fourth prince, Tianyao, enhances the story further. Witnessing their growth and transformations adds to the enjoyment of the tale.
The Unique Setting of Beast People: Through the unique setting of beast people, the story explores themes of discrimination, conflict, and the importance of bonds between individuals, embedding many messages that may influence the readers’ perspectives.