Becoming a mangaka is a challenging undertaking that requires not only artistic talent but also the ability to engage and hold the interest of your readers while working under pressure to meet tight deadlines. Each mangaka brings their own unique style and creative flair to the medium, using different genres and art styles to tell their stories. The manga industry is a vast landscape of storytelling possibilities, whether it's through spine-tingling horror or avant-garde art. With so many approaches to choose from, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this rich tapestry of manga storytelling. It's no wonder that manga has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers around the world, and continues to be a source of inspiration for aspiring artists and writers everywhere. To be a mangaka is truly an achievement to be proud of, and a testament to the power of creativity and persistence.
15. CLAMP
- Age Early 50s
- Career Defining Work Cardcaptor Sakura
CLAMP is an all-female group that was established in 1987 by four talented manga artists, who played a crucial role in shaping the "Shojo" genre within the manga industry. The group's founding members, Satsuki Igarashi, Nanase Ohkawa, Mokona, and Tsubaki Neko (also known as Mick Nekoi), remain the core of the group today. Initially, CLAMP started as an eleven-member ensemble, with each member assigned roles based on the specific manga project they were working on. However, over time, members started to leave the group to pursue individual careers. Now, CLAMP is back to its original four founding members.
CLAMP's debut manga series, RG Veda, quickly received an anime adaptation. One of the most remarkable aspects of CLAMP is the evolution of their art style; a comparison of their newer works with their older ones reveals significant development. Even today, their most iconic work, "Cardcaptor Sakura," continues to enjoy widespread popularity. Other notable creations from CLAMP include "Chobits," "xxxHOLIC," and "Tokyo Babylon." Additionally, they contributed the original character designs for the Code Geass anime series.
It's worth noting that CLAMP's success is not limited to the manga industry alone. They have also created artbooks, picture books, and written novels. Their work has been translated into several languages, including English, and has been well-received by audiences worldwide. Despite the changes in the manga industry over the years, CLAMP's influence and impact have remained significant. They have inspired several generations of manga artists and continue to be a formidable force in the industry. Furthermore, CLAMP has also been involved in various anime adaptations of their work, which have been popular among anime fans. In conclusion, CLAMP is a group that has demonstrated incredible talent and versatility throughout their career and has left an indelible mark on the manga industry.
14. Osamu Tezuka
- Age 60 (Deceased)
- Career Defining Work Astro Boy
Osamu Tezuka, the man, the myth, the legend, is the visionary who not only transformed the world of manga but also popularized it on a global scale. Although manga dates back to the 13th century, it was Tezuka who modernized the form that we celebrate today.
Despite being on the path to becoming a medical practitioner, Tezuka graduated in 1951. However, he chose a different path, one that would make him a legend in his own right. He began drawing manga, and with the publication of his work "Astro Boy," he became known as the "Godfather of Manga."
Tezuka's first official manga, "The Diary of Ma-chan," was published in 1946. His art style was simple, direct, and somewhat cartoonish, but every legend has to start somewhere. It is well-deserved that he is included on this list.
"Astro Boy" remains his most iconic work, leading to not only an anime adaptation but also an animated film in the United States. Tezuka's other seminal works include "Dororo," "Black Jack," and "Phoenix." He even established his own animation studio, "Tezuka Production," which continues to operate to this day.
Tezuka's legacy extends beyond his work in manga and anime. He was a prolific writer, penning over 150,000 pages of manga over the course of his career. He was also a filmmaker, directing a number of live-action and animated films.
In addition to his creative pursuits, Tezuka was also a humanitarian. He used his platform to address social issues and promote peace. He even traveled to the United States in the 1960s to speak out against nuclear weapons.
Tezuka's influence on manga and anime is immeasurable. His work has inspired countless others and continues to captivate new audiences. He is truly a legend in every sense of the word.
13. Tatsuki Fujimoto
Tatsuki Fujimoto is a mysterious figure in the manga world, who prefers to keep a low profile. Despite this, he is known for creating some of the most captivating manga stories. His face is never seen, and even his birthdate is a closely guarded secret, contributing to the enigma surrounding him.
Fujimoto began crafting manga at a young age, without any formal art education or access to a nearby drawing school. Two volumes of his early works provide a glimpse into his creative journey before he found fame.
His debut manga series, “A Couple Clucking Chickens Were Still Kickin’,” was a one-shot. Fujimoto’s art style is simple yet enriched with references to popular media. He is especially renowned for his writing, particularly in the “supernatural” genre.
However, it is “Chainsaw Man” that has cemented Fujimoto’s status as a manga legend. This series is widely considered one of the best ever created and has already been adapted into an anime by Studio Mappa. Fujimoto’s other notable works include “Fire Punch,” “Look Back,” and “Sayonara Eri.” These works demonstrate his versatility and skill in weaving compelling stories that keep readers engaged.
12. Akihito Tsukushi
- Age 44
- Career Defining Work Made in Abyss
Akihito Tsukushi, despite having only a few manga titles to his name, is considered by many to have achieved the apex of “dark fantasy” in manga history. Prior to his manga career, he spent ten years working for Tonami. Tsukushi’s art style may appear “cartoonish” at first glance, which has led some to assume that he creates children’s manga, but his work often delves into themes so dark that they could move adults to tears. He takes pleasure in incorporating disturbing elements into his panels, which rewards observant readers with increasingly unnerving details.
Tsukushi’s initial attempt at manga, “From Star Strings,” failed to meet expectations. When he started working on “Made in Abyss,” it seemed like the perfect project, but he nearly abandoned it due to the lack of an essential character. However, with the introduction of “Nanachi,” who breathed new life into the series, Tsukushi was convinced to complete it.
“Made in Abyss” was originally launched as a web manga and later published in physical form by Seven Seas Entertainment. The series has also been adapted into both an anime and a video game. Tsukushi's talent is evident in the way he has created a new world that is both captivating and terrifying. The world he has created is full of secrets and dangers, and the journey of the main characters is full of unexpected twists and turns.
Tsukushi's ability to create complex characters is also a testament to his skill as a writer. The characters in “Made in Abyss” are multidimensional, with their own unique personalities and motivations. They are not simply caricatures but fully realized individuals who add depth and richness to the story.
Despite the darkness of his work, Tsukushi has a sense of humor that occasionally shines through. He has a talent for balancing the serious and the playful, which makes for a well-rounded story. His art style may be unconventional, but it is undeniably effective in conveying the atmosphere of his stories.
Tsukushi's work is not for the faint of heart, and it is not recommended for children. However, for those who are brave enough to delve into his world, they will find a rich and rewarding experience. Tsukushi has proven himself to be a master of his craft, and “Made in Abyss” is a testament to his skill and creativity. It is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and manga alike.
11. Junji Ito
- Age 60
- Career-Defining Works Uzumaki, Tomie, and Gyo
Junji Ito is a famous manga artist who is often referred to as the “King of Horror” due to his contributions towards revolutionizing horror manga. His love for horror manga began at the young age of four after being inspired by the works of Kazuo Umezu, another renowned horror manga artist. Despite facing a tough decision between becoming a mangaka and pursuing a career in medicine as a dentist, Ito took a leap of faith and is now known as the master of horror.
Ito's manga series are inspired by real-life experiences, which he then transforms into creepy and spine-chilling stories. His unique and disturbing art style combined with a compelling storyline is a rare occurrence in the horror manga genre. One of his most famous series is “Tomie,” which he continued to serialize for thirteen years. The story was inspired by his classmate who passed away in high school.
Apart from “Tomie,” Ito's other major career-building manga series include “Uzumaki” and “Gyo.” However, he is also known for his horror short story collections such as “Shiver,” “Smashed,” “Fragments of Horror,” and “Venus in the Blind Spot.” It is evident that Ito's contributions towards the horror manga genre have not gone unnoticed as he has been recognized with three Eisner Awards this year. His stories have the power to leave readers feeling uneasy and uncomfortable, making him a unique and celebrated artist.
10. Hirohiko Araki
- Age 63
- Career Defining Work Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure
Renowned for his innovative contributions, Hirohiko Araki is a manga artist who received immediate recognition by winning the Tezuka Award for his debut work. His influence is not limited to the manga world, as he has collaborated with global fashion powerhouses such as Louvre, Gucci, and Balenciaga, demonstrating his significance beyond the art of manga.
Araki's love for manga began at a young age, sparked by his father's collection of picture books. His unique art style is heavily influenced by fashion legends such as Versace and Gucci, yet it preserves a timeless manga aesthetic, paying tribute to his origins.
While his first work, "Poker Under Arms," earned him initial acclaim, it was "Jojo's Bizarre Adventure" that propelled him to international fame. One of the most remarkable aspects of the series is Part 7, which showcases Araki's unparalleled talents in both storytelling and artistry.
The series has been adapted into several anime versions and remains a favorite among fans. Araki's legacy is reflected in his ability to create a universe that merges fantasy and reality, as well as his ability to push the boundaries of manga art. His work is a testament to his expertise, creativity, and dedication to his craft. Araki's impact on the world of manga, as well as fashion, is undeniable, and his contribution will be appreciated for years to come.
9. Akira Toriyama
- Age 68
- Career Defining Work Dragon Ball Series
Akira Toriyama is a manga artist who has captured the hearts and imaginations of generations, becoming a hero to countless childhoods. He has created works that have become defining features of the youth of those born in the 1990s and 2000s, with series like "Dragon Ball" and "Dr. Slump" reaching peak popularity in their respective eras.
Toriyama's journey into the world of manga began with "Wonder Island," but it was the publication of "Dr. Slump" that propelled him to global fame. His art style is characterized by clean lines and meticulous detail, drawing readers into his imaginative worlds in an instant.
Aside from his individual accomplishments, Toriyama founded his own anime studio, "Bird Studio," which was named after the Japanese word for bird, "Tori." Unfortunately, the studio's significant contributions began to wane after the conclusion of the "Dragon Ball" series.
However, Toriyama's most iconic work remains "Dragon Ball Z," which not only received an anime adaptation but was also reimagined as "Dragon Ball Z: Kai." Other notable works by Toriyama include "Sand Land," "Neko Majin," and "Kajika." All of these works showcase Toriyama's incredible artistry and storytelling ability, making him a beloved figure in the world of manga and anime. His influence can be seen in the works of countless other artists and creators, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.
8. Mamashi Kishimoto
- Age 48
- Career Defining Work Naruto Series
Masashi Kishimoto, the ingenious mastermind behind the globally acclaimed manga series "Naruto," has demonstrated to audiences worldwide that meaningful dialogue can resolve conflicts. This exceptional creator's inspiration comes from legendary artists like Akira Toriyama and has left an indelible impact on the genre. Kishimoto's fascination with war is apparent in his iconic series, "Naruto," where he explored the theme in great detail. After concluding the series, Kishimoto took on a supervisory role and entrusted the sequel series, "Boruto: Naruto Next Generations," to his assistant, Mikio Ikemoto.
Unfortunately, the series struggled to maintain its momentum under new leadership, prompting Kishimoto to take back the reins and assume full control. His intervention has revitalized "Boruto," elevating it to the level of craftsmanship that fans have come to expect. Kishimoto's portfolio extends beyond the "Naruto" and "Boruto" series to "Samurai 8," a manga that focuses on a more niche theme. Despite its unique premise, the series failed to find an audience and concluded after a mere year.
7. Makoto Yukimura
- Age 47
- Career Defining Work Vinland Saga
Makoto Yukimura is a celebrated manga artist best known for his honest and unflinching depiction of the harsh realities of war, which is evident in his critically acclaimed historical series "Vinland Saga." Prior to embarking on his solo career, Makoto-sensei honed his craft as an assistant to manga artist Shin Morimura. His inspiration to create manga was sparked by the iconic series "Fist of the North Star." Interestingly, the war-focused "Attack on Titan" also played a vital role in shaping his approach to "Vinland Saga." During the writing process, reading it and other manga helped him find a sense of calm.
Yukimura's art style is as captivating as one would expect, drawing influence from a diverse range of manga genres. While working on "Vinland Saga," he became a fan of series like "My Dress-Up Darling" and admired the work of horror manga artists such as Junji Ito and Motosuke Takaminato. In addition to "Vinland Saga," Makoto-sensei has also gained recognition for his work on "Planetes." Despite some controversy surrounding the anime adaptation of "Vinland Saga" during a studio transition, Yukimura's endorsement silenced critics and affirmed the series' quality. Overall, Makoto Yukimura's immense talent and varied inspirations have helped him create truly remarkable manga that will continue to captivate readers for years to come.
6. Inio Asano
- Age 42
- Career-Defining Work Oyasumi Punpun
Inio Asano, a manga artist who has revolutionized the "slice-of-life" category, has proven that this genre is not solely about capturing the lighter moments of life. As a creator, he is particularly renowned for his art style, which tends to lean towards hyper-realism.
Asano-sensei first made his mark on the manga industry with "Subarashi Sekai," a series that was warmly welcomed by fans. However, it was "Goodbye Punpun" and "Solanin" that truly cemented his place in the industry, captivating audiences worldwide.
His storytelling abilities are often compared to those of novelists, as he possesses a talent for intricate plot twists and callbacks to earlier scenes in his works. Asano has also gained recognition in the "psychological" genre, further demonstrating his versatility as a creator.
In addition to the critically acclaimed "Oyasumi Punpun" and "Solanin," Asano has also produced other notable works such as "A Girl on the Shore" and "Dead Dead Demons Dedede Destruction." These titles have been commended for their exceptional art and storytelling, solidifying Asano-sensei's reputation as a master of his craft. Overall, his unique perspective and style have made a significant impact on the manga industry, and his works continue to inspire and captivate readers around the world.
5. Yusuke Murata
- Age 45
- Career Defining Work One Punch Man
Yusuke Murata, a manga artist who seems to get better with age, never fails to impress his audience even as he nears his fifties. He started his career as an assistant to Takashi Obata, who is the creator of the popular manga series “Death Note.” To say the least, Murata is a man who possesses a deep affection for the medium of anime.
Initially, Murata worked on one-shots and took on minor roles as an animator in anime adaptations. However, it was his work as an illustrator on the manga series “Eyeshield 21” that first caught people's attention and garnered recognition for him. Masashi Kishimoto, who created the popular manga series “Naruto,” and Murata both cite Akira Toriyama as a significant influence on their art styles.
While “Eyeshield 21” showcased Murata's impressive skills, it was his artwork in the popular manga series “One Punch Man” that truly stunned the global audience. Although it was originally a webcomic created by author ONE, Murata drew the comic version while also adding a few of his own additions to the story. It was Murata's iconic work on “One Punch Man” that made it a global hit.
What's truly remarkable is that Murata continues to produce exceptional art even at an age when many manga artists consider retirement from drawing and only provide story guidelines. In addition to his work on “One Punch Man” and “Eyeshield 21,” his portfolio also includes notable projects like “Cockroach Buster.” Currently, he is developing his own original anime series.
All in all, Yusuke Murata is a talented artist who has made a significant impact on the world of manga. His love for the medium is evident in his work, and his passion continues to inspire new generations of artists. Despite the challenges that come with aging, Murata proves that age is merely a number and that true talent only gets better with time. He is truly a force to be reckoned with and will undoubtedly continue to amaze us for many years to come.
4. Urasawa Naoki
- Age 63
- Career Defining Work Monster
Urasawa Naoki is a renowned name in the world of manga, especially in the "mystery" genre. He is recognized as one of the greatest mystery authors in manga history. While his storytelling skills have always been in the limelight, his ability to create some of the most haunting panels in manga is equally impressive and should not be overlooked.
Interestingly, Naoki-sensei started his career with a romantic comedy series named "Yawara!" which was well received by the audience. However, it was in the 1990s that he truly established himself with the creation of the mystery-thriller "Monster." The series was so popular that it was adapted into an anime as well.
Naoki-sensei's art style can be unsettling at times, but it perfectly complements the dark themes he explores in his work. His approach to the mystery-thriller genre is nothing short of brilliant, and one can only appreciate it fully by experiencing it firsthand. He draws inspiration from the legendary mangaka Osamu Tezuka, which further solidifies his connection to manga history.
Apart from "Monster," Naoki-sensei has also authored other acclaimed works such as "Billy Bat," "20th Century Boys," and "Pluto." The latter is particularly noteworthy as it offers a dark reinterpretation of the pioneering manga series "Astro Boy." Naoki-sensei's contribution to the manga world is significant, and his name will always be remembered as one of the greatest mystery authors of all time.
3. Eiichiro Oda
- Age 48
- Career Defining Work One Piece
Eiichiro Oda, commonly known as "GODA," is a manga artist whose talent seems almost supernatural. He embarked on his illustrious career under the guidance of Nobuhiro Watsuki, the creator of "Inuyasha," and has since had an exceptional trajectory. Like Masashi Kishimoto, Oda cites Akira Toriyama as a major influence on his decision to become a manga artist. He is best known for his magnum opus, "One Piece," which is often regarded as one of the greatest works of fiction and holds the title of the best-selling manga series ever.
Despite his countless successes and numerous accolades, Oda remains remarkably humble. He maintains a broad network of friends, including fellow manga artists, anime producers, and voice actors. Oda is famed for his intense work ethic, surviving on just 3 to 5 hours of sleep daily in his quest to bring "One Piece" to its conclusion.
Oda's storytelling and world-building abilities are unparalleled. He enjoys dropping subtle references in his chapters, which he later revisits to amaze his readers. Countless fans, including YouTubers and Reddit users, have tried to predict the ending of "One Piece," but none have been able to.
Apart from "One Piece," Oda has also contributed ideas through one-shots such as "Romance Dawn" and "Monster." The One Piece series has been adapted into an anime, inspired several video games, and is set to be adapted into a live-action by Netflix.
2. Inoue Takehiro
- Age 56
- Career Defining Work Vagabond, Slam Dun
Takehiko Inoue is a well-known manga artist and director. He is widely recognized for his meticulous attention to detail, which has set a new standard in visual storytelling. Inoue-sensei's artwork is so lifelike and dynamic that it often appears as if the characters are in motion. The intricacy of each panel he creates is simply awe-inspiring.
Inoue-sensei began his career as an assistant to Tsukasa Hojo, the creative mind behind the popular manga series "City Hunter." He is a lifelong sports enthusiast, which naturally led him to create sports-themed manga. His sports-themed manga is highly regarded by fans and is praised universally.
His magnum opus, "Vagabond," is regarded as one of the finest historical manga series ever created. But his talents don't stop there. His other works, such as "Slam Dunk" and "Real," are also highly regarded and are often cited as some of the best sports manga series around. Takehiko Inoue's dedication to his craft is evident in every piece he creates, and his attention to detail and skillful execution make him one of the most respected manga artists in the industry.
1. Kentarou Miura
- Age 54 (Deceased)
- Career Defining Work Berserk
The impact of manga artist Kentarou Miura is felt far beyond the manga community. He revolutionized the concept of "dark fantasy," inspiring various media projects such as the Dark Souls video game and the Re: ZERO anime/light novel series. Miura's seminal work, "Berserk," has left an indelible mark on the genre.
Despite its monumental influence, "Berserk" has struggled to receive a worthy modern anime adaptation. Fans appreciate the older version, which had the benefit of Miura-sensei's direct involvement.
Like Makoto Yukimura, Miura found inspiration in the iconic "Fist of the North Star" series, fueling his desire to become a manga artist. His awe-inspiring art style can only be described as remarkable.
Miura's dedication to perfection is truly admirable, as he would withdraw his weekly submissions if he noticed even minor errors. His editors attest to this level of commitment to "Berserk."
In addition to "Berserk," Miura's portfolio includes works such as "Giganto Makhia" and "Duranki." We at Anime Senpai offer our heartfelt prayers for the peaceful rest of Kentarou Miura's soul.
We would also like to know your thoughts on the best manga authors of all time list. Did we overlook any of your favorite manga authors? Share your opinions in the comments below. It is always interesting to hear different perspectives and engage in lively discussions about our favorite manga artists.
There are so many talented manga authors, and it is difficult to compile a comprehensive list of the very best. However, it is important to recognize the contributions of those who have left an indelible mark on the genre, like Osamu Tezuka, creator of "Astro Boy," and Akira Toriyama, creator of "Dragon Ball." Their influence can still be seen in the works of contemporary manga creators.
Other notable manga authors include Rumiko Takahashi, creator of "Inuyasha" and "Ranma 1/2," and Naoko Takeuchi, creator of "Sailor Moon." These authors have created unforgettable stories and characters that have captured the hearts of fans around the world.
Of course, there are many other manga authors who deserve recognition for their contributions to the genre. It is important to continue to support and celebrate the work of these talented artists, both old and new.
What sets manga apart from other forms of storytelling is its unique fusion of art and narrative. Manga artists have the ability to create entire worlds with their art, transporting readers to new and exciting places. It is this ability that has made manga such a beloved and enduring art form.
In conclusion, Kentarou Miura's impact on the manga community and beyond cannot be overstated. His dedication to perfection and awe-inspiring art style have left an indelible mark on the genre. We will miss him dearly and offer our condolences to his family, friends, and fans.
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