Best Comedy Manga Recommendations

Yukinobu Tatsu

Action, Anime Adaptation, Comedy, Fantasy, Horror, Shonen

Ken Takakura, a high school boy nicknamed Okarun, firmly believes in aliens but scoffs at ghosts. Momo Ayase, a girl with strong spiritual powers, believes in the supernatural—but thinks UFOs and aliens are nonsense. One day, a strange bet leads them to confront the real versions of what they each believe in… and chaos explodes. Abductions by aliens, hauntings by evil spirits, life-threatening curses—suddenly, their ordinary school lives spiral into a whirlwind of the paranormal and the absurd! After gaining mysterious powers, Ken and Momo find themselves in one outrageous battle after another, teaming up with quirky allies to face bizarre and terrifying threats. Hilarious, heart-racing, and even a little romantic—Dandadan is a supernatural sci-fi battle comedy that smashes the boundaries between ghosts and aliens in the wildest ways imaginable.

Chuya Koyama

Anime Adaptation, Comedy, Drama, Ongoing Series, Seinen

After witnessing a mysterious UFO as children, Mutta Nanba and his younger brother Hibito promise each other, "Let's become astronauts together." Nineteen years later, in 2025, Hibito has realized their childhood dream and become an astronaut. He is preparing to make history as the first Japanese astronaut to walk on the moon as part of the first crew to undertake a long-term lunar mission. In stark contrast, Mutta's life is stuck in frustration and regret. Recently fired from his job after headbutting his boss, he's drifting through a disappointing existence—until an unexpected letter from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) arrives. It informs him that he's passed the initial screening for astronaut candidates—an application secretly submitted by Hibito, who never gave up their shared dream. Though Mutta had long ago abandoned the idea of space exploration, this letter reignites his determination, motivating him to once again reach for the stars alongside his brother.

Hiroyuki Nishimori

Comedy, Completed Series, Crime, Drama, School, Slice of Life

Kyou Kara Ore Wa!! is a Yankee (delinquent) comedy manga by Hiroyuki Nishimori. The story centers around Takashi Mitsuhashi and Shinji Ito, two students who coincidentally decide to debut as delinquents upon transferring to a new high school. Using their quick wits and fighting prowess, the duo navigates conflicts with rival schools, forms unlikely friendships, and deals with teenage romance dramas. Mitsuhashi is cunning and mischievous, known for his clever but sneaky tactics, while Ito is righteous, sincere, and impulsively honest. Despite their contrasting personalities, the pair form a tight-knit bond, supporting each other through numerous confrontations and comedic situations. This manga seamlessly blends humor and action, delivering an energetic portrayal of high school delinquent culture of the Showa era, filled with hilarious moments and youthful vigor.

Osamu Akimoto

Anime Adaptation, Comedy, Completed Series, Shonen, Slice of Life

KochiKame: Tokyo Beat Cops is a long-running comedy manga by Osamu Akimoto, set in the neighborhood of Kameari in Tokyo’s Katsushika Ward. The story centers on Kankichi Ryotsu—a maverick police officer known for his love of money-making schemes and wild ideas. Though constantly causing chaos with his outrageous plans, he’s also an endearing troublemaker with a strong sense of compassion and humanity. Ryotsu, often called "Ryo-san," is stationed at the Kameari police box alongside his ultra-wealthy, refined partner Keiichi Nakagawa, the beautiful and intelligent Reiko, and their strict boss Chief Ohara. Every chapter features fast-paced antics—from Ryotsu’s get-rich-quick schemes and obsessive hobbies to chasing the latest trends—all told with a mix of humor, heart, and satire. The manga cleverly weaves in social commentary, pop culture, and the everyday lives of Tokyo residents. With its blend of slapstick comedy, human drama, and parody, KochiKame paints a vibrant portrait of urban Japanese life. First serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1976 to 2016, KochiKame holds the record as one of the longest-running manga series in history and remains a beloved pillar of Japanese comedic storytelling.

Hideaki Sorachi

Anime Adaptation, Comedy, Completed Series, Drama, Shonen, historical

Gintama is a manga series by Hideaki Sorachi, set in an alternate version of the Edo period where humans coexist with extraterrestrial beings known as the "Amanto." After the Amanto invade and rise to power, the samurai class declines, and the shogunate issues a ban on carrying swords. As a result, former samurai lose their pride, and the once-historical city of Edo transforms into a futuristic, chaotic metropolis.

Mizuki Kawashita

Comedy, Completed Series, Ecchi, Harem, Romance

Strawberry 100% is a romantic comedy manga centered around Junpei Manaka, a junior high school third-year student who dreams of becoming a film director. The story begins dramatically when Junpei encounters a mysterious, beautiful girl wearing strawberry-patterned panties on the school rooftop after class. Instantly captivated by her, he uses a notebook she left behind as a clue to search for her identity. Soon, however, Junpei finds himself surrounded by multiple charming girls, creating complicated romantic entanglements. Initially believing the rooftop girl to be Tsukasa Nishino, the school's most popular girl, Junpei confesses and they begin dating. In reality, the girl he met on the rooftop is Aya Toujou, the owner of the notebook and someone who genuinely understands and supports his filmmaking dreams. Adding further complexity to Junpei’s high school life are other vibrant characters, including the energetic and assertive Satsuki Kitaoji and the uniquely charming Yui Minamito. Their interactions and budding romances paint Junpei’s youth in vivid colors.

Miko Yasu

Comedy, Completed Series, Drama, Seinen, Slice of Life

Police in a Pod is a human comedy manga that follows the story of a rookie female police officer named Mai Kawai. The series begins just two weeks into her assignment at a local police box—known in Japan as a kōban—after graduating from the police academy with the naïve belief that becoming a cop would guarantee a stable life. However, the reality turns out to be far from what she imagined. Her daily routine is filled with exhausting tasks, harsh treatment from civilians, and unreasonable demands, leaving her physically and mentally drained. Feeling overwhelmed and on the verge of quitting, her life takes a turn when Seiko Fuji, a former ace detective who was “demoted” to kōban duty due to rumors of power harassment, suddenly appears as her new partner.

Soichiro Yamamoto (Original), Mifumi Inaba (Art)

Comedy, Romance, Shonen, Slice of Life

Karakai Jozu no (Moto) Takagi-san is a spin-off that picks up after the events of Karakai Jozu no Takagi-san, following the beloved characters Takagi and Nishikata into their married life. Now a married couple with a young daughter named Chi, the story depicts their cheerful and affectionate daily life as a family. Set several years after the original series, Takagi—now a mother—is still as skilled at teasing as ever. She continues to lovingly outwit her husband Nishikata, who is now a middle school P.E. teacher. Their relationship remains as sweet and full of humor as it was in their school days, filled with blushing reactions and playful banter. Their daughter Chi has inherited both her mother’s charm and a bit of her mischievous streak. Much of the story revolves around the heartwarming and often hilarious “teasing battles” among the family, as well as everyday moments that showcase their deep familial bonds. The series beautifully illustrates how the innocent teasing from their youth has naturally evolved into a warm family dynamic, where little joys and the ordinary become something special. As a slice-of-life family comedy, Karakai Jozu no (Moto) Takagi-san resonates with readers through its depiction of enduring love, gentle parenting, and the joys of family life.

Story by Ryūuki Oonuma, Art by Hikari Komaru

Action, Animals & Pets, Comedy, Ongoing Series, Shonen

INNU is a violent action-comedy manga set in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. The story begins when high school girl Sally Yamaga finds a mysterious pug abandoned along the banks of the Sumida River. This dog, nicknamed “Innu,” can speak human language and possesses superhuman combat abilities—making him the “strongest dog” in existence. However, bound by a promise to Sally, he pretends to be an ordinary dog in front of everyone else. Sally is no ordinary girl—she’s the daughter of the boss of the Yamaga-gumi yakuza syndicate. Danger and trouble constantly follow her, from gang turf wars to professional hitmen. Innu uses his extraordinary powers to protect Sally from these threats, resulting in a series of wild, unpredictable incidents. The manga blends intense action with comedic flair, featuring eccentric characters, hardboiled one-liners, and absurd gags. As the story unfolds, mysteries surrounding Innu’s true identity and past come to light, along with the deepening bond between him and Sally. Together, they face fierce battles against the underworld forces targeting her. With its unique “strongest dog × yakuza princess” pairing, INNU delivers a thrilling, unpredictable, and hilariously over-the-top buddy action-comedy.

Kotori Inokuma

Comedy, Completed Series, Drama, Romance, Seinen

Yuka Akagi is a 37-year-old temp worker who's always been relatively attractive and never had trouble finding men—but somehow, she's still single. Thinking casually, "Maybe it's time I got married," she dives headfirst into the ruthless battlefield known as modern dating. Yuka tries everything: singles parties, dating apps, matchmaking services—but quickly discovers the path to marriage is tougher than expected. Her high expectations for looks and salary become obstacles, and her tendency to look down on others often backfires spectacularly. After a series of failed attempts, Yuka meets Aoshima, a coworker and veteran of the dating scene with eight years of battle scars. A quirky friendship blooms, alongside encounters with distinctive characters like the earnest yet unassuming Uchida and her former flame, Takashi. Funny, honest, and painfully relatable, Konkatsu Battlefield 37 captures the trials, laughs, and heartbreaks of navigating romance in your late thirties—offering humor, empathy, and encouragement to anyone who's ever braved the front lines of dating.

Daiju Yanauchi

Action, Comedy, Crime, School, Seinen

Gang King follows Katsunari Onishi, also known as "Jimmy," a high school delinquent fascinated by traditional Japanese tattoos. Inspired by a legendary tattoo artist named Katsu-Shin, who saved his life as a child, Jimmy tattoos himself and dreams of becoming the world's greatest tattoo artist. Entering Barajuuji High School, Jimmy meets a group of unique friends and together they navigate passionate friendships, intense rivalries, and gang conflicts. Renowned for his strength and unwavering integrity, Jimmy quickly gains respect. However, his growing influence catches the attention of Pinko, leader of the infamous gang "Justice," who views Jimmy as a threat. As tensions escalate, Jimmy and his friends face numerous conflicts that test their courage, loyalty, and values. With dreams, friendship, love, and unbreakable conviction, Gang King vividly portrays the journey of a young man growing into both a skilled tattoo artist and a stronger person amidst turbulent high school gang rivalries.

Story by Ippon Takegushi, Art by Mitarashi Sandai

Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, School, Shonen

Shinobigoto is a school-based action manga set in modern-day Japan, revolving around Yodaka, an elite young ninja from the secretive "Public Security Ninja Squad." Despite being an exceptionally skilled ninja, Yodaka is extremely socially awkward and struggles to communicate with people. He is assigned a crucial mission: to secretly protect Aoi Himukai, a high school girl who unknowingly holds significant national assets and influence. With a hefty bounty on her head from the criminal underworld, Aoi becomes a constant target for assassins. Initially intending to quietly fulfill his duties without drawing attention, Yodaka somehow ends up befriending Aoi, further complicating his undercover role. Alongside other undercover ninjas infiltrating the school, he navigates the challenging balance between everyday school life and dangerous protection missions. Combining action, humor, and awkward teenage interactions, Yodaka fights through various dangers to keep Aoi safe, making Shinobigoto a fresh, modern take on ninja-meets-school comedy action.

Tohru Fujisawa

Action, Comedy, Completed Series, Crime, Drama, Ecchi, School, Shonen

Shonan Junai Gumi! is a youth delinquent and pure love comedy manga that follows the wild teenage years of Eikichi Onizuka (known as "E-chan") and his partner Ryuji Danma—who later becomes the iconic protagonist of GTO. Set in Japan's Shonan region during the late 1980s, the story centers on these two "legendary bad boys" who are bored of constant fights and want to turn over a new leaf. Their heartfelt (and hilariously awkward) mission? To finally get girlfriends. However, standing in their way are street fights, biker gang wars, rival delinquents, emotional bonds with friends and family, heartbreaking romances, and the painful process of growing up. Onizuka eventually meets his classmate Aina Fuyutsuki, while Ryuji crosses paths with a formidable girl boss from Hakkai Academy. These encounters push them toward experiencing genuine love and friendship. Through countless battles, misunderstandings, and ridiculous antics, Onizuka and Ryuji prove their strength not just in fights, but in protecting their friends and staying true to their values. The manga brilliantly captures the chaos and exhilaration of youth, balancing slapstick comedy with heartfelt drama. Shonan Junai Gumi! is the origin story of the “legendary Onizuka,” offering a laugh-out-loud yet emotionally resonant look at two boys chasing love, causing trouble, and stumbling their way toward adulthood. A must-read for fans of GTO and anyone who loves coming-of-age stories with both fists and feelings.

Kouji Seo

Comedy, Ecchi, Harem, Romance, Seinen

The Café Terrace and Its Goddesses is a romantic comedy set in Familia, an old seaside café left behind by the protagonist's late grandmother. The story follows Hayato Kasukabe, a brilliant student who passed the entrance exam to the University of Tokyo. After a falling out with his grandmother, he returns to his hometown for the first time in three years—only to learn of her passing. His original plan is to tear down the café and turn the property into a parking lot. However, to his surprise, five beautiful and eccentric young women are already living there, claiming to be his grandmother’s “family.” Each of these girls carries personal baggage or painful memories and was taken in by the grandmother, who gave them a home and purpose at Familia. At first, Hayato constantly clashes with them, but as he learns more about their stories and the kindness of his late grandmother, he decides to reopen and rebuild the café. From running the business and dealing with rival cafés to navigating romantic entanglements among the five heroines, Hayato and the girls develop a deep, almost familial bond as they face daily chaos and heartfelt moments together. Blending cheeky humor, pop culture parodies, romantic tension, and touching themes of found family, The Café Terrace and Its Goddesses is a vibrant, feel-good story filled with laughs, charm, and just the right amount of spice.

Mitsutoshi Simabukuro

Action, Comedy, Completed Series, School, Shonen

Seikimatsu Leader-den Takeshi! is a comedy and hot-blooded action manga starring Takeshi, a first-grade elementary school student with an absurd level of vitality and an unusually hairy body. Despite his age, Takeshi takes his late father Hiroshi’s dying words—"Become the greatest leader!"—to heart. With his unique sense of justice and unmatched energy, he solves problems in his class and community as a true “leader.” Set at Poppo Elementary School, the story follows Takeshi as he causes chaos and growth alongside a cast of quirky friends and rivals. As the series progresses, the scale expands beyond schoolyard antics to include rival leaders from other schools, delinquent gangs, and even demons from the underworld, all of whom are drawn into Takeshi’s wild adventures. While the early chapters focus on gag-filled school life, the latter half of the manga incorporates intense fighting arcs and emotional storylines. Through battles, hardships, and moments of heartfelt connection, the series explores themes of friendship, trust, and what it truly means to be a leader. With its over-the-top, passionate protagonist and balance of humor and heartfelt drama, Seikimatsu Leader-den Takeshi! delivers a hilarious yet inspiring story that dares to ask, “What does it really mean to lead?”

Satomi U

Comedy, Ecchi, Music & Idol, Ongoing Series, Seinen

Heisei Haizanhei Sumire-chan is a comedy manga about Sumire Tojo, a former idol group leader whose dreams of stardom failed during the Heisei era. Now, in the Reiwa era, she’s a 31-year-old unemployed woman who spends her days indulging in alcohol, cigarettes, and pachinko. Her cousin, Yusei, a high school student, sees potential in her wasted beauty and proposes they create a cosplay gravure photobook for sale at doujinshi events, as a way for her to make a comeback. Reluctantly, Sumire dives into cosplay photo sessions, doujin events, and other unconventional projects. Despite facing the harsh realities and setbacks of showbiz, continuous failures, and mounting debt, she perseveres in her quest for redemption in the new era. The manga humorously depicts the stark contrast between Sumire’s striking beauty and her messy, self-destructive lifestyle, complete with playful jokes and adult humor, portraying the amusing struggles of an almost-30 woman determined to reclaim her place in the spotlight.

Yuto Suzuki

Action, Anime Adaptation, Comedy, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, Shonen

SAKAMOTO DAYS is an action-comedy manga featuring Taro Sakamoto, once known and feared in the criminal underworld as a legendary assassin. After falling in love and getting married, Sakamoto retired from his life of crime. Now a happily married, overweight, middle-aged man, he enjoys a peaceful life running the "Sakamoto Store" alongside his beloved family. However, due to his notorious past, Sakamoto has a bounty placed on his head, drawing various assassins who threaten to disrupt his peaceful days. One such assassin is Shin, his former subordinate and an esper with the ability to read minds. Originally ordered to kill Sakamoto, Shin is instead won over by Sakamoto's kindness and strength, ultimately becoming an ally and employee at the Sakamoto Store. Committed to the promise he made to his family—“no more killing”—Sakamoto utilizes his incredible combat skills and sharp intellect to protect his loved ones from the chaos that continuously invades their daily life. Combining stylish battles, comedic situations, and the heartwarming bonds between distinctive characters, SAKAMOTO DAYS delivers a uniquely entertaining story.

Shinpei Funatsu

Comedy, Completed Series, Drama, Romance, School, Seinen

Todai Revengers follows Michitake Itei, a graduate from the prestigious University of Tokyo ("Toudai") who, despite his elite education, lives a dull, part-time-worker lifestyle. After learning that Yuuki Hayase—his former classmate and unrequited love—has married a man from rival university Keio, Michitake is so devastated he dies in an accident. After his death, Michitake encounters an angel named Yariel and wins the "Life Do-Over Satisfaction Plan," allowing him to time-leap seven years into the past, right after starting his life at Toudai. Determined to rewrite his university years and save Yuuki, Michitake embraces his second chance. Back at Toudai, he encounters quirky classmates and becomes entangled with the mysterious club known as the "Toudai Manji Gang." Using his passion and pride for his university, Michitake navigates through various comedic scenarios, relatable college dilemmas, exam-based humor, and youthful challenges. Packed with laughter and parodying the original manga Tokyo Revengers, this manga is a relatable and humorous take on getting a second chance at youth and university life.

Tadatoshi Fujimaki

Action, Comedy, Crime, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, Shonen

Kill Blue is a school-based action-comedy manga by Tadatoshi Fujimaki. The protagonist, Juzo Ogami, is a legendary assassin known for always eliminating his targets. One day, after being stung by a mysterious bee, Juzo suddenly reverts from a 39-year-old adult to a middle-school student. Unable to continue his assassin work in his younger form, Juzo is reluctantly tasked by his boss to investigate the middle school his daughter will attend. While initially uneasy about fitting in, Juzo gradually begins enjoying school life through studying and interactions with his classmates. Eventually, it’s discovered that the biological weapon responsible for his rejuvenation was developed by the major pharmaceutical company Mitsuoka Pharmaceuticals. Juzo starts searching for clues to revert to his original form. At the same time, he meets classmates such as Noren Mitsuoka and other unique friends, becoming increasingly embroiled in conspiracies involving assassination groups and the underworld. Leveraging his adult experience and assassin skills—yet stuck with the appearance of a middle-schooler—Juzo navigates a turbulent school life. Blending comedy, action, and human drama, the story unfolds with sharp pacing and plenty of excitement.

Takeshi Okano (Art), Shou Makura (Story)

Action, Anime Adaptation, Comedy, Completed Series, Horror, Shonen

Hell Teacher Nūbē is a school-based occult action manga centered around Meisuke Nueno—nicknamed Nūbē—the homeroom teacher of Class 5-3 at Dōmori Elementary School. On the surface, he’s clumsy, easygoing, and approachable, but he also has another side: he’s Japan’s only teacher with spiritual powers. Hidden within Nūbē’s left hand is the “Oni no Te” (Demon’s Hand)—a sealed demonic force that he wields to protect his students from all manner of supernatural threats, including yokai, evil spirits, and urban legends. Risking his life, he battles these mysterious entities to keep his class safe. The series masterfully blends occult mystery, comedy, intense battles, and heartfelt lessons, presenting mostly self-contained episodes. Through these stories, readers witness Nūbē’s deep bonds with his students, their personal growth, and moments of both laughter and tears. Some former enemies even become allies, and certain arcs delve into the emotional lives and moral struggles of both humans and yokai. A hallmark title of Weekly Shonen Jump in the 1990s, Hell Teacher Nūbē was also adapted into an anime series and feature films, securing its place as a beloved school ghost-story hero manga.