Best Ongoing Manga Series Recommendations

Eiichiro Oda

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

"I'm going to become the King of the Pirates!" In the Great Pirate Era, countless pirates set sail for the Grand Line in pursuit of the ultimate treasure—the One Piece—a legendary hoard said to grant unimaginable wealth, fame, and power. Among them is a boy with a straw hat, Monkey D. Luffy, who gains extraordinary abilities after eating a mysterious Devil Fruit, turning his body into rubber. Alongside his trusted crewmates like Zoro, Nami, and many more, Luffy sets out on a journey across the seas—chasing dreams, forging bonds, and facing powerful foes. With its vast world, unforgettable characters, epic battles, and emotional depth, ONE PIECE is a grand pirate adventure where justice is never black and white, and the spirit of freedom sails above all.

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.

Yasuhisa Hara

Action, Ongoing Series, Seinen, historical

Ancient China, Warring States Era — 3rd Century BC. An age of relentless warfare, where kingdoms clash and chaos reigns. Shin, a war orphan living as a servant, dreams of rising through the ranks to become the Greatest General Under the Heavens. With unshakable resolve and a growing skill with the sword, he vows to make his name known on the battlefield. One day, Shin crosses paths with a young man destined to become Ei Sei, the future king of Qin. Their fateful meeting sets in motion an extraordinary journey toward the unification of all China. Ambition. Betrayal. Loyalty. Brotherhood. As armies collide and ideals are tested, the saga of those who stake their lives on the battlefield unfolds with overwhelming intensity and emotion. A boy chasing the path of a great general. A king determined to rise above a fractured world. Their intersecting dreams ignite a grand, blood-soaked tale of power, destiny, and iron conviction. Kingdom is a breathtaking historical action epic where glory is earned and history is written in steel and sacrifice.

Yoshihiro Togashi

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

Living peacefully on Whale Island, young Gon Freecss learns that his father, Ging, who left him behind as a child, is actually one of the world's greatest "Hunters"—elite adventurers who track treasures, creatures, and mysteries beyond imagination. Determined to find his father and become a Hunter himself, Gon embarks on a journey to face the brutal Hunter Exam. Along the way, he befriends unforgettable companions: revenge-driven Kurapika, aspiring doctor Leorio, and Killua, a child prodigy from a notorious assassin family. Together, they confront formidable enemies, master the mysterious power of "Nen," and navigate mind-bending psychological battles in an unpredictable world brimming with extraordinary creatures, hidden dangers, and immense mysteries. Can Gon overcome intense battles, forge unbreakable bonds, and fulfill his dream of becoming a true Hunter? With expansive world-building, memorable characters, and intricately woven storylines, Hunter × Hunter stands as a legendary adventure filled with action, friendship, and the endless pursuit of discovery!

Kanehito Yamada (Story), Tsukasa Abe (Art)

Anime Adaptation, Drama, Fantasy, Magic, Ongoing Series, Seinen

The hero’s journey has come to an end. After defeating the Demon King and bringing peace to the world, the legendary party disbands. Among them was Frieren, an elven mage who lives for over a thousand years. For her, the ten-year journey alongside her human companions was but a fleeting moment. But when she parts ways with them, Frieren is confronted—for the first time—with the weight of time and the fragility of human life. Haunted by memories of the late Hero Himmel, she sets out on a new journey. This time, she’s joined by new companions: Fern, her young mage apprentice, and Stark, a brave but awkward warrior. What begins as a path of remembrance slowly becomes something more—a quiet quest to understand the meaning of emotion, connection, and what it truly means to live. A contemplative fantasy steeped in magic, melancholy, and tenderness, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a poignant tale of life, death, and the bonds that endure beyond time.

Taashi

Crime, Ongoing Series, Seinen

"Donketsu" is an authentic Yakuza manga set in Kokura, Kitakyushu. The protagonist, Masatoshi Sawada (nicknamed "Rokemasa"), belongs to the Kozuki-gumi of the Gachirin-kai syndicate. Rokemasa is infamous for a legendary incident that occurred 20 years ago when he fired a rocket launcher into a rival group's office. However, his reckless and violent behavior makes him an outcast within his own organization, still stuck at the lowest rank of the yakuza hierarchy even in his late 40s. Despite his rough reputation, Rokemasa uses his overwhelming strength and fearless attitude to stir up conflicts and trouble throughout Kitakyushu’s criminal underworld. Around him gathers a colorful cast of characters, including Tatsuo Uchimura, a young marijuana dealer, and various unique yakuza figures. The story is full of intense battles, humorous moments, and deeply emotional episodes. This manga vividly portrays Rokemasa's wild daily life, the younger generation inspired by him, and the authentic gangster culture of Kitakyushu, complete with local dialect and gritty realism. It seamlessly blends violence, comedy, and human drama into an unparalleled form of entertainment.

Misaki Takamatsu

Drama, Ongoing Series, Romance, School, Slice of Life

Skip and Loafer is a heartwarming coming-of-age story featuring Mitsumi Iwakura, an earnest and straightforward girl raised in a rural town in Ishikawa Prefecture. Upon graduating middle school, Mitsumi moves to Tokyo with ambitious dreams, enrolling at the prestigious Tsubame-Nishi High School as the top of her class. However, reality hits hard on the first day when she encounters urban challenges like crowded commuter trains and getting lost on her way to school. Amid this early struggle between expectation and reality, she is helped by Sousuke Shima, a charming and cheerful classmate. While Mitsumi excels academically, she struggles socially with urban norms, often misreading situations or making charmingly awkward mistakes. Yet her sincerity and natural charm gradually endear her to classmates, leading to meaningful friendships with a vibrant group of peers. As time passes, Mitsumi navigates universal teenage experiences—first loves, decisions about the future, and anxiety about growing up—developing steadily into her authentic self. This uplifting school-life comedy warmly portrays a country girl’s determination to thrive in a big city, highlighting irreplaceable friendships and the joy of everyday growth.

Fuse (Story), Taiki Kawakami (Art), Mitz Vah (Character Design)

Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Isekai, Magic, Ongoing Series, Shonen

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime follows the story of Satoru Mikami, an ordinary office worker who unexpectedly meets his end and is reborn in another world—as a slime. Equipped with unique abilities in his new slime form, he gathers allies, builds a nation, and strives alongside monsters to create a peaceful world. It’s a fantasy tale that highlights friendship, growth, and adventure.

Yura Urushibara

Action, Anime Adaptation, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, Shonen

Tougen Anki is a dark hero action manga set in modern-day Japan, depicting an intense conflict between the descendants of demons ("Oni") and those of the legendary hero Momotaro. Shiki Ichinose, an ordinary high school student, is suddenly attacked by a mysterious group called the "Momotaro Organization" and learns he carries Oni blood. After his foster father is murdered by the Momotaro side, Shiki enrolls at Rasetsu Academy, a school exclusively for Oni descendants, seeking revenge and the truth behind his past. There, he undergoes brutal training and trials alongside newfound comrades. Many Oni characters carry deep scars, having lost family or friends to the Momotaro Organization, and each battles their heavy past and trauma while caught up in this ancient, ongoing war. As Shiki confronts the powerful Oni force dormant within himself, he works together with his friends to combat the threat posed by the Momotaro Organization, gradually uncovering both his destiny and the hidden truth of their world.

Tsurumaikada

Anime Adaptation, Drama, Ongoing Series, Sports

Tsukasa Akeuraji was a figure skater who had nearly given up on his dream—until the day he met a young girl who reignited his passion. Her name is Inori Ketsuzoku. Though she had never skated before, she possessed a fierce determination and limitless potential on the ice. "This girl… she might just change the world." Taking his first step into coaching, Tsukasa begins training Inori, who pushes forward with talent, grit, and unwavering effort. Together, they face crushing loneliness, self-doubt, and the weight of high expectations—overcoming each obstacle as they chase the dream of becoming medalists. More than just a sports story, Medalist is a moving tale of growth, soul, and unbreakable bonds set in the world of figure skating.

Takeru Hokazono

Action, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, Shonen

In a world where swords possess mysterious cursed powers, young swordsmith Chihiro Rokuhira inherits Enten, a legendary blade forged by his father. Driven by vengeance and duty, Chihiro dives headfirst into a ruthless war hidden within the shadows. Facing powerful foes, unraveling the dark secrets within his cursed sword, and confronting painful memories of his past, Chihiro’s journey leads him deeper into a sinister world of sorcery and bloodshed. Blending fierce, elegant swordplay with intense supernatural battles, Kagurabachi follows Chihiro’s relentless quest for truth amidst curses, betrayal, and destiny. A new-generation supernatural action manga filled with breathtaking combat, dark mystery, and an unfolding tale of vengeance and revelation!

Hitoshi Iwaaki

Drama, Ongoing Series, Seinen, historical

Set in 4th-century BCE Ancient Greece, Historie follows the remarkable life of Eumenes, who eventually becomes a key general and strategist for the Kingdom of Macedonia. Orphaned at a young age, Eumenes rises through his exceptional intelligence, determination, and integrity. The story begins in his childhood, meticulously detailing how Eumenes meets the young prince Alexander—later known as Alexander the Great—and gradually earns his trust as an indispensable advisor. Using intellect as his weapon, Eumenes navigates philosophy, politics, and military strategy, becoming pivotal in shaping an era defined by ambition, warfare, and cultural upheaval. Amid power struggles and brutal realities of war, Eumenes remains steadfast in his beliefs, though he continually wrestles with internal conflicts. The narrative intricately portrays historical events such as Alexander’s famous campaigns and Macedonia’s internal political struggles, capturing the complexity of ancient society through Eumenes’s unique perspective. Historie excels in showcasing authentic ancient military tactics, political intrigues, and the nuanced dynamics between royalty and common citizens. Beyond a gripping tale of one strategist's journey, the manga offers an immersive glimpse into the heart of Ancient Greek civilization itself.

Kengo Hanazawa

Action, Ongoing Series, Seinen

In Under Ninja, the shadowy world of ninjas didn’t disappear after World War II—they just went underground. Secretly active across the globe, these covert operatives continue their missions into the present day. Enter Kuro Kumogakure, a low-ranking ninja with no assignments, spending his days bored and unemployed in a run-down apartment. One day, he's unexpectedly ordered to investigate Under Ninja (UN), a mysterious organization that's remained hidden for over 70 years since the war. To uncover UN’s activities, Kuro infiltrates Koudan High School disguised as a student. Now, he must balance blending into normal school life with untangling the secrets of this elusive group. A unique blend of comedy, espionage, and action, Under Ninja is a fresh twist on modern ninja tales, combining undercover antics, secret missions, and high school chaos.

Ayaka Katayama

Action, Adventure, Anime Adaptation, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, Sci-Fi, Shonen

Fungus and Iron is a sci-fi manga set in a dystopian near-future world dominated by fungi (mushrooms) that have parasitically taken control of human brains. These fungi strip humans of their free will and independent thought, enforcing an absolute authoritarian regime. Within this oppressive society lives Dante, a young soldier and an outcast, uniquely able to retain his emotions and consciousness, unaffected by the fungal domination. Despite his peculiar condition—unable to read yet gifted with extraordinary physical abilities—Dante undertakes secret missions outside the controlled zones for the ruling government known as "Amigasa." During one such mission, he meets Aoi, a girl belonging to "Ether," a rebel organization seeking free thought and liberation from fungal control. Inspired by Aoi's words, Dante begins questioning the very structure of his world. Eventually, Dante endures torture designed to infect his brain with fungi, yet miraculously resists their control. Through this ordeal, he acquires a unique power combining iron and fungus, transforming him into an Ether warrior determined to challenge the oppressive regime. The manga unfolds with intense battles between fungal oppression and human resistance, intertwined with shocking revelations about the hidden truth of their world.

Story by Osamu Nishi, Art by Shiro Usazaki

Action, Adventure, Magic, Ongoing Series, Shonen

Ichi the Witch is a fantasy manga set in a world where only women can use magic, centering around a young boy named Ichi who lives alone in the mountains. Abandoned in the wilderness as a child, Ichi survives through hunting and gathering. One day, he encounters a powerful magical creature known as "King Uloro," and inexplicably acquires magical abilities, despite magic traditionally being limited to women. This extraordinary event makes Ichi the world's only male witch—known as the "Witch Man"—leading to his recruitment by the Witch Association to carry out dangerous "Magic Hunts." Together with his companions, the witch Deskaras and the chronicler Kumugi, Ichi confronts various magical threats, including cataclysmic entities known as "Anti-World Magic," capable of humanity’s destruction. This manga offers an innovative take on magic and adventure, depicting an unconventional journey that defies all established norms.

Shuuzou Oshimi

Drama, Ongoing Series, Seinen, Slice of Life

His name is... Fujii. He doesn’t possess any special powers. He’s not trying to become someone important. He simply exists—like something by the side of the road. School life, job hunting, casual conversations, quiet worries. Fujii drifts through the everyday moments we all know too well—but always just a little off. That slight misalignment makes him oddly funny, faintly melancholic, and strangely unforgettable. Fujii isn’t extraordinary, yet he makes the ordinary feel profound. His words, his silences, his awkward grace—each leaves behind a quiet echo in the reader’s heart. A story that’s both humorous and strangely moving. Relaxing yet thought-provoking. A “gentle shock” that reveals the strange just beside the familiar.

Keigo Shinzō

Drama, Ongoing Series, Seinen, Slice of Life

"Hirayatsumi" is a slice-of-life drama following Hiroto Ikuta, a carefree 29-year-old part-timer. Living without a steady job or a romantic partner—and without any particular worries about his future—Hiroto unexpectedly inherits a small single-story house ("hiraya") in Asagaya from his elderly neighbor, Hanae Wada. Soon afterward, his 18-year-old cousin Natsumi arrives from Yamagata to attend art school, and they begin living together. Friends carrying their own troubles and various unique individuals gradually gather around Hiroto, creating a warm and lively community within the little house. Set against a relaxed, gentle atmosphere, the characters each confront their own lives, discovering small everyday joys and personal growth along the way. It’s a comforting, heartwarming tale perfectly suited for the modern reader seeking solace.

Taiga Sassa

Drama, Ongoing Series, Slice of Life, historical

"Isabella Bird in Wonderland" is set in Japan in 1878 (Meiji Year 11), a period shortly after the Meiji Restoration. Although Emperor Meiji had lifted the ban on Western cuisine in 1871, allowing Western culture to gradually permeate Japan, the nation was still far from the fully Westernized country it is today. The protagonist, Isabella Bird, is an adventurous woman who had previously explored places like Hawaii and the Rocky Mountains. This time, her goal is to journey to Japan's northernmost region at the time, "Ezo-ga-shima" (present-day Hokkaido). Unable to speak Japanese, Bird initially struggles to find an interpreter but eventually meets Tsurukichi Ito, who agrees to accompany her, and their journey begins. From the perspective of Bird, raised in the West, everything about Japanese culture and landscapes of that era is astonishing and strange. Through numerous hardships and rare experiences, she gradually builds connections with Tsurukichi and the Japanese people she encounters, making this a story of cultural discovery and interpersonal bonds.

Tatsuya Endo

Animals & Pets, Anime Adaptation, Drama, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, Shonen

Loid Forger, a master spy known by the codename Twilight, is assigned a top-secret mission to maintain peace between East and West. His task: infiltrate an elite school by creating the perfect fake family. But the “family” he hastily assembles is anything but ordinary— His wife, Yor, is a deadly assassin hiding her identity. His adopted daughter, Anya, is a telepath who can read minds. And none of them know each other's true secrets. What begins as a fabricated life for the sake of a mission soon blossoms into something real. Through awkward dinners, chaotic school interviews, and secret missions, this mismatched trio discovers the meaning of love, family, and belonging. Action-packed, heartwarming, and laugh-out-loud funny— SPY×FAMILY is a feel-good home comedy where a spy, an assassin, and a psychic come together to form the most unlikely (and lovable) family.

Naoya Matsumoto

Action, Fantasy, Ongoing Series, Shonen

In a world where kaiju—giant monsters—regularly attack cities, Japan relies on an elite military force known as the Defense Force to protect its people. Kafka Hibino, a 32-year-old cleanup crew worker, once dreamed of joining the Defense Force and slaying kaiju himself. But life had other plans—his days are now spent disposing of monster corpses, far from the front lines. Everything changes when Kafka meets Reno Ichikawa, a passionate young recruit chasing the very dream Kafka gave up on. Inspired by Reno's drive, Kafka begins to rekindle his own lost ambition. But fate takes a shocking turn—Kafka is infected by a mysterious small kaiju, transforming him into a powerful human-kaiju hybrid: Kaiju No. 8. Now caught between two worlds, Kafka must confront both monstrous threats and his own past, fighting not just for survival—but for the dream he once abandoned. Kaiju No. 8 is the story of an adult who dares to rise again, battling between justice and monstrosity in a second chance at his destiny.