Top 20+ Best Historical Manga That Deserve Your Attention – Hey guys!. In this post, I’ll be discussing a list of Top 20+ Best Historical Manga That Deserve Your Attention. Historical manga takes readers back in time to explore different eras and historical events. These stories often blend real historical facts with imaginative storytelling to create engaging narratives.
Whether it’s ancient civilizations, feudal Japan, wartime dramas, or other significant periods in history, historical manga offers readers a chance to learn about the past in an entertaining and visually captivating way. These manga can cover a wide range of genres, including action, romance, drama, and adventure, making them suitable for a diverse audience. So, let’s get started.
22. Lone Wolf and Cub
Lone Wolf and Cub follows the story of Ittou Ogami, a man who has lost everything. Once the chief executioner for the Shogunate, his life takes a tragic turn when he is framed for treason by the Yagyuu Clan. This treacherous act not only tarnishes his reputation but also leads to the brutal murder of his entire family, leaving only his young son, Daigorou, alive.
With his honor shattered and his wife, Azami, gone, Ittou adopts a new identity as a hired assassin. He embarks on a journey of revenge, with the sole purpose of annihilating the Yagyuu Clan. Accompanied by his son, Ittou roams the country, taking on assassination assignments.
His skill and reputation as “Lone Wolf and Cub” quickly spread, making him the go-to choice for those in need of ruthless and efficient killings. As father and son navigate this dangerous path, they leave a trail of bloodshed in their wake, inching closer to their ultimate goal of avenging their family and restoring their honor.
21. Barefoot Gen
Barefoot Gen is set in 1945 Japan during World War II and follows the story of Gen Nakaoka, a spirited six-year-old boy living with his loving yet impoverished family in Hiroshima. Gen’s father, Daikichi, is one of the few outspoken individuals who oppose the emperor and sympathize with the innocent civilians suffering due to the war.
However, in a society where unwavering support for the nation is the norm, the Nakaoka family faces isolation and accusations of treason. Their lives take a devastating turn when the United States drops an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, destroying the city in an instant and leaving thousands dead while exposing many more to radiation.
Although Gen survives the blast, he and his family must now contend with the harsh aftermath of the bombing, including starvation, poverty, and a society that views survivors as disease-ridden beggars. Barefoot Gen follows Gen’s journey, along with other survivors, as they struggle to endure the challenges of post-war Hiroshima.
20. Sousei no Taiga
Sousei no Taiga is a historical manga that follows the story of a young man who is struggling to cope with the pain of being dumped by his lover. He attends a seminar on cultural anthropology with his classmates, hoping to distract himself from his heartbreak.
During the seminar, they come across an ancient wall painting. However, their exploration takes an unexpected turn when a cave-in traps them inside the cave, cutting off their path back.
Desperate to escape, they search for an alternative exit and eventually emerge into a world vastly different from their own. In this strange new world, they discover a land where mammoths and other ancient giant mammals reign supreme. The manga explores their journey and struggles to adapt to this prehistoric environment.
19. Taisho Otome Otogibanashi
Taisho Otome Otogibanashi is a historical manga that tells the story of Tamahiko Shima, the youngest son of the powerful and wealthy Shima family. Despite being born into wealth, Tamahiko longs for affection from his often distant family. However, tragedy strikes when he loses his mother and severely injures his dominant arm in an accident.
His father, ashamed of his handicap, abandons Tamahiko to live in isolation in the countryside. He resigns himself to a lonely and desolate life, believing he will die alone. Unexpectedly, a young girl named Yuzuki Tachibana arrives at his doorstep, claiming to be sent by Tamahiko’s father to be his bride.
Yuzuki becomes Tamahiko’s caretaker, and her presence brings a sense of renewal and warmth to his bleak existence. Slowly, they both experience the joys and challenges of their first love as their lives become intertwined, allowing Tamahiko to heal from the emotional wounds of his past.
18. Firefly Wedding
Firefly Wedding is a historical manga that follows the story of Satoko, the eldest daughter of the prestigious Kirigaya family. Despite receiving numerous marriage proposals due to her beauty and grace, Satoko has turned them all down because of a hidden heart defect. However, her primary concern is to find a suitable husband to ease her father’s worries.
One day, while taking a stroll, Satoko is abducted by a group of mercenaries, including Shinpei Gotou, a renowned assassin tasked with assassinating her. Satoko attempts to bribe Gotou in a desperate bid for freedom, but her offer is rejected. With no other choice, Satoko pretends to fall in love with Gotou at first sight and proposes marriage to him.
Surprisingly, Gotou accepts her proposal and pledges to protect her. As they escape together, Satoko must maintain her act and navigate the mysteries surrounding the enigmatic man she has eloped with. Their journey is filled with unexpected twists and challenges as they try to build a life together while concealing their true intentions and identities.
17. Red River
Red River is a historical manga that centers around Yuri, an ordinary modern-day teenager who finds herself transported to the Hittite empire in ancient Anatolia. In this unfamiliar and perilous world, Yuri becomes the target of an ambitious queen’s sinister plot.
The queen aims to use Yuri as a blood sacrifice to eliminate all potential heirs to the throne, ensuring her son’s ascent to power. Fortunately, Prince Kail intervenes just in time to save Yuri from the queen’s clutches. Kail makes a promise to help Yuri return to her home, but their journey is fraught with danger.
The relentless queen continues to scheme against them, posing a constant threat. As Yuri and Kail navigate these challenges together, their relationship deepens, and they find themselves drawn to each other despite the obstacles in their path.
16. My Happy Marriage
My Happy Marriage is a historical manga that tells the story of Miyo Saimori, a young woman who was born into an unfortunate family situation. Her parents’ marriage was arranged and loveless, and after her mother’s passing, her father brought in a new lover and another daughter named Kaya. From that point on, Miyo’s life was reduced to that of a mere servant in her own home.
To make matters worse, Kaya inherited the family’s psychic abilities, while Miyo was considered the daughter with no merit. Years of mistreatment have taught Miyo to keep a low profile, hide her pain, and obey every order given to her. Her future appears grim when she is arranged to marry Kiyoka Kudou, a military captain rumored to be cruel and who has driven away all his previous potential wives.
However, to Miyo’s surprise, her new husband turns out to be kind-hearted and compassionate. What initially seemed like a painful marriage transforms into a source of happiness and lasting joy for Miyo. The manga explores Miyo’s journey from a painful upbringing to a blissful and loving marriage, defying her initial expectations.
15. The Rose of Versailles
The Rose of Versailles is a historical manga set against the backdrop of 18th-century France. The story begins with the marriage arrangement between Marie Antoinette, the spoiled daughter of the Empress of Austria, and Louis XVI, the crown prince of France. The Empress hopes that this union will forge an alliance between their two countries.
Upon her arrival in Versailles, Marie Antoinette encounters Oscar François de Jarjayes, the Captain of the Royal Guards. To her surprise, Oscar is not the dashing young man she initially assumes but a woman raised as a boy to carry on her noble family’s military legacy. Despite the unexpected revelation, Marie Antoinette befriends Oscar, forming a close bond with her.
Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, The Rose of Versailles portrays the challenges faced by two women burdened by societal expectations and their roles in history. Despite the constraints placed upon them, they play pivotal roles in the tumultuous events of the era.
14. A Bride’s Story
A Bride’s Story is a historical manga set in the 19th century in a tribal town near the Caspian Sea, Central Asia. The story revolves around the lives of people living along the Silk Road, where customs and traditions have been upheld for generations. Amir Halgal is a remarkable 20-year-old woman skilled in archery, hunting, and horseback riding.
She has traveled from a distant village for an arranged marriage to a 12-year-old boy named Karluk Eihon. Initially, the significant age difference between Amir and Karluk creates some awkwardness in their relationship. However, as they share their daily lives and experiences, Amir and Karluk gradually develop feelings of love and respect for each other.
These emotions strengthen their bond over time. A Bride’s Story not only explores the evolving relationship between Amir and Karluk but also provides a glimpse into the daily lives and challenges of various couples throughout Central Asia. The manga beautifully portrays the rich culture and traditions of the brides of this era, offering readers a captivating and immersive historical narrative.
13. Rurouni Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin is a historical manga that follows the story of a revolutionary patriot named Battosai Himura, who played a significant role in the Meiji era of Japan. His involvement in the revolution earned him the infamous title of ‘Hitokiri’ or ‘Manslayer’ due to his lethal skills. In an attempt to atone for his violent past, Himura renounces his old identity and takes on the name Kenshin.
He also reverses the blade of his sword, making it non-lethal, and vows never to take another life. Kenshin becomes a wandering samurai, seeking redemption and a chance to leave his dark history behind. Kenshin’s journey leads him to Kaoru Kamiya, a spirited girl who runs a local dojo, and she becomes one of the first friends to accept him for who he is rather than who he was.
Despite his efforts to leave his past behind, Kenshin’s history continues to haunt him. Old rivals resurface, groups threaten the hard-earned peace of the Meiji era, and individuals seek to confront the legendary Battousai. As Kenshin navigates this turbulent period in Japan’s history, he must protect those he cares about while keeping his oath never to kill again.
12. Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku
Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku is a historical manga centered around Gabimaru the Hollow, a ninja from Iwagakure Village known for his cold and emotionless demeanor. He finds himself on death row after being betrayed by his fellow ninja. Despite his reputation, Gabimaru desires death as he’s tired of a life filled with killing and betrayal.
However, all attempts to execute him fail because, deep down, he harbors a reason to live—a longing to return to his wife, who played a significant role in softening his heart and causing him to fail as an assassin. As a result, he refuses to accept death. Asaemon the Decapitator, a renowned executioner, recognizes Gabimaru’s determination to survive.
She approaches him with a proposal: in exchange for a full pardon by the Shogunate, she wants him to join an expedition to an island located south of Japan. The mission’s objective is to search for the fabled elixir of life. However, this island is far from ordinary. It holds numerous mysteries and dangers that the exploration team, consisting of individuals marked for death, may not be fully prepared to face.
11. Sengoku Komachi Kuroutan: Noukou Giga
Sengoku Komachi Kuroutan: Noukou Giga is a historical manga that begins with the life of Shizuko Ayanokouji, a typical agricultural student enjoying her high school days. However, her world takes an unexpected turn when a single raindrop causes her to lose consciousness, and she awakens in a completely different era—the Sengoku period in Japan.
Shizuko’s peaceful existence is short-lived as she finds herself under attack by bandits. To her astonishment, she is rescued in the nick of time by none other than Nobunaga Oda, a legendary figure in Japanese history. When Shizuko reveals her expertise in the latest agricultural techniques, Nobunaga decides to appoint her as the village chief of a small rural town.
As Shizuko settles into her new role, she faces the challenge of blending her knowledge from the future with the demands of the past. The manga explores how Shizuko navigates her unique position and whether she can win the favor of Nobunaga, all while keeping her true origins hidden from the people of the Sengoku period.
10. The Case Study of Vanitas
The Case Study of Vanitas is a historical manga set in a world where vampires exist. The story begins with the tale of a vampire named Vanitas, born under a rare full blue moon, which makes him an outcast among his own kind. In his loneliness and fear, Vanitas creates the “Book of Vanitas,” a cursed grimoire with the intent of seeking vengeance against all vampires.
The manga then shifts its focus to Noé Archiviste, a young man traveling aboard an airship in 19th-century Paris. Noé’s sole objective is to locate the elusive Book of Vanitas. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Vanitas, a mysterious doctor who specializes in treating vampires.
To Noé’s surprise, Vanitas is entirely human, despite inheriting both the name and the infamous grimoire from the legendary Vanitas. Vanitas uses the grimoire to heal his patients, but beneath his kind façade, there is a hint of something more sinister.
9. Golden Kamuy
Golden Kamuy is a historical manga that revolves around Saichi Sugimoto, known as “Immortal Sugimoto” for his brutal actions during the Russo-Japanese war. However, he’s no war hero; he’s a battle-hardened soldier who was discharged from the army for nearly killing a superior officer. He embarks on a challenging journey through the rugged terrain of Hokkaido.
Sugimoto is on a quest to find gold as a promise to a deceased comrade from the war. His search has been fruitless until he hears an intriguing urban legend. According to this legend, a criminal stole the gold of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, and concealed it in a secret location. The key to finding this treasure lies in assembling a map created from the tattooed skins of escaped convicts.
As Sugimoto embarks on this quest, he encounters a young Ainu girl named Asirpa. Together, they set out to locate the tattooed prisoners and the hidden Ainu gold. However, they face numerous dangers, including soldiers and mercenaries who are also eager to claim the treasure.
8. 20th Century Boys
20th Century Boys is a historical manga set as the 20th century is nearing its end, a time when people worldwide are filled with unease about the changing world. The story revolves around Kenji Endo, a regular convenience store manager just trying to lead a simple life.
However, when he learns that one of his old friends, known as “Donkey,” has died by suicide and a new cult led by a mysterious figure called “Friend” is becoming more notorious, Kenji begins to sense that something is terribly wrong. As he investigates, Kenji discovers that this cult is far more sinister than he ever imagined.
Not only is it targeting him and his childhood friends, but it also poses a grave threat to the entire world. Guided by clues left behind by his deceased friend, Kenji reunites with his childhood pals. Together, they embark on a mission to uncover the truth about their past and its connection to the cult.
7. Moriarty the Patriot
Moriarty the Patriot is a historical manga set in the late 19th century, during the era when the British Empire was a dominant global power. In this society, strict class divisions make it nearly impossible for the average citizen to rise to the top, as the corrupt nobility holds power over them. The story revolves around William James Moriarty, the second son of the Moriarty family.
Despite his noble background, William is a brilliant mathematics professor known for his sharp intellect. Alongside his brothers, Albert and Louis, he leads the life of an ordinary noble. However, he leads a secret double life. Beyond his academic pursuits, William is a renowned private consultant who offers his services to solve various problems for those in need.
Despite his gentle and unassuming demeanor, he is the mastermind behind a group with a hidden agenda—to bring about radical change and create a new world from the ashes of the old order. The manga explores the complex and morally ambiguous world of William Moriarty as he seeks to disrupt the established hierarchy and reshape society.
6. The Apothecary Diaries
The Apothecary Diaries is a historical manga set in an ancient Chinese imperial court. The story begins with a 17-year-old girl named Maomao who was kidnapped and forced to work as a low-level servant in the emperor’s palace. Despite her circumstances, Maomao maintains her curious and pragmatic nature, planning to serve her time and eventually be free.
One day, Maomao learns that the emperor’s two infants are seriously ill. Drawing on her skills as a pharmacist, which she developed while growing up in a poor red-light district, she decides to secretly intervene and help cure the infants. Although Maomao tries to remain anonymous, her talents don’t go unnoticed. She attracts the attention of Jinshi, an influential eunuch who recognizes her abilities.
As a result, Maomao is drawn into the inner court of the palace, where she begins to gain recognition for her unique skills. She uses her knowledge and eccentric personality to solve various medical mysteries and gradually makes a name for herself in the emperor’s court.
5. Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer is a historical manga set in a remote mountain village, where Tanjirou Kamado lives with his impoverished family. After his father’s death, Tanjirou takes on the responsibility of supporting his family’s livelihood. One cold winter day, he heads down to the nearby village to sell charcoal.
As night falls, he’s forced to seek shelter in the home of a curious man who warns him about malevolent creatures that roam the night: demons with a hunger for human flesh. When Tanjirou finally returns home, his worst nightmare becomes a horrifying reality – his entire family has been brutally killed, except for his sister Nezuko, who has been turned into a flesh-eating demon.
Consumed by grief and determination, Tanjirou makes it his mission to prevent Nezuko from harming others and embarks on a journey to avenge his family. His ultimate goal is to find a way to turn his beloved sister back into a human. The manga follows Tanjirou’s path as he battles demons and seeks answers, all driven by his love for his family and his quest for justice.
4. Kingdom
Kingdom is a historical manga set in China during the Warring States period. It follows the journey of two young friends, Xin and Piao, who share a dream of becoming great generals, despite their lowly status as orphaned slaves. Their lives take a dramatic turn when Piao is given an important duty in the royal palace of the state of Qin, thanks to an encounter with a nobleman.
As they part ways, Xin and Piao pledge to become the world’s greatest generals. However, a violent coup takes place in the palace, leading to a tragic encounter between Xin and a dying Piao. Piao’s final words inspire Xin to take action, and he eventually crosses paths with Zheng Ying, the young prince who will soon become the king of Qin.
Although their initial meeting is rocky, Xin and Zheng become comrades with a shared goal. Zheng aims to unite all the warring states under the banner of Qin, while Xin aspires to rise through the ranks of the army. Their journey is marked by intense battles, political intrigue, and the ever-present turmoil of the era.
3. Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga is a historical manga that tells the story of Thorfinn, the son of a mighty warrior named Thors. Thors met his end in a battle with Askeladd, a formidable and ruthless Viking. Witnessing his father’s death, Thorfinn becomes consumed by a burning desire for revenge, vowing to confront and defeat his father’s killer in an honorable duel.
With nowhere to go, Thorfinn joins Askeladd’s crew and becomes part of their activities, which involve pillage settlements and trick naive armies. Thorfinn spends his days refining his combat skills while following Askeladd’s orders, all in pursuit of the reward promised to him: a chance to duel the captain he despises so much.
Despite his relentless determination, Thorfinn repeatedly fails in his attempts to defeat the man he despises so much. The manga explores Thorfinn’s journey as he grapples with his hatred and seeks to find a way to finally overcome Askeladd and bring closure to his father’s memory.
2. Vagabond
Vagabond is a historical manga that follows the journey of two survivors, Takezo Shinmen and Matahachi Hon’iden, after a devastating defeat at the battle of Sekigahara. They feel disheartened by their inability to gain fame and honor on the battlefield. While Matahachi is eager to return home, Takezo decides to become a wandering swordsman, aiming to hone his skills and test himself.
Takezo’s merciless nature in combat and his willingness to confront anyone soon make him a wanted fugitive. However, after being captured by a monk named Takuan, he is given a new chance at life. Under the name Musashi Miyamoto, he embarks on a new path, viewing life and death differently.
Musashi’s goal is now to travel across the country and challenge renowned fighters, aspiring to become the most powerful samurai in history. The manga delves into his transformation, battles, and his pursuit of martial excellence.
1. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run is set in the American Old West and revolves around the world’s greatest race covering over six thousand kilometers. The grand prize is a staggering fifty million dollars, and participants are allowed to use any type of vehicle they desire, as the era of the horse reaching its end.
The story follows Johnny Joestar, a former horse racer who is now crippled, as he arrives in San Diego to witness the beginning of the race. There, he encounters Gyro Zeppeli, a fellow racer who possesses two steel balls instead of a gun. Gyro’s steel balls grant him incredible powers, such as compelling people to harm themselves during duels.
Johnny, intrigued by these abilities, accidentally touches one of the steel balls and experiences a surge of power that allows him to stand on his own two feet for the first time in years. Determined to uncover the secret behind these steel balls, Johnny decides to enter the race himself, marking the start of his extraordinary adventure across the vast American landscape in the Steel Ball Run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, historical manga offers readers a captivating journey through time, allowing them to explore and experience different historical periods and events. These manga combine elements of real history with imaginative storytelling, offering a unique and engaging way to learn about the past.
So, if you’re looking for a fresh and visually stunning way to delve into history, historical manga is a fantastic choice. It’s a genre that combines education and entertainment, offering a window into the past through the lens of compelling characters and stories.
That is it from today’s post on Top 20+ Best Historical Manga That Deserve Your Attention. If you do not agree with the points in the post and have some of your own opinions, share them with us in the comments section down below. Keep visiting Animesoulking for more information about Anime and Manga.
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