Japanese anime and manga have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, with some series selling hundreds of millions of copies and inspiring global franchises. From legendary classics like Dragon Ball and One Piece to modern sensations such as Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen, the best-selling titles represent both entertainment and cultural milestones. In this guide, we’ll explore the top-selling Japanese anime and manga series of all time, highlight recent hits, and explain why these works continue to shape pop culture across the globe.
What Defines a Best-Selling Anime or Manga?
Measuring Success – Copies Sold, Revenue, and Global Reach
When discussing the best-selling Japanese anime and manga, numbers play a major role. For manga, success is often measured by total copies sold worldwide, with some titles reaching over 500 million copies. For anime, revenue from TV broadcasts, movie box office, DVD/Blu-ray sales, and streaming platforms is considered. Global reach is another key factor: a series that performs well not only in Japan but also in North America, Europe, and Asia shows true best-seller status.
Cultural Impact Beyond Sales
However, sales figures alone do not capture the full picture. Some anime and manga become cultural icons, shaping fashion, language, and even international perceptions of Japan. For example, series like Dragon Ball and Pokémon are not only commercial successes but also cultural symbols that continue to influence generations of fans.
Why Popularity Differs Between Anime and Manga
It is also important to note that a manga may sell extremely well without its anime adaptation achieving the same level of popularity, and vice versa. A strong anime adaptation can boost manga sales dramatically, as seen with Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan. On the other hand, manga classics like Golgo 13 maintain steady sales through decades even without a massive anime following. These differences show how both mediums contribute in unique ways to defining a “best-seller.”
All-Time Best-Selling Manga Series
One Piece – The King of Manga Sales
No discussion of best-selling manga is complete without One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda. Since its debut in 1997, it has sold over 500 million copies worldwide, making it the top-selling manga of all time. Its mix of adventurous storytelling, memorable characters, and emotional themes has earned it fans across generations. The anime adaptation, movies, and even a live-action series have further solidified its place as a global cultural phenomenon.
Dragon Ball – The Legendary Pioneer
Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball is another titan of the manga world, with more than 300 million copies sold. Beyond sales, it shaped the shōnen manga genre and introduced martial arts, epic battles, and humor in a way that influenced countless other works. The Dragon Ball franchise—including Dragon Ball Z, Super, and its movies—remains one of Japan’s most profitable and recognizable cultural exports.
Naruto, Detective Conan, and Other Long-Running Hits
Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto has sold over 250 million copies, telling the inspiring story of a ninja striving for recognition. Its success spawned anime adaptations, movies, and spin-offs like Boruto. Another standout is Detective Conan (Case Closed), which continues to sell strongly with over 270 million copies and remains beloved for its clever mysteries. Other classics like Slam Dunk, Attack on Titan, and Bleach also rank among the best-selling manga, proving the lasting power of both action-packed and character-driven stories.
Best-Selling Anime Series and Movies
Dragon Ball and Pokémon – Worldwide Phenomena
When it comes to anime series, Dragon Ball and Pokémon are among the most successful of all time. Dragon Ball Z popularized Japanese anime in the West during the 1990s, leading to enormous merchandise and video game sales. Meanwhile, Pokémon grew into a multimedia empire, including anime, trading cards, and video games, making it one of the most recognizable global franchises in history.
Demon Slayer: The Movie (Mugen Train) Breaking Records
In the realm of anime films, Demon Slayer: Mugen Train (2020) broke all box office records in Japan, earning more than ¥40 billion (over $350 million USD) worldwide. This achievement made it the highest-grossing Japanese film of all time, surpassing even Studio Ghibli classics. Its stunning animation, emotional story, and global popularity boosted both manga sales and international recognition of the series.
Studio Ghibli Films and Their Lasting Legacy
No discussion of best-selling anime would be complete without mentioning Studio Ghibli. Movies like Spirited Away (2001) not only won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature but also earned over $350 million USD worldwide, holding the record for Japan’s top box office film for nearly two decades. Other Ghibli titles such as My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke, and Howl’s Moving Castle continue to generate revenue through re-releases, streaming, and merchandise, proving their timeless appeal.
Modern Hits and Recent Best Sellers
Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba) – A Global Boom
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba by Koyoharu Gotouge became a worldwide sensation almost overnight. Since its manga debut in 2016, it has sold over 150 million copies, while the anime adaptation elevated its popularity even further. The series combines emotional storytelling, breathtaking animation, and relatable characters, making it a modern classic. The success of Mugen Train cemented Demon Slayer as one of the fastest-selling titles in manga history.
Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, and New Generation Favorites
Jujutsu Kaisen quickly rose to global fame, selling over 90 million copies by 2023. Its dark fantasy themes and dynamic fight scenes have captivated both domestic and international fans. Meanwhile, Attack on Titan reached over 100 million copies sold, with its anime finale in 2023 drawing massive global attention. These series highlight how modern titles can combine cinematic storytelling with gripping plots to become international blockbusters.
Blue Lock, Spy x Family, and the Future of Manga and Anime
The new generation of manga and anime continues to expand worldwide. Blue Lock, with its unique sports-meets-psychological-drama approach, has surged in sales thanks to the growing popularity of soccer. Spy x Family has become a family-friendly hit, combining comedy, action, and heartwarming moments. Both series represent the future of Japanese entertainment, proving that diverse genres and storytelling styles can achieve best-seller status in today’s market.
Why These Series Matter to Fans Worldwide
Influence on Pop Culture and Merchandising
Best-selling anime and manga do more than entertain—they shape global pop culture. From Dragon Ball’s iconic Kamehameha to Pokémon’s Pikachu, characters and symbols from Japanese media have become instantly recognizable worldwide. These franchises also drive massive merchandise sales, including toys, clothing, video games, and even collaborations with international brands.
Community, Fandom, and Online Discussion
What keeps these series alive is not only their stories but also the communities that grow around them. Fans share theories, create fan art, and attend conventions, making anime and manga more than just personal hobbies—they become global conversations. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Reddit have amplified this interaction, connecting fans from Tokyo to New York.
Recommendations for New Readers and Viewers
For newcomers, best-sellers are often the perfect starting point. One Piece, Naruto, and Demon Slayer offer accessible yet rich stories that showcase the appeal of Japanese storytelling. Meanwhile, Studio Ghibli films introduce viewers to the beauty of Japanese animation in a single sitting. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just beginning your journey, these series represent the heart of anime and manga culture.
