Shonen is one of the most, if not the most, popular in manga, and it’s easy to see why with series like One Piece, Naruto, Dragon Ball, Bleach, and more. There are countless shonen manga titles out there, with new ones appearing all the time, but which are truly the best?
This list includes many classic shonen series that have stood the test of time, as well as newer titles shaping the genre’s future. The classics are a great place for beginners to start, but they’re also essential for longtime manga readers who haven’t explored them yet. The goal here is to pay tribute to shonen’s past and its present.
Before diving into the list, here’s a quick overview of what shonen manga is. Shonen manga—also spelled shounen—is aimed primarily at a young male audience but has a broad appeal beyond that. These stories are typically action-packed and focus on characters rising to challenges, often emphasizing friendship, rivalry, and personal growth. Many shonen feature training arcs and a variety of genres including sports, sci-fi, and comedy. While often lighthearted, modern shonen are quicker to get into things, cutting back on long training arcs, and often bordering on seinen themes with more mature storylines.
If you want more recommendations, check out our post on the best seinen manga to explore more.
That all being said, here are the best shonen manga recommendations you need to check out.
GTO by Tohru Fujisawa
Great Teacher Onizuka (GTO) by Tohru Fujisawa tops this list as a classic comedy manga, but it’s also one of the all-time greats that holds up even decades after its late ’90s debut. If you enjoy comedy with heart and a meaningful message, GTO is a must-read.
The humor largely comes from Eikichi Onizuka, a former gang member turned unconventional teacher. His antics, expressions, and rule-breaking teaching style bring lots of laughs, but there’s more beneath the surface. Onizuka connects with his wild, delinquent students on a deeper level and gradually reaches them where others fail.
GTO balances fun and thought-provoking moments, proving that a simple story can have real heart and soul. The series offers lessons on life and connection, wrapped in entertaining storytelling.
GTO singles were released by Tokyopop but are now out of print and expensive to collect. Hopefully, a reprint will happen someday.
Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto
Naruto is a cornerstone of shonen manga and remains one of the best in the genre. The story follows Naruto Uzumaki, a young shinobi carrying the power of the Nine-Tails, on his quest to become Hokage. While the cast is large and some characters take a backseat, the main players are well-developed. The series also features one of the best villain groups in shonen, the Akatsuki.
The battles are a major highlight—well-drawn, thrilling, and meaningful. Many antagonists are given rich backstories, making them sympathetic and redeemable, which adds depth to the story.
For those new to shonen, Naruto is highly recommended. It’s available in singles, box sets, and 3-in-1 editions. For guidance on the best edition to collect, check out the detailed comparison available on YouTube.
Dragon Ball by Akira Toriyama
When it comes to shonen classics, few series are as iconic as Dragon Ball. Released in the West as two installments—Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z—the main series spans 42 volumes. Since its debut in the ’80s, many side stories, spin-offs, and the sequel Dragon Ball Super have kept the franchise alive. Often called the grandfather of modern shonen, Dragon Ball paved the way for influential series like Naruto and Hunter x Hunter.
The series follows Goku and his friends on their journey to grow stronger. Dragon Ball covers Goku’s childhood and formative years, while Dragon Ball Z shows him as an adult facing increasingly powerful foes. It’s known for some of the best battles and epic showdowns in shonen, with constant powering-up and character growth that keeps readers hooked.
There are seven different English-translated editions of Dragon Ball available. For those interested, a detailed review and comparison of all editions is available to help you find the best one to collect.
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure by Hirohiko Araki
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure follows the Joestar family in their ongoing battle against evil—but it’s much more than a simple fight. One of the most influential and best shonen manga to date, it continuously evolves in surprising and captivating ways.
The first five parts—Phantom Blood, Battle Tendency, Stardust Crusaders, Diamond Is Unbreakable, and Golden Wind—are firmly shonen, with the earliest parts leaning more into traditional shonen themes. Starting with Steel Ball Run and onward, the series shifts toward seinen. For fans of seinen looking to explore shonen, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, alongside titles like Claymore and Fist of the North Star, is highly recommended.
Early parts, especially Phantom Blood, may not immediately hook everyone, but the series improves dramatically as it progresses. From Part 3 onward, it truly shines, with Part 4 and beyond being masterpieces. Araki’s artwork develops significantly throughout, with distinct panel layouts and character designs that are both detailed and iconic.
With its unique style, creative battles, and unforgettable characters, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure remains one of the most distinctive and engaging shonen manga available.
One Piece by Eiichiro Oda
One Piece by Eiichiro Oda is an epic saga packed with adventure and holds the title as the most popular shonen manga of all time. The story follows Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates on their sea voyages, highlighting the friends and foes they encounter along the way. While many treasures await discovery, One Piece shows that friendship might be the greatest treasure of all.
One of One Piece’s greatest strengths is its world-building. Eiichiro Oda created a unique universe where pirates clash with powerful military forces. The variety of regions, islands, and cultures explored keeps the story fresh and exciting. Readers get a true sense of exploration alongside Luffy and his crew as they journey across the Grand Line and beyond.
With an incredible cast of characters, one of the best main characters in shonen manga, and unmatched world-building, One Piece remains one of the top shonen series ever released. The manga is available in English via singles, manga box sets, and 3-in-1 editions. For those interested, there’s a detailed comparison below to help you decide which edition is best for you.
Bleach by Tite Kubo
Bleach may not be underrated overall, but it’s definitely one of the most under-recognized of the big shonen series. It doesn’t get nearly the credit it deserves. What sets Bleach apart is its gritty style and edge, which felt ahead of its time.
Tite Kubo seemed to anticipate the future of manga, as Bleach shares many qualities with today’s popular shonen works and has influenced creators like Gege Akutami of Jujutsu Kaisen. It stands out for its darker, more mature tone compared to many other shonen series.
Kubo’s art style is among the most distinctive and striking in manga. The series also boasts one of the best casts in shonen, with some of the strongest female characters in the genre. The various factions—Gotei 13, Arrancars, Quincy, and more—add complexity to the story.
Bleach is available in English via singles, manga box sets, and 3-in-1 editions. For a detailed look at the editions, see the comparison review on YouTube below.
Jujutsu Kaisen by Gege Akutami
Jujutsu Kaisen, created by Gege Akutami, quickly rose to popularity thanks to its exciting premise and a cast of compelling, memorable characters like Yuji Itadori, Megumi Fushiguro, Yuta Okkotsu, and Satoru Gojo. The series is edgy without feeling edgy for the sake of it, set in a dark world that leans heavily into horror elements—making it one of the most horror-influenced shonen titles alongside Chainsaw Man.
This manga doesn’t hold back, portraying the real dangers the characters face, which is a refreshing approach in shonen. Despite its supernatural setting, the story feels grounded and believable thanks to Akutami’s skillful storytelling.
For those who enjoy the main series, the prequel Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is also worth reading.
Chainsaw Man by Tatsuki Fujimoto
Chainsaw Man is a recent shonen manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto, also known for Fire Punch. With its gripping story, memorable characters, and darker tone, Chainsaw Man stands out as one of the best new manga in recent years, ready to saw its way into any reader’s heart.
The hunters come from varied backgrounds—some driven by loss at the hands of devils, others by the lure of money, and some simply because they have no other choice. This mix creates a diverse cast that, despite their differences, unite for a common cause. Naturally, clashes occur, especially between Aki Hayakawa and Denji, whose conflicting beliefs on devils fuel much of the tension and dialogue.
While the series presents a world where devils are largely seen as evil, Denji’s perspective challenges this notion, showing that good and bad exist even among devils, just as they do with people. This moral complexity, paired with the manga’s wild, action-packed, and emotionally rich storytelling, makes Chainsaw Man a truly exceptional read.
Magi by Shinobu Ohtaka
Magi is a fantasy shonen manga set in a magical world where mysterious dungeons appear across the land. This adventure manga series follows Aladdin, a young magician with a magic flute, and Alibaba, a former slave with big ambitions, as they team up to conquer these treacherous dungeons. Along the way, they meet memorable allies and foes while uncovering deep secrets about their world.
What makes Magi stand out is its strong world-building and unique blend of action and comedy. Despite exploring complex themes like slavery, war, greed, and justice, the story never feels too heavy. The characters are relatable and well-developed, each with their own motivations and struggles. This combination of fantasy, adventure, and meaningful storytelling makes Magi one of the best fantasy manga series worth diving into.
Hunter x Hunter by Yoshihiro Togashi
Hunter x Hunter, ongoing since the late ’90s, remains one of the highest-rated and most beloved shonen manga series. It follows Gon, a determined young boy aiming to become a legendary Hunter like his father and find him. To achieve this, Gon must pass rigorous tests and overcome numerous challenges.
The deep bond and growth between Gon and Killua stand out as a core strength of the series. Their evolving friendship and personal struggles add emotional depth beyond the typical adventure.
Hunter x Hunter also features one of the best villain groups in shonen, the Phantom Troupe, and includes the critically acclaimed Chimera Ant Arc—often considered one of the best manga arcs ever. This manga blends intense action, adventure, and dark themes while exploring philosophical questions, making it a standout in shonen manga worth reading for fans of complex characters and layered storytelling.
Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa
Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa, first released in the early 2000s, has become a beloved shonen manga with two popular anime adaptations: the original 2003 series and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009). The manga is available in various formats, including paperback volumes, 3-in-1 editions, a complete box set, and the Fullmetal Editions.
The story follows brothers and alchemists Ed and Alphonse Elric, who pay a heavy price attempting forbidden human transmutation to bring back their mother. Their journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone and restore what they lost is filled with dark plots, dangerous obstacles, and deep emotional stakes.
Though the artwork leans toward simplicity, Hiromu Arakawa’s ability to convey powerful emotions shines through every panel. The rich world-building and settings add depth, balancing moments of humor with a darker, more serious tone. Fullmetal Alchemist stands out for its exceptional storytelling and remains a must-read shonen manga.
Assassination Classroom by Yusei Matsui
Assassination Classroom is a standout shonen and sci-fi manga that offers a unique perspective on the education system. The story follows Class 3-E, a group of misfit students tasked with sharpening both their academic skills and their assassination abilities. Their target? Korosensei, an otherworldly teacher resembling a yellow octopus with incredible powers like moving at Mach 20 speed and rapid regeneration.
Though excluded from the main school, Class 3-E’s students struggle academically, but Korosensei immediately recognizes their potential. He tailors his teaching style to each student, even mentoring an AI, nurturing their strengths and helping improve their weaknesses to unlock their full potential.
The dynamic is complex: Korosensei is both a dream teacher and a threat to humanity, having allegedly destroyed part of the moon and threatening Earth unless assassinated by his students within a set time. This tension drives the story, as the students grow to respect and care for Korosensei while simultaneously trying to kill him.
Balancing serious themes about education with humor and heartfelt moments, Assassination Classroom features a rich, diverse cast. Despite its large ensemble, every character gets their moment to shine, making it easy to connect with each of them. It’s a deeply engaging manga that remains one of the best shonen series and, despite its quality, is still somewhat underrated in the genre.
Black Clover by Yuki Tabata
Black Clover by Yuki Tabata is often considered an underrated shonen manga. While some critics say it’s too similar to Naruto, the rivalry between Asta and Yuno and their aspirations to become Wizard King share common shonen themes seen across many series, not just Naruto. Rivalries and determined main characters with big dreams have been staples of shonen manga since its early days.
The story follows Asta, a loud, energetic orphan born without any magic in a world where magic is everything. Alongside his childhood friend Yuno, who has exceptional wind magic abilities, both dream of becoming the next Wizard King. Despite Asta’s lack of magic, he trains his body relentlessly, pushing past limitations to reach his goals.
When they turn 15, Asta and Yuno receive their Grimoires, magical books that amplify their powers. Yuno is gifted with the legendary four-leaf clover, while Asta initially receives none. However, after defending Yuno’s Grimoire from a thief, Asta obtains a mysterious black five-leaf clover Grimoire, marking the true beginning of their journeys.
Black Clover stands out with its fresh take on a magical world filled with surprises, plot twists, and reveals that keep readers engaged. The series features a rich cast of characters with unique abilities, compelling group dynamics, captivating villains, intense battles, and impressive artwork. As the story progresses, it continues to grow stronger, solidifying its place as a top shonen manga.
Soul Eater by Atsushi Ohkubo
Soul Eater introduces readers to Maka, a weapon meister determined to turn her partner Soul into a death scythe. In this unique world, some humans transform into weapons, wielded by compatible meisters. Soul takes the form of a scythe, and together they face the task of reaping tainted souls. There’s much more to the story beyond this premise, and the characters are deeply memorable.
The dynamics between meisters and their weapons are compelling, but the group interactions and standout teachers add even more depth. Atsushi Ohkubo’s distinct art style evolves throughout Soul Eater, and his flair is also seen in his later work, Fire Force, which fans of Soul Eater will want to explore.
Set in a gothic world, Soul Eater balances fun and serious moments without taking itself too seriously. It remains a highly recommended shonen manga with engaging storytelling and characters. For those interested in collecting, the singles and Soul Eater Perfect Editions are excellent options—check out the detailed review on YouTube for a closer look.
Fairy Tail by Hiro Mashima
Fairy Tail is a standout shonen manga by Hiro Mashima, known also for Rave Master and Edens Zero. It remains one of the most popular series in the genre for good reason, with great character development and a richly crafted world.
The series features one of the strongest casts in shonen, with engaging group dynamics that bring the Fairy Tail guild—a ragtag band of misfits—to life. As the guild members face various challenges, their bonds grow stronger, both individually and as a team. The story includes clear heroes and villains, but also intriguing characters who occupy the gray areas, adding complexity to the plot.
At its core, Fairy Tail celebrates friendship and unity as keys to overcoming adversity. Despite plenty of battles and realistic power-ups, the series skips lengthy training arcs, diving straight into the action. For readers seeking a fast-paced shonen manga with heart, Fairy Tail is an essential read.
Death Note by Takeshi Obata & Tsugumi Ohba
Death Note is an iconic thriller and a masterful game of cat and mouse created by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata. Obata is also known for works like Bakuman and Hikaru no Go. Death Note stands as one of the most influential and captivating manga of all time, thanks to its thrilling storyline and stunning art.
The story follows Light Yagami, who gains immense power from the Death Note — a supernatural notebook that kills anyone whose name is written in it, provided the writer knows their face. Light’s vision of a crime-free world drives him to become a vigilante, setting off a high-stakes battle against the brilliant detective L.
This tense rivalry is a psychological thriller at its finest, focusing on wit and strategy rather than physical battles. Death Note dives deep into moral dilemmas as Light wrestles with the consequences of playing god.
For collectors, check out the YouTube comparison of all Death Note manga editions linked below.
Slam Dunk by Takehiko Inoue
Slam Dunk by Takehiko Inoue is one of the best sports manga ever created. But it’s not just a top basketball manga — it’s one of the best manga series of all time. Inoue, who also gave us Vagabond and Real, has three masterpieces under his belt, which is no small feat.
Choosing between those three is tough, but Slam Dunk has something truly special. It’s suspenseful and thrilling, packed with humor, and full of unforgettable characters. What really stands out, though, is how Inoue captures the raw emotion of the players — whether they’re celebrating a win or facing defeat, you feel it right alongside them.
The team dynamic is a major strength. Unlike many manga that focus on just a few characters, Slam Dunk gives the whole cast their moment. As a result, you root for the entire team and truly feel their passion for basketball. Inoue’s own love for the sport shines through in every page.
When a creator pours genuine passion into their work, and it’s reflected in characters who share that passion, it’s impossible not to catch that feeling yourself. That connection is what makes Slam Dunk so unforgettable.
Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama
Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama is a once-in-a-generation series that has left a lasting mark on both fans and the industry. The manga ranks among the best-selling of all time, while its anime adaptation reached new heights, becoming the most popular TV show in the US during the launch of its final season. Initially planned as two parts, the final season expanded to three.
With the manga and anime complete, it’s a bittersweet moment—yet there’s much to celebrate given how much the series has grown and evolved into a cultural phenomenon.
Attack on Titan masterfully combines mystery, horror, action, and drama. Despite its complex layers, it remains cohesive and features one of the most intricate and well-developed lores in all of shonen.
Currently, there are four different ways to collect Attack on Titan in English.
Claymore by Norihiro Yagi
Claymore by Norihiro Yagi is a favorite dark fantasy manga that, while technically classified as shonen, often feels closer to seinen. For fans of Berserk—a personal all-time favorite—Claymore is one of the first recommendations. Both share a similar grim atmosphere and setting, but Claymore stands out with its strong female lead and mature themes that push the boundaries of typical shonen.
The story centers on Yoma, monstrous beings that hide among humans, preying on villages. Only the Claymores—half-human, half-monster warriors with supernatural strength—can hunt them down. But these fighters face a constant inner battle: holding onto their humanity while wielding monstrous powers, or else risk becoming the very things they fight against.
Follow Clare, an expert swordswoman Claymore, on her quest to track down the fearsome Awakened Being, Priscilla, who killed someone close to her. Claymore is a must-read if you enjoy intense storytelling and complex characters.
If you’re interested in more manga with a similar dark tone and atmosphere, be sure to check out our post on Manga Like Berserk for more recommendations.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba by Koyoharu Gotouge
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba follows Tanjiro and his sister Nezuko, whose peaceful life is shattered after a demon attack leaves their family dead. Nezuko is transformed into a demon herself, so Tanjiro embarks on a journey to find a way to restore her humanity while seeking revenge against the demon responsible. The story takes you through a full range of emotions as they face both joy and hardship along the way.
One of the biggest strengths of Demon Slayer lies in its characters. Both heroes and villains come with rich backstories and distinct personalities, making their battles and interactions gripping to watch. But beyond the fights, it’s the relationships that really stand out — the bond between Tanjiro and Nezuko, in particular, is deeply moving.
The setting, inspired by Taisho-era Japan, gives the series a unique blend of historical and modern elements that make the world feel both authentic and fresh. Despite its darker themes, the story carries a warmth and hopefulness, largely thanks to Tanjiro’s gentle and kind heart.
For those who enjoy the manga, the anime adaptation is highly recommended. It captures Demon Slayer’s bold art style brilliantly and elevates the experience with stunning animation, especially in its fight scenes. While the manga is exceptional on its own, the anime brings the story to life in a way that’s truly unforgettable. Overall, Demon Slayer is one of the best shonen manga to come out in recent years.
Haikyuu!! by Haruichi Furudate
Haikyuu!! by Haruichi Furudate isn’t just the best volleyball manga—it’s one of the most emotionally captivating sports manga out there. Few sports series make you laugh, cry, feel triumphant, and face defeat as deeply as Haikyuu!! does. It perfectly captures the highs and lows every athlete experiences, making it a must-read sports manga for fans and newcomers alike.
The character development is top-notch. Furudate ensures every player gets their moment to shine, creating deep connections with a broad cast. The team dynamics add extra layers of tension and camaraderie, especially when former rivals join forces as teammates.
Haikyuu!! is a fantastic gateway manga for readers new to sports manga, while also offering plenty for die-hard volleyball fans. For more top-tier sports manga recommendations, check out our best sports manga list.
Blue Lock by Muneyuki Kaneshiro & Yusuke Nomura
Blue Lock has earned serious hype—and for good reason. It’s not just a fresh take on football (soccer) manga, but a standout in shonen manga overall. Focusing on one key position—the striker—it brings a unique survival-of-the-fittest twist unlike anything else in sports manga.
The story centers on 300 of Japan’s best strikers competing in the Blue Lock program, designed to forge the ultimate striker who can lead Japan to its first World Cup victory. Set in a high-pressure, almost prison-like environment, players face intense challenges and are ranked from the start based on their skills. This ranking fuels fierce rivalries but also drives character growth as they push themselves to the limit.
Blue Lock is as entertaining as it is thrilling. The art brilliantly captures the motion and aura of each player, making the sports action both visually stunning and realistically dynamic. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping matches, the manga explores the players’ evolving motivations and teamwork as they fight to survive and master their craft.
If you enjoy Blue Lock’s mix of intense competition and character-driven drama, be sure to check out our list of the best manga like Blue Lock for more recommendations. Whether you’re into soccer, shonen sports, or survival stories, this series is a must-read.
Gintama by Hideaki Sorachi
Gintama by Hideaki Sorachi stands alongside Grand Blue Dreaming as one of the most hilarious manga and a top pick in the sci-fi shonen genre. In fact, it might just be the best comedy manga of all time. Its unique sci-fi Edo setting, sharp comedic timing, and unforgettable cast make it truly one of a kind.
While the humor is a huge part of its charm, calling Gintama just a comedy would sell it short. The series evolves, revealing a surprisingly serious side. Gintoki, the main character, may seem like a lovable goof, but he’s also a fierce badass. The manga strikes a perfect balance between laugh-out-loud moments, intense action, and emotional beats that resonate deeply.
One of the coolest things about Gintama is its episodic nature combined with an overarching story. It follows Gintoki and his friends running Odd Jobs, tackling all sorts of wild requests in a world where aliens, the Amanto, have invaded Edo period Japan—creating a setting that’s both unique and intriguing.
Though only 23 of the 77 volumes have been officially translated into English by Viz, Gintama deserves a full release. Hopefully, the rest of this classic series gets translated soon so more fans can enjoy it.
Final Thoughts
These are some of the best shonen manga to read right now! Shonen is a huge category of manga with plenty of amazing series still to discover, so this list will continue to grow—check back for updates.
For more manga recommendations, check out our curated manga guides. And stay up to date on with our new manga releases list, to see what exciting new shonen manga are set to release in 2025.
