Anime continues to gain popularity daily, dominating streaming services and becoming a global sensation that can appeal to everyone. However, most of those shows are adapted from manga, such as One Piece, and there are countless more revolutionary and timeless stories on paper. Despite not being as popular, manga have certain aspects that are much better than their adaptations, mainly their art.
The best part about manga is its art and pacing, but the former is undoubtedly some of the greatest in any comic format, which is why this list will rank the ten greatest manga with the best art styles. Taking into consideration both the quality and style of the art, this ranking will primarily focus on the originality and detail of the art style. Art can make or break a series, but for these ten manga, its style is definitely the best part.
10
‘The Climber’ (2007-2011)
With some manga that differentiate themselves with unique art styles, The Climber opts for a realistic style that dazzles viewers. The protagonist is a loner who wants nothing to do with people, but when he discovers climbing, he learns that it’s dangerous to go alone. Thus starts his inner conflict of wanting to be alone, but also needing to climb, wondering which he will give in to first.
The Climber has some of the best and most detailed art in manga, but the realistic style seals the deal, making it a standout. The way Shin-ichi Sakamoto draws faces, lips, and hands is different than most manga, putting more credence into those aspects to showcase the human side of his art. The grand shots of the scenery and the mental illusions are also magnificent, making The Climber one of the most beautiful manga of all time.
9
‘Witch Hat Atelier’ (2016)
Fans are still waiting for the anime’s supposed 2025 release date, and while they are likely going to wait until 2026, the Witch Hat Atelier manga is heating up. When a young girl discovers the secrets of magic, the witches allow her to train under them in order to learn the craft and make spells, hoping to be able to reverse the curse placed on her mother.
Great art is an essential part of fantasy manga, as it makes the mystical world more immersive and convincing, thus increasing the reader’s sense of awe; indeed, more than any other genre, fantasy in manga lives and dies with its visuals. Witch Hat Atelier doesn’t slack on its worldbuilding or its drawing, piecing together a wonderful setting that is as beautiful as it is captivating. The art style perfectly fits the vibe and whimsical feeling, merging to create one of the best fantasy manga series of all time.
8
‘Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun’ (2014)
Everyone loves a spooky series now and then, and they commonly have distinct and impactful art styles, such as Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun. When a young girl makes a wish to the titular spirit haunting the bathroom, their fates become intertwined as they navigate the school’s spirits. However, darker forces lie in wait, prompting Nene, Hanako, and Kou to investigate.
Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun is all about the vibe and aesthetic, and its art style perfectly represents that, nailing the spooky feeling. The thick outlines, vibrant colors, peculiar dimensions, and abstract designs combine to create one of the most visually appealing art styles in manga. Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun is worth reading for the art style alone, especially since spooky season is right around the corner.
7
‘Vagabond’ (1998-2015)
