The history and appeal of Japanese manga

Japanese manga, or comics, are a cultural phenomenon that has gained popularity around the world. It’s hard to miss the colorful illustrations and unique storylines in manga, and it’s become a must-see for many travelers visiting Japan. Manga has its roots in Japan’s rich history of storytelling, and has developed into an art form that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

The History of Manga in Japan

Manga has a long and rich history in Japan, dating back to the 12th century when illustrated scrolls were created to tell stories. During the Edo period (1603-1868), woodblock prints were used to create comic books called kibyoshi, which were often satirical and political in nature. In the early 20th century, modern manga began to emerge in Japan, with artists using new printing techniques and styles to create a variety of genres.

In the post-World War II era, manga exploded in popularity in Japan and began to gain international recognition. Manga artists, or mangaka, were able to explore more diverse themes and styles, including science fiction, fantasy, romance, and action.

Manga Today

Today, manga is a thriving industry in Japan, with a wide range of genres and titles available to readers. Manga has a huge fan base in Japan and around the world, and has even inspired television shows, movies, and video games.

Many tourists to Japan are intrigued by manga and want to explore this unique aspect of Japanese culture. Manga shops can be found in almost every major city in Japan, and they offer a wide range of titles and genres to choose from. Manga cafes are also popular, offering a comfortable and quiet space to read and relax.

Experiencing Manga in Japan

There are many ways to experience manga while in Japan. One popular option is to visit a manga museum or art exhibit, which showcases the history and evolution of manga in Japan. Some of the most famous manga museums in Japan include the Kyoto International Manga Museum and the Osamu Tezuka Manga Museum in Hyogo prefecture.

Another popular way to experience manga in Japan is to attend a manga or anime convention. These events often feature guest speakers, workshops, and cosplay contests, as well as opportunities to buy and trade manga and related merchandise.

For those interested in learning more about manga and its creation, there are even manga schools and workshops where visitors can learn from professional mangaka.

Buying Manga in Japan

For those looking to bring home some manga as a souvenir, there are a few things to keep in mind. Manga in Japan is usually published in serialized form in weekly or monthly magazines, so it’s often more cost-effective to buy individual issues rather than complete volumes.

Manga is widely available in bookstores and manga shops throughout Japan, and many titles are also available in English. However, it’s important to note that some titles may only be available in Japanese.

Why it’s Interesting

Manga is an important part of Japan’s cultural heritage, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you find it appealing, or appalling, the impact of manga on Japan is huge. It is also one of the main soft culture exports that is equally enjoyed by the Japanese themselves.