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15 Underrated Japanese Manga You Should Read Before They Get an Anime
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items Discover hidden manga gems with incredible art, unique plots, and unforgettable characters—perfect for fans who want something fresh and under the radar.
A twisted psychological drama about adolescence, gender identity, and obsession by Shuzo Oshimi (creator of Flowers of Evil). Dark, raw, and intense.
Welcome Back, Alice 1 by Shuzo Oshimi, Paperback
Another masterwork from Oshimi, exploring the terrifying bond between an overprotective mother and her son. No anime yet, despite its haunting brilliance.
Blood on the Tracks, Volume 1 by Shuzo Oshimi, Paperback
A beautifully drawn historical manga about a Noh performer during the Warring States era. Rich in culture, slow-burn storytelling, and poetic themes.
The World is Dancing 2 by Kazuto Mihara | eBook
A tranquil, almost dream-like manga about a girl exploring her city and the mystical events around it. Perfect for fans of Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou.
Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou: Deluxe Edition 4
Before its anime gained traction, this gothic mystery was an underrated gem with a dark, unique setting and an eerie cast of "living dolls."
Shadows House, Vol. 1 by Somato, Paperback
Critically acclaimed but still has no anime adaptation. A dark, surreal coming-of-age tale that blends reality and mental chaos in a unique artistic form.
Goodnight Punpun, Vol. 1 by Inio Asano, Paperback
A horror-comedy about a girl who sees terrifying ghosts but pretends not to. Before the anime came out, it had strong underground buzz.
Mieruko-chan, Vol. 1 by Tomoki Izumi, Paperback
A hilarious and heartfelt story about a yakuza guy raising a psychic girl. Still doesn’t get the recognition it deserves for its balance of comedy and drama.
Hinamatsuri Volume 1 by Masao Ohtake, Paperback
An inspiring story about a high school student discovering his love for painting. Deeply introspective and beautifully drawn.
Blue Period 1 by Tsubasa Yamaguchi, Paperback
A fantasy-action story with surprising twists and lots of heart. It subverts expectations with its protagonist and dark themes. Recently got anime buzz, but the manga remains underread.
Helck, Vol. 2 by Nanaki Nanao, Paperback
A psychological sports manga about mountain climbing. Intense, raw, and deeply human—with stunning artwork that captures isolation and drive.
The Climber, Vol. 1|Paperback
A controversial but beautifully written story about human connection and emotional healing. Deep, slow-paced, and not what you might expect.
My Boy, Volume 1 by Hitomi Takano, Paperback
A powerful and inspiring manga about a transgender teen who finds freedom through street fashion. Bold, heartfelt, and socially relevant—but still flying under the radar.
Boys Run the Riot 1 by Keito Gaku, Paperback
A heartwarming story of a lonely middle-aged man who adopts an “ugly” but loving cat. Gentle, emotional, and perfect for slice-of-life fans who love stories about healing and companionship.
A Man and His Cat 01 by Umi Sakurai, Paperback
Set in a future where humanity lives in a giant ring above Earth, this slice-of-life sci-fi follows a young window washer who observes different lives through their windows. Quiet, reflective, and beautifully drawn—it's a hidden gem with deep social ...
Saturn Apartments, Vol. 1 by Hisae Iwaoka | eBook