A “horror manga” that will scare you and keep you turning the pages. It is one of the most popular genres, with many terrifying yet thrilling and addictive works. Horror comes in many varieties, including grotesque splatter horror and ghost stories.
Therefore, this time we will introduce recommended horror manga in SAKIDORI's unique ranking format. We have carefully selected works ranging from light and interesting works to works that are traumatically terrifying.
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table of contents
- Recommended ranking of horror manga｜Popular works
- Recommended ranking of horror manga | Serialized works
- Recommended ranking of horror manga｜Complete works
- Recommended ranking of horror manga｜Short works
- Check out the best-selling horror manga rankings
Recommended ranking of horror manga｜Popular works
1st place Tokyo Ghoul
Shueisha Author: Sui Ishida All 14 volumes completed
A horror battle action manga set in Tokyo, where monsters known as ghouls that eat people are infested. This is a story depicting the struggles and growth of a young man who is suddenly turned into a “half-ghoul” by humans.
A blockbuster work that was serialized in Weekly Young Jump from 2011 to 2014 and sold over 47 million copies. Two live-action films starring Masataka Kubota have been produced, and the animated version has also gained popularity.
The main character is Ken Kaneki, an ordinary college student who loves reading. At the coffee shop he frequents, Anteiku, he has a crush on a girl named Rize, who like him loves reading novels by author Izumi Takatsuki. One day, by chance, Kaneki ends up going on a date with Rize, but that ends up changing his destiny…
It is filled with many charms, such as an overwhelming and unique worldview, an excellent story structure filled with foreshadowing, and beautiful drawing skills. Highlights include the grotesque and terrifying predation scenes by the ghouls and the fierce battle scenes between the ghouls and humans. This is a recommended masterpiece that is not only scary but also has a message.
2nd place strange house
Ichijinsha Original work: Ameana Illustration: Akira Ayano 4 volumes already published
This is a mystery horror manga that unravels the strangeness of the floor plan. The original work is a novel published by occult writer Amena. In 2024, it will be made into a movie starring Shotaro Mamiya.
A floor plan of a house as seen by the main character, a writer specializing in the occult. At first glance, it looks like an ordinary house, but a designer friend of mine said, “There's something strange about this house.'' A floor plan where something is hidden. The two set out to find out what is wrong with this house.
Some people say that the strange sense of presence that comes from the fact that everyone is living in a house gives them a cooling sensation. This is a recommended work that can be enjoyed as a mystery, with the sense of fear increasing as the truth is revealed.
3rd place Gannibal
Nippon Bungeisha Author: Masaaki Ninomiya Completed in 13 volumes
A suspense horror manga depicting murders, cannibalism, and other customs that occur in a village in the mountains. It was serialized in Weekly Manga Goraku from 2018 to 2021. In 2022, it was made into a drama on Disney Plus, and the cumulative sales have exceeded 2 million copies.
Daigo Agawa is an expatriate worker who has been transferred from the city to Kokuhana Village. The people of the village warmly welcome the family, but when the body of an old woman is discovered, Daigo begins to notice something unusual about the village. And then, he gets caught up in the suspicion that “the people in this village are eating people''…
This work is filled with a sense of urgency, such as the mysterious incidents that occur one after another and the sense of stagnation in the village, making it impossible to stop reading. It also has a reputation for its carefully drawn and powerful images. Recommended for those who want to read horror stories with a bizarre and frightening feel.
No. 4: As God says
Kodansha Original work: Muneyuki Kinjo Illustrations: Hinoji Fujimura Completed in 5 volumes
This is a horror manga with fantasy elements in which high school students who are living a normal life suddenly get caught up in a strange death game.
This work was serialized in Bessatsu Shonen Magazine from 2011 to 2012. From 2013 to 2017, a sequel, “Kami-sama no Itoori 2,'' was also serialized. A movie was also released in 2014.
Shun Takahata, a 16-year-old boy. He has lived an ordinary life and feels that the same everyday life is boring. Then, “Daruma” and “Cat” suddenly appeared in front of me. A strange being that kills humans breaks Shun's boredom.
Many games require trial and error as human desires swirl. The game has a high level of perfection and has been praised as a horror manga that makes you curious about the future. This is a work recommended for those who want to read with excitement as to who will survive.
5th place: Visible child
KADOKAWA Author: Asaki Izumi 11 volumes published
This is a new type of horror comedy manga about a high school girl who has the appearance of a strange and dangerous person, but manages to get by with her life. This work is a serialization of a manga that was posted on X (formerly Twitter) and became a hot topic, and is currently being serialized on “WebComic Apanda”. It is a popular work that was made into an anime in 2021.
One day, the main character, Miko, suddenly begins to see strange beings that are invisible to ordinary people. I was inwardly shaken by the strange thing talking to me, but I decided to continue to act as best I could without reacting…
The key point is the gap between the cute Mikoto and the scary, strange beings. Even though it's in the horror genre, you can read it while laughing. It has a strong comedy element and is recommended even for those who don't like horror.
No. 6 Parasite
Kodansha Author: Hitoshi Iwaaki Completed in 10 volumes
A science fiction horror manga depicting a battle between humans and a parasitic creature that takes over humans' brains, manipulates their bodies, and preys on other humans. It was serialized in Afternoon from 1990 to 1995, and won the Kodansha Manga Award in 1993.
It is a huge hit with a cumulative circulation of over 24 million copies. The live-action movie starring Shota Sometani has also gained popularity, and a live-action drama is also planned for Netflix.
One day, mysterious parasites suddenly arrive on Earth. They invaded humans' bodies, took over their brains, and began devouring other humans. Parasites also invade the body of high school student Shinichi Izumi, but they fail to take over his brain and take up residence in his right hand. Shinichi, who has developed a strange coexistence with a parasitic creature that calls itself “Migi,” throws himself into the fight against the parasitic creatures…
A masterpiece depicting philosophical themes that question environmental destruction and the existence of humanity. The grotesque predation scenes and thrilling plot twists keep you turning the pages. This is a recommended work for those who want to experience the masterpiece of Monster Panic.
・New edition complete with 10 volumes
7th place I am a hero
Shogakukan Author: Kengo Hanazawa Completed in 22 volumes
A survival panic horror work that is known as the “monumental standard of zombie manga.” It is an excellent work that was serialized in Weekly Big Comic Spirits from 2009 to 2017, and won the Shogakukan Manga Award in the general category in 2013. A live-action film starring Hiroshi Oizumi also gained popularity.
Hideo Suzuki is a 35-year-old man who is living a dull life as a manga artist's assistant. He spent his days in agony, escaping into a world of delusions in order to overcome reality. As her anxiety and dissatisfaction grows, even towards her lover, who was supposed to be her savior, a mysterious infectious disease begins to spread without her noticing…
This work depicts Suzuki fighting for survival as humans turn into zombies and begin attacking others. Not only can you enjoy the thrill of fighting zombies, but you'll be moved by the way Suzuki, who started out as a no-good guy, musters up the courage to face the threat. Recommended for those who want to read a masterpiece that has elements such as horror, zombies, and grotesque.
No. 8 School life!
Houbunsha Original work: Norimitsu Kaiho (Nitroplus) Illustration: Chiba Saddle Completed in 12 volumes
A survival horror manga depicting girls holed up in a school and trying to survive in a society that has collapsed due to a mass outbreak of zombies. It was serialized in Manga Time Kirara Forward from 2012 to 2019. This work has also been developed as a mixed media work, including anime and live-action movies, and has generated a lot of attention mainly on SNS.
The “School Life Club'' is a club activity where students stay overnight at the school and get to know various parts of the school that cannot be exposed to in class alone. There are four members of the club: Yuki Takeyari, the main character and mood maker, Kurumi, who loves shovels, Lee, who organizes everyone, and Mi-kun, a solid junior.
Under the watchful eye of Megu-nee, a gentle advisor, she lived a lively life, enjoying delicious pasta and harvesting cherry tomatoes in the gardening club's rooftop garden. However, the “happy” daily life reflected in Yuki's eyes…
Many readers are shocked by the gap between the cute illustrations and the story. Foreshadowing and mysteries are scattered throughout the book, making it a worthwhile read. Recommended for those who are interested in unique horror manga, such as zombie stories with cute characters.
9th place Secret part-time job: No escape
Shogakukan Author: Shotaro Taguchi 14 volumes published
A horror manga depicting two high school girls who take on “underground part-time jobs'' that expose them to danger in exchange for high pay. It is being serialized on the app “Manga One” and is being touted as “Reiwa's scariest horror.” It is a popular work that won 5th place in the web manga category of the upcoming Manga Awards 2021, and has become a hot topic on SNS.
Yume Kuromine and Kazumi Shirahama end up doing high paying part-time jobs in a gray area, including illegal work. Fear awaits you at a variety of locations, including resort restaurants, security guards, and aquarium staff.
Fearful depictions often appear suddenly in large frames, so be careful when turning the pages. It is full of charm, including an unusual setting, story development, and depictions that will surprise readers. This horror manga is recommended for those who want to experience thrilling and hair-raising horror.
No. 10 King's Game
Futabasha Author: Nobuaki Kanazawa Illustration: Hitori Hitori Completed in 5 volumes
A manga adaptation of a horror novel that gained popularity on “Mobage Town” and “Everystar” and boasts a total of 40 million PV views. It has also been made into an anime and a live-action movie, and the cumulative circulation of the novel and manga series has exceeded 8 million copies.
One day, all of his classmates, including the main character, Nobuaki Kanazawa, receive an email from a person who calls himself “King” with a mysterious command. The rules of the “King's Game” are that all class members must participate and follow orders 24 hours a day, that there will be punishment if they do not follow orders, and that they cannot quit midway.
At first, the orders were simple, but they gradually escalated, and disobedience meant death. Classmates hate each other and kill each other in order to survive…
The key point is the novel setting, based on the King's Game, where cruel orders are given. It also depicts grotesque scenes that will make you want to cover your eyes. This is a recommended horror manga where you can enjoy the thrill of unraveling the mystery of the king's true identity.
No. 11 Death Office
Shinchosha Author: Azumikishi 27 volumes published
A unique horror manga set in the “Death Office,'' which is located on the border between this shore and the other shores and deals with various dead people. It has been serialized in Monthly Comic @ Bunch since 2013. In 2019, it was made into a live-action drama starring Masahiro Matsuoka. A YouTube anime will also be produced in 2022, with cumulative sales exceeding 4.5 million copies.
The death office is a place where all deaths, including suicide, homicide, illness, and accidental death, visit. Those without sin will go to heaven, and those who are sinful will go to hell. This work depicts the interactions between the dead and the staff working at the death office, including Shimura, who is known for his mysterious, pasted-on smile, as well as the lives of the dead.
The unique characters are sometimes lighthearted and sometimes serious about life and death, heaven and hell, and the content is thought-provoking. The main point is that it is easy to read because it is basically a one-story story. Recommended for those who want to read popular occult works.
No. 12 Pumpkin Night
LINE Digital Frontier Manga: Sema Taniguchi Original work: Masaya Gaisono 10 volumes already published
A horror manga depicting a splatter revenge story by a killer wearing a pumpkin mask. Currently being serialized on LINE Manga. It is such a popular work that a collaboration cafe was held in 2020, and in 2022 it was picked up by LINE Manga as the scariest horror of the summer.
One day, high school girl Asumi Nakatani is followed on social media by an unknown account called “Pumpkin Night.” Asumi was amused and followed back, but what she received from Pumpkin Night was a DM saying “Asumi Nakatani Koros.”
Immediately afterwards, she is attacked by a killer wearing a pumpkin mask and dies a gruesome death. And Kazuya, who happened to be on the phone with Asumi on the spot, is also given a death sentence by Pumpkin Knight…
The key point is that the original story was written by Masaya Gaisono, who is also known as a master of horror manga. A series of extremely grotesque, detailed, and stimulating depictions. Recommended for those who are interested in unrelenting splatter horror that offers traumatic horror.
No. 13 Dandadan
Shueisha Author: Yukinobu Ryu
This is an occult battle manga that uses the power of monsters to fight. A popular work that has been serialized in “Shonen Jump+” since 2021. A TV anime will be broadcast in 2024, and the opening song “Otonoke” performed by Creepy Nuts has also become a hot topic.
Momo Ayase, a high school girl who believes in ghosts, and Occult-kun, a high school boy who believes in UFOs, suddenly meet. In order to make each of them believe in the supernatural, Momo goes to a UFO spot and Occult-kun goes to a haunted spot, but…
The appeal is that you can enjoy powerful action while having a supernatural theme. There are also romantic elements centered around the two main characters. Recommended for those looking for a horror manga where you can enjoy battles.
No. 14: Soubotei should be destroyed
Shogakukan Author: Kazuhiro Fujita All 25 volumes completed
This is a modern horror manga that tells a story about a strange haunted house. The author is Kazuhiro Fujita, known for “Ushio and Tora''. It was serialized in “Weekly Shonen Sunday” from 2016 to 2021.
Since the Taisho era, the old mansion “Soubutei” has stood tall in Numahanicho, Tokyo. Two young boys who once entered Sowatei were visited by a horrifying phenomenon, and even as adults, they continued to have nightmares. The two, who eventually became Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, carried out an airstrike on Soubotei, but the mansion was not destroyed…
It has been highly praised for captivating people's hearts from the opening. It has a reputation for making people curious about what will happen to the eerie mansion full of mysteries. This is a work recommended for those interested in heavy and creepy fantasy horror.
Recommended ranking of horror manga | Serialized works
No. 1: The summer when light died
KADOKAWA Author: Mokumokuren 6 volumes published
This is a horror manga that expresses the gentle fear of living with the unknown. It has been serialized in “Young Ace UP” since 2021, and the anime will be broadcast in 2025.
Yoshiki and Hikaru, who are the same age, have grown up together in a village. However, one day, Yoshiki notices that what he thought was light has been replaced by another nanika. Yoshiki still wants to be with her, so she spends her days as usual with Nanika, who is in the form of light…
This work has received high praise not only for its creepy character, but also for its story of friendship between two young boys. Some say that the unique onomatopoeic sounds that appear in the story amplify the fear. Recommended for those looking for a horror manga that always has a disturbing atmosphere.
2nd place: Toilet-bound Hanako-kun
Square Enix Author: Aidairo 23 volumes published
This is a horror manga that follows Hanako-kun and her school's seven wonders. It is being serialized in “Monthly G Fantasy” and will be made into an anime in 2020. The spin-off work “Hanago Shonen Hanako-kun'' is also a popular work that has been made into an anime.
There is a rumor at Kamome Academy that “Hanako-san is in the third room of the girls' toilet on the third floor of the old school building.'' Believing the rumor that Hanako-san will make her wishes come true, occult girl Nene Yahiro heads to the girls' restroom on the third floor of the old school building.
It's a horror manga full of comedic elements, but the scary parts have a reputation for being really scary. In addition, Hanako-kun's cute and cool character has been highly praised. This is a recommended horror manga where you can enjoy the gap between cute pictures and a horror story.
3rd place Smiley
Nippon Bungeisha Author: Hattori TBA 10 volumes published
A suspense horror manga about infiltrating a creepy new religion. It has been serialized in “Weekly Manga Goraku” since 2021. It won an award in the Rakuten Kobo E-Book Award 2024 in the “Popular comic category that we want to share with the world!”
Yuji Kamome, a freelance writer who lost his daughter in an accident and left his wife, spends his days listlessly. One day, he sees a recruitment flyer from the religious group “Shinjokai,'' which has come to his house to recruit people. The flyer shows a picture of his wife, who he hasn't heard from…
This is a work that brings out the horror of a creepy cult religion. The emphasis is on the reality of what could happen in real life, and there are also grotesque depictions. This is a recommended work that lets you experience the suspense of infiltrating a dangerous organization.
No. 4 Fictional Reasoning
Kodansha Original work: Joheikyo Illustrations: Katase Chashiba 22 volumes published
A mystery horror manga that solves cases involving supernatural beings. The original work is a popular novel that won the 12th Honkaku Mystery Award. It is serialized in Monthly Shonen Magazine and has been made into an anime over multiple seasons.
Kotoko Iwanaga, a girl who became the god of supernatural wisdom, falls in love with a young man. However, the young man, Kuro Sakuragawa, is a strange person who is feared even by supernatural beings…
This work depicts the duo of Kotoko and Kuro as they confront mysterious incidents while deducing mysteries. Also pay attention to the fate of the love between the two main characters. Recommended for those who are interested in works that have the theme of non-human things but can also be enjoyed as full-fledged mysteries.
No. 5 Immortality and Punishment
Akita Shoten Author: Kentaro Sato 7 volumes published
This is a panic horror manga set in Japan, which is overflowing with infected people, and depicts survival at a love hotel. It has been serialized in “Bessatsu Shonen Champion” since 2021. The story begins with two men and women meeting.
Minato, a boy, met a woman through financial connections, but instead of not paying her, he was furious that the woman stole his money and ran away. However, the woman learns that Minato's true identity is Fumito Yazakaze, the culprit who once committed a series of murders, and tries to return the money. Around that time, mysterious incidents of humans biting humans are occurring frequently in Tokyo…
In this work, a boy is surrounded by zombies in a love hotel and vows never to die in order to atone for his sins. The main point is that it is set in a hopeless closed environment and also focuses on the characters and lives of the survivors. Recommended for those who are interested in a unique way of survival.
6th place sacrificial family
Nippon Bungeisha Author: Akiyuki Sugino 3 volumes published
This is a thrilling horror manga about a family infiltrating a creepy family. An up-and-coming topical work currently being serialized in “Weekly Manga Goraku” with the first volume released in 2024. The stage is a magnificent mansion.
Junpei, a young man who has decided to marry into the family home of his fiancée Minami Akutsu, is respectfully welcomed by the family at their luxurious mansion. However, there is a strange atmosphere within the family, with children being beaten up for breaking even small rules. In reality, Junpei is a police officer who infiltrated the family in pursuit of a certain incident…
This is a suspense horror work with the theme of “family”, and the Akutsu family's crazy behavior has a reputation for being creepy. Recommended for those who want to take a peek into the horrors of family, which are both bonds and chains.
No. 7 Banned Mole
Kodansha Author: Natsumi Eguchi 8 volumes published
This is a comedy-horror manga about a pair of college students who encounter a “banned mole'' and end up being able to see spirits. The author is Natsumi Eguchi, known for “Hozuki no Reitetsu,'' and it has been serialized in “Morning'' since 2021. A TV anime will also be broadcast from July 2025.
One day, college students Maki and Yaeko meet a man bleeding from the head. The two become suspicious when they see that the man who calls himself Mole doesn't like both the ambulance and the police. The mole begins to tell the two that they have been banned from the other world…
You can enjoy the unusual commotion involving spirits between a friendly college student and an unreliable but hateful mole. It has become a hot topic for its unique art style, and is recommended for those who like Showa-style horror manga.
8th place DEAD Tube ~Dead Tube~
Akita Shoten Original work: Mikoto Yamaguchi Illustrations: Touta Kitagawa 25 volumes published
This is a terrifying horror manga set in a school that gains a lot of views with its shocking images. It has been serialized in “Champion RED” since 2014. The story begins with a boy being asked by a beautiful girl to take a picture of him.
Tomohiro Machiya, a second-year high school student who belongs to the film research club, decides to closely photograph Mai Mashiro, a top-class beautiful girl in the school, for two days. Machiya, who was accompanying him in his daily life, witnessed an unbelievable scene…
This work is themed around video streaming services that compete for the number of viewers, and its main point is that it often depicts extreme grotesque scenes. Recommended for those looking for a horror manga with thrilling plot twists and twists.
Recommended ranking of horror manga｜Complete works
No. 1: It’s night outside the triangular window
Libre Author: Tomoko Yamashita All 11 volumes completed
A horror/mystery manga in which a “psychic detective duo'' consisting of an exorcist and his disciple pursue mysteries that cannot be solved by the police. It was serialized in “Monthly MAGAZINE BE×BOY” from 2013 to 2020. In 2021, it was made into an anime and a movie starring Masaki Okada and Jun Shison.
Kosuke Misumi, who works at a bookstore, has always had a tendency to see creepy things. One day, Rito Hiikawa, who came to exorcise the spirits that appeared at his place of work, discovered his talent and forced him to team up with him. This is a story about these two people discovering and solving the terrifying and mysterious phenomena that lurk in everyday life.
The calm depictions of ghosts give you the chills of fear that run down your spine. On the other hand, the point is that the scene where Hiekawa exorcises Misumi is sexy. This is a recommended work that adds mystery elements to horror and is an interesting read.
2nd Place Definitive Edition GeGeGe no Kitaro
Chuokoron-Shinsha Author: Shigeru Mizuki All 10 volumes completed
A famous Japanese horror manga that established the concept of “yokai” in post-war Japan. Its origin was a picture-story show released in 1954, and the title changed to “Graveyard Kitaro'' and “Graveyard Kitaro,'' and in 1967 it became “GeGeGe no Kitaro.''
The anime series, which began broadcasting in 1968, has continued to be loved for many years, as well as many mixed media works such as dramas, live-action movies, and stage plays. In 1996, he won the Minister of Education Award at the Japan Cartoonists Association Award.
The first volume of the definitive edition contains 13 long stories, including “The Great Yokai War,'' in which Western yokai and Japanese yokai go to war on a southern island, and “Okaiju,'' which depicts the deadly battle of Kitaro, who is transformed into a sea monster by a young genius.
Many famous characters that many people know appear, including Kitaro, Medama Oyaji, Cat Girl, and Mouse Boy. You can also feel the parent-child love between Kitaro and Medama Oyaji. It is full of Shigeru Mizuki's unique humor, so it is recommended for children and beginners of horror manga. It is a timeless masterpiece that will never fade.
3rd place Drifting Classroom Shogakukan Bunko
Shogakukan Author: Kazuo Umezu Completed in 6 volumes
A masterpiece sci-fi horror manga by Kazuo Umezu, who has produced a series of hits and is known as the “God of Horror Manga.” The story depicts elementary school students who are transported to a desolate land in another world and try to survive while fighting the shadow of death.
It was serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday from 1972 to 1974, and won the Shogakukan Manga Award in 1975. A variety of mixed media works including dramas, plays, and movies were developed.
Sho Takamatsu, a sixth grader at Yamato Elementary School, is a bright and mischievous boy who is not good at studying. One day, he goes to school having had a big fight with his mother. On the way to school, Sho realizes that he and his friend Shinichi have forgotten their school lunch money at home. I head to school, keeping an eye on Shinichi as he returns home to pick it up, but…
It incorporates elements of horror such as murder, madness, and monsters, and the point is to keep you in suspense. It also depicts a realistic and hopeless future, which leaves many readers horrified. A highly recommended horror masterpiece from the 70's.
No. 4 Fear Newspaper
Number Nine Author: Jiro Tsunoda All 9 volumes completed
A horror manga depicting paranormal phenomena and incidents brought to you by a “horror newspaper” that claims that “every day you read it, your life expectancy will be shortened by 100 days.” It was serialized in Weekly Shonen Champion from 1973 to 1976.
A masterpiece by Jiro Tsunoda, a manga artist who plays a part in the occult boom. Many mixed media works such as anime, dramas, and live-action movies have also been produced.
Rei Onigata is a middle school boy who insists, “I don't believe what I don't see.'' What kind of strange phenomena does Onigata experience after the night he dismisses his classmates, who are excited about ghost stories, as ridiculous?The “horror newspaper” is delivered to him.
This work treats ghosts and paranormal phenomena as “scientific facts,'' and the key point is that it is depicted in a documentary style. You can experience realistic and powerful fear. This is a recommended masterpiece that is said to be a monumental work that established the genre of “occult spiritual manga''.
No. 5 Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Onikakushi Edition
Square Enix Original work and supervision: Ryukishi 07 Illustration: Karin Suzuraki Completed in 2 volumes
A mystery/horror manga based on a hugely successful sound novel that caused an uproar in the internet world with its mysteries and fears. It is a masterpiece that has been described as “a monumental movement of the Zero era.” Starting with this work, the series is characterized by being divided into nine stories. A variety of mixed media works are being developed, including animation, stage plays, and live-action movies.
The story begins in the early summer of 1985, when Keiichi Maehara, a boy who moved to the cold village of Hinamizawa due to his father's circumstances, lived happily surrounded by his classmates. However, when he learns of a murder case that occurred in this peaceful village, he becomes curious and wants to know the truth. Little did he know that it would become a trigger for a bloody tragedy…
This is a work that draws your attention to the grotesque tragedy that is hard to imagine from the peaceful atmosphere of everyday life. Even within the tragedy, foreshadowing is scattered throughout the story, and in the later “Questions'' section, methods to avoid the tragedy are depicted, and you can also enjoy the mystery-solving element. This is a highly recommended horror masterpiece that is extremely popular among anime fans.
No. 6: Searching for the body
Shueisha Original work: Welzard Manga: Katsutoshi Murase Completed in 17 volumes
A survival horror manga set in a school from which it is impossible to escape, billed as the “screamiest and scariest”. This is a manga adaptation of a popular work serialized by Welzard on the mobile novel posting site “E★Everystar”. The movie is scheduled to be released in 2022 and is attracting attention.
The “red person” appears in the school building after school and appears in front of the students who are left alone. And anyone who sees the “red person'' must never look back until they exit the school gates. Those who turn around will have their bodies torn into pieces and hidden in the school building… This ghost story becomes a reality, and the film depicts a life-threatening chase between the “red person'' and six students who get caught up in it.
It's so scary that it even has a warning that says, “If you have a weak heart, please be careful when viewing it.” In addition to the chilling horror elements, there are also elements such as human drama between the characters and psychological games, making it easy to read. Recommended for those who are interested in death game type works.
7th place Tomie 1 Junji Ito Masterpiece Collection 1
Asahi Shimbun Publishing Author: Junji Ito Completed in 11 volumes
A collection of fantastical and frightening masterpieces by Junji Ito, a genius who continues to lead the Japanese horror manga world. This is his debut work and one of his masterpieces, and has often been adapted into live-action films and dramas. It has been decided that this work and other works by Junji Ito will be exclusively distributed on Netflix in 2023.
Tomie Kawakami has a beauty that takes everyone's breath away. All the men she meets become fascinated by her, and for some reason they develop murderous intentions. Then, Tomie was killed after an extracurricular class at school, and her classmates were also saddened. However, right after that, Tomie calmly appeared in the classroom. What is the strange secret in her body?
This is a masterpiece that shows Junji Ito's great writing skills in Tomie's presence, which evokes fear while giving a sense of transience, and in the depiction of the men who are charmed by her and go crazy. This is a recommended masterpiece that you should read if you are interested in horror manga.
No. 8 Higanjima
Kodansha Author: Koji Matsumoto Completed in 33 volumes
A terrifying survival horror manga set on Higanjima, an isolated island inhabited by vampires. This is a popular work that has sold over 10 million copies in total. A variety of mixed media works are being developed, including dramas and web animation.
Japan has a high incidence of disappearances throughout the country. Akira Miyamoto's older brother Atsushi, who had just been accepted to university, also went missing two years ago. In reality, he was taken away to Higanjima and lived alone in hiding.
One day, a mysterious beautiful woman appears in front of Akira. There was a mysterious tooth print on her neck, and she had her missing brother's driver's license. It was an invitation to a terrifying island…
The point is that you can enjoy various elements such as powerful battles, fantasy, and gags, not just scary horror. In addition, the psychological depictions of the characters' conflicts are well depicted. This is a work recommended for those who want to read a masterpiece of horror that is scary but also has funny elements.
9th place Misumisou complete version
Futabasha Author: Rensuke Oshikiri Completed in 6 volumes
A psychological horror manga by Rensuke Oshikiri, famous for works such as “Derodero'' and “High Score Girl.'' This shocking work depicts the revenge of a girl whose family was killed as a result of bullying, and has the catchphrase “Menchicide Horror.” It was also made into a live-action movie in 2018.
Haruka Nosaki, a girl who transferred from Tokyo to Otsuma Junior High School in a rural town, was subjected to severe bullying. The bullying escalates until one day, Haruka's house is set on fire. Her heart collapses from the unstoppable hatred…
It depicts the darkness of human nature and allows you to experience trauma-level horror. There are many depictions of violence, and you can't stop turning the pages out of fear. Recommended for those interested in psychological horror manga.
No. 10 Listen to the voices of the dead
Akita Shoten Author: Shoko Hiyodori Completed in 12 volumes
A classic horror manga depicting the daily life of a boy with a psychic constitution and the ghost of a beautiful girl who get caught up in strange things. It was serialized in “Monthly Champion RED” and became popular in the horror manga world in the 2010s.
Jun Kishida is a high school student who can see dead people. One day, while she was sleeping in the school nurse's room after collapsing at school, she saw her missing childhood friend, Ryoko Hayakawa, standing as a ghost behind her school nurse, Mr. Yoshimoto. After school that day, Kishida was guided by Hayakawa to a house that looked like ruins, and what he saw…
This is a story in which Kishida and Hayakawa become involved in various kinds of strange things, such as bizarre murders, ghosts, and aliens. Gory expressions such as blood spatter are also frequently used. This work is also recommended for horror fans, as it has depictions that seem to be homages to classic horror manga.
No. 11 Shibuya Goldfish
Square Enix Author: Hiromi Aoi All 11 volumes completed
A panic horror manga depicting a world where “man-eating goldfish” have appeared in Shibuya. It was serialized and completed in “Gangan Joker” from 2016 to 2021.
Hajime Tsukiyada is a second year high school student who lives a normal and boring life. However, his somewhat monotonous and well-planned days come to an end when a large number of “man-eating goldfish” suddenly appear in Shibuya. And so begins the worst struggle for survival in history…
Many readers feel traumatized by the sight of a realistic giant goldfish flying through the sky while preying on humans. The story is told in an omnibus format, and the highlight is how the mysteries about goldfish are gradually revealed. Recommended for those interested in grotesque survival horror.
No. 12 Tragedy Hall
Group Zero Author: Ochazuke Nori All 10 volumes completed
A masterpiece by Nori Ochazuke, who is known as the genius of horror manga. It is a collection of short stories that depicts a number of grotesque tragedies, which he said “thoroughly showed what he wanted to show.'' In 2009, it was made into a live-action film called “Ochazuke Nori no Sagaikan''.
In “Telephone,'' the first screening, the husband was waiting for a call from the company president while taking a bath. However, the caller was Kida, my wife Sanae's high school classmate. Sanae should have clearly dumped him five years ago, but he has become a stalker and calls her repeatedly.
After repeated calls, I finally received a call from the president of my husband's company. What Sanae saw when she went to inform her husband in the bathroom…
The key points are that each episode is written as a “screening work” like a movie, and that all onomatopoeia is expressed in speech bubbles. There are many splatter expressions, so you can fully enjoy the horror. This is a recommended horror manga that will captivate you with its unique style.
No. 13: Evil Scripture
Kodansha Original work: Yusuke Kishi Manga: Eiji Karasuyama Complete in 9 volumes
A manga adaptation of the popular psychological horror novel by Yusuke Kishi. It depicts a horrific incident caused by a psychopathic high school teacher. Serialized in “good! Afternoon” from 2012 to 2015. It was made into a live-action movie starring Hideaki Ito, and it became a bestseller.
Shinko Gakuin Machida High School is a private school where teachers, students, and parents have various problems and troubles occur frequently. Seiji Hasumi, a talented English teacher, works behind the scenes to resolve many of the troubles. However, what awaits them at the end is an unprecedented incident that will remain in the history of crime…
It is beautifully drawn with precise brushstrokes in line with the original work. The point is that you can experience the trembling fear of human madness, and the splatter depictions gradually increase. Recommended for those who are interested in psycho killers or those who have experienced the original work.
No. 14 Magical Girl of the End
Akita Shoten Author: Kentaro Sato Completed in 16 volumes
A manga that has been called “unprecedented panic horror of despair.” It depicts the battle between humans and a magical girl who appears in the world and repeatedly kills people. It was serialized in Bessatsu Shonen Champion from 2012 to 2017.
Takai Kogami, a first year high school student, was living a casual daily life. One day, a creepy magical girl dressed like a Gothic Lolita suddenly appeared at the school. Then, Takai's classmates are slaughtered one by one by the magic emitted from her walking stick.
In this predicament, Takai works with his childhood friend Tsukune Fukumoto and other surviving students to escape from school and go to Kichijoji, but…
A magical girl who slaughters people while saying “Magical” has a reputation as “Gurokawa”. The story of despair progresses at a good pace, and even though it's frightening, you can't stop turning the pages. This is a recommended horror manga that you can enjoy while being a splatter story with a deep story.
15th place New edition Museum complete book
Kodansha Author: Ryosuke Tomoe Volumes 1 and 2 completed
This is a super terrifying suspense horror manga about a “frog man'' who wears a mask on rainy days and repeatedly commits bizarre murders. Serialized in Weekly Young Magazine from 2013 to 2014. A live-action movie starring Shun Oguri also gained popularity.
The story begins when the body of a woman is discovered, eaten alive by dogs. The letter that the dog spat out read, “Dog food punishment.''
After that incident, bodies murdered in unusual ways are discovered one after another. This is the story of a frog man who repeats ruthless judgments called “lynchings,'' and Hisashi Sawamura, a detective who investigates cases.
This work is attractive for its grotesque and extreme murder methods and tense storyline. Because it is short, it is recommended for those who are interested in psychological thrillers that can be read quickly.
No. 16 Battle Royale
Akita Shoten Original work: Hiroharu Takami Illustrations: Masayuki Taguchi Completed in 15 volumes
This is a monumental death game survival game in which middle school students kill each other on a deserted island. The original story is a novel published in 1999. The manga also gained popularity and was made into a movie in 2000 starring Tatsuya Fujiwara.
Akiya Nanahara, who grew up in an orphanage, is best friends with Yoshitoki Kuninobu, who lives with him. However, the situation changes completely when a government official suddenly arrives and tells the students that they will have all the students in the class kill each other.
Akiya can't accept the situation, but instead of Keitoki, who was easily shot to death, he vows to protect the female student he liked. Thus begins a murderous survival story of 42 third-year junior high school students set on a deserted island.
This work can be said to be the beginning of an absurd death game where people die one after another while depicting personal dramas. It has received high acclaim for matching the detailed character settings explored in the novel with the eeriness of the manga's unique illustrations. Recommended for those looking for a grotesque horror manga.
No. 17 Sayuri Complete Edition
Gentosha Author: Rensuke Oshikiri Complete in 1 volume
This is the complete version of the classic horror manga, set in a single house, where a family is beset by a spooky incident. This is a famous horror manga that was serialized until 2011, and includes newly drawn episodes in addition to the story. It was made into a live-action movie in 2024.
The Kamiki family moves into their dream home, but before they can live a happy life, a number of creepy incidents occur. Faced with the “girl's grudge” that causes a series of tragedies, the remaining boy and old woman begin a counterattack.
Some even said they were moved by the shocking revenge story, which takes the classic horror twist. The complete version is completed in one volume, so it is recommended for those who want to read a short and dense work. If you're interested in horror manga featuring old women, please check it out.
No. 18 Uzumaki
Shogakukan Author: Junji Ito Complete in 3 volumes
This is a masterpiece of classic horror manga, known as Junji Ito's masterpiece. A work serialized in “Big Comic Spirits”. It was also made into an anime in 2024.
Strange things suddenly begin to happen in the town where high school girl Kirie Goto was born and raised. A whirlwind dances and the smoke from the crematorium swirls up. Humans begin to experience abnormalities that resemble “Uzumaki,” and Kirie tries to escape from the town, but…
This work always has an eerie atmosphere, and it is a work that develops from the theme of “whirlpools” to a grand scale. Its unique worldview is appealing, and some say it can be enjoyed like art. Recommended for those interested in works that depict not only the supernatural but also the madness of humans.
19th place Another
KADOKAWA Original work: Yukito Ayatsuji Illustration: Hiro Kiyohara Completed in 4 volumes
This is a mystery horror manga that follows the strangeness and secrets of a certain class at a certain school. The original work is a popular novel and was serialized in Young Ace. In 2012, it was made into a live-action movie starring Kento Yamazaki.
Koichi Sakakibara is a young boy who, due to his parents' circumstances, moves to the countryside where his mother's family lives. He falls ill and is admitted to the hospital soon after moving, but he feels uncomfortable when a new classmate comes to his hospital room and asks questions. A chain of deaths begins to occur in Kouichi's class…
Since it is based on a novel by Yukito Ayatsuji, who is known as a master of mysteries, the appeal is that you can enjoy the development of pursuing the mystery. Recommended for those who like school horror.
20th place Jinmen
Shogakukan Author: Takahiro Kato All 13 volumes completed
This is a panic horror manga about animals that have acquired human faces and rebel against humans. It was serialized in “Sunday Weburi” from 2016 to 2019. The story begins with a boy visiting a zoo.
Masato Jingu, a boy who returns to his hometown for the first time in seven years, becomes great friends with the animals at the local zoo. Masato invites his childhood friend Hitomi on a date and visits the zoo again. However, what they saw were animals with human faces that attacked humans…
In any case, the appearance of an animal with a human face is highly praised for its creepiness. Some say their fear has become a habit and they can't stop turning the pages. This is a recommended horror manga that depicts survival from abnormal creatures.
Recommended ranking of horror manga｜Short works
#1 Fear
Shogakukan Author: Kazuo Umezu Completed in 2 volumes
A collection of classic horror short stories featuring a high school reporter who belongs to a newspaper club. It was serialized in Monthly Heibon from 1966 to 1970. This is the fifth volume of “UMEZZ PERFECTION!” published to commemorate Kazuo Umezu's 50th debut anniversary.
Emiko Arai, a second-year student at Miyako High School, was a reporter for the school newspaper. One day, while visiting a used bookstore with her friend Kyoko Kanazuki, she picks up a book about necromancy and quickly leaves.
A few days later, Emiko hears that members of the Mystery Society, including Kyoko, will perform necromancy. Together with Natsuhiko Aoki, who is her favorite person and also a member of the newspaper club, she goes to find out what's going on at the mystical society, but…
The point is that you can experience a variety of horrors, including psychological horror and ghost stories. You can experience the typical Kazuo Umezu horror, and it has a charm that keeps you turning the pages. It is written in an omnibus format with only one episode, so it is recommended for those who want to quickly read a horror manga created by a great master.
2nd place: 100 stories where I just die
Shogakukan Author: Anji Matono 9 volumes already published
This is an omnibus horror/mystery manga depicting 100 ghost stories told by one boy. Currently being serialized on the manga service “Sunday Weburi”. It has received a great response on X (formerly Twitter), and is a notable work that has been nominated for the upcoming Manga Awards 2022 in the Web Manga category.
Yuma-kun, the storyteller, will tell various ghost stories based on the “Hyakumonogatari'' format. The stories featured are of a variety of tastes, including supernatural phenomena, ghosts, Western rituals, and monsters.
Contains stories that will give you a variety of feelings after reading them, from heart-crushing horrors to heart-wrenching plot twists to moving stories. Recommended for those who want to read a horror short story that will give you chills in just a few pages.
3rd place Possessed
Fusosha Author: Megumi Yamamori Complete in 1 volume
A trauma-related psychic manga containing 14 works drawn based on the real experiences of illustrator and fortune teller Megumi Yamamori. This work was originally posted on Instagram, but it became a hot topic and was made into a manga.
Megumi Yamamori is an ordinary housewife who lives with her two children and husband and sometimes works as a fortune teller. However, for some reason, I had a tendency to see things that others couldn't see. This story depicts a story with a bad aftertaste, based on the things that she saw, such as Hina dolls in her parents' house, a suspicious shadow on the railroad tracks, and a baby with a crooked neck.
The main point of the book is that it depicts a horrifying story that sends shivers down your spine with a soft, heartwarming touch. Recommended for those who want to get into the topic of psychic horror manga.
No. 4: Seeds of anxiety
Akita Shoten Author: Masaaki Nakayama Completed in 3 volumes
An omnibus horror manga depicting the horror that lurks in everyday life. It was serialized in “Monthly Champion RED”. The sequels are “Seeds of Anxiety+'' and “Seeds of Anxiety*,'' which are still being serialized. It was also made into a live-action movie in 2013.
This work depicts strange things that appear in everyday places such as seemingly ordinary rooms, schools, and residential areas. Each episode has a different setting and characters, and the story unfolds over a few pages. It is characterized by the fact that the mysteries of the monsters are not revealed. Recommended for those who are interested in short horror stories that, as the title suggests, make you feel uneasy.
5th place Shiori and Kamikoko
Asahi Shimbun Publishing Author: Daijiro Morohoshi 6 volumes published
A horror manga depicting two high school girls who live in the town of Stomach on the outskirts of Tokyo, solving strange incidents and interacting with the townspeople. It has been serialized irregularly in the girls' horror manga magazine “Nemuki” since 1993.
It is said to be a unique work among Daijiro Morohoshi's works. In 2008, it won the Manga category at the Japan Media Arts Festival and was made into a drama.
A work that depicts mysterious incidents and interactions with the strange people who live in the town of Stomach. The point is that the townspeople, including Shiori and Kamiko, tolerate the terrifying monsters. I thought it would be a horror story, but the story progresses comically with humor, making it an interesting read. Recommended for those who want to read a masterpiece that can be both frightening and funny.
・New edition, complete in 4 volumes
6th place Screaming class
Shueisha Author: Emi Ishikawa Completed in 20 volumes
A popular horror manga that was serialized in Ribon from 2008 to 2015. This one-story omnibus depicts the horrors that lurk in everyday life, narrated by the ghost girl Yomi. It was made into a live-action film in 2013, and won the Shogakukan Manga Award in the children's category in 2014.
The guide for the horror class is Yomi, who died due to bullying. Volume 1 includes “Devil's Game,'' in which hell begins with the game you pick up, and “Curse Bond,'' which depicts the bloody revenge of girls who are bound by hatred.
The highlight is how Yomi's true identity is gradually revealed. The cute illustrations of girls' manga depict scary incidents and monsters, and many readers are frightened by the gap. This is a recommended classic horror manga that can be enjoyed by everyone from elementary school students to adults.
7th place: Karukaya Kaitan
Shueisha Original work: Fuyumi Ono Illustration: Kazue Kato Complete in 1 volume
This is a horror manga about a mysterious monster set in a building. The original work is Fuyumi Ono's popular horror novel. The author of “Blue Exorcist'', Kazue Kato, was in charge of the comic adaptation, and it became a big topic of conversation.
Obata is a carpenter at the maintenance shop Karukaya. Contains 6 short stories in which he vividly solves mysterious phenomena related to residences.
The charm of this work is the warmth of understanding and accepting the feelings of the creepy beings, rather than defeating them. It has been praised by fans of the original work as it matches the atmosphere. Recommended for those who are looking for a gentle horror manga that is scary yet has sadness and compassion.
No.8 Horror book
Shonen Gahosha Author: Motosuke Takaminato Completed in 10 volumes
A selection of horror masterpieces by horror master Motosuke Takaminato. It is billed as “Feeling cool without air conditioning,'' and features a collection of modern horror manga that will give you goosebumps. Scenes of screams and screams pop out from the modern youth manga-style illustrations.
The key point is that it's addictive, as it has an eerie, frightening feel and a sticky, unpleasant aftertaste. Recommended for those who want to read traditional horror manga.
No.9 Hino Hideshi Complete Works
Goma Books Author: Hideshi Hino Completed in 3 volumes
A short horror manga that covers the masterpieces of Hideshi Hino, who has been popular as a heavyweight in the horror manga world since his debut in 1976. Volume 1 contains 9 stories, including his debut work “Tsumeitai Sweat'' and his masterpiece “Zoroku's Strange Disease.''
“Zoroku's Strange Disease'' is a masterpiece that took the author approximately one year to write between 1969 and 1970. A dim-witted farmer who loves to draw is infected with a strange disease. Seven-colored boils break out all over her body, and she uses the seven-colored pus as paint to continue drawing her favorite pictures…
You can enjoy the charm of Hideshi Hino's grotesque designs and depictions of human sorrow. Recommended for those who want to experience a masterpiece of traumatic horror manga.
10th place Kanako Inuki Horror self-selection collection
Group Zero Author: Kanako Inuki Completed in 3 volumes
A collection of self-selected works by Kanako Inuki, who is known as the “queen of horror manga” and is a driving force behind the horror boom. Contains horror short stories such as “New Mysterious Tatari-chan'', a sequel to his masterpiece “Fushigi no Tatari-chan'', which was also made into a movie.
The appeal is that the characters are drawn with a unique touch, and that you can feel the terrifying yet exquisite sense of humor, allowing you to experience a mysterious sensation. Especially recommended for those who want to read fantastical horror short stories that are said to resonate with many female readers.
No. 11 Phobia
Shogakukan Original work: Katsugen Hara Illustration: Yukiko Goto Completed in 3 volumes
This is a shocking horror manga with the theme of phobia, which humans are trapped in. This work was serialized in “Big Comic Superior” and was completed with the third volume released in 2024.
A woman who is so afraid of “gaps'' that she closes other people's bags without permission if the zipper is open. It also depicts the world of phobias that lurk in everyday life, such as “smells'', “heights'', “collections'', and “closed places''.
This is a series of horror films based on the theme of various phobias, and one that makes you want to think about the lives of people living in real life. Recommended for those who are curious about the ending and are looking for a work that will keep them reading. If you're interested in horror manga that corrode the spirit, be sure to check it out.
A comment from a writer
Horror comics offer a wide variety of horror stories, including grotesque splatter horror that makes you want to cover your eyes, and psychological horror that depicts human madness. Recommended for those who want to read exciting manga. The works we have introduced this time are all so appealing that you won't be able to stop turning the pages, so please use them as a reference.