What do you think the hottest manga genre is now? Many manga and anime series categorized as a modern genre Slice of Life have got more popular recently, which present peaceful daily lives with the slightest bizarre things or focus on humorous conversations between unique characters instead of intense battles and supernatural abilities. On the other hand, slice-of-life manga have good chemistry with other familiar genres including fantasy, romance and comedy.
For both manga beginners and fans who collect trendy information, I’d like to introduce 15 best slice-of-life manga of all time including the completed masterpieces and the latest ongoing comic books. These slice-of-life manga recommendations will add richness to your reading life.
You can learn about what slice-of-life manga are like after reading these finest manga series!
1. Yotsuba&!
Many Japanese manga lovers associate Yotsuba&! (よつばと!) with the best peaceful slice-of-life manga series, which has been loved since its serialization began in 2003. It has been also known as a regular New York Times bestseller overseas, translated into English since 2009. Its manga artist is famous for the other slice-of-life comedy series Azumanga Daioh, too.
With the concept of “Today is always the most enjoyable day”, Yotsuba&! concentrates the daily life of a five-year-old girl named Yotsuba Koiwai, who moves from a remote island to a town with her father Yosuke. To the lively and free-spirited girl, everything she experiences in the town is new, which is depicted with interaction with the people around her in a feel-good way.
Manga artist: Kiyohiko Azuma
Published: From 2003
Serialized on Dengeki Daioh
2. Nichijou
If you are interested in the hottest manga genre of slice of life, Nichijou (日常), which means “Everyday” or “Ordinary days” in Japanese, is a not-to-be-missed manga series. The slice-of-life manga mixed with comedy, is composed of 10 volumed released between 2006 and 2015. And then, its serialization on Monthly Shonen Ace re-started in the end of 2021. The famous anime studio Kyoto Animation completed its anime adaptation with 26 chapters in 2011.
The slice-of-life, surreal comedy manga is set in a Japanese high school in Gunma Prefecture, which is home to its author Keiichi Arawi. It presents the funny and eventful days of several main characters including Yuko Aioi, Mio Naganohara and Mai Minakami. There are more attractive characters outside the school like the 8-year-old genius scientist girl called Professor. You can enjoy their experienced small everyday incidents happening in the surrealistic world in Nichijou.
Manga artist: Keiichi Arawi
Published: 2006-2015/From 2021
Serialized on Monthly Shonen Ace
Nichijou’s manga box set of the English edition is really popular among fans worldwide. If you plan to collect all of the 10 volumes, buy the exclusive box set while it’s in supply!
Along with the increasing popularity of anime, the presence of slice-of-life anime is also growing stronger. Nichijou is[…]
3. Teasing Master Takagi-san
As a representative of the popular completed slice-of-life manga series, Teasing Master Takagi-san (からかい上手の高木さん) should be picked up on this recommended list. Written by Teasing Master Takagi-san, who is also famous for other slice-of-life manga series In the Heart of Kunoichi Tsubaki and When Will Ayumu Make His Move?, Teasing Master Takagi-san started its serialization in 2013 and concluded in October 2023 with a flourish. The 20-volume manga has been also adapted into the anime series, and its latest third season started with welcoming cheers in the beginning of 2022.
Teasing Master Takagi-san puts an emphasis on the ordinal days of two middle school students: a shy and innocent boy named Nishikata and a humorous bright girl named Takagi (their first names are undisclosed). She always play a well-meaning joke on him and he tries to do something back to her while their romantic relationship develops. The slice-of-life story makes you feel relaxing and have an infectious laugh.
If you like this manga, it’s also recommended to read its spin-off series titled Teasing Master (Former) Takagi-san, which follows the main characters who have grown to adulthood.
Manga artist: Soichiro Yamamoto
Published: 2013-2023
Serialized on Monthly Shonen Sunday Mini (2013-2016)/Monthly Shonen Sunday (2016-2023)
What do you think the most popular anime genre these days is? Many anime geeks are specifically enjoying slice-of-life a[…]
4. K-On!
K-On! (けいおん!) is one of the most famous and popular slice-of-life manga series of all time, also categorized as comedy and moe. It’s written in the style of four-panel manga, written by Kakifly. Six volumes were published between 2007 and 2012, which were made into the great anime adaptation consisting of two seasons airing in 2009 and 2010. In 2018, the sequel of the manga series titled K-On! Shuffle started, following different main characters.
Set in an ordinary Japanese high school, K-On! centers on four female students who joins the Sakuragaoka High School Light Music Club. The fresh club band is made up of a cheerful guitarist and vocalist Yui Hirasawa, a shy bassist and vocalist Mio Akiyama, an energetic drummer Ritsu Tainaka and a gentle keyboardist Tsumugi Kotobuki. A newcomer girl guitarist Azusa Nakano is also welcomed by them one year later. This slice-of-life manga series is filled up with heartwarming days with their humorous conversations.
Manga artist: Kakifly
Published: 2007-2012
Serialized on Manga Time Kirara/Manga Time Kirara Carat
5. March Comes In like a Lion
Drawing much praise from both Japanese and foreign fans of manga and anime, March Comes In like a Lion (3月のライオン) has been serialized on a semimonthly manga magazine Young Animal since 2007. Based on the coming-of-age and slice-of-life manga, its anime series’s first season was made by a renowned anime studio Shaft in 2016 and 2017 and the next season in 2017 and 2018. The Shogi (Japanese chess)-themed series continues under cooperation from Japan Shogi Association.
March Comes In like a Lion is set in a modern Tokyo, revolving around a 17 years old high schooler and professional Shogi player named Rei Kiriyama. He tries to live independent, who lost his family in a traffic accident and was raised by his father’s friend. While he competes with other players in the severe Shogi world, he is supported by three sisters of the Kawamoto family: the service-minded eldest Akari, the active middle schooler Hinata and the youngest innocent girl Momo.
Manga artist: Chica Umino
Published: From 2007
Serialized on Young Animal
6. Kubo Won’t Let Me Be Invisible
Kubo Won’t Let Me Be Invisible (久保さんは僕を許さない) is one of the hottest slice-of-life manga series serialized on Weekly Young Jump since 2019, which is also categorized as romantic comedy. Its publication in English will start in May, 2022.
Kubo Won’t Let Me Be Invisible puts an emphasis on the cute school days of two main characters: a first-grade high school boy Junta Shiraishi and his classmate heroine Nagisa Kubo. He doesn’t have much of a presence in the school and is invisible others except her. She easily notices and makes nice with him. The innocent relationship between them are much adorable.
Manga artist: Nene Yukimori
Published: 2019
Serialized on Weekly Young Jump
The popular trend in anime right now revolves around cute girls from the same class playfully teasing the protagonist. A[…]
7. Skip and Loafer
Skip and Loafer (スキップとローファー), a heartwarming slice-of-life manga penned by Misaki Takamatsu, might not be globally renowned, but its quality is undeniably top-notch. Debuting in 2018, the series has been serialized in the Monthly Afternoon magazine ever since. The narrative shines a genuine light on high school life in the city, centering on a young girl who transitions from the tranquil countryside to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. In April 2023, the manga’s recognition skyrocketed when it was adapted into its first anime, propelling its cumulative sales beyond the impressive 1 million mark.
Mitsumi Iwakura is a fresh high school student who, upon graduating from middle school, transitions from a remote part of Ishikawa Prefecture to a high-ranking high school in Tokyo. However, in her new Tokyo school, she encounters types of people and perspectives she’s never seen before. The story focuses on Mitsumi and several friends, such as the handsome and enigmatic Sosuke Shima and Mika Egashira, who at first glance seems kind but often conceals her true feelings. The manga is filled with episodes that tug at the heartstrings, yet also exude warmth.
Manga artist: Misaki Takamatsu
Published: From 2018
Serialized on Monthly Afternoon
Recently, it's not uncommon for lesser-known manga to skyrocket to popularity after getting an anime adaptation. One of […]
8. Barakamon
Barakamon (ばらかもん), written by Satsuki Yoshino, is a cherished slice-of-life manga that began its serialization in 2008. Originally serialized up to its 18th volume by 2019, it had concluded its story. However, the series saw a revival in 2023 with the release of its 19th volume, to the delight of its fans. The manga was adapted into an anime in 2014 by Kinema Citrus. Additionally, its spin-off series Handa-kun, serialized from 2013 to 2016, was also adapted into an anime, further enriching the world of Barakamon. Its picturesque rural setting and authentic depiction of interpersonal relationships make it a standout title.
After punching a famous curator for criticizing his work, young calligrapher Seishu Handa is exiled to the Goto Islands by his father. Initially resentful, Handa soon finds solace and inspiration in the islands’ inhabitants and their way of life. Interacting with the quirky villagers, from energetic children like Naru Kotoishi to affable elders, Handa embarks on a journey of self-discovery. He learns about life, art, and the importance of community, realizing that there’s more to the craft of calligraphy than meets the eye.
Manga artist: Satsuki Yoshino
Published: From 2008
Serialized on Gangan Powered (2008-2009)/Gangan Online (2009-2019)/Monthly Shonen Gangan (2014-2019, 2023-)
9. Laid-Back Camp
Laid-Back Camp (ゆるキャン△) is one of the most popular modern slice-of-life manga and anime series with the theme of camping. The original manga series started serialization in Manga Time Kirara Forward in 2015 and moved to Comic Fuz from 2019, written by Afro. Its calm storytelling and beautiful portrayal of Japanese landscapes like Mount Fuji captured readers globally. The series experienced a rise in popularity following its anime adaptation, introducing audiences to the joys of camping amidst the serene backdrop of nature.
Rin Shima, a solo camper, discovers a tranquil lakeside view in the winter where she meets the clueless Nadeshiko Kagamihara. This chance encounter sparks a friendship and introduces Nadeshiko to the world of outdoor camping. Joined by other friends, the series captures their adventures and the simple joys of camping in the picturesque wilderness of Japan, emphasizing relaxation, camaraderie, and the beauty of nature.
Manga artist: Afro
Published: From 2015
Serialized on Manga Time Kirara Forward (2015-2019)/Comic Fuz (2019-)
The recent surge in anime popularity can be attributed to the presence of slice-of-life anime. These series rarely featu[…]
10. Goodnight Punpun
Goodnight Punpun (おやすみプンプン), which is also known as Oyasumi Punpun in Japanese, is a deeply introspective manga by Inio Asano, serialized from 2007 to 2013. Comprising 13 volumes, it’s distinguished by its unique art style, blending realism with abstract symbolism. It is generally categorized as slice of life and coming of age while it ofter depicts the deepest depths of human psychology in a serious manner. While it might seem like a slice-of-life, coming-of-age story at first glance, the manga delves into dark and mature themes, depicting the deepest depths of human psychology in a serious manner.
Punpun is an ordinary boy depicted as a bird-like caricature, navigating the trials of adolescence and adulthood. As he grapples with love, family dysfunction, mental health, and the search for purpose, the story offers a raw portrayal of life’s pain and joy. Throughout his journey, Punpun’s innocence gradually erodes, showcasing the often brutal transition from childhood to the complexities of the adult world. The story begins when Punpun as a fifth grader falls in love at first sight with Aiko Tanaka, a transfer student.
Manga artist: Inio Asano
Published: 2007-2013
Serialized on Weekly Young Sunday (2007-2008)/Weekly Big Comic Spirits (2008-2013)
11. Blue Period
Written and illustrated by Tsubasa Yamaguchi, Blue Period (ブルーピリオド) is a compelling slice-of-life manga. Debuting in 2017 in Monthly Afternoon, the series quickly garnered attention, earning acclaim for its realistic portrayal of art and self-discovery. The manga strikes a chord with readers who’ve grappled with finding their passion and has received several awards. It was first made into the successful anime adaptation containing 12 episodes by Seven Arcs in 2021.
Yatora Yaguchi is a high-achieving but dispassionate high school student until he stumbles upon the world of art. Intrigued by a painting in the art room, Yatora embarks on a journey to become a professional artist. Facing societal expectations, rigorous art school entrance exams, and his own insecurities, Blue Period portrays Yatora’s passionate pursuit of art and his quest to find his authentic self amidst life’s challenges.
Manga artist: Tsubasa Yamaguchi
Published: From 2017
Serialized on Monthly Afternoon
▽You can purchase this cool manga box set for Blue Period!▽
There's something truly captivating about watching a young individual channel all the passion of their youth into a sing[…]
12. A Silent Voice
While it may be more famous for its hit anime movie adaptation released in 2016, A Silent Voice (聲の形), penned by Yoshitoki Oima, is a profound manga series that ran from 2013 to 2014 in Weekly Shonen Magazine. Addressing heavy themes like bullying, disability, and redemption, the manga has achieved global acclaim for its deep storytelling and impactful characters. The manga series consists of 7 volumes (62 chapters).
The story revolves around Shoya Ishida, a former bully who tormented Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl, during their elementary school years. Riddled with guilt and ostracized himself, Shoya seeks redemption and a chance to make amends. The manga poignantly explores the complexities of regret, understanding, and the journey towards reconciliation and friendship.
Manga artist: Yoshitoki Oima
Published: 2013-2014
Serialized on Weekly Shonen Magazine
▽You can purchase this nice manga box set for A Silent Voice!▽
13. Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid
As a popular slice-of-life manga mixed with fantasy, Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid (小林さんちのメイドラゴン) has been serialized in Monthly Action since 2013. It is crafted by Coolkyousinnjya, who is also famous for I Can’t Understand What My Husband Is Saying and Komori-san Can’t Decline. Its unique blend of heartfelt moments and whimsical fantasy elements was adapted into two seasons of anime series in 2017 and 2021. Marrying the everyday with the fantastical, this comedic series boasts endearing characters and humorous interactions.
When the ordinary office worker Kobayashi saves a dragon’s life, the grateful dragon, Tohru, decides to repay her by taking on a human form and becoming her maid. As various other dragons make their way to Kobayashi’s world, her once mundane life takes a turn for the whimsical. The manga showcases their hilarious, and occasionally touching, escapades as they navigate the intricacies of human society and emotions.
Manga artist: Coolkyousinnjya
Published: From 2013
Serialized on Monthly Action
14. Kaguya-sama: Love is War
Kaguya-sama: Love is War (かぐや様は告らせたい〜天才たちの恋愛頭脳戦〜) is a rom-com, slice-of-life masterpiece that began its serialization in 2015 and concluded with 28 volumes in 2022. It is authored by Aka Akasaka, who is also known as the writer of the recent smash-hit Oshi no Ko. This renowned romantic comedy manga quickly captured readers’ hearts, earning widespread recognition. With its sharp wit, dynamic artwork, and layered characters, the series has spawned successful anime adaptations, propelling its international popularity even further.
At the esteemed Shuchiin Academy, student council vice-president Kaguya Shinomiya and president Miyuki Shirogane are the school’s genius duo. Despite their mutual affections, both are too proud to confess, initiating a comedic battle of wits to make the other confess first. Amidst their schemes and counter-schemes, the manga delves into youthful romance, pride, and the intricate games of love.
Manga artist: Aka Akasaka
Published: 2015-2022
Serialized on Miracle Jump (2015-2016)/Weekly Young Jump (2016-2022)
The popular romantic comedy anime series focuses on an indirect relationship between Kaguya and Miyuki, and the nail-bit[…]
15. Bakuman
Bakuman (バクマン。) is a shonen manga series penned by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, the acclaimed duo behind Death Note. Serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 2008 to 2012, the 20-volume manga provides an insider’s perspective on the manga industry. With its engaging narrative and distinct artwork, the manga has secured its place in the hearts of readers and also inspired an anime adaptation.
Aspiring artist Moritaka Mashiro and writer Akito Takagi, two ninth graders, team up with a shared dream: to create a successful manga and have it adapted into an anime. Facing fierce competition, tight deadlines, and personal challenges, the duo navigates the demanding world of manga publishing. Throughout their journey, they experience triumphs, setbacks, and learn the true cost of following one’s passion.
Manga artist: Written by Tsugumi Ohba/Illustrated by Takeshi Obata
Published: 2008-2012
Serialized on Weekly Shonen Jump
▽You can purchase this cool manga box set for Bakuman affordably!▽
If you are a big manga lover, you can’t miss those finest titles of the trendy genre!
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