The Global Love Affair with Japanese Culture: Origins of Manga and Anime (#2)

The oldest known manga in Japan is believed to be Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga(鳥獣人物戯画), created approximately 900 years ago during the late Heian period. This work is internationally acclaimed as one of the origins of manga and anime.

During the Edo period, advancements in printing technology made manga more accessible to the public. Renowned artist Katsushika Hokusai contributed to the popularization of the term “MANGA” through his work Hokusai Manga(北斎漫画).

Some manga featured satirical content, which led to temporary restrictions during World War II, marking a challenging era for the medium. However, the post-war period saw a resurgence in manga’s popularity with the publication of works like Sazae-san (サザエさん)and Astro Boy (鉄腕アトム), reflecting Japan’s recovery and revitalization.

Post-war manga introduced groundbreaking techniques, such as cinematic close-ups, diverse perspectives, long-form storytelling, and deep psychological exploration of characters. Among the pioneers, Osamu Tezuka(手塚治虫) elevated manga to the level of art, earning him the title “God of Manga.”

The launch of Weekly Shonen Jump in 1968 revolutionized the manga industry. Its core principles of “friendship, effort, and victory” resonated with readers, leading to the creation of iconic works such as Dragon Ball, Slam Dunk, One Piece, and Rurouni Kenshin. These series became cultural phenomena, solidifying manga as a fundamental aspect of Japanese culture.