2009’s Best-Selling Manga

2009 was a tough year for the manga industry in Japan. Overall sales dropped 6.6% to 418.7 billion yen, the biggest decline ever! But the big boys didn’t flinch.

In fact, some of the top manga did even better, because when fans love a series they’ll stick with it no matter what.

One of the game changers that year? One Piece Film: Strong World. This movie wasn’t just a hit on the big screen it supercharged One Piece manga sales, because Luffy and crew had a grip on readers that was impossible to break.

And it wasn’t just One Piece that was riding high! Naruto, Bleach, and Fullmetal Alchemist also got a boost because their anime was keeping fans hyped.

So how did the big manga keep growing while the rest of the market shrank?

Simple. Loyal fans. When a series has a dedicated following, even a recession can’t stop it from going to new heights and making it on 2009’s Best-Selling Manga list.

2009’s Top 50 best selling manga

Oricon only tracks physical copies sold in Japan. “Oricon Years” are from November to November.

2008 to 2009-shifts and changes on the best selling list

2009 was a great year for some manga compare to the 2008’s best selling manga list. Top-selling manga continued to thrive, with One Piece and Bleach experiencing over a 50% increase in sales. The “Big Three” Naruto, Bleach, and One Piece all saw significant growth, while fan-favorite Fullmetal Alchemist surged by 3 million copies. Newer manga found a steady fan base, while some titles fell off 2009’s Best-Selling Manga.

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. Dominance of ‘One Piece’:

• 2008: ‘One Piece‘ led with approximately 5.96 million copies sold.​
• 2009: Sales surged to about 14.72 million copies, more than doubling the previous year’s figure.​

Significant Sales Increases:

• ‘Naruto‘: Sales rose from 4.26 million in 2008 to 6.84 million in 2009.​
• ‘Bleach‘: Increased from 3.16 million to 6.47 million copies.​
• ‘Fullmetal Alchemist‘: Jumped from 2.38 million to 5.81 million copies.​
• ‘Gintama‘: Climbed from 2.39 million to 4.73 million copies.​

New Entrants and Rising Series:

• ‘Mei-chan no Shitsuji‘ (‘Mei’s Butler‘): Entered the 2009 rankings at 7th place with over 3 million copies sold.​
• ‘Fairy Tail‘: Advanced from 18th place in 2008 (1.36 million copies) to 8th place in 2009 (2.89 million copies).​
• ‘Kimi ni Todoke‘: Rose from 16th place in 2008 (1.64 million copies) to 11th place in 2009 (2.57 million copies).​
• ‘Black Butler‘: Moved up from 17th place in 2008 (1.63 million copies) to 12th place in 2009 (2.17 million copies).​

Declines and Exits:

• ‘20th Century Boys‘: Dropped from 3rd place in 2008 (3.71 million copies) to 9th place in 2009 (2.66 million copies).​
• ‘Nana‘: Fell from 6th place in 2008 (3.12 million copies) to 22nd place in 2009 (1.69 million copies).​
• ‘Soul Eater‘: Decreased from 7th place in 2008 (3.08 million copies) to 23rd place in 2009 (1.67 million copies).​

Notable Absences:

• ‘Rookies‘: Ranked 9th in 2008 with 2.77 million copies but did not appear in the top 30 of 2009.​
• ‘Detroit Metal City’: Held 14th place in 2008 (1.86 million copies) but was absent from the 2009 list.​

Emerging Titles in 2009:

• ‘Bakuman’: Debuted at 14th place with over 2 million copies sold.​
• ‘Toriko’: Entered at 30th place with 1.4 million copies sold.​

Manga That Ended in 2009

A total of five manga disappeared from the paper pages but not from 2009’s Best-Selling Manga, with some simply ending, on hiatus and never returning, while others at least got a second season to pop up just a year, or so, later.

These included:
Nana – Went on hitaus in May 2009

• Serialized from 2000 to 2009.

The series has gone into indefinite hiatus. Its chapters have been collected in 21 tankōbon volumes. 

Bloody Monday – Ended in 2009

• Serialized from 2007 to 2009.

That series ended in 2009, but not before a second season—Bloody Monday Season 2: Pandora no Hako was serialized in the same magazine from October 2009 to April 2011.

Pluto – Ended in 2009

Pluto wrapped up in 2009. It was an adaptation of Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy, specifically the “Greatest Robot on Earth” story arc. That arc’s chief villain was named after the series itself.

• Serialized from 2007 to 2009.

To Love Ru – Ended in 2009

• Serialized from 2006 to 2009.

To Love Ru also ended in 2009. Its continuation, To Love Ru Darkness, ran from October 2010 to March 2017.

Eyeshield 21 – Ended in 2009.

Eyeshield 21 sold over 20 million volumes in Japan by the time it ended in 2009. That was after a seven-year run, which began in 2002.

• Serialized from 2002 to 2009.

Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle – Ended in 2009

• Serialized from 2003 to 2009.

Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle was another series to wrap up in 2009. Written by the all-female manga artist group Clamp, whose members include Nanase Ohkawa, Mokona, Tsubaki Nekoi and Satsuki Igarashi Tsubasa had been serialized since 2003.

2009 Live action tie-ins.

Live-action adaptations of manga often provide a boost to manga sales, as they introduce the stories to a much larger audience whose focus may not be on reading.

Whether it’s new fans wanting to consume their favorite stories or existing fans who can’t wait for the next season and decide to read ahead, live-action movies and shows have a major impact on sales and their spot on 2009’s Best-Selling Manga list.

20th Century Boys

Naoki Urasawa’s epic manga wrapped up its original run in 2006, its popularity received a significant surge when its live‑action film adaptation debuted in 2008, the film trilogy second two films released in 2009.

Kimi ni Todoke

A beloved shōjo series thanks to its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters, Kimi ni Todoke gained even more traction when its live‑action film hit theaters in 2009

Jin

Jin is a time‑traveling medical drama that, while appreciated in manga form, found a broader audience through its live‑action TV drama which premiered in 2009.

Saki
This mahjong-themed manga was adapted into a live‑action production in 2009. Focused on high‑school mahjong and competitive spirit with it’s blend of sports and slice‑of‑life storytelling.

Otomen

Aya Kanno’s subversive romantic comedy about a “manly” boy with a secret love for traditionally feminine pursuits received a significant lift when it was adapted into a live‑action TV drama in 2009.

xxxHOLIC
A live‑action film adaptation of “xxxHOLIC” was released in 2009. The movie brought the enigmatic world of xxxHOLIC to life for many new viewers, helping to drive interest in the original manga.

The Anime manga cross over

It’s often celebrated when manga gets an anime adaptation. Fans love it because they get to relive their favorite stories in a new format, while new audiences have the chance to discover them.

Authors also appreciate it, as it often boosts sales of the original manga and magazines and end up on 2009’s Best-Selling Manga list.

Shōnen Anime Airing in 2009:

One Piece (Ongoing since 1999)
Naruto: Shippuden (Airing since 2007)
Bleach (Airing since 2004)
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (Premiered in 2009)
Gintama (Airing since 2006)
Hitman Reborn! (Airing since 2006)
Fairy Tail (Premiered in 2009)
Black Butler (Airing from 2008–2010)
Ace of Diamond (Season 2 premiered in 2009)
Major (Ongoing; multiple seasons were airing during 2009)
Detective Conan (Ongoing since 1996)
Cross Game (Premiered in April 2009)
Soul Eater (Premiered in 2008, ended in 2009)
To Love Ru (Airing from 2008 into 2009)
Pandora Hearts (Premiered in 2009)
Hajime no Ippo: New Challenger (Aired in 2009)
Saki (Aired in 2009)
Monster Hunter Orage (Premiered in 2009)

Seinen Anime Airing in 2009:

Nurarihyon no Mago (Ongoing since October 2008)

Shōjo & Josei Anime Airing in 2009:

Kimi ni Todoke (Airing since 2009)
Nodame Cantabile (Season 2 aired January–March 2009)
Nana (Reruns/Airing on TV since 2006–2007)

2009’S best selling seinen manga

Seinen manga is designed for young adult men, often exploring mature themes, intricate storytelling, and highly detailed artwork. Unlike shōnen manga, which is geared toward younger audiences, seinen delves into complex psychological, philosophical, and societal issues.

This genre frequently portrays realistic depictions of violence, relationships, and morality, offering a more nuanced and thought-provoking reading experience.

20th Century Boys – 2,655,379
A critically acclaimed mystery/thriller by Naoki Urasawa, celebrated for its intricate narrative and nostalgic references.

Bloody Monday – 1,843,247
A high‑stakes political and crime thriller that delves into conspiracies and action-packed conflicts.

Vagabond – 1,755,381
A historical martial arts epic by Takehiko Inoue, reimagining the life of the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi.

Pluto – 1,493,945
Naoki Urasawa’s darker re‑interpretation of Tezuka’s Astro Boy story, blending mystery with futuristic drama.

Moyashimon – 1,387,987
A unique blend of comedy and drama about a college student who can see microbes—a quirky and insightful take on science and life.

Nurarihyon no Mago – 1,348,091
A supernatural saga following Rikuo Nura, the half‑human, half‑yokai heir struggling to accept his dual heritage.

Jin – 1,161,681
A time‑travel historical drama about a modern brain surgeon who is transported to Edo-period Japan, reshaping history.

March Comes in Like a Lion – 1,153,264
An introspective story about a young professional shogi player navigating personal and professional challenges with emotional depth.

xxxHOLIC – 1,019,996
A supernatural mystery by CLAMP that interweaves fate, the occult, and complex character relationships.

2009’S best selling Shōjo & Josei manga

Shōjo manga is intended for young girls, emphasizing romance, drama, and emotionally driven storytelling. It often features expressive artwork and deeply character-focused narratives.

In contrast, josei manga is aimed at adult women, tackling more mature themes such as realistic romance, career challenges, and complex personal relationships. This gives josei a more grounded and nuanced perspective on love and life.

Kimi ni Todoke – 2,566,916 copies sold
Sawako Kuronuma, a shy high school girl, earns the nickname “Sadako” due to her resemblance to a horror character. As she befriends her classmates, she experiences the joys and challenges of teenage life and romance.​

Nana – 1,686,264 copies sold
Two women, both named Nana, become roommates in Tokyo. Despite their contrasting personalities—one an aspiring musician, the other seeking love—their lives intertwine as they navigate relationships and personal growth.​

Nodame Cantabile – 1,452,568 copies sold
Shinichi Chiaki, a perfectionist musician aspiring to be a conductor, meets Megumi “Nodame” Noda, an eccentric pianist. Their contrasting personalities lead to a unique relationship filled with humor and musical passion.​

Kyou, Koi wo Hajimemasu – 1,317,743 copies sold
Tsubaki Hibino, a traditional high school girl, clashes with Kyouta Tsubaki, the school’s popular boy. Despite a rocky start, their relationship evolves as they challenge each other’s perceptions of love and life.​

Natsume Yūjin-chō – 1,168,536 copies sold
Takashi Natsume inherits the “Book of Friends” from his grandmother, allowing him to see and control spirits. He embarks on a journey to return the spirits’ names, discovering more about himself and the supernatural world.​

March Comes in Like a Lion – 1,153,264 copies sold
Rei Kiriyama, a 17-year-old professional shogi player, struggles with the pressures of the game and personal demons. His life changes when he befriends the Kawamoto sisters, who provide him with a sense of family and belonging.​

Glass Mask – 1,053,580 copies sold
Maya Kitajima, a passionate young actress, is discovered by former diva Chigusa Tsukikage. Under rigorous training, Maya strives to become the legendary actress destined to play the coveted role of “The Crimson Goddess.”​

Otomen – 1,025,014 copies sold
Asuka Masamune, the epitome of manliness, secretly loves traditionally feminine hobbies like sewing, cooking, and reading shōjo manga. He hides his true interests until he meets Ryo Miyakozuka, who challenges societal norms and helps Asuka embrace his authentic self.

2009’S best selling Shōnen Manga

Shōnen manga is geared toward young boys, often featuring thrilling action, adventure, and themes of friendship, perseverance, and personal growth.

Recognized for its energetic artwork and fast-paced storytelling, shōnen remains one of the most popular and widely read manga genres.

One Piece – 14,721,241 copies sold​

Naruto – 6,836,494 copies sold​

Bleach – 6,471,021 copies sold​

Fullmetal Alchemist – 5,810,522 copies sold​

Gintama – 4,733,511 copies sold​

Katekyo Hitman Reborn! – 3,694,323 copies sold​

Fairy Tail – 2,886,942 copies sold​

Ace of Diamond – 2,093,522 copies sold

Bakuman – 2,042,065 copies sold​

Major – 1,897,050 copies sold​

Detective Conan – 1,881,312 copies sold​

Cross Game – 1,843,970 copies sold​

Bloody Monday – 1,843,247 copies sold​

Ahiru no Sora – 1,711,416 copies sold​

Hayate no Gotoku! (Hayate the Combat Butler!) – 1,697,104 copies sold​

Soul Eater – 1,666,189 copies sold​

Mahō Sensei Negima! – 1,515,440 copies sold​

D.Gray-man – 1,420,974 copies sold​

Eyeshield 21 – 1,402,481 copies sold​

Toriko – 1,400,061 copies sold​

Kekkaishi – 1,321,278 copies sold​

Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle – 1,264,920 copies sold​

Giant Killing – 1,183,052 copies sold​

Air Gear – 1,156,985 copies sold​

Hajime no Ippo – 1,152,766 copies sold​

Sket Dance – 1,137,769 copies sold​

Saki – 1,080,099 copies sold​

Monster Hunter Orage – 1,058,401 copies sold

Simplified best selling manga table

The table below shows 2009’s Best-Selling Manga in a simplified format, making it easier to find each title. It corresponds to the images above for reference.

Final Thoughts on 2009’s Best-Selling Manga

In the end 2009 was a study in fan loyalty and resilience. Despite the overall industry downturn the year showed that established series and their fans are unbeatable. The sales surge for One Piece, Naruto, Bleach and Fullmetal Alchemist proved that anime adaptations and live action tie ins are key to manga popularity.

We also saw the rise of new favourites like Fairy Tail and Kimi ni Todoke and said goodbye to beloved series like Nana and Eyeshield 21. In the ever changing world of manga the connection between creators and their fans is the key to success and even in tough times good stories will always find an audience.

If you enjoyed reading abut manga from 2009 check out 2008’s best selling manga.