best historical manga

13+ BEST Historical Manga!

Updated February 12, 2023 by Ernie

Table of Contents

Historical manga is a genre that offers readers a glimpse into the past, transporting them to different eras and cultures. 

From medieval Europe to ancient Japan, these manga offer a unique blend of history and fiction, making them a great way to learn about the past while enjoying a good story. The market for historical manga has been on the rise in recent years, with more and more readers showing interest in stories set in the past.

So today, we’ll be talking about some of the Best Historical Manga that will make you travel to the past. Some of the most popular historical manga among readers include “Vagabond,” “Berserk,” “Rurouni Kenshin,” and “A Bride’s Story”. 

We’ll be talking about a lot more, so let’s just get started!

FAQ’s

1. What are the most popular historical manga among readers?

Some of the most popular historical manga among readers include “Vagabond,” “Hyouge Mono,” “Rurouni Kenshin,” and “The Rose of Versailles.”

2. What are some examples of historical manga that have been adapted into anime or live-action films?

Examples of historical manga that have been adapted into anime or live-action films include “Rurouni Kenshin,” “The Rose of Versailles,” and “Hyouge Mono.”

3. How does the portrayal of historical events in manga compare to that in other forms of media?

The portrayal of historical events in manga can vary greatly, with some creators choosing to focus on accurate historical facts, while others may take more creative liberties. Some manga may also incorporate fantasy elements into their historical settings. Compared to other forms of media, manga has the advantage of being able to include more detailed illustrations, which can provide a more immersive experience for readers.

4. What are some common themes and motifs found in a historical manga?

Common themes and motifs found in historical manga include war, politics, and the lives of historical figures. Some manga also explores the cultural and societal aspects of the time they are set in.

5. What are some of the challenges faced by creators of historical manga in terms of research and accuracy?

Creators of a historical manga face challenges in terms of research and accuracy, as they must ensure that the events and details depicted in their manga are accurate and true to history. They also have to balance the need for historical accuracy with the creative freedom required to make an engaging story.

6. How has the market for historical manga evolved over the past decade?

The market for historical manga has seen steady growth over the past decade, with more readers becoming interested in the genre.

7. What are some of the most critically acclaimed historical manga of all time?

Some of the most critically acclaimed historical manga of all time include “Vagabond,” “Hyouge Mono,” and “Ooku: The Inner Chambers.”

8. How do historical manga appeal to both Japanese and non-Japanese readers?

Historical manga can appeal to both Japanese and non-Japanese readers as they explore universal themes such as war, politics, and human emotions. Additionally, it can also provide an opportunity for non-Japanese readers to learn about different cultures and historical periods.

BEST MANGA ABOUT HISTORY!

1. Vagabond

vagabond
TitleVagabond
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters327
Volumes37
AuthorsInoue, Takehiko
Published1998

Vagabond is one of the best historical manga for fans of action It tells the story of the legendary sword-saint, Miyamoto Musashi. The story follows his journey from a reckless young swordsman to a revered swordmaster

We’re introduced to a young Musashi, who is known as Shinmen Takezo, and lives in a small village. He is known for his impulsive and wild behavior and his skill with the sword. As he sets out on a journey to hone his skills, he encounters a wide variety of opponents, including other swordsmen, bandits, and powerful dojos. He learns the true meaning of the sword and the importance of compassion and control. 

Eventually, he becomes known as Miyamoto Musashi, the sword-saint, and one of the most respected swordsmen in all of Japan. When it comes to artwork and storytelling, this manga reigns supreme. You must be thinking, “How do historical manga differ from other types of manga in terms of storytelling and artwork?” Well, Historical manga can differ from other types of manga in terms of storytelling by focusing more on historical events and figures, rather than fantasy or science fiction elements. They may also feature more realistic artwork and pay attention to historical details.

2. Vinland Saga

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TitleVinland Saga
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsYukimura, Makoto
Published2005

Vinland Saga takes us to 11th-century Europe. It follows the story of Thorfinn, a young warrior who sets out on a journey of revenge against the man who killed his father. He was very young when he joined the band of mercenaries whose leader killed his father. He was adamant about fighting him one day. He is raised in the Viking society and is trained to be a warrior, but as he grows older, he starts to realize the true nature of violence and how it affects the people around him. Will he ever be able to take his revenge or give up on it altogether? 

3. Demon Slayer

DEMON SLAYER
TitleDemon Slayer 
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters207
Volumes23
AuthorsGotoge, Koyoharu
Published2016

The story of Demon Slayer starts with Tanjirou’s family being brutally murdered by a demon, except for Nezuko, who has turned into a demon herself. Determined to save his sister and avenge his family, Tanjirou sets out on a journey to become a Demon Slayer, a member of a secret society whose purpose is to hunt and exterminate demons. Along the way, he meets other Demon Slayers, each with their reasons for fighting, and together they attempt to save Nezuko and stop the demons from killing more people.

4. Kingdom

kingdom 1
TitleKingdom
GenreAction, Military
TypeManga
Chapters742
Volumes66
AuthorsHaira, Yasuhisa
Published2006

This historical manga takes us to ancient China. It tells the story of a young orphan named Xin who dreams of becoming a great general. The story starts with Xin as a slave, but he escapes and becomes a soldier in the army of the state of Qin. He quickly rises through the ranks due to his exceptional fighting skills and strategic mind. However, the state of Qin is in a constant state of war, and Xin’s ambition takes him to the battlefield, where he faces warlords, rival armies, and powerful enemies. As he fights to protect his country and his people, Xin must also navigate the political landscape and the struggles for power within the Qin government. Along the way, he meets other talented soldiers and forms deep bonds of friendship and loyalty. This manga is undoubtedly one of the best in the genre by country! Just like other historical manga, Kingdom deals with the themes of war, politics, and societal change, as well as personal struggles and growth.

5. Golden Kamuy

golden kamuy 1
TitleGolden Kamuy 
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters314
Volumes31
AuthorsNota, Satoru
Published2014

Golden Kamuy takes us to the early 20th century, where Saichi Sugimoto, a veteran of the Russo-Japanese War, is living a difficult life during the gold rush in Hokkaido. He discovers a map leading to a fortune hidden by Ainu people and sets out on a dangerous journey to claim it. However, he is not the only one searching for the gold, and anyone who knows about it is willing to kill for it. With the harsh wilderness, criminal elements, and cruel Japanese soldiers against him, Saichi needs all his abilities and luck, as well as the assistance of an Ainu girl named Asirpa, to stay alive on his quest.

6. Rurouni Kenshin

ruroni kenshin
TitleRuroni Kenshin
GenreAction, Drama
TypeManga
Chapters259
Volumes28
AuthorsWatsuki, Nobuhiro
Published1994

Rurouni Kenshin is one of the best shounen manga that takes us to the Meiji era in Japan. It tells the story of Himura Kenshin, a former assassin who has turned over a new leaf and is now fighting for justice. Kenshin, once known as Hitokiri Battousai, was a legendary assassin during the Meiji Revolution, but he has abandoned his violent past and now fights to protect the innocent. He travels to Tokyo and offers his services as a swordsman for hire, using a reverse-blade sword to prevent himself from killing again. Kenshin faces many challenges, including enemies from his past and new threats to the people he has vowed to protect. Along the way, he meets a diverse cast of characters who join him on his journey, including a young woman named Kaoru and a young boy named Yahiko. Rurouni Kenshin is one such manga that got adapted into an anime. 

7. The Heroic Legend of Arsalan

arsalan
TitleThe Heroic Legend of Arsalan
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsArakawa, Hiromu
Published2013

The Heroic Legend of Arsalan takes us to the year 320 where the Kingdom of Pars is at war against the Kingdom of Lusitania. Arsalan is the prince of the Kingdom of Pars and is ready to show his skills on the battlefield. However, one of the King’s officials betrayed him and their army is in trouble now. Arsalan then sets out on the journey to find new allies who will help him reclaim his kingdom. Will he be able to save his kingdom from his enemies?

8. Hell’s Paradise

hell's paradise
TitleHell’s Paradise
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters128
Volumes13
AuthorsKaku, Yuuji
Published2018

Hell’s Paradise introduces us to Gabimaru, a skilled and ruthless ninja assassin from Iwagakure, who is sentenced to death for betrayal. His only chance for redemption is to travel to a secret island to retrieve an elixir for the Shogun that will grant immortality. He must navigate the treacherous island, where the line between heaven and hell is thin, and failure is not an option. 

9. A Bride’s Story

a brides story
TitleA Bride’s Story
GenreAction, Drama
TypeManga
Chapters95
Volumes14
AuthorsMori, Kaoru
Published2008

A Bride’s Story introduces us to a 20-year-old woman named Amira Hergal who travels across the mountain to marry a boy named Karluk who is 8 years her junior. Despite being far from her village, she is eager to adapt and happily lives a peaceful life with her new family, from visiting Karluk’s nomadic uncle to impressing the villagers with her archery skills. However, her old family plans to reclaim her and force her to marry someone more advantageous to their village, putting her happiness with Karluk in jeopardy. this is one of the best manga with a strong female lead.

10. Descending Stories

descending stories
TitleDescending Stories
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters10
Volumes31
AuthorsKumota, Haruko
Published2010

This historical manga tells the story of a young man named Yotarou, who is released from prison and becomes an apprentice for a traditional Japanese storytelling art form known as rakugo. Yotarou goes on a  journey to learn art and struggles to find his voice and style. The series also explores the life of Yotarou’s master, Yakumo, his past as a famous rakugo performer and, the personal and professional challenges he faced. 

11. 20th Century Boys

20th century boys
Title20th Century Boys
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters249
Volumes22
AuthorsUrasawa, Naoki
Published1999

20th Century Boys is a mystery as well as a historical manga that tells the story of a group of childhood friends who must come together to stop a mysterious and powerful cult leader known as “Friend” from destroying the world. The series spans several decades, following the friends as they grow up and pursue their own lives, only to be drawn back together by the looming threat of Friend’s plans. 

12. Gintama

gintama
TitleGintama
GenreAction, Comedy
TypeManga
Chapters709
Volumes77
AuthorsSorachi, Hideaki
Published2003

Gintama takes place in an alternate version of feudal Japan where aliens known as “Amanto” have invaded and taken control. The series follows the adventures of Gintoki Sakata, a samurai who runs a small business called “Yorozuya” and takes on odd jobs to make ends meet. Gintoki and his friends, Shinpachi Shimura and Kagura, take on a variety of wacky and offbeat jobs while also getting caught up in more serious conflicts. 

13. Mushishi

mushihsi
TitleMushishi
GenreMystery, Fantasy
TypeManga
Chapters50
Volumes10
AuthorsUrushibara, Yuki
Published1999

Mushishi introduces us to creatures named Mushi who live in a parallel world that is different from ours. They exist according to their own will and can be dangerous as well as beneficial to humanity. We’re introduced to Ginko who is can see the Mushi and is tasked with the job of controlling them if they’re becoming a problem for people. However, Ginkgo is also dealing with a dark past

14. Hellsing

hellsing
TitleHellsing
GenreHorror, Action
TypeManga
Chapters92
Volumes10
AuthorsHirano, Kouta
Published1997

This historical manga introduces us to the Hellsing Organization, a secret organization based in London that is dedicated to protecting humanity from supernatural threats, particularly vampires. The series centers around Alucard, the organization’s most powerful agent, who is himself a vampire. Together with a small group of allies, Alucard battles other vampires and other supernatural creatures, as well as a variety of human enemies, as he fights to protect humanity and uncover the truth about his past

15. Black Butler

Black Butler
TitleBlack Butler
GenreAction, Fantasy
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsToboso, Yana
Published2006

Black Butler is the story of Ciel Phantomhive, a wealthy and powerful young noble who is also the head of the Phantomhive household, a secret organization that serves the British government. Ciel has a demon butler, Sebastian Michaelis, who is fiercely loyal and will do whatever it takes to protect and serve his young master. Together, they solve crimes and mysteries, often involving other powerful and influential figures. 

16. Inuyasha

inuyasha
TitleInuyasha
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters558
Volumes56
AuthorsTakahashi, Rumiko
Published1995

Inuyasha is a perfect historical manga for fans of romance. It follows the story of Kagome Higurashi, a modern-day girl who is transported back in time to feudal Japan. There, she meets Inuyasha, a half-demon who is on a quest to collect the jeweled shards of the Shikon Jewel, a powerful jewel that grants immense power to whoever possesses it. Together with Inuyasha and a group of other companions, Kagome sets out on a journey to collect the jewel shards before they fall into the wrong hands.

17. The Case Study of Vanitas

vanitas 1
TitleThe Case Study of Vanitas
GenreFantasy, Supernatural
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsMochizuki, Jun
Published2015

The Case Study of Vanitas is a vampire manga that is set in 19th-century Europe where the existence of “Vanitas,” a vampire who creates and destroys other vampires, is known. The story follows a young doctor named Noé, who is a “Vanitas” himself and has the power to destroy other vampires. He meets a young man named Vanitas, who is also a “Vanitas” but with a different approach, he wants to find a cure for vampirism. Together they start a journey to find a way to cure vampirism and stop the creation of new vampires. This is undoubtedly one of the best in the genre by era!

18. Spice and Wolf

spice and wolf vol 12 light novel 2
TitleSpice and Wolf
GenreDrama, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters108
Volumes16
AuthorsKoume, Keito
Published2007

Spice and Wolf is the story of a young merchant named Kraft Lawrence who, while on his journey, meets a wolf deity named Holo who takes the form of a young girl. Holo is seeking to return to her home in the north and asks Kraft to help her get there. The series follows their journey as they travel together and trade goods and get closer to each other. 

19. Drifters

Drifters
TitleDrifters
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsHirano, Kouta
Published2009

Drifters tell us the story of Shimazu Toyohisa, a samurai from the Sengoku period who, after dying in dreadful battle, finds himself in a strange, fantastical world where history’s greatest figures have been summoned to fight for an unknown purpose. He teams up with other “Drifters,” including a legendary archer and a powerful witch. Together, they must fight against other groups of Drifters and their demons as they uncover the truth behind their summoning and the ultimate goal of the war. 

20. Samurai Deeper Kyo

samurai
TitleSamurai Deeper Kyo
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters308
Volumes38
AuthorsKamijyo, Akimine
Published1999

This manga is set in the Sengoku period of Japan and follows the story of a legendary samurai named Kyoshiro Mibu. He is a powerful and feared warrior, but he is also plagued by a curse that causes him to switch between his own body and that of his alter-ego, a man named Onime no Kyo. The series follows Kyo and his companions as they get caught up in political intrigues and battles, while also trying to find a cure for Kyo’s curse. 

21. In this Corner of the World

in this corner
TitleIn This Corner of the World
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters48
Volumes3
AuthorsKuono, Fumiyo
Published2007

In this Corner of the World is an emotional manga that tells the story of a young girl named Suzu Urano, who lives in Hiroshima during World War II. The series follows her life, from her childhood in a small town to her marriage to a man from Kure, and her daily struggles as she tries to survive in a world affected by war. The manga captures the struggles and sacrifices that the people of Hiroshima had to endure during the war and the aftermath of the atomic bomb.

22. The Elusive Samurai

elusive
TitleThe Elusive Samurai
GenreAction, Comedy
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsMatsui, Yuusei
Published2021

The Elusive Samurai takes us to medieval Japan, where we’re introduced to Hojo Tokiyuki who is the heir to the Kamakura Shogunate. His peaceful life is soon disrupted when his clan is betrayed and abandoned from within. Now, Tokiyuki is the only one left from his family and is the heir to the throne. How will he deal with such a big responsibility? Also, this one is the best in the genre by era!

23. Taisho Otome Fairy Tail

taisho
TitleTaisho Otome Fairy Tail
GenreComedy, Romance
TypeManga
Chapters42
Volumes5
AuthorsKirioka, Sana
Published2015

After an accident that claims the life of his mother, 17-year-old Tamahiko Shima loses the use of his right hand and is sent to live in a remote area of Chiba prefecture to avoid bringing shame to his wealthy family. He becomes bitter and loses hope until Yuzuki Tachibana, a young girl who has been purchased by Tamahiko’s father to be his bride, comes into his life. With her innocent and optimistic nature, she helps him understand the value of cherishing someone, and he starts to see that his disability doesn’t define him. Under Yuzu’s influence, Tamahiko begins to change and starts to see the positive side of life. This is one of the best historical manga for beginners. Also, on a side note, Yuzuki is one of the cutest short waifus out there!

24. Dororo

dororor
TitleDororo 
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters14
Volumes9
AuthorsTezuka, Osamu
Published1967

Dororo tells us the story of Hyakkimaru, a young man who is born without arms, legs, eyes, ears, a nose, and a mouth because his father Daigo Kagemitsu, a lord in feudal Japan, made a deal with 48 demons to gain power and prosperity for his land. The demons took Hyakkimaru’s body parts as payment. Hyakkimaru meets a young orphan thief named Dororo, and together they set out on a journey to reclaim his missing body parts and defeat the demons who took them. Along the way, they face many challenges, including fighting against other samurais, bandits, and other supernatural creatures.

25. Fushigi Yugi

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TitleFushigi Yugi
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters106
Volumes18
AuthorsWatase, Yuu
Published1992

Fushigi Yugi tells us the story of Miaka Yuki, a junior high school student who was transported into “The Universe of the Four Gods,” a mysterious and ancient Chinese book that she and her best friend, Yui Hongo, discovered in the library. In this world, she is chosen as the Priestess of Suzaku, one of the four gods, and is tasked with summoning the god and finding the seven Celestial Warriors who will help her restore order to the land and fulfill her destiny. Along the way, she meets Tamahome, a young warrior who becomes her love interest and protector. 

26. Historie

historie
TitleHistorie
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters97
Volumes11
AuthorsIwaaki, Hitoshi
Published2003

This action manga tells us the story of a young boy who lives in ancient Greece and dreams of becoming a historian. He is taken under the wing of a famous historian named Herodotus and together they set out on a journey to document the history of the world. The series follows Eumenes as he encounters historical figures such as Alexander the Great and Cleopatra and witnesses important events such as the Battle of Thermopylae and the fall of the Persian Empire.

27. The Rose of Versailles

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TitleThe Rose of Versailles
GenreDrama, Romance
TypeManga
Chapters82
Volumes10
AuthorsIkeda, Riyoko
Published1972

“The Rose of Versailles” is a manga series that takes place in 18th-century France during the reign of King Louis XVI and tells the story of Marie Antoinette, the queen of France, and Oscar François de Jarjayes, a young woman raised as a man to be her father’s successor as captain of the Royal Guard. The series follows Oscar and her companions as they navigate the political and social upheavals of the time, including the French Revolution and the fall of the monarchy. This one is a great romance manga of all time!

28. Arte

arte
TitleArte
GenreDrama, Romance
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsOokubo, Kei
Published2013

We’re introduced to Arte, a young woman living in Florence, Italy during the 16th century. She is determined to become an artist, but as a woman, she is not allowed to pursue this profession. Despite the challenges she faces, Arte refuses to give up her dream and works hard to become a master painter. The series follows her journey as she faces obstacles, learns new techniques and, makes new friends in the art community. Along the way, she also faces societal challenges as a woman artist in a male-dominated profession. This manga is undoubtedly one of the best for beginners. 

29. Lone Wolf and Cub

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TitleLone Wolf and Cub
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters142
Volumes28
AuthorsKoike, Kazuo
Published1970

Lone Wolf and Cub tells us the story of Ogami Itto, a highly skilled samurai who becomes an assassin for hire after being falsely accused of treason by the powerful Yagyu clan. He is accompanied by his young son, Daigoro, whom he pushes in a baby cart that doubles as a weapon. Together, they embark on a journey of revenge against the Yagyu clan and other enemies. 

30. Altair: A Record of Battles

altair
TitleAltair
GenreFantasy, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters138
Volumes25
AuthorsKatou, Kotono
Published2007

The story of this fantasy manga is set in a world where countries are at war with each other and are focused on a young prince named Mahmut, who is chosen as the new pasha of the Ottoman Empire. Mahmut is determined to bring peace to the world, but his plans are hindered by the actions of other countries and their leaders. The manga follows Mahmut as he works to navigate the political landscape and gain allies in his quest for peace. Along the way, he faces challenges and makes difficult decisions, ultimately learning the true meaning of leadership and the cost of war. This manga is undoubtedly one of the best in the genre by country!

31. Blade of the Immortal

Blade of the Immortal
TitleBlade of the Immortal 
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters207
Volumes30
AuthorsSamura, Hiroaka
Published1993

The story of Blade of the Immortal follows a samurai named Manji, who is cursed with immortality after killing one hundred men in a fit of rage. To lift the curse, Manji must kill one thousand evil men. The story picks up with Manji meeting a young girl named Rin, who is seeking revenge for the murder of her parents by a group of swordsmen known as the Ittō-ryū. Rin hires Manji as her bodyguard and together they embark on a journey of revenge and redemption, with Manji using his immortality to protect Rin and help her get revenge on the Ittō-ryū. Along the way, they encounter a wide variety of characters, including other swordsmen, criminals, and outcasts, and are forced to confront the darker aspects of human nature as well as their demons. 

32. Billy Bat

billy bat
TitleBilly Bat
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
Chapters165
Volumes20
AuthorsUrasawa, Naoki
Published2008

Billy Bat’s story follows a comic book artist named Kevin Yamagata, who is working on a series called “Billy Bat” in the late 1990s. Kevin discovers that his series is eerily similar to an old comic strip from the 1940s called “Billy Bat” which was created by a Japanese artist named Jiro. Kevin begins to investigate the mysterious similarities between the two comics and discovers that Jiro’s comic strip is somehow connected to a series of real-life events that include a murder, a missing heir, and a conspiracy involving the US government during the post-WW2 era in Japan. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Kevin finds himself drawn into a web of lies, secrets, and danger as the past and present begin to converge

33. Yona of the Dawn

yona
TitleYona of the Dawn
GenreAction, Adventure
TypeManga
ChaptersUnknown 
VolumesUnknown
AuthorsKusanagi, Mizuho
Published2009

Yona of the Dawn is a fantasy manga series written and illustrated by Mizuho Kusanagi. The story follows Yona, the princess of the Kingdom of Kouka, who lives a life of luxury and ease until her father is murdered and she is forced to flee the kingdom with her bodyguard and childhood friend, Son Hak. Together, they embark on a journey to gather a group of powerful warriors known as the “Dragon Warriors” to reclaim her rightful place as ruler of the kingdom and avenge her father’s death.

34. Blissful Land

bissful land
TitleBlissful Land
GenreSlice of Life
TypeManga
Chapters25
Volumes5
AuthorsIzumi, Ichimon
Published2017

Khang Zhipa, a 13-year-old apprentice doctor, lives in a mountainous village in 18th-century Tibet. One day, upon returning from gathering medicinal herbs, he discovers that his home will be hosting a bride-to-be and wedding party for the night. The bride is revealed to be Moshi Rati, who is also Khang Zhipa’s fiancée from another land, and come to stay with him. This one is such a great manga for beginners.

Conclusion

vagabond

The portrayal of historical events in manga can vary widely, with some creators striving for accuracy and others taking more creative liberties. Compared to other forms of media, manga may place more emphasis on individual characters and personal stories within the historical context. That is it for our blog about some of the best historical manga ever. Comment down below on your favorite historical manga from this list and let us know. We’ll come back with more manga blogs. See you at the next one!

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