The History of Japanese Manga: From Frolicking Frogs to Global Phenomenon

Manga has become one of Japan’s most recognizable cultural exports, captivating readers across the globe with its distinctive art style and storytelling. But did you know that the roots of manga go back nearly a thousand years? Let’s take a fun and informative look at the history of Japanese manga and how it evolved into the pop culture giant it is today.

It All Started with Frogs and Rabbits

Many scholars consider the Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga (Scrolls of Frolicking Animals and People), created in the 12th or 13th century, to be Japan’s earliest form of manga. These ink drawings, attributed to a monk named Toba Sōjō, depict animals like frogs and rabbits engaging in human activities—dancing, sumo wrestling, even arguing. There are no words, just expressive visuals that tell a story through movement and emotion.

Though not officially called “manga” at the time, these scrolls laid the foundation for visual storytelling that blends humor, satire, and social commentary—core elements still found in manga today.

Edo Period: The Rise of Printed Comic Culture

In the Edo period (1603–1868), woodblock printing made illustrated books and humorous drawings widely accessible to the public. Artists like Hokusai (yes, the famous creator of The Great Wave) used the term “manga” in some of his sketch collections. These early manga captured everyday life, folklore, and exaggerated characters, often with a comedic twist.

Modern Manga Takes Shape

The 20th century saw manga evolve into a full-fledged publishing industry. After World War II, manga grew rapidly in popularity, partly due to the influence of American comics and animation. Osamu Tezuka, often called the “God of Manga,” revolutionized the medium with works like Astro Boy, bringing cinematic storytelling techniques and emotional depth to the page.

By the 1980s and 1990s, manga had diversified into countless genres—action, romance, sports, horror, and slice-of-life—and gained international readers.

Manga Today: A Cultural Powerhouse

From bookstore shelves to Netflix adaptations, manga is now a global phenomenon. Whether it’s long-running classics like One Piece or heartwarming stories like Your Name, manga continues to evolve while staying rooted in Japan’s visual storytelling tradition.

Understanding manga’s deep historical roots helps us appreciate it not just as entertainment, but as a cultural expression that reflects the values, humor, and imagination of Japanese society.