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Best Samurai Manga

Samurai are those who follow bushido, the classical Japanese warrior code, as a way of life, and usually hone their skill in combat to make their way in the world or perfect themselves. Characters in a Samurai manga may be in service to a liege lord, or ronin types who serve none but themselves. Common themes include service, honor, strength, and one-on-one combat or battles, often with blades.

Recommendations from 7 articles.
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Vagabond, Vol. 1 book cover
Vagabond, Vol. 1
Takehiko Inoue - 2008-09-16
Goodreads Rating
Follow the journey of a young samurai named Shinmen Takezō, who is on the run after being on the losing side of an epic battle. This VIZBIG edition of the book includes Volumes 1-3 and bonus color content. Written by one of Japan's most celebrated real-life figures, Miyamoto Musashi, this book offers a glimpse into the path of enlightenment during feudal Japan. Will Shinmen Takezō find his way with the help of an eccentric monk and a childhood friend?
Lone Wolf and Cub Omnibus Volume 1 book cover
Lone Wolf and Cub Omnibus Volume 1
Kazuo Koike - 2013-06-04
Goodreads Rating
A masterful samurai epic set in feudal Japan, the Lone Wolf and Cub Omnibus follows the story of Ogami Itto, a shogunate executioner who becomes a ronin after being framed by agents of a rival clan. With his wife murdered and his infant son to protect, Ogami wanders the country as a sword-for-hire, seeking vengeance. This value-priced omnibus collects over 700 beautifully crafted pages of Kazuo Koike's brilliant storytelling and Goseki Kojima's cinematic visuals, making it a graphic-fiction masterpiece of beauty, fury, and thematic power.
Samurai Executioner, Vol. 1 book cover
Samurai Executioner, Vol. 1
When the Demon Knife Weeps
Kazuo Koike, Goseki Kojima - 2004-08-10 (first published in 1972)
Goodreads Rating
Discover the precursor to the legendary ronin saga in Samurai Executioner, Vol. 1! From the creators of Lone Wolf and Cub comes the thrilling tale of Kubikiri Asa, also known as Decapitator Asaemon. Meet the man charged with testing the swords for the shogun, before his fateful duel with Lone Wolf. Experience epic drama, frantic action, and stoic samurai honor in this captivating series filled with stunning art and masterful storytelling. Don't miss out on the next great samurai adventure!
Gintama 56 book cover
Gintama 56
Sorachi Hideaki - 2015-05-27
In Gintama 56, experience the thrilling world of espionage and deception as a general evades a plot on his life. Follow a cunning ninja who masquerades as an ally, but secretly aims to sow chaos among the enemy ranks. Will their plan succeed, or will the layers of deceit unravel? Dive into this action-packed installment of Gintama and uncover the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface.
Rurouni Kenshin book cover
Rurouni Kenshin
Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story, Vol. 1
Nobuhiro Watsuki - 2003-10-07 (first published in 1994)
Goodreads Rating
This popular manga follows the story of Himura Kenshin, a former assassin now wandering as a swordsman to protect the honor of those in need. Against the backdrop of the Meiji Restoration, Kenshin comes to the aid of a young woman fighting to defend her father's school of swordsmanship. But both Kenshin and his formidable opponent, Hitokiri Battosai, have hidden identities that are gradually revealed in this action-packed and romantic tale filled with historical intrigue.
Lone Wolf & Cub, Vol. 1 book cover
Lone Wolf & Cub, Vol. 1
Kazuo Koike - 2000-09-26
Goodreads Rating
Samurai action and breathtaking visuals come together in Lone Wolf and Cub, a landmark in graphic fiction now available in its entirety in the US. This epic adventure covers over 7000 pages and showcases the brilliance of writer Kazuo Koike and the stunning visuals of Goseki Kojima. Each of the 28 collections includes approximately 300 pages of unforgettable imagery, kinetic fury, and visceral thematic power. This volume features unforgettable stories, including Son for Hire, Sword for Hire, A Father Knows His Child's Heart, and The Assassin's Road.
Rurouni Kenshin, Volume 06 book cover
Rurouni Kenshin, Volume 06
Nobuhiro Watsuki - 2004-08-03 (first published in 1995)
Goodreads Rating
Embark on a thrilling journey into the Meiji Era with Rurouni Kenshin, Volume 06. In this captivating installment, Kenshin faces off against Raijûta in a battle that will determine the future of swordsmanship. But Raijûta's determination to establish dominance knows no bounds. Meanwhile, Sanosuke finds himself in a dangerous situation when his past collides with an attempt to overthrow the government. With old alliances being tested, Sano must decide where he truly stands. This volume also includes a special bonus: the very first story ever published by author Nobuhiro Watsuki. Don't miss out on this action-packed and thought-provoking installment of Rurouni Kenshin.
Gin Tama, Vol. 1 book cover
Gin Tama, Vol. 1
Hideaki Sorachi - 2007-07-03 (first published in 2004)
Goodreads Rating
A hilarious manga series set in a world where aliens have conquered Edo. Follow the adventures of Gintoki Sakata, who works as a freelancer to pay his rent, along with his two companions: Shinpachi Shimura and Kagura. Get ready for action-packed missions, comical situations, and unexpected twists!
Rurouni Kenshin (3-in-1 Edition), Vol. 1 by Nobuhiro Watsuki
シグルイ 1 by Takayuki Yamaguchi
Blade of the Immortal Deluxe Volume 2 by Hiroaki Samura
戰國一統記 11 by Hideki Miyashita
Peacemaker Kurogane 4 by Nanae Chrono
Valhallian the Black Iron T05 by Toshimitsu Matsubara
Drifters Volume 1 by Kohta Hirano
The Elusive Samurai, Vol. 1 by Yusei Matsui
Kaze Hikaru, Vol. 32 by Taeko Watanabe