If you grew up reading manga, chances are you’ve got some Shonen Jump issues lying around your home. But what’s the greatest Shonen Jump anime ever made? Some of the most iconic anime series of all time started out in Shonen Jump, like One Piece, Naruto, Bleach, Gintama, and more.
Shonen Jump anime tends to be long-running, with shows like One Piece nearing 1,000 episodes. The American version of Shonen Jump, based on Japan’s Weekly Shonen Jump, isn’t in print anymore, but we can still enjoy our favorite anime series from the publication.
These series are beloved for their epic storylines, memorable characters, and thrilling action scenes. For example, One Piece is celebrated for its adventurous spirit, while Naruto is praised for its ninja battles and character development.
Bleach stands out with its unique blend of supernatural powers and stylish sword fighting, and Gintama is known for its comedic yet poignant take on life in an alternate Edo period.
Whether you’re a fan of pirates, ninjas, or supernatural battles, Shonen Jump has something for everyone. These anime series have become classics, continuing to entertain and inspire fans long after their original manga publications.
1) Jujutsu Kaisen
Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen debuted in Jump in 2018, swiftly rising in popularity thanks to its dynamic cursed energy battles and rich mythology rooted in occult traditions. The series has drawn in readers with its intricate storylines and well-crafted action scenes, setting it apart from other shonen titles.
Jujutsu Kaisen’s unique blend of dark themes and supernatural elements, combined with its strong character development and impressive artwork, has made it a standout hit in the manga community.
Fans have been consistently impressed by Akutami’s ability to blend intense action with deep, thought-provoking lore, making Jujutsu Kaisen a must-read for manga enthusiasts.
2) Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood offers a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s steampunk fantasy manga, which spanned from 2001 to 2010. Unlike the 2003 adaptation, Brotherhood shows the intricate and philosophical themes that define the original work.
The series follows the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, on their quest to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment and the moral complexities and consequences of their actions.
With its compelling storyline, richly developed characters, and meticulous attention to detail, Brotherhood captures the essence of Arakawa’s manga, providing fans with a complete and immersive experience.
This adaptation is celebrated for its faithful representation of the manga’s depth, making it a beloved classic in the anime community.
3) Death Note
Death Note, crafted by writer Tsugumi Ohba and artist Takeshi Obata, graced the pages of Shonen Jump from 2003 to 2006. This series became renowned for its intense psychological battle between Light Yagami and the detective known as L.
As Light discovers a notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it, he begins his quest to get rid of criminals, believing himself to be a god of justice.
Meanwhile, L, a brilliant investigator, sets out to stop him, leading to a gripping and morally complex showdown. The story’s show of good and evil, justice and power, keeps readers on the edge, making it a standout in manga and anime.
4) Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter, created by Yoshihiro Togashi, debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1998 and quickly gained a reputation for its strategic combat and detailed scenes. The series follows Gon Freecss, a young boy determined to become a Hunter to find his father.
It’s known for its deep, intricate battles that require as much brain as brawn and a richly developed universe filled with unique characters and complex moral themes.
The 2011 anime adaptation stayed true to the manga, boasting high production quality and faithfully capturing the essence of Togashi’s work, making it a favorite among fans for its compelling storytelling and vivid animation.
5) Bleach
Tite Kubo’s Bleach started its run in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2001, quickly becoming a hallmark of its genre. The story centers on Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager who unexpectedly becomes a Soul Reaper.
With his newfound powers, he battles malevolent spirits and helps guide lost souls to the afterlife. The series is known for its intense supernatural fights and stylish swordplay, as well as Ichigo’s journey from a high school student to a formidable warrior.
Bleach’s blend of action, character development, and intricate lore established it as one of the standout shonen series of its time.
6) Naruto
Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto made its debut in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1999 and quickly rose to fame as a top-tier ninja adventure series. It follows Naruto Uzumaki, a spirited young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest ninja and leader of his village.
Naruto’s journey is filled with numerous battles, friendships, and personal growth. The series stands out for its large, diverse cast of characters and rich story, pushing beyond the typical shonen conventions of its time.
With its intricate storylines and emotional depth, Naruto became a defining series in the shonen genre, resonating with audiences.
7) One Piece
Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece set sail in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1997, quickly becoming a flagship series for the magazine. The story chronicles the epic adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his diverse crew of pirates as they search for the legendary One Piece treasure.
One Piece is renowned for its intricate plotlines and richly developed characters, each with unique abilities and backgrounds. Oda’s imaginative storytelling and ability to weave humor, action, and heartfelt moments have made One Piece a cornerstone of modern shonen.
8) My Hero Academia
Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia burst into Weekly Shonen Jump in 2014, offering a fresh perspective on the superhero genre. The series follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a reality where they are the norm, as he evolves into the worthy successor of the powerful Quirk, One For All.
My Hero Academia masterfully combines high-stakes action with deep emotional arcs, portraying Midoriya’s journey from an underdog to a top-tier hero. Its compelling storyline, diverse cast of characters, and unique take on heroism have made it a standout title, redefining shonen manga for a new generation of readers.
9) Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, created by Koyoharu Gotouge, made a huge impact when it debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2016. The series quickly gained a massive following, thanks to its unforgettable characters and the stunningly animated battles of the Demon Slayer Corps.
The story centers on Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons and his sister Nezuko is transformed into one.
With its mix of heart-wrenching drama, intense action, and beautifully rendered artwork, Demon Slayer has charmed audiences and set a new standard for visual storytelling in manga.
The anime adaptation further boosted its popularity, showcasing breathtaking fight sequences that have become iconic in the anime community.
10) Dragon Ball Z
Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball Z, serialized in Shonen Jump from 1988 to 1995, is a cornerstone of shonen manga. Renowned for its high-energy fight scenes and ever-increasing power levels, it set the benchmark for future battle series.
The story follows Goku and his allies as they defend Earth from various formidable foes, including aliens, androids, and powerful creatures. Each saga introduces new characters, each more powerful than the last, pushing the boundaries of strength and endurance.
Toriyama’s dynamic art style and the series’ intense battles have left a lasting impact, inspiring many subsequent shonen titles and maintaining a dedicated fanbase even decades after its end.
11) Black Clover
Yūki Tabata’s Black Clover debuted in Jump in 2015, quickly gaining popularity for its relatable underdog protagonist, Asta, and its focus on the power of friendship and teamwork. The series follows Asta, a young boy born without magic in a reality where magic is everything.
Despite this, Asta dreams of becoming the Wizard King, the most powerful mage in the Clover Kingdom. With the support of his friends and his unwavering determination, Asta defies all odds and challenges powerful adversaries, proving that one’s spirit can triumph over any magical ability.
12) Dr. Stone
Dr. Stone, created by Riichiro Inagaki and Boichi, burst onto the pages of Jump in 2017 with a fresh take on the shonen genre. Instead of focusing solely on battles, the manga introduced readers to a reality where the power of science reigns supreme.
The story follows Senku Ishigami, a brilliant high schooler who wakes up thousands of years into a future where all of humanity has been turned to stone. With his scientific knowledge and unwavering determination, Senku sets out to rebuild civilization from scratch.
13) Seven Deadly Sins
The Seven Deadly Sins, created by Nakaba Suzuki, debuted in Weekly Shonen Magazine in 2012 before making its way to Jump. The manga quickly gained popularity for its thrilling fantasy battles and unique character designs.
Set in a reality where knights with extraordinary abilities protect the dimension, the story follows the Seven Deadly Sins, a group of powerful knights who were accused of treason against the kingdom.
What makes The Seven Deadly Sins stand out is its action-packed storyline and the diverse powers wielded by each character. From Meliodas, the Dragon’s Sin of Wrath, to Diane, the Serpent’s Sin of Envy, each member of the Seven Deadly Sins possesses unique abilities that add layers of excitement to the battles they face.
14) Assassination Classroom
Assassination Classroom, created by Yusei Matsui, made its mark in Shonen Jump from 2012 to 2016 with a unique blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt moments. The manga follows a group of misfit students who are tasked with an unusual mission: to kill their teacher, an alien being who threatens to destroy the Earth.
What sets Assassination Classroom apart is its bizarre yet entertaining premise. The students, under the guidance of their teacher, Koro-sensei, balance their daily school life with the mission to eliminate their beloved teacher before he annihilates the planet.
Koro-sensei, despite being their target, becomes a mentor to the students, teaching them not just assassination techniques, but also life lessons and the importance of friendship and self-improvement.
15) Haikyuu!!
Haikyu!! by Haruichi Furudate made its debut in Jump in 2012, distinguishing itself among sports manga with its focus on character development and unwavering passion for volleyball.
The series follows the journey of Shoyo Hinata, an aspiring volleyball player with a small stature but a big heart who dreams of surpassing his limits and competing at the national level. Partnered with the talented setter Tobio Kageyama, they form a formidable duo that leads their high school team to new heights.
What sets Haikyu!! apart is its ability to shows the personal growth of its characters, portraying their struggles, triumphs, and aspirations both on and off the court. Furudate’s dynamic artwork brings the fast-paced action of volleyball to life, capturing the intense matches and the emotional rollercoaster of competition.
16) JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, created by Hirohiko Araki, has been a staple in Jump since 1987, celebrated for its sprawling storylines across generations, distinctive visual flair, and imaginative supernatural abilities.
It’s gained recognition for its unique blend of drama, humor, and eccentric characters, each with their own set of extraordinary powers called Stands.
The series follows the Joestar family through their epic battles against various foes, spanning different time periods and locations. From the Victorian era to the present day, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has captured the imagination of readers with its unpredictable plot twists and larger-than-life confrontations.
17) Gintama
Gintama, created by Hideaki Sorachi, revolutionized shonen manga with its unique blend of comedy, sci-fi elements, and unconventional character designs when it debuted in Jump in 2003. The series follows Gintoki and the Yorozuya trio as they tackle a wide array of bizarre and often humorous odd jobs.
Sorachi’s comedic genius shines through Gintama’s satirical take on historical and pop culture references, combining slapstick humor with witty dialogue. The manga’s ability to seamlessly blend genres—ranging from action-packed battles to heartwarming moments—has made it a standout in manga.
18) The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland, created by Posuka Demizu and Kaiu Shirai, introduced a chilling blend of psychological horror and suspense to Shonen Jump between 2016 and 2020. Departing from the typical children’s orphanage tale, the series subverted expectations with its dark and intense narrative.
Set in an idyllic orphanage run by a caring mother figure, The Promised Neverland takes a sharp turn when the protagonists discover the sinister truth lurking beneath their seemingly peaceful lives. The story deals with themes of survival, betrayal, and the struggle against a dystopian society that deceives its inhabitants.
19) Yu Yu Hakusho
Yu Yu Hakusho, created by Yoshihiro Togashi, burst onto the scene in Jump in 1990, offering a unique blend of supernatural battles and deep character drama. The series revolves around Yusuke Urameshi, a teenage delinquent who unexpectedly dies saving a child, only to be given a second chance at life as a Spirit Detective.
Yusuke’s journey from rebellious troublemaker to reluctant hero is central to the manga’s appeal. Alongside his friends Kuwabara, Hiei, and Kurama, Yusuke battles demons, spirits, and other creatures in a bid to protect the humans from supernatural threats.
20) Noragami
Noragami, created by Adachitoka, breathed new life into Japanese mythological stories when it debuted in Monthly Shonen Magazine in 2011. The manga introduced readers to a modern twist on ancient gods and spirits, blending traditional elements with contemporary settings and themes.
At its heart, Noragami follows the adventures of Yato, a minor deity who dreams of amassing a large following and building his own shrine.
The story unfolds as Yato takes on odd jobs for humans, spirits, and other supernatural beings in exchange for a small fee. Alongside him is Yukine, a troubled spirit who becomes Yato’s Regalia, a weapon used by gods to battle evil spirits.
21) Food Wars!
Food Wars!: Shokugeki no Soma debuted in Jump from 2012 to 2019, marking a unique entry into manga. It combined the thrill of cooking competitions with a diverse cast of characters, creating a niche within the shonen genre that was both entertaining and innovative.
The manga revolves around Soma Yukihira, a young chef with an unyielding passion for cooking who enrolls at Totsuki Culinary Academy.
There, he faces off against fellow students in intense cooking battles known as Shokugeki. These competitions are not just about skill but also about personal growth and overcoming challenges.
22) Soul Eater
Soul Eater, created by Atsushi Ōkubo, graced the pages of Monthly Shonen Gangan from 2004 to 2013. It stood out with its blend of horror, action, and a diverse ensemble of students and their weapon partners.
Set in the Death Weapon Meister Academy, the manga follows students who are training to create “Death Scythes” by collecting souls from evil beings.
The story revolves around Maka Albarn and her weapon partner, Soul Eater Evans, as they strive to turn Soul into a Death Scythe by consuming the souls of 99 evil humans and one witch.
23) Chainsaw Man
Chainsaw Man, created by Tatsuki Fujimoto, burst onto the pages of Weekly Shonen Jump in 2018, known for its intense gore, gripping action, and mysterious characters. It quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of horror and humor.
Devil hunters like Denji, the protagonist, use chainsaws to battle terrifying demons, Chainsaw Man stood out with its visceral and unpredictable storytelling. Denji himself is a complex character, struggling to make ends meet and find a sense of purpose in a harsh and dangerous reality.
24) The Disastrous Life Of Saiki K
The Disastrous Life of Saiki K., created by Shūichi Asō, introduced readers to Kusuo Saiki, a high school student with powerful psychic abilities. Despite his extraordinary powers, Kusuo just wants to live a normal life, but his classmates’ antics and the chaos they bring continually disrupt his plans.
Serialized in Jump from 2012 to 2018, the manga is known for its comedic take on daily life, blending supernatural elements with everyday school scenarios. Kusuo’s attempts to avoid attention and maintain his privacy often lead to hilarious situations, showcasing his deadpan humor and sarcastic wit.
The series has garnered praise for its unique premise and lovable cast of characters, each with their quirks and eccentricities. Kusuo’s interactions with his classmates, such as the clueless but well-meaning Riki Nendou and the mischievous Kokomi Teruhashi, provide plenty of laughs and light-hearted moments throughout the manga.
25) Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop, created by Shinichirō Watanabe, is a celebrated anime series known for its stylish blend of genres, including space western, noir, and jazz. The story follows a group of bounty hunters, led by Spike Spiegel, as they travel the futuristic solar system in search of criminals and adventures.
First airing in 1998, Cowboy Bebop’s appeal lies not only in its action-packed sequences and storyline but also in its memorable characters and distinctive art style. The series masterfully incorporates elements of jazz music into its narrative, setting a unique tone that sets it apart from traditional anime.
26) High School DxD
High School DxD, written by Ichiei Ishibumi, gained notoriety for its provocative elements when it first debuted as a light novel in 2008. Since then, it has inspired various manga and anime adaptations that have expanded its fanbase.
The series follows Issei Hyoudou, a high school student who gets killed on his first date and is subsequently resurrected by a devil named Rias Gremory. Issei then becomes a devil himself and finds himself entangled in supernatural conflicts while dealing with his new life.
27) Kuroko’s Basketball
Kuroko’s Basketball, created by Tadatoshi Fujimaki, brought together intense sports drama with extravagant basketball skills when it debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2008.
The manga and subsequent anime series follow the Seirin High School basketball team, led by Taiga Kagami and the mysterious and almost invisible player Tetsuya Kuroko. Kuroko possesses incredible skills in passing and agility, often surprising opponents with his unorthodox playing style.
The series is known for its dynamic basketball matches, where characters execute unbelievable moves and strategies that push the limits of what’s possible on the court. Beyond the action, the story has themes of teamwork, determination, and the drive to overcome personal and team challenges.
28) A Silent Voice
A Silent Voice, penned by Yoshitoki Oima, displays complex themes such as bullying, disability, and suicide during its run in Weekly Shonen Magazine from 2013 to 2014.
The manga sensitively shows the story of Shoya Ishida, who bullied his deaf classmate Shoko Nishimiya in elementary school. Years later, Shoya seeks redemption and friendship with Shoko, grappling with guilt and the impact of his past actions.
The series resonated with readers for its realistic portrayal of bullying and its consequences, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. It showed the struggles faced by both the bully and the bullied, shedding light on the emotional turmoil that can lead to extreme actions like suicide.
29) Horimiya
Horimiya, created by HERO, made its debut in Monthly G Fantasy in 2011. The series quickly gained acclaim for its refreshing take on the high school romance genre.
Set in a school environment, Horimiya focuses on the relationship between two seemingly opposite classmates, Hori and Miyamura.
Hori is a popular and outgoing girl at school, while Miyamura is a quiet and unassuming boy who hides his true self behind glasses and long hair. As they discover each other’s hidden sides, their relationship deepens, with themes of friendship, identity, and acceptance.
30) Rurouni Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin, created by Nobuhiro Watsuki, premiered in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1994. The series quickly gained recognition for its unique blend of historical fiction and the Meiji era setting.
Set in the aftermath of the Bakumatsu, Rurouni Kenshin follows the journey of Himura Kenshin, a wandering swordsman who vows to atone for his past as an assassin. Kenshin’s commitment to peace and his conflict with former enemies who seek revenge form the core of the story.