Many readers often assume that action-packed shonen or dark fantasy manga filled with intense battles are mostly created by male authors. However, the truth proves otherwise, as numerous iconic manga classics have been brought to life by the creative hands of female mangaka.
These works have not only become legendary series with hugely successful anime adaptations but have also built massive fan communities around the world.
Let’s take a look at seven famous titles whose true creators might surprise you.
1. Fullmetal Alchemist (Hiromu Arakawa)
If you’re a shonen fan, you’re surely familiar with the journey of brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they try to regain their bodies after a failed forbidden alchemy experiment. What starts as an adventure story gradually unfolds into a massive political and military conspiracy.
The genius behind this masterpiece is female mangaka Hiromu Arakawa. Besides Fullmetal Alchemist, she is also known for Silver Spoon and The Heroic Legend of Arslan. Currently, she is working on the series Daemons of the Shadow Realm, which has also been announced for an anime adaptation.
2. Dorohedoro (Q Hayashida)
For fans of brutal dark fantasy, Dorohedoro is a must-read. The story follows Caiman, a lizard-headed man with amnesia, desperately hunting sorcerers to find the one who cursed him.
This work is by Q Hayashida, a female mangaka famous for her unique art style and bizarre world-building. Her signature blend of bloody horror and dark humor stands out. She is currently creating Dai Dark, which maintains the same eerie and strange tone.
3. Blue Exorcist (Kazue Kato)
Blue Exorcist is a supernatural action manga by female author Kazue Kato. It tells the story of Rin Okumura, a teenager who discovers he is the son of Satan and decides to become an exorcist to fight his grim fate.
Kazue Kato first gained attention with the one-shot Robo to Usakichi in 2005 before launching Blue Exorcist in Jump Square magazine in 2009. After a break, the series returned and as of early 2026, the story is reportedly in its final arc.
4. Delicious in Dungeon (Ryoko Kui)
Delicious in Dungeon (Dungeon Meshi) offers a fresh take on dungeon-themed manga. Instead of just fighting monsters, Laios and his group survive by cooking and eating the monsters they defeat.
Female author Ryoko Kui developed this idea from her picky eating habits and passion for drawing monsters. The manga ran from 2014 to 2023, received great feedback, and was adapted into an anime by Studio Trigger in 2024, now available on Netflix.
5. Mushishi (Yuki Urushibara)
Running from 1999 to 2008, Mushishi by female mangaka Yuki Urushibara is an emotional, reflective journey. It follows Ginko, a “Mushi Master” who helps people troubled by mysterious creatures called Mushi.
The series won prestigious awards including the Excellence Award at the 2003 Japan Media Arts Festival and the Kodansha Manga Award in 2006.
6. The Case Study of Vanitas (Jun Mochizuki)
This dark fantasy about vampires is the captivating work of female author Jun Mochizuki. It tells the story of Noé, a vampire searching for the “Vanitas Manuscript,” and Vanitas, a mysterious human who uses the book to heal cursed vampires.
Jun Mochizuki previously achieved great success with Pandora Hearts. She is known for detailed artwork, complex, puzzle-like plots, and deep character relationships.
7. Inuyasha (Rumiko Takahashi)
Inuyasha is one of the iconic fantasy action manga of the 1990s. Its creator is none other than the legendary Rumiko Takahashi, one of the most successful female mangaka of all time.
The journey of modern girl Kagome and half-demon Inuyasha searching for the Shikon Jewel shards during the Sengoku period has become a cherished memory for many generations. Takahashi is famous for masterfully blending action, humor, and romance in one story.