Current Status Report20250727

Hi, This is muchi.

Why did Japan become a manga superpower?

This is a question I’m still often asked today, especially by those outside the industry.

One answer I like to give is this: Japan has cultivated an environment where women can continue creating. In fact, when it comes to manga—and otaku culture more broadly—it’s undeniably women creators who have sustained and expanded the scene.

When I was a child, it always felt like more girls than boys were drawn to illustration. There are, of course, many reasons for that. But what happens if that interest continues to grow? Do they attend art school? Not necessarily. For most, it’s not something they’re ready to stake their whole lives on. Nor do they imagine drawing as a lifelong calling or hobby.

And so, usually, that creative spark quietly fades away.

But Japan had something different. Small-scale events. And local print shops.

Not commercial publishers, but the kind of neighborhood printers who would gladly take on small runs, funded by a student’s allowance or part-time job wages.

There were people—especially girls—who had the skill to draw, the desire to create, but not the intention to turn it into a career. Still, perhaps for just one fleeting moment, they felt a spark. A wave of emotion. A sudden obsession. Or even a passing whim.

And in Japan, there existed a subtle, almost trap-like opportunity to just try—to turn that feeling into a printed book. To put it out into the world.

And from that quiet pile of scattered personal expression… came the potential to move countless others.

Volume is power.

That, I believe, is one of the reasons why Japan became a manga superpower.

Recently, one of those small print shops—responsible for helping so many people bring their “I just want to try making something” dreams to life—was forced to shut down. There were various reasons, but a devastating earthquake was the final blow. It’s heartbreaking.

Nowadays, of course, you can post your work online and share it with the world instantly. But 20 years ago, I wrote a novel with no clue what I was doing. I walked into a neighborhood print shop, also completely clueless. And there was a staff member who kindly and patiently explained everything to me. I still remember that.

And I think it was that small first step that eventually led me to being able to share my work with all of you today.

So I hope to keep creating—earnestly, always.😙