Search for a Graphic Novel/Manga set in Japan

[mikeydangerous]

I'm looking for a really good manga or graphic novel set in modern Japan. I've got a real yearning for it, but I don't want to get thrown into something huge. I don't want anything really long like Bleach or Naruto unless it is the best of the best, but more like something that could be compared with Tokyo Godfathers, or Lost in Translation, or even a Miyazaki movie or Murakami book.

Some of my favorite western comics are Preacher, Transmetropolitan, Sandman, and Strangers in Paradise, just to give an idea of my tastes.

Can anybody help?

 

[Omphalos]

Akira.

Why wont this silly thing let me post a message that is less than seven characters? how stupid.

 

[Connavar]

Death Note - a supernatural,twisted sort of a mystery. Its one of the darkest mangas there is. It has ended too.

Crying Freeman by legendary artist Kazou Koike.

Hajime No Ippo - its about boxers in modern japan. It has alot fighting but most its famous for its great characters,drama,humor.


Really there are many quality manga that arent huge,teenage series like Naruto and co. As many others who might be set in europe,another different type of world who are worth reading.

If you like Vertigo comics like the ones you mentioned then i recommend going after famous Seinan manga, thats more adult.

Monster,Berserk,Full Metal Alchemist,Death Note,Lone Wolf and Cub,Vagabond etc

 

[Overread]

"Miyazaki movie"
I know its not set in modern times, but a little know fact is that there is a great mange for Nausicaa Valley of the Wind - which is easily out now in the UK and (most likley) US markets. It's well worth reading and contains a lot that was not in the film (as well as some big story line changes - the world is now a lot lot bigger)

 

[DeepThought]

I'll second Conn's recommendations. Especially Fullmetal Alchemist and Berserk. Though the latter is set in a European medieval style world.