The industry currently faces a crossroads. A shrinking, aging population means the domestic market is tightening, forcing companies to look outward. This has led to a surge in collaborations with platforms like Netflix and the global "simulcasting" of anime.
Manga, Japan's equivalent of comics, has a similarly impressive history. With roots dating back to the 19th century, manga has become a beloved form of entertainment, with many titles being adapted into anime series, films, and live-action productions. The works of renowned manga artists like Osamu Tezuka, Toriyama Akira, and Takehiko Inoue have gained international recognition, further solidifying manga's place in Japanese popular culture.
