Top 9 Japanese Martial Arts Novels with Reincarnation in 2026
Reincarnation gives martial arts stories an interesting twist: the protagonist carries technique knowledge or muscle memory from a previous life into a new body. This creates a different dynamic than pure weak-to-strong since the MC has skill but needs to rebuild physical capability to express it.
Japanese martial arts reincarnation tends toward smaller scale than Chinese murim regression. The protagonist might have been a master in their past life, but they're working toward becoming regionally notable rather than world-shaking. The fights stay grounded and technical. These nine rated well, though this is a narrow niche with limited options.
Ranked Novels
- 1TOP PICK
Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken (WN)
4.2(1.5K ratings)Genre: action, adventure, comedy
A man is stabbed by a robber on the run after pushing his coworker and his coworker’s new fiance out of the way. As he lays dying, bleeding on the ground, he hears a voice.
First Impressions
Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken, or Slime Isekai as it's often called, is a web novel that I dove into with a good deal of anticipation, given its popularity and numerous adaptations. Overall, I found it to be a mixed bag, with some truly enjoyable elements weighed down by some frustrating shortcomings. The initial premise – a salaryman reincarnated as a slime – is undeniably intriguing. The early chapters are engaging, and I was quickly drawn into Rimuru's efforts to build a life and community in this new world. The idea of a slime, of all things, becoming a powerful leader and nation-builder ...
2RUNNER UPOtome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival (LN)
4.5(414 ratings)Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
A girl Alicia lived as an orphan in a world of sword and magic Ciel. One day, she learned that she was an “otome game’s heroine”.
First Impressions
"Otome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival" certainly grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise. We're thrown into a world that initially feels like a typical otome game setting, but quickly veers off the beaten path. Alicia, our heroine, isn't interested in romance; her primary focus is survival. I was immediately drawn in by the promise of a protagonist who prioritizes strength and skill over capturing the hearts of potential love interests. What I appreciated most was the subversion of otome game tropes. Instead of the usual focus on romance, we get a hardcore leveling-up story. Alic...
3HIGHLY RECOMMENDEDBu ni Mi wo Sasagete Hyaku to Yonen. Elf de Yarinaosu Musha Shugyou (WN)
4.0(236 ratings)Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Slava is an old man. On the verge of death, he has only two regrets; not perfecting his Martial Arts that had been passed down by his Master, and leaving his adopted daughter, as well as disciple, the Elf Alma, alone.
First Impressions
This web novel, with its rather lengthy title, piqued my interest with its reincarnation premise and martial arts focus. The core idea of a martial arts master getting a second chance in the same world, only to encounter his former disciple, is undeniably intriguing. Overall, it seems to be a fun read for those who enjoy the martial arts genre. My initial impression, much like others, was positive. The setup is well-executed. The MC's reincarnation is unique because he's reborn into the same world, just years later. This creates a compelling dynamic, especially with the lingering presence of h...
- 4EDITORS CHOICE
The Traveling Hero Won’t Let the Innkeeper’s Son Escape
4.0(156 ratings)Genre: adventure, fantasy, martial arts
In a village that is like the “First Village”, lived the innkeeper’s son, Ruth. In his previous life he had no affinity to women because he was a burly man but since he has become a handsome youth in this life, he is going to do his best (However, he still isn’t popular at all).
First Impressions
This novel has definitely been a ride! "The Traveling Hero Won’t Let the Innkeeper’s Son Escape" is a blend of adventure, fantasy, and a healthy dose of romance, creating a world that's easy to get lost in. I went in expecting a lighthearted fantasy, and while it has its moments, I found myself grappling with some serious issues alongside the characters. Initially, I was charmed by the premise and the characters. Ruth, the innkeeper's son, is undeniably endearing. His good-natured personality and oblivious charm made him an easy character to root for. The world-building is also quite well done...
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5EDITORS CHOICEI Was Reincarnated as a Nameless Combatant in a Japanese-style Fantasy Depressive Erotic Game, but the Women Around Me Are All Dangerous, and I Have a Bad Feeling about It
4.2(226 ratings)Genre: action, adventure, drama
Apparently, I was reincarnated as a nameless mob in a Japanese fantasy game. …and the genre of the game is a depressive game with eroticism and gore.
First Impressions
This title is certainly a mouthful, and the story mostly lives up to the hype. I went in expecting a dark, gritty tale with a dense protagonist, and that's largely what I got. It's a wild ride through a Japanese-style fantasy world filled with yokai, exorcists, and a whole lot of danger. My initial reaction was definitely intrigue. The premise is unique: a reincarnation into a brutal game world as a nobody. The early chapters do a decent job of setting the stage, introducing the harsh realities of this world and the protagonist's precarious position within it. I immediately felt the oppressive...
- 6#6 PICK
Chronicle Legion – The Road of Conquest
4.1(104 ratings)Genre: action, ecchi, fantasy
An encounter between a princess and a young man, resolved to defy destiny…!! In the late 20th century, due to the invasion led by the resurrected ancient Roman hero, Caesar, Imperial Japan has fallen under the neighboring Eastern Roman Empire’s rule in all but name only!
First Impressions
"Chronicle Legion – The Road of Conquest" is definitely a novel that evokes strong reactions, and after diving in, I can see why. It's a blend of genres – action, fantasy, harem, mecha, and more – creating a unique but sometimes uneven experience. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise of a protagonist with amnesia navigating a world steeped in historical and legendary figures. The idea of strategic battles and the slow reveal of the MC's past held promise. However, I also approached it with caution, knowing that harem elements can sometimes overshadow other aspects of a story....
- 7#7 PICK
Bu ni Mi wo Sasagete Hyaku to Yonen. Elf de Yarinaosu Musha Shugyou (LN)
4.2(119 ratings)Genre: action, comedy, fantasy
Slava is an old man. On the verge of death, he has only two regrets; not perfecting his Martial Arts that had been passed down by his Master, and leaving his adopted daughter, as well as disciple, the Elf Alma, alone.
First Impressions
This web novel, "Bu ni Mi wo Sasagete Hyaku to Yonen. Elf de Yarinaosu Musha Shugyou (LN)," presents an intriguing premise: a reincarnated martial arts master starting a new life as an elf. With a blend of action, comedy, and fantasy, it certainly piqued my interest. However, after diving into the available content, I've formed a somewhat mixed opinion. The initial chapters definitely grabbed me. The idea of an experienced warrior navigating the world as a young elf is inherently appealing. I was eager to see how the protagonist, Slava, would utilize his past life's skills and knowledge in thi...
8#8 PICKCuckold Wizard’s Adventure
3.7(354 ratings)Genre: adult, adventure, fantasy
A new member joins the adventuring team of a boy swordsman, a female priest, and a female ranger. The new member is a male wizard.
First Impressions
Alright, let's dive into the rather… uniquely titled "Cuckold Wizard’s Adventure." Going in, I was prepared for something pretty specific, and honestly, the novel delivers on its promise, for better or worse. This isn't your typical fantasy adventure, so buckle up. My initial reaction was a mix of intrigue and apprehension. The premise is certainly bold, focusing on netori (stealing lovers) rather than netorare (being cheated on). The "cuckold" in the title is definitely a bit of a misnomer, as the MC, Shinji, is the one doing the "cucking," not experiencing it himself. If you're sensitive to ...
- 9#9 PICK
Demon Sword Master of the Holy Sword Academy
3.7(77 ratings)Genre: action, comedy, ecchi
In the fantasy story, the demon king Leonis sealed himself away for 1,000 years in order to prepare for the final battle, but when he woke up, he found himself in the body of a 10-year-old boy. A beautiful young woman named Lisellia from the Holy Sword Academy then says to him, “Why were you loc...
First Impressions
Alright, let's dive into Demon Sword Master of the Holy Sword Academy. I went in with relatively open expectations, knowing it was a completed series and a popular one at that. I can definitely see why some people are drawn to it, but it also has some pretty glaring flaws that held it back from being a true standout for me. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise. The whole academy setting combined with demon swords and holy swords sounded like a recipe for some epic battles and interesting character dynamics. The artwork, especially, is quite appealing and definitely a strong point in drawi...
Conclusion
Reincarnated martial arts offers skill-based progression where the challenge is rebuilding a body worthy of existing technique knowledge. The combination is uncommon in Japanese fiction, so this list represents most of the notable examples rather than highlights from a large field.
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Last updated: January 27, 2026 | Rankings reflect data collected through 2026