Japanese manga culture has been attracting people all over the world with its unique settings and characters. Based in Narita Airport, Japan’s sky gateway to the world, the Fa-So-La AKIHABARA editor team has also been keeping its eye on the latest manga trends while taking part in spreading the amazing culture.

In this article, we would like to introduce four of our recommended works. All of them are promising new works which 1) are currently featured as serialized works in manga magazines and 2) are at most six volume publications, so use this as a reference if you are looking for what manga to read next!

Kagurabachi

©Takeru Hokazono / Shueisha Inc.

Kagurabachi is a sword battle manga depicting the destiny of young Chihiro, who aspires to be a swordsmith. Chihiro was spending his days training under his swordsmith father, but his happy days crumble due to a sudden tragic event. With fierce hatred and determination, he sets out on a new journey.

[Comments from the Editorial Team] “Solidly structured action scenes and swords that always appeal to boys’ hearts—the setting and the Enchanted Blades really hit the sweet spot for each of us, who will always be kids at heart. It will undoubtedly be a huge hit that will lead the next generation of Jump manga!”

RuriDragon

©Masaoki Shindo / Shueisha Inc.

RuriDragon is a school fantasy manga depicting the daily life of Ruri, a half-human/half-dragon high school girl. Despite becoming bewildered by the things that she experiences as a half-dragon, such as horns that suddenly started growing and involuntary blowing of fire, the way she tries to live her life with a positive attitude is very endearing.

[Comments from the Editorial Team] “The combination of the protagonist’s realistic struggles and the school fantasy that revolves around mystical powers is so captivating! The lively depiction of the characters is also remarkable.”

The Long Summer of August 31

The Long Summer of August 31 / Ikkado Ito / Kodansha Ltd.

The Long Summer of August 31 is a story of Suzuki and Takagi, two high schoolers who are trapped in a time loop on the final day of their summer vacation. It masterfully depicts the nostalgic feeling of the special time at the end of summer, as well as the delicate emotional subtleties of young people.

[Comments from the Editorial Team] “The nonchalant vibe of Suzuki and Takagi, despite the fact that they are being trapped in a time loop, is quite fascinating. Can’t get our eyes off the relationship between the two that changes gradually as they repeat Augst 31!”

Dragon and Chameleon

©Ryo Ishiyama / Square Enix

Dragon and Chameleon is a story which depicts the intertwining destinies of Garyo Hanagami, a manga phenomenon boasting accumulated sales of over 150 million copies, and Shinobu Miyama, an obscure manga artist who envies Hanagami. Their bodies switch in an accident. An unprecedented creative battle for their own bodies and pride begins.

[Comments from the Editorial Team] “The latest work from a popular manga artist, Ryo Ishiyama. A legendary artist and an obscure artist switch bodies! The way Garyo stays committed to creating amazing works without ever giving up even when he is in the body of an obscure artist is just inspirational. A truly compelling manga battle story!”

All these four recommended works will draw you into the world of the story as you follow the struggles and growth of the characters. Why not pick them up at bookstores, manga cafés, etc. and enjoy the latest Manga culture when you come to Japan?

■DATA Kagurabachi Official website: https://www.shonenjump.com/j/rensai/kagurabachi.html RuriDragon Official website: https://www.shonenjump.com/j/rensai/ruri.html The Long Summer of August 31 Official website: https://morning.kodansha.co.jp/c/831longsummer.html Dragon and Chameleon Official website: https://magazine.jp.square-enix.com/joker/series/ryutochamaeleon/ (Information as of February 2025)

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