The long-awaited “Rurouni Kenshin: Hokkaido Arc” manga is set to resume serialization in Shueisha’s Jump SQ. magazine on July 4, 2025. This return marks the end of an extended hiatus that began in May 2024, attributed to the poor health of author Nobuhiro Watsuki.
A Journey to the North
The “Hokkaido Arc” serves as a direct sequel to the original “Rurouni Kenshin” manga, continuing the tale of Himura Kenshin and his companions in 1883 Japan. The story sees Kenshin, now married to Kamiya Kaoru and a father to Himura Kenji, embarking on a new adventure. Their journey to the northern island of Hokkaido is prompted by the unexpected discovery of a photograph featuring Kaoru’s father, Kamiya Koshijirō, who was presumed dead in the Seinan War.
As the group delves into the mystery of Koshijirō’s whereabouts, they encounter new allies and formidable adversaries, including the enigmatic Kenkaku Heiki. The arc also features the return of fan-favorite characters such as Saito Hajime and Sagara Sanosuke, with Myōjin Yahiko entrusted with the Kamiya Kasshin-ryū dojo in Kenshin’s absence. Notably, Kenshin, whose body is deteriorating from the continuous use of the Hiten Mitsurugi style, receives his reverse-bladed katana back from Yahiko, signaling his continued resolve to protect those in need.
A History of Hiatuses
The “Hokkaido Arc” initially began its monthly serialization in Jump SQ. in September 2017. However, its publication history has been punctuated by several pauses. A significant hiatus occurred in December 2017 after Nobuhiro Watsuki was charged with possession of child pornography. Shueisha suspended the series, which later resumed in June 2018. Following this, the manga experienced further breaks, including one in June 2021 that concluded in August of the same year. The most recent hiatus, which began in June 2024, was officially announced in September 2024 as being due to Watsuki’s poor health.
Despite these interruptions, “Rurouni Kenshin” remains a highly popular and influential manga series, boasting over 72 million copies in circulation worldwide. Its enduring appeal has led to numerous adaptations, including a 95-episode TV anime series, anime films, original video animation projects, and a successful series of live-action films.
The resumption of the “Hokkaido Arc” is eagerly anticipated by fans, promising to continue the beloved narrative of Himura Kenshin’s ongoing quest for atonement and justice in Meiji-era Japan.
