Masami Yuuki’s historical manga, Shinkurō, Hashiru!, is entering its final arc, marking a significant moment for fans of the series. The 20th compiled book volume, set to release on July 11, will usher in the concluding chapter of this engaging historical saga.
A Journey Through the Sengoku Period
Shinkurō, Hashiru! (“Shinkurō, Run!”) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Masami Yuuki. The manga follows the life of Ise Shinkurō Moritoki, who later becomes Hōjō Sōun, the founder of the Later Hōjō clan. This clan was one of the most powerful samurai families during the Sengoku period, a time of significant upheaval and warfare in Japanese history.
The series offers a unique perspective on Hōjō Sōun’s rise to power. Rather than focusing on well-known figures like Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, Yuuki delves into the story of a man who paved his own path during the early stages of this tumultuous era. The manga portrays Shinkurō as a member of the Ise clan holding a public office within the Muromachi Shogunate, chronicling his journey to becoming a feudal lord.
Publication History
Shinkurō, Hashiru! first appeared in Shogakukan’s Monthly Big Comic Spirits magazine on January 27, 2018, where it ran until October 26, 2019. It then moved to Weekly Big Comic Spirits on January 11, 2020, continuing its serialization. Shogakukan has compiled the manga into tankōbon volumes, with the first volume released on August 9, 2018. As of March 12, 2025, 19 volumes have been published.
Masami Yuuki: A Master Storyteller
Masami Yuuki, born Shūji Satō on December 19, 1957, is a renowned Japanese manga artist known for his diverse works and contributions to the manga industry. He is a member of the artist group Headgear. Yuuki’s notable works include Mobile Police Patlabor, which won the 36th Shogakukan Manga Award for shōnen in 1991. He has also designed the avatar mascot for the Vocaloid Gumi.
Other notable works by Yuuki include:
- Birdy the Mighty
- Assemble Insert
- Atom: The Beginning
- Jaja Uma Grooming Up!
What to Expect in the Final Arc
As Shinkurō, Hashiru! enters its final arc, readers can anticipate a compelling conclusion to the story of Ise Shinkurō’s transformation into Hōjō Sōun. The arc will likely explore the culmination of his strategies, alliances, and personal growth as he navigates the complexities of the Sengoku period. Key plot points may include:
- Political Maneuvering: Shinkurō’s strategies to gain power and influence within the Muromachi Shogunate and beyond.
- Military Conflicts: Battles and skirmishes that test Shinkurō’s leadership and tactical abilities.
- Personal Relationships: The impact of alliances, friendships, and rivalries on Shinkurō’s journey.
- Legacy: How Shinkurō establishes the foundation for the Later Hōjō clan and its future dominance.
Reception and Legacy
Shinkurō, Hashiru! has garnered attention for its unique portrayal of a lesser-known historical figure and its detailed depiction of the Sengoku period. The manga is appreciated for its fresh interpretation of historical events and characters. As the series concludes, it is expected to leave a lasting impact on the historical manga genre, enriching readers’ understanding of the Sengoku era through the eyes of Hōjō Sōun.
