The popular gag comedy manga, Snack Basue, created by Forbidden Shibukawa, is set to conclude its run in Weekly Young Jump magazine on May 29, 2025. This marks the end of a delightful series that has charmed readers with its slice-of-life humor centered around a unique Sapporo bar.
A Sapporo Staple Closes Its Doors
Snack Basue first launched in Shueisha’s Weekly Young Jump in July 2017, quickly gaining a dedicated following. The manga revolves around a “snack,” a type of bar common in Japan, located in Sapporo’s North 24th neighborhood. This particular snack is run by the endearing Mama Basue and her junior proprietor, and the manga chronicles the lives and humorous interactions of the bar’s staff, quirky regulars, and occasional walk-ins.
From Page to Screen
The manga’s success led to an anime television series adaptation that premiered in January 2024. Animated by Studio Puyukai, the anime brought the comedic world of Snack Basue to life with vibrant animation and engaging voice acting. Crunchyroll streamed the anime as it aired in Japan, making it accessible to international audiences.
Forbidden Shibukawa’s Creation
Snack Basue is the brainchild of Forbidden Shibukawa, who has been writing and illustrating the series since its inception. Shibukawa’s unique storytelling and comedic timing have made the manga a standout title in Weekly Young Jump. The series has been compiled into 17 tankōbon volumes, with the latest volume released on May 19, 2025.
What is a “Snack” Anyway?
For those unfamiliar with Japanese nightlife culture, a “snack” (sunakku) is a type of bar that’s distinct from the typical izakaya or Western-style bar. Snacks are generally smaller, more intimate establishments, often run by a female owner affectionately known as “Mama-san.” They provide a cozy and friendly atmosphere where patrons can enjoy drinks, light snacks, karaoke, and conversation. Snacks are an integral part of Japanese after-work culture, offering a place for relaxation and community.
The World of Snack Basue
- Basue: The owner and Mama-san of Snack Basue. She provides a mature and grounded presence, often acting as a foil to Akemi’s antics.
- Akemi: The young and energetic hostess who brings a lot of humor to the bar. She’s known for her quick wit and sometimes harsh but honest advice to the bar’s patrons.
- Yamada: A mild-mannered regular who frequents Snack Basue.
- Morita: A recurring character known for his odd behavior and often becoming the target of Akemi’s jokes.
A Look Back at the Anime
The Snack Basue anime adaptation, directed by Minoru Ashina, captured the essence of the manga’s humor and slice-of-life storytelling. The anime series aired from January 13 to March 30, 2024, consisting of 13 episodes.
Standout Features of the Anime:
- Animation Style: The animation, handled by Studio Puyukai, embraced a unique and somewhat retro style, reminiscent of mid-2000s Adult Swim shows or old-school Flash animations. This distinctive visual approach added to the series’ charm and comedic appeal.
- Voice Acting: The voice actors delivered stellar performances, bringing the characters to life with their comedic timing and expressive delivery. Rie Takahashi as Akemi and Kimiko Saitō as Basue were particularly praised for their roles.
- Humor: The humor in Snack Basue is heavily dialogue-driven, with jokes often revolving around everyday situations, cultural references, and the interactions between the characters. The series frequently breaks the fourth wall, adding another layer to its comedic style.
- Karaoke Endings: Each episode concludes with karaoke performances by the characters, adding a fun and musical element to the series.
Reception and Reviews
Snack Basue has received mixed reviews, with some praising its unique humor, animation style, and character interactions, while others found it less engaging due to its heavy reliance on dialogue and niche cultural references.
Positive Points:
- Unique and Quirky: Many reviewers appreciated the series’ distinctive style and unconventional humor, which set it apart from other anime comedies.
- Character-Driven: The characters were generally well-received, with Akemi and Basue’s dynamic being a highlight for many viewers.
- Slice-of-Life Charm: The anime captured the cozy and relatable atmosphere of a Japanese snack bar, offering a glimpse into the lives of its patrons.
Criticisms:
- Niche Humor: Some viewers found the humor too specific to Japanese culture, making it difficult to fully appreciate some of the jokes and references.
- Dialogue-Heavy: The series’ reliance on dialogue might not appeal to those who prefer more visual or action-oriented comedies.
- Slow Pace: The slice-of-life nature of the show means that the plot moves at a leisurely pace, which might not suit all viewers’ tastes.
The Legacy of Snack Basue
As Snack Basue prepares to serve its final chapter, the series leaves behind a legacy of laughter and heartwarming moments. Its unique portrayal of Japanese snack culture and its cast of memorable characters have resonated with readers and viewers alike. While the manga may be ending, the spirit of Snack Basue and its quirky patrons will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series, be sure to raise a glass to Snack Basue as it concludes its run on May 29th. It’s been a fun and memorable ride filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a glimpse into the unique world of a Sapporo snack bar.
