The manga series Tsukimonogakari, penned by Kyoichi Nanatsuki and illustrated by Manyo Asahi, has concluded its run. The final chapter was published on Shogakukan’s Sunday Webry manga app on Saturday, January 25, 2025, marking the end of the supernatural police action series.
End of the Line for the 7th Division
Nanatsuki confirmed the ending of the manga through their X (formerly Twitter) account, stating that the published chapter 17, part 2, would be the series’ finale. Tsukimonogakari first launched on Sunday Webry in October 2022, captivating readers with its blend of police procedural and supernatural elements.
Story Synopsis: Battling Possessed Criminals
Tsukimonogakari revolves around the exploits of the “7th Division,” a specialized unit within the police force tasked with handling bizarre cases involving criminals possessed by malevolent spirits. The manga follows a group of young officers blessed with unique abilities as they collaborate to solve these supernatural mysteries and protect the innocent from otherworldly threats.
A Collaborative Creation
Kyoichi Nanatsuki is the writer behind Tsukimonogakari, while Manyo Asahi provides the artwork. This collaboration brought to life the world of the 7th Division and its battles against supernatural crime.
Nanatsuki’s Previous Works
Nanatsuki is also known for Project ARMS, a manga he created with artist Ryōji Minagawa, which ran in Weekly Shonen Sunday from 1997 to 2002. Project ARMS was a successful series, spanning 22 volumes and receiving an English release by Viz Media between 2003 and 2009. It was adapted into a 26-episode anime series in 2001, followed by a second season, Project ARMS: The 2nd Chapter, which also consisted of 26 episodes and aired in 2001-2002. Discotek Media later relicensed both anime seasons in 2017, releasing them on home video. Nanatsuki also launched the Dragon Bugyō manga in June 2024.
Manga Details
Tsukimonogakari was serialized on Shogakukan’s Sunday Webry manga app, providing a digital platform for readers to follow the series. Shogakukan published three compiled book volumes of the manga:
- First volume: July 2023
- Second volume: November 2023
- Third volume: July 2024
What is Sunday Webry?
Sunday Webry is Shogakukan’s online manga platform, offering a variety of digital manga series to readers. It serves as a hub for both established and emerging manga artists, providing a space for diverse storytelling and artistic expression.
Supernatural Themes in Manga
Tsukimonogakari‘s focus on a police division dealing with supernatural cases aligns with a popular subgenre within manga. This theme allows for creative storytelling, blending elements of crime investigation with fantastical and horror elements. Other manga also explore the idea of police or specialized organizations dealing with paranormal activities.
Examples of Similar Manga
Tokyo ESP: A high school student gains psychic powers and uses them to fight against others with similar abilities.
Blue Exorcist: A teenager discovers he is the son of Satan and trains to become an exorcist to defeat his father.
GeGeGe no Kitaro: A classic series featuring a yokai (supernatural creature) who solves paranormal mysteries.
Reception and Impact
While specific reviews and broader critical reception of Tsukimonogakari are not widely available, the series has garnered attention for its unique premise and the creative team behind it. The combination of Nanatsuki’s writing and Asahi’s art style likely contributed to its appeal among fans of supernatural and action-oriented manga.
The Appeal of Supernatural Manga
The popularity of supernatural themes in manga stems from the blend of escapism and exploration of deeper themes. These stories often delve into questions of morality, the nature of good and evil, and the human condition, all while offering thrilling action and imaginative world-building.
The Future for Nanatsuki and Asahi
With Tsukimonogakari concluded, fans are eager to see what projects Kyoichi Nanatsuki and Manyo Asahi will pursue next. Nanatsuki’s track record with series like Project ARMS suggests he will continue to be a prominent figure in the manga industry. Asahi’s artistic talent will also be sought after for future collaborations.
Expectations for Future Works
Kyoichi Nanatsuki: Given his history in both action and supernatural genres, Nanatsuki may explore new stories within these realms or venture into different narrative styles.
Manyo Asahi: Asahi’s art style will likely be a valuable asset to any future projects, whether collaborating with Nanatsuki again or working with other writers.
A Growing Trend of Manga Adaptations
The success of Project Arms as an anime demonstrates the potential for manga to be adapted into other media formats. While there is no news of Tsukimonogakari getting an anime adaptation, it is always a possibility if there is enough fan interest. The manga industry continues to thrive, with many titles gaining international recognition through digital platforms and translations.
The Influence of Digital Platforms
Platforms like Shogakukan’s Sunday Webry play a crucial role in expanding the reach of manga and connecting creators with a wider audience. Digital distribution has made it easier for readers to access a variety of titles and for creators to share their work globally.
Conclusion: A Chapter Closed
Tsukimonogakari has reached its conclusion, leaving behind a story of supernatural crime-solving and teamwork. While the series may be over, its impact on readers and the contributions of Kyoichi Nanatsuki and Manyo Asahi to the manga world will be remembered. Fans can look forward to their future endeavors and the new stories they will bring to life.
