Suzuhito Yasuda’s beloved manga series, Yozakura Quartet, is set to conclude with its next volume, marking the end of a remarkable 19-year run. The announcement came with the release of the 33rd volume, signaling the approaching finale for fans who have followed the supernatural adventures in Sakurashin.
A Supernatural Saga Comes to a Close
Yozakura Quartet launched in January 2006 in Kodansha’s Monthly Shonen Sirius magazine, quickly captivating readers with its blend of action, supernatural elements, and engaging characters. The series follows the Hiizumi Life Counseling Office, a group of four teenagers—Hime, Akina, Ao, and Kotoha—each possessing unique abilities. Together, they protect the town of Sakurashin, a place where humans and yokai (supernatural beings) coexist.
The news of the manga’s ending might feel bittersweet for longtime fans. The series entered its final arc in December 2022, giving readers a glimpse of the approaching conclusion. Now, with the 33rd volume in stores, the promise of a final, 34th volume solidifies the end of this era.
What is Yozakura Quartet About?
Yozakura Quartet is more than just a supernatural action series; it’s a story about community, responsibility, and the balance between different worlds. The main characters and their roles are:
- Hime Yarizakura: A dragon yokai and the mayor of Sakurashin, Hime is a strong and charismatic leader, dedicated to protecting her town.
- Akina Hiizumi: A human with the ability to “tune” yokai, returning them to their world. Akina serves as a crucial mediator between the human and yokai populations.
- Ao Nanami: A satori with telepathic abilities, Ao can read minds, making her an invaluable asset in understanding the intentions of others.
- Kotoha Isone: A half-human, half-yokai with the power to conjure objects with her words, Kotoha brings creativity and versatility to the team.
Together, they manage the Hiizumi Life Counseling Office, addressing the various problems and threats that arise in Sakurashin. The town itself is protected by a barrier created by the spiritual sakura, known as the Seven Pillars, which connect the human and yokai worlds. The series explores the challenges of maintaining this connection and the consequences of disrupting the balance.
A Look Back at the Anime Adaptations
The manga’s popularity led to several anime adaptations, further expanding its fanbase:
- Yozakura Quartet (2008): A 12-episode television anime series that introduced the world and characters to a wider audience.
- Yozakura Quartet ~Hana no Uta~ (2013): A 13-episode television anime series that served as a reboot, offering a fresh take on the story with improved animation and a more faithful adaptation of the manga.
- Yozakura Quartet ~Hoshi no Umi~ (2010-2011): A three-episode original video animation (OVA) series that delved deeper into specific arcs of the manga.
- Yozakura Quartet ~Tsuki ni Naku~ (2013-2014): Another three-episode OVA series that continued to explore the manga’s rich narrative.
For fans interested in experiencing the story through animation, these adaptations offer different perspectives and visual interpretations of Yasuda’s work. However, those seeking the complete and definitive story should turn to the manga.
Suzuhito Yasuda: More Than Just Yozakura Quartet
Suzuhito Yasuda is a multifaceted artist known for his character designs and illustrations in various other popular series, including:
- Durarara!!
- Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?
- Devil Survivor
- DIVE!!
- Ai: Tenchi Muyo!
Yasuda’s distinctive art style and character designs have left a lasting impact on the anime and manga landscape. In addition to Yozakura Quartet, he is also currently working on the Bootsleg manga, serialized in the same Monthly Shonen Sirius magazine.
English Release and Where to Read
For English-speaking fans, Kodansha USA Publishing is releasing Yozakura Quartet. They describe the series as:
Hime is a superheroine. Ao can read minds. Kotoha can conjure up anything with the right word. And Akina … well, he’s just a regular guy, surrounded by three supergirls! Together, they protect the town of Sakurashin. But that’s not easy, as the town faces demon dogs and other supernatural threats!
Kodansha USA initially released the manga digitally and is now making it accessible to a broader audience.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Yokai and Friendship
As Yozakura Quartet approaches its final volume, it’s a time for fans to reflect on the series’ impact and enduring appeal. From its engaging characters and supernatural world to its themes of community and responsibility, Yozakura Quartet has offered readers a rich and immersive experience. While the end of the manga marks the close of a chapter, the stories and characters of Sakurashin will undoubtedly continue to resonate with fans for years to come. Be sure to grab the final volume to see how the adventures of Hime, Akina, Ao, and Kotoha conclude and to bid farewell to this beloved series.
