Two titans of the manga world, Kazuhiro Fujita and Kazuhiko Shimamoto, are set to launch brand-new manga series in the upcoming issue of Shogakukan’s Weekly Shonen Sunday on May 7th, 2025. This announcement has sent ripples of excitement throughout the manga community, promising fresh stories from creators with decades of experience and legions of dedicated fans. Let’s dive into what we know about these exciting new projects and the celebrated careers of these influential artists.
Kazuhiro Fujita’s Silver Mountain: A Journey to Martial Arts Mastery
Kazuhiro Fujita, best known for his action-packed and emotionally resonant series Ushio & Tora and Karakuri Circus, will be launching Silver Mountain (銀嶺 Ginrei). The story centers around a young boy who is spirited away by a Tengu, a long-nosed goblin of Japanese folklore, to a mystical, enchanted land. This is a world unlike any he has ever known, where those who yearn for true existence strive to reach the pinnacle of martial arts.
A Glimpse into the Plot
While details are still emerging, the core concept of Silver Mountain hints at a blend of fantasy, action, and themes of self-discovery. The protagonist’s journey to master martial arts in a fantastical realm evokes classic shonen manga tropes, but with Fujita’s signature flair for compelling characters and intricate world-building. The synopsis suggests a world where the pursuit of martial prowess is intertwined with a deeper quest for meaning and purpose, adding layers of complexity to the familiar genre conventions.
Kazuhiro Fujita: A Legacy of Captivating Manga
Born on May 24, 1964, in Hokkaido, Japan, Kazuhiro Fujita’s career began in 1989 in Weekly Shonen Sunday. His breakout hit, Ushio & Tora (1990-1996), cemented his status as a leading manga artist. The series follows Ushio Aotsuki, a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers that his family temple houses a fearsome demon impaled by the legendary Beast Spear. When Ushio is forced to release the demon, Tora, they become reluctant allies, battling supernatural threats while grappling with their contrasting natures.
Ushio & Tora‘s success led to a 10-episode OVA (Original Video Animation) series in 1992 and a well-received television anime adaptation in 2015, further expanding its fanbase. The manga won the Shogakukan Manga Award in 1992 and the Seiun Award in 1997, solidifying its place as a classic in the shonen genre.
Fujita’s next major work, Karakuri Circus (1997-2006), is another sprawling epic that showcases his storytelling prowess. The story weaves together the lives of Masaru Saiga, a young boy who inherits a vast fortune and becomes the target of assassins; Narumi Katō, a kung-fu master afflicted with a strange condition; and Shirogane, a mysterious silver-haired woman who controls a powerful puppet. Their intertwined fates lead them on a journey filled with battles against automatons, ancient conspiracies, and heartbreaking revelations. Karakuri Circus received a television anime adaptation in 2018, bringing its intricate plot and memorable characters to a new audience.
Other Notable Works by Fujita
- Yoru no Uta (Night Songs): A collection of short stories showcasing Fujita’s versatility in genres ranging from period dramas to fantasy.
- Moonlight Act: A fantasy series where characters from various fairy tales and stories come to life.
- The Black Museum: A series of dark fantasy stories set in a British setting, exploring themes of history, mystery, and the supernatural.
Kazuhiko Shimamoto’s Vampire-Idol Tagiru: A Unique Blend of Genres
Kazuhiko Shimamoto, celebrated for his energetic and passionate manga like Hoero Pen, is set to launch Vampire-Idol Tagiru (ヴァンパイアアイドル タギル). This series presents a unique premise: a passionate manga artist delves into the world of idols, only to witness something extraordinary during a live performance of the idol group to which the main character, Tagiru Chisio, belongs.
A Fusion of the Supernatural and Idol Culture
Vampire-Idol Tagiru appears to be a departure from Shimamoto’s more autobiographical works, venturing into the realm of supernatural idol stories. The fusion of vampires and the idol industry promises a unique blend of genres, potentially exploring themes of fame, identity, and the hidden darkness beneath the glittering surface of pop culture. The series’ premise has already sparked considerable interest, with fans eager to see how Shimamoto will blend his trademark enthusiasm with this novel concept.
Kazuhiko Shimamoto: The “Fireworks Cartoonist”
Born on April 26, 1961, in Hokkaido, Japan, Kazuhiko Shimamoto is known for his explosive art style and passionate storytelling, earning him the nickname “Fireworks Cartoonist.” He debuted in 1982 with Hissatsu no Tenkōsei (Killer Transfer Student). His works often feature characters who embody his own fiery spirit and dedication to the craft of manga.
One of Shimamoto’s most iconic works is the Moeyo Pen saga, which began in 1990. This autobiographical series chronicles the trials and tribulations of a manga artist named Moyuru Honoo (whom Shimamoto uses as an author stand-in) as he navigates the challenges of the manga industry. Moeyo Pen was followed by Hoero Pen in 2001 and Shin Hoero Pen in 2011, further exploring Honoo’s struggles and triumphs. The series is known for its over-the-top humor, heartfelt moments, and insightful commentary on the creative process.
Beyond Hoero Pen: Shimamoto’s Diverse Career
While Hoero Pen is perhaps his most recognizable work, Shimamoto’s career spans a wide range of genres and styles:
- Honō no Tenkōsei (Blazing Transfer Student): A comedy about a transfer student with fiery passion, which was adapted into an OVA series.
- Nine in Adversity: A baseball manga adapted into a live-action film in 2005.
- Kamen Rider ZO: A manga adaptation of the Kamen Rider film, showcasing Shimamoto’s love for the tokusatsu genre.
- Mobile Fighter G Gundam: Shimamoto contributed character designs to this popular Gundam series.
Shimamoto is also known for his active involvement in doujinshi (self-published works) and his energetic presence in various media, including radio broadcasts. His enthusiastic personality and willingness to embrace diverse projects have made him a beloved figure in the manga and anime community.
A Double Dose of Manga Magic on May 7th
The simultaneous launch of Silver Mountain and Vampire-Idol Tagiru marks a significant event for Weekly Shonen Sunday and the manga world. These two series, helmed by veteran creators with distinct styles and passionate fanbases, promise to deliver exciting new stories that will captivate readers for years to come.
Manga fans, mark your calendars for May 7th!
