Yōkai Giga #2

Yōkai Giga, written and illustrated by Satsuki Sato, is a manga series serialized in Shueisha's Jump Square magazine starting in 2016. The series acts as a thematic homage to the long-standing tradition of Japanese folklore, specifically the 'chōjū-giga' or 'scrolls of frolicking animals' that date back to the 12th century. By reimagining these supernatural creatures in a modern, episodic format, Sato bridges the gap between historical artistic heritage and contemporary gag-manga storytelling.

The second volume continues the series' signature style of understated humor and fluid, ink-wash influenced linework. Sato's approach emphasizes the absurdity of yōkai attempting to navigate modern life, often focusing on the quiet, mundane interactions between humans and spirits. Upon its release, the volume was noted for its distinct visual departure from the high-energy, action-oriented aesthetic typical of many other series in the Jump Square catalog, garnering praise for its atmospheric and often philosophical take on traditional ghost stories.