Wondering when the Hunter x Hunter manga came out? You’re trying to pinpoint the exact start date of this legendary series. It’s a common question for fans wanting to understand its long and complex history.
The Hunter x Hunter manga first came out on March 3, 1998, in issue #14 of Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine. Written and illustrated by Yoshihiro Togashi, this marked the official debut of the series that would captivate millions.
Based on official publisher records and archival data, this guide provides the complete publication history. You’ll discover the manga’s consistent early years, the reasons behind its infamous hiatuses, and its current status in 2026, giving you a full picture of its epic journey.
Key Facts
- Definitive Debut: The first chapter of Hunter x Hunter was serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump on March 3, 1998, establishing its official starting point.
- Two Distinct Eras: The manga’s history is split into two phases: a period of regular, consistent releases from 1998 to 2005 and an “era of hiatuses” from 2006 to the present.
- Author’s Health is Key: The primary reason for the numerous publication breaks is the chronic and debilitating back pain of its creator, Yoshihiro Togashi, as confirmed by his own public statements.
- Current Status: As of March 2026, the manga is on hiatus, and the publisher, Shueisha, has officially announced it will no longer follow a weekly schedule to accommodate the author’s health.
- Two Anime Adaptations: The manga has inspired two separate anime series: a 1999 version by Nippon Animation and a more faithful 2011 adaptation by Madhouse.
When Did the Hunter x Hunter Manga Officially Come Out? A Complete Publication History
The Hunter x Hunter manga [a Japanese manga series by Yoshihiro Togashi] was first published on March 3, 1998. This initial release was the serialization of its first chapter in issue #14 of Shueisha’s popular magazine, Weekly Shōnen Jump. Following its debut in the magazine, the first collected tankōbon volume, which compiles early chapters into a single book, was released a few months later on June 4, 1998. This two-part debut established the series’ foundation.
The creation and release of the manga are intrinsically linked to its author, Yoshihiro Togashi, and its publisher, Shueisha. As the sole writer and illustrator, Togashi’s personal schedule and health directly impact the production timeline. Shueisha, the corporate owner of Weekly Shōnen Jump, manages the official distribution and publication schedule. Understanding these relationships is key to comprehending the manga’s entire history, from its consistent beginnings to its later, more unpredictable release pattern.
This initial publication date marks the beginning of a journey that has spanned decades. It represents the moment Gon Freecss’s adventure was first introduced to the world, setting the stage for one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed manga series of all time. The date is a cornerstone fact for any discussion about the series’ long and storied history.
What is the Complete Publication History of the Hunter x Hunter Manga?
The publication history of Hunter x Hunter is a tale of two distinct eras. From its debut until the mid-2000s, the series enjoyed a period of stability before transitioning into the irregular schedule that fans are familiar with today. This timeline tracks its journey from a weekly staple to a highly anticipated, sporadic event.
- ✅ The Early Years (1998-2005): During this initial phase, Hunter x Hunter was serialized with relative consistency in Weekly Shōnen Jump. Yoshihiro Togashi delivered chapters on a regular basis, allowing the series to build a massive fanbase and establish its core story arcs, including the Hunter Exam, Heavens Arena, and the Yorknew City saga. This period cemented its status as a pillar of the magazine.
❌ The Shift to Hiatuses (2006): The year 2006 marked a pivotal turning point. It was the year the manga began experiencing frequent and often lengthy hiatuses. This change fundamentally altered its publication schedule, moving it away from the weekly grind that is standard for most Shōnen Jump titles.
🕑 Irregular Serialization (2007-Present): Since the initial shift, the manga has followed a highly irregular release pattern. Batches of chapters, typically around 10 at a time, are released over a few months, followed by breaks that can last from several months to multiple years. As of September 2024, the series has been collected into 38 tankōbon volumes in Japan.
🌎 English Publication: In North America, VIZ Media acquired the rights and began releasing the English-language version of the manga in April 2005. This allowed international audiences to officially follow the series, and VIZ continues to publish the translated volumes.
This complex history is central to the fan experience. While the wait can be long, the exceptional quality of the storytelling keeps readers invested, making each return a major event in the manga community.
Why Has the Hunter x Hunter Manga Experienced So Many Hiatuses?
The main reason for Hunter x Hunter’s frequent hiatuses is the author Yoshihiro Togashi’s severe, chronic health issues, particularly debilitating back pain. This isn’t speculation; Togashi has been open about his struggles. For years, he has suffered from a condition so severe that it made sitting in a chair to draw impossible and rendered even simple daily movements a challenge.
In his own words, shared in public comments, Togashi explained that his pain was so intense he had to draw while lying down. This physical limitation makes the demanding schedule of weekly manga production unsustainable. The hiatuses are not a matter of choice or a lack of ideas but a necessary measure to manage his health while continuing to create the story he wants to tell. The decision to shift away from a weekly schedule was made in full cooperation with the Shueisha editorial department to prioritize his well-being.
What is the Current Status of the Hunter x Hunter Manga in 2026?
As of March 2026, the Hunter x Hunter manga is officially on hiatus. The series made a brief and highly anticipated return in late 2024, releasing a batch of new chapters. The most recent chapter released was #401, which concluded this short run of activity.
Following this return, the Weekly Shōnen Jump editorial department made a significant announcement. They officially stated that Hunter x Hunter will no longer be published on a regular weekly basis. This decision was made to support author Yoshihiro Togashi’s health and allow him to work at a sustainable pace. Future chapters will now arrive on an irregular, non-weekly schedule, with announcements made closer to their release. This marks a formal change in how the series will be published moving forward, managing expectations for its dedicated fanbase.
FAQs About when did hunter x hunter manga come out
How many anime adaptations of Hunter x Hunter are there?
There are two major anime adaptations of Hunter x Hunter. The first series, produced by Nippon Animation, aired from 1999 to 2001 and was followed by several Original Video Animations (OVAs). The second and more comprehensive series was produced by Madhouse and aired from 2011 to 2014. This version is known for adapting the manga more closely and covering the story up to the 13th Hunter Chairman Election arc.
Where does the 2011 anime end in the manga?
The 2011 Hunter x Hunter anime concludes at the end of Chapter 339 of the manga. This chapter officially wraps up the 13th Hunter Chairman Election arc. If you want to continue the story from where the anime left off, you should start reading the manga from Chapter 340, which is the beginning of the ongoing Succession Contest arc.
Has the author Yoshihiro Togashi created other famous manga?
Yes, before Hunter x Hunter, Yoshihiro Togashi was already famous for creating the highly successful manga series YuYu Hakusho. Serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1990 to 1994, YuYu Hakusho is considered a classic of the shōnen genre and also received a widely popular anime adaptation. His success with YuYu Hakusho established him as a master storyteller long before Hunter x Hunter began.
What is the longest hiatus the Hunter x Hunter manga has had?
The longest hiatus for the Hunter x Hunter manga to date lasted for nearly four years. The break officially began after the release of Chapter 390 in November 2018. Fans waited patiently until the series finally made its return with new chapters in October 2022. This extended pause is a significant reason for the series’ “Hiatus x Hiatus” reputation.
Will the Hunter x Hunter manga ever be finished?
Yoshihiro Togashi has repeatedly expressed his strong desire to complete the story. In late 2023, he revealed that he has already planned out multiple potential endings for the series. This was done to ensure the story could reach a conclusion, even creating a contingency ending in the event of his death. While his health makes the timeline uncertain, his stated intention is to finish Hunter x Hunter.
How many chapters of Hunter x Hunter are there?
As of its last publication run in late 2024, the Hunter x Hunter manga has released over 400 chapters. The exact number increases with each brief return from hiatus. These chapters have been collected into 38 tankōbon volumes in Japan as of September 2024, with more to come as the story progresses.
Is Hunter x Hunter still being published in Weekly Shōnen Jump?
No, the series is no longer published on a weekly basis. Following the manga’s 2022 return, the Weekly Shōnen Jump editorial department officially announced that Hunter x Hunter would move to an irregular, non-weekly publication schedule. This change was made to accommodate the author’s health. Future chapters will still be announced in the magazine but will not follow a consistent release pattern.
What story arc is the manga currently in?
The manga is currently in the Succession Contest arc. This complex and dialogue-heavy arc began with Chapter 348. It focuses on a deadly battle royale among the 14 princes of the Kakin Empire, all taking place aboard a massive ship sailing towards the uncharted Dark Continent. It’s known for its intricate plot and strategic use of Nen.
Is it worth starting the Hunter x Hunter manga now?
Absolutely; despite the hiatuses, Hunter x Hunter is widely regarded as a masterpiece of storytelling. Its intricate power system (Nen), complex character development, and mature themes make it one of the most respected manga of all time. With over 400 chapters already published, there is a massive, engaging story ready for you to dive into.
Are there any spin-offs to the main manga?
Yes, Yoshihiro Togashi has written two notable short manga spin-offs. The first is Kurapika’s Memories, a two-part prequel that explores Kurapika’s tragic past before the main story. The second is a 69-page storyboard detailing Hisoka’s backstory, which was officially illustrated by Sui Ishida, the creator of Tokyo Ghoul.
Key Takeaways: Hunter x Hunter Manga Release & History
- Official Debut: The Hunter x Hunter manga’s first chapter was published in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump on March 3, 1998.
- The Hiatus Era: While published regularly until 2005, the series began a pattern of frequent and extended hiatuses in 2006, which continues to this day.
- Author’s Health: The primary reason for the irregular schedule is the severe, chronic back pain of the author, Yoshihiro Togashi, which physically prevents him from maintaining a weekly production pace.
- Current Status: As of March 2026, the manga is on hiatus. The publisher has officially stated it will no longer follow a weekly schedule and will release chapters irregularly.
- Latest Chapter: The most recent chapter released was Chapter 401 in late 2024, which is part of the ongoing Succession Contest arc.
- Two Anime Series: There are two separate TV anime adaptations: the 1999 Nippon Animation series and the more comprehensive 2011 Madhouse series, which covers the manga up to Chapter 339.
- The Story Continues: Despite the unpredictable schedule, author Yoshihiro Togashi has confirmed he is actively working on new chapters and has planned the story’s ending, showing a clear intent to finish the series.
Final Thoughts on the Hunter x Hunter Manga’s Journey
Understanding the publication history of Hunter x Hunter is about more than just dates and chapter numbers. It’s about appreciating a unique journey in the manga world—one defined by both unparalleled creative genius and profound human challenges. The series stands as a testament to Yoshihiro Togashi’s dedication to his craft and his refusal to compromise on quality, even in the face of significant health struggles.
For fans, the long waits have become part of the experience, fostering a community built on patience and immense appreciation for every new chapter. The manga’s legacy is secure, not in spite of its hiatuses, but because the quality of the work has made it worth every moment of the wait. Whether you are a longtime follower or a new reader, the world of Hunter x Hunter offers a rich, complex, and deeply rewarding adventure.
Last update on 2026-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
