Finished the latest season of Bungou Stray Dogs and desperate to know what happens next? You’re not alone; many fans struggle to find the exact manga chapter to pick up the story without missing a beat. This jump from screen to page can be confusing.
The Bungou Stray Dogs anime seasons adapt the manga up to specific points, with Season 5 ending around manga chapter 108. To continue the story after the most recent anime season, you should start reading from Chapter 109. Each season, however, has a different starting chapter for manga readers.
Based on an analysis of the official chapter counts and verified reading orders, this guide provides the precise starting points for every season. You’ll discover the exact chapter you need to begin your reading journey, ensuring a seamless transition from anime to manga and covering all the crucial story arcs.
Key Facts
- Definitive Season 5 Starting Point: To continue the story after the anime, you must start with manga Chapter 109, as Season 5 adapts the story through the events of Chapter 108.
- Each Season Has a Unique End Chapter: The anime doesn’t stop at neat volume breaks. Season 1 ends at Chapter 16, Season 2 at Chapter 37, Season 3 at Chapter 53, and Season 4 at Chapter 77.
- Light Novels Are Canon Backstory: The anime adapts key light novels like The Dark Era and Fifteen as prequel arcs at the beginning of Seasons 2 and 3, demonstrating their importance to the main plot.
- The Manga Is Currently Ongoing: The series is not finished. It is released monthly, and the author recently concluded what is known as “Part 1” of the story with Chapter 130.
- The Anime Is a Faithful Adaptation: You can confidently switch from anime to manga at the recommended starting points without missing major plot developments, as the adaptation follows the source material closely.
Where Does the Bungou Stray Dogs Anime Leave Off in the Manga? A Complete Guide
The transition from the Bungou Stray Dogs anime to the manga is straightforward once you know the specific chapter where each season concludes. Since the anime is a very faithful adaptation of the source material, you can jump directly into the manga without needing to reread from the beginning. This guide provides a clear, verified reading order to ensure you seamlessly continue the story. Use this table for a quick answer, or read on for a detailed breakdown of each season’s corresponding manga content.
This table serves as your ultimate quick-reference guide. It maps every anime season to the exact manga chapter and volume you need to start reading to continue the narrative.
| Anime Season | Final Arc Covered | Recommended Starting Manga Chapter | Corresponding Manga Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | The Guild Appears | Chapter 17 | Volume 5 |
| Season 2 | The Guild War | Chapter 38 | Volume 9 |
| Season 3 | Cannibalism Arc | Chapter 54 | Volume 13 |
| Season 4 | Sky Casino Arc | Chapter 78 | Volume 18 |
| Season 5 | Decay of the Angel Arc | Chapter 109 | Volume 24 |
What Manga Chapter Should You Read After Bungou Stray Dogs Season 1?
Bungou Stray Dogs Season 1 ends after adapting up to Chapter 16 of the manga. To continue the story without missing any content, you should begin reading from the start of Chapter 17. This chapter kicks off the Guild Arc, which becomes the main focus of Season 2.
The first season introduces the core conflict between the Armed Detective Agency [a group of gifted detectives] and the Port Mafia [a criminal organization of ability users]. The final episodes of Season 1 conclude the initial character introductions and arcs, ending with a tease of a powerful new organization from North America known as The Guild. For a smooth transition, here is what you need to know:
- Anime Ending Point: Chapter 16.
- Manga Starting Point: Chapter 17.
- Next Story Arc: The Guild War, where the conflict escalates to a three-way battle between the Agency, the Mafia, and the invading Guild.
Where Does the Manga Pick Up After Bungou Stray Dogs Season 2?
After finishing Season 2 of Bungou Stray Dogs, begin reading the manga at Chapter 38. The season’s main storyline adapts Chapters 17 through 37, culminating in the conclusion of the high-stakes Guild War arc. Chapter 38 immediately picks up in the aftermath, setting the stage for the next major antagonist.
A common point of confusion for viewers is the beginning of Season 2. It’s important to understand the structure of this season to see how it aligns with the broader franchise.
The first four episodes of Season 2 are not from the main manga. They are a direct adaptation of The Dark Era, a prequel light novel focusing on Osamu Dazai’s past within the Port Mafia. After this flashback, the anime returns to the present-day timeline to continue the manga’s story with the Guild War.
This non-linear storytelling enriches the main plot by providing crucial backstory for Dazai. Once you finish the season, starting at Chapter 38 ensures you continue the main story right where the anime left off.
What Chapter Continues the Story After Bungou Stray Dogs Season 3?
To continue reading Bungou Stray Dogs after Season 3, you must start at Chapter 54. This chapter immediately follows the finale of the intense “Cannibalism” arc, which is covered in the latter half of the season. Season 3 adapts manga chapters 38 through 53.
Similar to the previous season, Season 3 has a two-part structure that integrates a light novel adaptation. Understanding this structure is key to knowing where the main manga storyline is picked up.
- Part 1 (Episodes 1-3): Adapts the Fifteen light novel. This is a flashback story detailing the first meeting between a 15-year-old Osamu Dazai and Chuuya Nakahara.
- Part 2 (Episodes 4-12): Returns to the main timeline to adapt the Cannibalism arc from the manga. This arc introduces the mastermind Fyodor Dostoevsky and his organization, the Decay of the Angel, as the primary antagonists.
- Manga Starting Point: Chapter 54 of Volume 13 begins the build-up to the next major saga, leading directly into the events of Season 4.
What Manga Chapter Follows the End of Bungou Stray Dogs Season 4?
Bungou Stray Dogs Season 4 ends by adapting manga Chapter 77. To find out what happens after the intense Sky Casino incident and the framing of the Armed Detective Agency, you must start reading at Chapter 78. This chapter picks up immediately in the midst of the action.
Season 4 dives headfirst into the Decay of the Angel saga, one of the most critical storylines in the series. It covers the events where the Armed Detective Agency is framed for a terrorist plot, forcing them to go on the run from a government-sanctioned military unit of ability users known as the Hunting Dogs. The season adapts chapters 54 through 77, covering the “Hunting Dogs Arc” and the “Sky Casino Arc.” Starting with Chapter 78, titled “To Threaten God, Part 1,” throws you directly into the continuation of this high-stakes conflict, which is fully covered in Season 5.
Where Do You Start Reading the Manga After the Bungou Stray Dogs Season 5 Finale?
Bungou Stray Dogs Season 5 ends by adapting the manga up to Chapter 108. To continue the story immediately after the anime finale, you must begin reading at Chapter 109. This is the most current and vital transition point for fans as of 2026.
Season 5 adapts the remainder of the Decay of the Angel saga, starting from Chapter 78. This includes the widespread “Vampire Incident,” where an infection ability creates a global crisis, and the climactic confrontations with Fyodor and his allies. While the anime finale condenses some of the final scenes from the manga for a more conclusive-feeling ending, no major plot points are skipped.
Therefore, Chapter 109 is the correct and verified starting point to continue the story. Welcome to the world of monthly manga releases! Chapter 109 throws you right back into the aftermath of the global crisis, beginning the next phase of the story.
How Do the Bungou Stray Dogs Light Novels Fit into the Timeline?
The Bungou Stray Dogs light novels are crucial for understanding the full story, as they provide essential backstory for major characters and events. While some are side stories, others are so integral to the main plot that they have been adapted directly into the anime. They are not required to follow the main manga storyline, but they provide vital context that enriches the entire experience.
Here is a breakdown of the most important novels categorized by their impact on the plot.
Essential Prequels (Adapted in the Anime)
- The Dark Era: This novel explores Osamu Dazai’s final days in the Port Mafia alongside his friend Sakunosuke Oda. It is essential for understanding Dazai’s motivations and was adapted at the start of Season 2.
- Fifteen: This story details the first meeting and partnership between Osamu Dazai and Chuuya Nakahara as teenagers. It was adapted at the start of Season 3.
Recommended for Deeper Character Backstory
- Storm Bringer: A direct sequel to Fifteen, this novel delves into Chuuya Nakahara’s origins and his connection to the artificial ability user Verlaine. It provides critical context for Chuuya’s character.
- BEAST: This is an alternate universe story asking, “What if Atsushi Nakajima joined the Port Mafia and Ryunosuke Akutagawa joined the Armed Detective Agency?” It’s a fascinating character study but is not part of the main canon.
What is the Current Status of the Bungou Stray Dogs Manga in 2026?
The Bungou Stray Dogs manga is not finished; it is an ongoing series. As of 2026, new chapters are released on a monthly schedule in Japan and are subsequently translated for official English release. The manga is significantly ahead of the anime, providing plenty of content for those looking to continue the story.
Recently, the series reached a major narrative milestone. Based on an author statement from Kafka Asagiri, the manga’s creator, the story has concluded its first major part.
- Status: Ongoing
- Release Schedule: Monthly
- Recent Milestone: “Part 1” of the story officially concluded with the release of Chapter 130.
- Official Source: The manga is published in the
Young Ace UPmagazine in Japan.
This “Part 1” designation implies the story is entering a new phase or saga, but details about “Part 2” have not yet been announced.
FAQs About where does the bungou stray dogs anime leave off manga
Is the Bungou Stray Dogs anime a faithful adaptation of the manga?
Yes, for the most part, the Bungou Stray Dogs anime is a very faithful adaptation. It follows the main plot points of the manga closely. The primary differences are in pacing, the omission of minor character interactions or dialogue, and the integration of light novel content directly into the anime seasons as prequel arcs.
Are there any filler episodes in the Bungou Stray Dogs anime?
There are no traditional “filler” arcs in Bungou Stray Dogs. However, the first episode of the anime contains some anime-original scenes to introduce the characters. Additionally, some might consider the light novel adaptations at the start of Seasons 2 and 3 as “filler” to the main plot, but they are canon backstory.
Do I need to read the manga from the beginning if I’ve seen the anime?
No, you do not need to start from Chapter 1. Because the anime is a faithful adaptation, you can confidently jump into the manga at the chapter where your last-watched season left off. You will miss some minor details and panels, but no major plot points.
Is the Bungou Stray Dogs: Dead Apple movie canon?
The Dead Apple movie is considered “anime-canon.” It was written by the original author, Kafka Asagiri, but its events do not occur in the manga. It takes place after the Guild War arc (Season 2) and before the Cannibalism arc (Season 3). It is not required reading for the main manga plot but offers more character exploration.
How far ahead is the manga compared to the anime?
As of the end of Season 5, the manga is not significantly far ahead. Season 5 adapted up to Chapter 108, and the manga’s “Part 1” concluded with Chapter 130. This gives manga readers a buffer of approximately 22 chapters before the anime catches up, which translates to roughly two years of monthly releases.
What is Bungou Stray Dogs: Beast?
Beast is an alternate universe (AU) light novel and manga series. It explores a “what if” scenario where Akutagawa joined the Armed Detective Agency and Atsushi joined the Port Mafia. It is a compelling story but is entirely separate from the main canon timeline.
What is the difference between publication order and chronological order?
Publication order is the order in which the manga and novels were released. Chronological order is the order in which events happen within the story’s timeline. For example, “The Dark Era” novel was published later but its story takes place years before Chapter 1 of the manga. For a first-time reader, publication order is generally recommended.
Where can I read the Bungou Stray Dogs manga officially?
You can read the Bungou Stray Dogs manga officially through several sources. Digital chapters are often available on platforms like Manga Plus or the website of the official English publisher, Yen Press. Physical volumes can be purchased from major booksellers and online retailers.
Will there be a Season 6 of Bungou Stray Dogs?
A Season 6 has not been officially announced as of 2026. However, given the popularity of the series and the fact that there is still manga content to adapt (from Chapter 109 onwards), a future season is highly likely once more chapters are released.
What is the “Cannibalism Arc”?
The “Cannibalism Arc” is the main storyline of the second half of Season 3. It involves a virus ability user created by Fyodor Dostoevsky that pits the leaders of the Armed Detective Agency and the Port Mafia against each other, forcing their organizations into a deadly conflict to save their respective bosses.
Key Takeaways: Continuing Bungou Stray Dogs After the Anime
- Start After Season 5 at Chapter 109: This is the most critical takeaway for current fans. The anime concludes around the events of Chapter 108, making Chapter 109 the direct continuation.
- Each Season Has a Specific Start Point: Don’t guess. Season 1 ends at Chapter 16, Season 2 at Chapter 37, Season 3 at Chapter 53, and Season 4 at Chapter 77.
- Light Novels Provide Essential Backstory: They are not just side stories. Prequels like The Dark Era and Fifteen were adapted directly into the anime, proving their importance to the main plot.
- The Anime is a Faithful Adaptation: You can confidently switch from anime to manga without needing to re-read everything. The main plot points are consistent across both media.
- The Manga is Ongoing (But in Parts): The series is not finished. It is released monthly, and the author recently concluded “Part 1” of the story with Chapter 130, setting the stage for a new saga.
- The Dead Apple Movie is Anime-Canon Only: It’s an original story by the author that fits between Seasons 2 and 3 but does not appear in the main manga.
Final Thoughts on Your Bungou Stray Dogs Journey
Transitioning from the Bungou Stray Dogs anime to the manga offers a rewarding way to continue the intricate story of the Armed Detective Agency and its foes. With this guide, you now have a clear and accurate roadmap, eliminating the guesswork and allowing you to dive straight into the action. Whether you’re picking up after Season 1 or the dramatic finale of Season 5, you are now equipped to seamlessly continue your journey. Enjoy exploring the depth of the manga and the new story arcs that await.
Last update on 2026-02-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
