Finished the wholesome Otaku Elf anime and now you’re feeling the void? You’re likely wondering exactly where to pick up the manga to continue the story. Navigating from an anime to its source material can be confusing.
The Otaku Elf anime concludes by adapting the manga’s story up to Volume 5, Chapter 69, “The Elf and the First Sunrise of the New Year.” To continue the story without missing anything, you should start reading from Chapter 70, which is the beginning of Volume 6.
Based on a detailed analysis of the official chapter lists and adaptation pacing, this guide provides the definitive starting point. You’ll discover not only where to begin reading but also what minor content the anime skipped and the current publication status of the manga series in 2026.
Key Facts
- Definitive Anime Ending: The anime adaptation covers the manga’s plot up to the end of Chapter 69 in Volume 5.
- Correct Manga Starting Point: To continue the story directly after the anime’s finale, you must begin with Chapter 70, which starts Volume 6.
- High Adaptation Fidelity: The anime is a very faithful adaptation, though it does skip some minor comedic side-chapters for pacing, which means they are not critical to the main plot.
- Manga is Ongoing: As of 2026, the Otaku Elf manga series is not finished and continues its publication, demonstrating a healthy and active storyline for new readers to follow.
- Official English Publisher: The official English-language release of the manga is licensed and distributed by Seven Seas Entertainment, making it widely available.
Where Exactly Does the Otaku Elf Anime End in the Manga?
The definitive answer is that the Otaku Elf anime ends by adapting manga material right up to Chapter 69 of Volume 5. This chapter, titled “The Elf and the First Sunrise of the New Year,” serves as the conclusion for the anime’s 12-episode run. Therefore, to continue the story immediately, the correct place to start reading the manga is Chapter 70.
The final episode of the anime (Episode 12) faithfully covers the events surrounding the New Year’s shrine visit and the important bow ritual. This event is a key moment in the relationship between the hikikomori deity, Elda, and her diligent shrine maiden, Koito Koganei. The anime’s coverage is quite comprehensive through this arc, ensuring viewers who transition to the manga won’t feel lost.
By pinpointing the anime ending at Volume 5 and Chapter 69, you can confidently purchase Volume 6 to get brand new story content. This direct anime-to-manga transition allows you to seamlessly continue following the charming and funny slice-of-life adventures at the Takamimi Shrine without re-reading significant plot points you’ve already watched.
What Key Manga Content Did the Otaku Elf Anime Skip or Rearrange?
The Otaku Elf anime is a very faithful adaptation, but it does omit and rearrange some manga content for pacing. Key skipped content includes several short comedic chapters that focus on side characters and some of Elda’s classic otaku shenanigans. While these chapters are not essential to the main plot, they add extra flavor and character development that manga readers enjoy.
The decision to skip certain chapters is common in anime adaptations. It helps create a more focused narrative that fits within a 12-episode season. In Otaku Elf’s case, the skipped content is mostly self-contained, “slice-of-life” moments. You didn’t miss any major plot developments, but you did miss a few good laughs. Here is a brief breakdown of some notable differences.
| Manga Chapter(s) | Title / Key Event | Anime Adaptation Status |
|---|---|---|
| Chapter 19 | “The Elf and the Bean-Throwing” | Skipped: A short chapter about Setsubun traditions. |
| Chapter 28 | “The Elf and the Rainy Day” | Skipped: Focuses on Elda’s antics while stuck inside. |
| Chapter 45 | “The Elf and the Limited Edition” | Skipped: A classic otaku problem chapter for Elda. |
| Chapter 50 | “Elf Fortune-Telling” | Rearranged: Elements of this chapter were integrated into other anime episodes. |
How Should You Start Reading the Otaku Elf Manga After the Anime?
There are two recommended ways to start the Otaku Elf manga after the anime: 1. Start at Chapter 70 (Volume 6) to continue the story directly where the anime left off, or 2. Start at Chapter 1 (Volume 1) to experience the full story, including all skipped comedic chapters and minor details. Your choice depends on what kind of reader you are.
Do you want new plot developments immediately, or are you a completionist who wants to experience every single detail as the author, Akihiko Higuchi, intended? Both paths are valid, and this guide will help you decide which one is right for you.
For the Quick Continuation: Should You Start at Chapter 70?
This path is for readers who are eager for new plot developments and want to know what happens next in Elda and Koito’s life right away. Starting at Chapter 70 is the most direct and time-efficient method.
- ✅ Pro: You get new story content instantly. This is the fastest way to move beyond the events of the anime.
- ✅ Pro: It saves you the time and cost of purchasing the first five volumes, which you have largely already seen.
- ❌ Con: You will miss out on the unadapted comedic chapters and some minor character-building moments from the early volumes.
- ❌ Con: You won’t experience the original paneling and art style of the manga for the story arcs you’ve already watched.
For the Full Experience: Should You Start at Chapter 1?
This approach is best for readers who value the complete experience and don’t mind revisiting familiar events to see them in their original format. This is the completionist’s path.
- ✅ Pro: You experience 100% of the content as the author intended, including all the charming side stories the anime skipped. For example, the skipped Chapter 19 about the Setsubun festival provides a delightful look at how Elda interacts with seasonal traditions.
- ✅ Pro: You get to appreciate Akihiko Higuchi’s original artwork and pacing from the very beginning.
- ❌ Con: You will be re-reading story arcs you’ve already seen in the anime, delaying your access to new plot developments.
- ❌ Con: It requires a larger initial investment to purchase the first five volumes.
What Is the Current Publication Status of the Otaku Elf Manga?
Yes, the Otaku Elf manga is still ongoing. As of 2026, it is being published digitally on the Comic Days website in Japan. This change occurred in December 2023 after its original magazine, Shōnen Magazine Edge, ceased publication in October 2023. The transfer to a new platform ensures that the story of Elda and Koito continues for fans to enjoy.
This is excellent news for anyone looking to get into the series, as it means there is a healthy amount of content to read with more on the way. The English version is licensed and released by Seven Seas Entertainment, which is actively publishing the tankōbon volumes in North America.
Here are the key publication facts:
- Japanese Publisher: Kodansha
- English Publisher: Seven Seas Entertainment
- Status: Ongoing
- Current Japanese Platform: Comic Days (Digital)
FAQs About where does the otaku elf anime end in the manga
Will there be an Otaku Elf Season 2?
As of 2026, there has been no official announcement regarding a second season for the Otaku Elf anime. While the manga has more than enough content for a new season, the decision depends on factors like Blu-ray sales and streaming numbers. Fans should follow official channels for any updates.
Is Otaku Elf based on a light novel?
No, Otaku Elf is an original manga series written and illustrated by Akihiko Higuchi. It is not an adaptation of a light novel, which is why all discussions of the source material refer exclusively to the manga. This makes the manga the definitive origin of the story.
How many manga volumes does Otaku Elf have?
As of late 2026, the Otaku Elf manga has been collected into over 12 tankōbon volumes in Japan. The series is ongoing, so this number continues to grow. The English release by Seven Seas Entertainment is typically a few volumes behind the Japanese schedule.
Where can I read the Otaku Elf manga legally?
You can purchase physical and digital volumes from retailers where Seven Seas Entertainment products are sold. This includes online stores like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Digital versions are available on platforms like BookWalker, ComiXology, and the Kindle store, providing multiple legal avenues to support the official release.
What is the difference between “Edomae Elf” and “Otaku Elf”?
“Edomae Elf” (江戸前エルフ) is the official Japanese title of the series. “Otaku Elf” is the localized title used for the English-language release. They refer to the same series. The Japanese title is a clever pun related to “Edomae” sushi, connecting the ancient elf to historical Tokyo (Edo).
How many chapters does the Otaku Elf anime cover?
The 12-episode anime adaptation covers approximately 69 chapters of the manga. The pacing is roughly 5-6 chapters per episode. However, because some content was skipped or rearranged, it is not a direct 1-to-1 conversion for every single episode.
Who animated the Otaku Elf anime?
The Otaku Elf anime was produced by the animation studio C2C. This studio is also known for producing other popular series such as “Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina” and “Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy,” showcasing their experience in the fantasy genre.
Is the Otaku Elf manga finished?
No, the Otaku Elf manga is not finished and is still ongoing as of 2026. It continues to be released digitally on the Comic Days platform in Japan. This followed the discontinuation of its original magazine, Shōnen Magazine Edge, in 2023.
What genre is Otaku Elf?
Otaku Elf is primarily a slice-of-life fantasy comedy. It expertly blends the relaxing, daily life of its characters (slice-of-life) with the presence of a mythical being (fantasy). The series is driven by humor, especially jokes related to otaku culture and Japanese history.
Are the main characters’ relationship different in the manga?
The core dynamic between Elda and Koito is fundamentally the same in both the anime and the manga. However, the manga contains more small, everyday interactions and comedic moments that were skipped in the anime. These extra scenes add even more layers to their charming relationship.
Key Takeaways: Otaku Elf Anime to Manga Guide
- The Definitive Starting Point: The anime ends after adapting manga Chapter 69. To continue the story with new content, you must start with Volume 6, Chapter 70.
- Adaptation Fidelity is High: The anime is very faithful, but it does skip minor comedic chapters. For the complete, unabridged experience as the author intended, starting from Chapter 1 is the recommended path for completionists.
- The Manga is Ongoing: The Otaku Elf manga is not finished. It transferred from Shōnen Magazine Edge to the Comic Days digital platform in late 2023 and continues to be released.
- English Publication is Active: In North America, the series is officially licensed and released by Seven Seas Entertainment, making legal English volumes readily available for purchase.
- No Season 2 Confirmed: As of 2026, a second season of the anime has not been announced. Reading the manga is currently the only way to continue the story.
- It’s an Original Manga: Otaku Elf is a manga-first property created by Akihiko Higuchi, not an adaptation of a light novel or other source.
Final Thoughts on Continuing Your Otaku Elf Journey
You now have a clear roadmap to continue your journey with Elda and Koito. Whether you choose to jump straight into new adventures at Chapter 70 or start from the beginning to savor every moment, you are well-equipped to dive deeper into the charming world of Otaku Elf. The manga offers a wealth of heartwarming and hilarious stories that build upon the fantastic foundation set by the anime. Whichever path you choose, a great reading experience awaits.
Last update on 2026-02-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
