Launched Today: Japan JC's Manga Series on War Meals Set in the Northern Territories

New Manga Series: "War Meals" by Japan JC

A new manga titled "War Meals", a collaborative project by the Japan Junior Chamber (日本青年会議所), Akita Shoten, and the talented artist Mitsuta Uonome, officially launched today on Yanchan Web. The first episode takes readers to Etorofu Island, one of the Northern Territories, delving into stories from 1941, the period marking the onset of war.

The first episode commences with Episode 0, which narrates the backstory of how Japan JC and Mitsuta Uonome collaborated. Episode 1 showcases life in the Northern Territories during wartime, particularly focusing on a specific ingredient that reflects the local culture and wartime experiences.

The project arrives at a pivotal moment as we commemorate 80 years since the end of World War II, during which memories of that time are slowly fading. Japan JC has initiated the "80-Year Story Excavation Project" aimed at preserving and sharing various stories from the war. By inviting submissions from around the country that detail everyday life and culinary experiences during the war, the selected stories will be meticulously illustrated by Uonome as special editions in "War Meals".

This strategic approach not only seeks to promote awareness of historical memories but also to engage younger generations through the accessible medium of manga.

In the context of today's first episode, narrated against the backdrop of Etorofu Island, readers can expect to encounter various local culinary dishes inspired by wartime, ensuring both education and entertainment.

Scheduled Release of Episodes:

- Episode 0 & Episode 1: July 18, 2025
- Episode 2: August 19, 2025
- Episode 3: September 16, 2025
- Episode 4: October 21, 2025

Furthermore, Japan JC is accepting submissions for war-related stories until August 31, 2025. This initiative encourages individuals to share their familial tales from 80 years ago. Interested contributors can find submission guidelines via the project’s information on Japan JC's official website.

Discover More About the Manga and Its Themes

"War Meals" revolves around the theme of food during wartime, a heartwarming take on stories that emerged amidst the upheaval. Serialized since 2015 in Young Champion and its spinoffs, the series highlights touching narratives of survival and adaptations through meals enjoyed under dire circumstances.

In 2018, "War Meals" expanded its reach by being adapted into a television drama aired on NHK BS Premium, bringing these poignant stories to a broader audience.

Yanchan Web: Where the Story Begins

The platform Yanchan Web serves as a hub for manga lovers, offering various titles across genres including fantasy, romance, and drama. Users can access works from Young Champion, Young Champion Retsu, and other related publications, with the added benefit of reading select works for free.

For those interested in exploring this new manga, check out the links below to dive into the inaugural episodes: Episode 0 and Episode 1.

This innovative approach by Japan JC and their esteemed partners brings history to life, fostering a deeper understanding of the past through the engaging medium of manga. Don't miss out on this unique experience!