New Manga Series 'War Food'
The highly anticipated first chapter of the manga series "War Food" will premiere on
Yan-Chan Web starting at
12:00 AM on July 18, 2025. This series is a collaborative project between the
Japan Junior Chamber (Japan JC) and the acclaimed manga artist
Mitsuta Unome, whose works delve into the untold stories of wartime experiences. The narrative is set on the
Northern Territories' Etorofu Island, capturing the essence of survival and resilience in a tumultuous period of history.
A Connection to the Past
2025 marks a significant milestone as it is the
80th anniversary since the end of World War II. Recognizing this pivotal moment, Japan JC has initiated the
"Story Discovery Project", aimed at preserving and sharing memories of war for future generations. The challenge lies in countering the fading memories of this historical period as war survivors age and museums close their doors.
With the goal of making these important stories accessible, Japan JC decided to transform them into manga format, thereby reaching a broader audience. This innovative project combines history with the art of storytelling, opening a path for readers to engage with past experiences in a relatable manner.
Culinary Narratives of War
A prominent theme in the comic is food, as depicted through the lens of everyday life during wartime. The manga artist
Mitsuta Unome specializes in conveying heartfelt stories about wartime dining experiences, showcasing an array of culinary memories that emerged during this challenging epoch. The stories featured in "War Food" are genuine accounts from individuals who lived through the war, illustrating how they coped with scarcity and hardship.
In collaboration with Japan JC, the series seeks submissions from across the nation, inviting stories related to food and daily life from the wartime era. Selected narratives will be adapted and illustrated in special editions by Unome, adding personal touches to universal experiences.
Readers of "War Food" will not only find entertainment but also learn valuable lessons about history, culture, and the importance of memory. Each episode will be available for free (subject to certain limitations) on
Yan-Chan Web, launched in a phased manner:
- - Episode 0 & Episode 1: July 18, 2025
- - Episode 2: August 19, 2025
- - Episode 3: September 16, 2025
- - Episode 4: October 21, 2025
Further, the project is also open for submissions until
August 31, 2025, encouraging individuals to share their own narratives and experiences.
About the Platforms
Yan-Chan Web
Yan-Chan Web is a digital platform dedicated to distributing various manga titles, including those from
Young Champion and
Young Champion Retsu, published by
Akita Shoten. It encompasses various genres like fantasy, romance, drama, horror, comedy, and mystery, with numerous stories available to readers for free. The site aims to appeal to diverse audiences and promote the significance of manga as a medium for storytelling.
The Legacy of 'War Food'
The
"War Food" manga series, which began its journey in
2015, has become a beloved collection of nostalgic tales, revisiting the forgotten flavors of history. In
2018, the stories gained further prominence through a TV drama adaptation aired on
NHK BS Premium, showcasing the emotional depth and resilience of wartime experiences.
Join us in celebrating the launch of "War Food," as it not only promises to entertain but also enrich our understanding of the past, reminding us of the importance of peace and memory in a world that moves forward.