Kikan S Summer 2026 (vol. 94)

Kikan S (季刊エス) is a quarterly Japanese magazine dedicated to illustration, design, and visual storytelling, spanning anime, manga, games, and fantasy art. Published by Pie International, it's known for exclusive cover artwork, in-depth artist interviews, and step-by-step making-of features that make it a favorite among illustrators and collectors alike.

Printed in full color on premium paper, each issue of Kikan S doubles as an art book — a lasting collectible for fans of Japanese character illustration.

Issue Highlights

Vol. 94 explores "The Making of Fantasy" with a cover feature on illustrator Jun, known for Buki Weapons and the Should We Form a Party? series, fresh off the release of her first fantasy art book, NAVIGAVI. The issue includes a full interview and cover making-of, alongside concept art and character design workshops led by the "Gokinjo" trio (Hiro Nagasuna, Fujimoto Gold, and Mizutamari Higashi), illustrator okama, and Mana Nanakami with TEWI.

A major highlight is a commemorative interview with Mizuho Kusanagi, creator of the beloved fantasy epic Yona of the Dawn, marking the manga's conclusion after a celebrated 16-year run. The issue also covers the exhibition "The Origins of Mamoru Hosoda," tied to the acclaimed director's latest film, Scarlet.

Also in This Issue

• A large illustrated pin-up of Jun's cover artwork
• Copic marker making-of by orange
• Watercolor paper making-of by Uri Fukamidori
• Pen tablet making-of by Tasuplus
• Results from the 6th GALLERIA illustration contest
• Ongoing serialized artwork by Range Murata, Hiroyuki Asada, Fuu Aoi, Totomame, and Ugomba

About Kikan S

Since its founding, Kikan S has served as a bridge between the worlds of manga, anime, games, and fine art — spotlighting the illustrators shaping Japan's visual culture through exclusive cover commissions, candid interviews, and detailed making-of breakdowns.

Each issue pairs a major illustrator feature with a large full-color pin-up, contest results, technique columns, and serialized artwork from some of the industry's most celebrated names, making Kikan S essential reading for artists and collectors alike.

Specifications

Magazine: Kikan S (季刊エス)
Issue: Vol. 94, Summer 2026
Language: Japanese
Publisher: Pie International
Release Frequency: Quarterly
Condition: Brand New
Shipping: Ships from Japan