Kikan S Winter 2025 (vol. 88)

Kikan S (季刊エス) is a quarterly Japanese magazine that focuses on illustration, design, and visual art, particularly in the anime, manga, and fantasy genres. Published by Asuka Shinsha, it showcases exclusive artwork, features artist interviews as well as creative techniques and tutorials, making it a favorite among fans of anime, manga, and fantasy art.

Known for its premium print quality, Kikan S offers stunning, full-color visuals on high-grade paper, making each issue a collectible for art enthusiasts.

This Winter issue (Vol. 88) explores the theme of "Fushigi Ayakashi" (Mystical Apparitions), featuring eerie and captivating visual interpretations of supernatural beings. The cover showcases an original illustration by Kazue Katō, creator of Blue Exorcist, with a detailed making-of interview celebrating the series’ 15th anniversary.

Inside, you’ll find contributions from popular manga artists and anime creators, including:

• Yuki Midorikawa (Natsume's Book of Friends)

• AidaIro (Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun)

• Xiaofei Li and Louis Ventre, animators of the upcoming Dandadan anime

• A special conversation between Masakazu Katsura and storyteller Yū Yama about mysterious worlds

The issue also introduces a lineup of emerging illustrators and creative talents, with new artwork by Totomame and Kenkyō, alongside a behind-the-scenes look at Yūki Yūki's Copic illustration process.

With its vivid visual and detailed artist insights, this issue is perfect for collectors and creative minds seeking inspiration. 160 pages.