Is the Anime Finished?#
When considering whether to dive into this series, the most important thing to understand is the relationship between the source material and the adaptation. The original manga, Ikoku Nikki, is fully completed, having run from June 8, 2017, to June 8, 2023.
The anime adaptation, titled Journal with Witch, debuted on January 4, 2026. Because the source manga is already finished, the entire story arc has been established. Whether the anime provides a fully satisfying conclusion on its own depends on how much of the manga it adapts; however, completionists can rest easy knowing that the full story is available in the manga if the anime leaves them wanting more.
If you want to ensure you get the full experience, you can buy the Ikoku Nikki manga here.
What is Ikoku Nikki About?#
Ikoku Nikki is a poignant drama that explores the friction and growth between two very different people. The story follows Makio Kōdai, a 35-year-old novelist who takes in her 15-year-old niece, Asa, after the sudden passing of Asa’s parents.
Makio is an introvert who struggles with the company of others, and her decision to take in Asa was an impulse she immediately regretted once she “returned to her senses.” The heart of the series lies in their daily struggle to cohabitate: Makio attempts to acclimate to having a roommate, while Asa tries to navigate life with an adult guardian who rarely acts like one.
This series is best suited for audiences who enjoy character-driven dramas and stories about unconventional family dynamics. Its appeal lies in the realistic portrayal of grief and the awkward, slow process of building a bond between two reluctant companions.
If you enjoy these themes, you can watch the anime on Prime Video.
Recommended Watch and Read Order#
Depending on your preferences, there are several ways to experience this story. You can refer to the relationship tree on this page for a visual breakdown of how the works connect.
The Release Order#
For those who want to experience the franchise as it happened in the real world:
- Ikoku Nikki Manga (2017–2023)
- Ikoku Nikki Live-Action Film (Clips released in 2024)
- Journal with Witch Anime (2026)
The Completionist Order#
If you want every single piece of media available:
- Read the Ikoku Nikki Manga to get the full, original vision.
- Watch the Journal with Witch Anime to see the characters brought to life.
- Explore the Live-Action Film clips for an alternative take on the beginning of the story.
The “Anime-First” Order#
For those who prefer to see the animation before committing to the page:
- Watch the Journal with Witch Anime.
- If the anime ends on a cliffhanger or you want a deeper dive into the characters, continue with the Ikoku Nikki Manga to reach the definitive conclusion.
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Extra Information for Fans#
For those who want to show their support for the series, you can find Ikoku Nikki merchandise here.
It is also worth noting that the series has received critical acclaim, including a nomination for the prestigious Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prizes, marking it as a high-quality work of storytelling regardless of which medium you choose first.
Ikoku Nikki • manga • 2017-06-08 to 2023-06-08 (serialized in Feel Young, Jul 2017-Jul 2023)
└─(adaptation)→ Journal with Witch • anime • 2026-01-04
