Is the Anime Really Finished?#
If you are wondering whether you can dive into Joshiraku without worrying about an endless cliffhanger, you are in luck. The anime adaptation, which premiered in July 2012, concluded its home video release with the final Blu-Ray/DVD volume in May 2013.
For those who worry that the anime might leave the story incomplete, it is worth noting that the source material—the Joshiraku manga—also reached its conclusion in September 2013. Because both the anime and the manga have finished their respective runs, viewers can enjoy the series knowing that the overarching production cycle for the original story is complete.
If you’re ready to start, you can watch the anime on Prime Video.
What to Expect from Joshiraku#
Joshiraku is firmly rooted in the comedy genre. It appeals to viewers who enjoy lighthearted humor and episodic storytelling. Beyond the anime and manga, the series has expanded into other media, including stage plays featuring idols from Nogizaka46, highlighting its appeal to fans of Japanese pop culture and idol groups.
Whether you are looking for a quick laugh or a quirky series to unwind with, this comedy offers a focused experience. If you enjoy the series and want to support our research into more anime, feel free to buy us a coffee on Ko-fi!
Recommended Watch and Read Order#
Depending on how much of the Joshiraku universe you want to experience, there are a few ways to approach the series. You can refer to the relationship tree below for a visual guide to how the different versions connect.
The Release Order#
For those who want to experience the series as it was released to the public:
- Joshiraku Manga (Serialized starting September 2009)
- Joshiraku Anime (Released July 2012)
The Recommended Order for Newcomers#
If you prefer the visual medium first, we recommend starting with the anime. It provides a great entry point into the comedy. If you find yourself wanting more after the final episode, you can then transition to the manga to see the original source material. You can buy the Joshiraku manga here.
The Completionist Order#
For those who want every single piece of Joshiraku content:
- The Manga: Start here to see the foundation of the comedy.
- The Anime: Watch the adaptation to see the characters brought to life.
- Stage Plays: Look into the various stage productions, including those featuring Nogizaka46 members, to see how the series transitioned to the theater.
Additional Information#
For collectors and dedicated fans, Joshiraku has been licensed for North American audiences by Maiden Japan. If you are looking to build a physical collection or find related items, you can browse Joshiraku merchandise here.
Joshiraku • manga • 2009-09-09 (serialized in Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine)
└─(adaptation)→ Joshiraku • anime • 2012-07-05
