Higanjima

Today’s featured title is Higanjima, a gripping survival horror manga created by Kōji Matsumoto. Higanjima is a long-running series that began in 2002 and has continued through several sequels, including Higanjima, Higanjima: Saigo no 47 Nichikan (Last 47 Days), and Higanjima: 48 Nichigo… (48 Days Later). The story follows Akira Miyamoto, a high school student who journeys with his friends to the remote island of Higanjima, ruled by vampires, in order to rescue his missing older brother. What unfolds is a heart-pounding and suspenseful battle between humans and vampires, with each page keeping readers on edge. What makes Higanjima truly stand out is its detailed and original portrayal of vampires. In this universe, vampires must drink human blood regularly or they will transform into grotesque monsters. This premise adds depth and urgency to their behavior, making their treatment of humans as livestock terrifyingly plausible. Additionally, the infectious nature of vampire blood raises the stakes even higher—anyone who comes into contact with it risks turning into a vampire themselves. These rules enhance the tension and variety in every fight scene. Japan has seen many vampire and zombie-themed manga over the years, but none have developed such intricate vampire lore as Higanjima.

July 24, 2025

Another element that sets Higanjima apart is its inclusion of sensual and provocative scenes. In this world, when a vampire drinks from a human, the pleasure is so overwhelming that bodily fluids burst from every orifice—this extreme depiction adds a bizarre, erotic layer to the horror. There are also elements of romance woven into the brutal narrative, adding another perspective from which to enjoy the series.

July 24, 2025