Yu Yu Hakusho Complete Guide | All About Streaming Services, Characters, Synopsis, Quotes, and Voice Actors
What is Yu Yu Hakusho? Basic Information about the Work
"Yu Yu Hakusho" is a Japanese manga series by Yoshihiro Togashi, serialized in Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1990 to 1994. The story begins when a delinquent boy, Yusuke Urameshi, dies in a traffic accident and is resurrected as a spirit detective.
During its serialization, the work gained popularity as one of the flagship titles of Shōnen Jump, winning the 39th Shogakukan Manga Award in the boys' category in 1993. The collected volumes consist of 19 volumes, with total sales exceeding 50 million copies, making it a blockbuster work representative of the 90s.
The anime version aired all 112 episodes from 1992 to 1995, achieving an average viewership rating of 17.6% and a peak rating of 24.7%. Produced by Studio Pierrot, it faithfully recreated the original world view while also expanding its appeal with original anime episodes.
The work is characterized by its grand world view set across three realms: the Spirit World, the Demon World, and the Human World, along with its charming characters. Not only the protagonist Yusuke but also his friends Kazuma Kuwabara, Kurama, and Hiei, as well as the antagonists such as the Toguro brothers and Shinobu Sensui, all have deep backgrounds and personal charms.
Despite being a battle manga, it deals with philosophical themes such as friendship, growth, and the boundaries between good and evil, attracting a wide audience from children to adults. In 2023, it premiered a live-action drama on Netflix, continuing to gain new fans even after more than 30 years, establishing itself as a timeless classic.
How to Watch Yu Yu Hakusho? An In-Depth Comparison of Streaming Services
For those wanting to watch all 112 episodes of the Yu Yu Hakusho anime, we compare the features and pricing of various streaming services. Currently, it is available on multiple VOD platforms.
Streaming Services Where You Can Watch the Anime Version
The anime version of Yu Yu Hakusho can be viewed on several platforms, including U-NEXT, Hulu, TELASA, and Amazon Prime Video. Each service has its own features, so choose one that suits you best.
U-NEXT offers a subscription of 2,189 yen (tax included) per month, allowing unlimited access to all 112 episodes of Yu Yu Hakusho. There is a 31-day free trial period during which you can watch all episodes, which is an attractive feature. Additionally, it provides 1,200 points every month, which can also be used to purchase the manga version. It is recommended for those who want to enjoy not only the anime but also the original manga.
Hulu offers all episodes of Yu Yu Hakusho for a monthly fee of 1,026 yen (tax included). There is a 2-week free trial period, making it excellent value for money. Since it also has a rich selection of overseas dramas and Japanese variety shows, it is suitable for those who want to enjoy content other than Yu Yu Hakusho.
TELASA is priced reasonably at 618 yen (tax included) per month, with a 15-day free trial. It features a wealth of TV Asahi programs and also allows you to enjoy other anime and dramas.
Amazon Prime Video is available for a monthly fee of 600 yen (tax included) and can be used as a benefit for Amazon Prime members. It has a 30-day free trial, along with benefits like free shipping, making it a service with a high overall cost-performance ratio.
If you take advantage of the free trial period, it is possible to watch all 112 episodes within that period. However, you need to cancel before the trial period ends, otherwise, you will automatically become a paid member, so caution is necessary. 【Related Article】: A Thorough Comparison of Yu Yu Hakusho Streaming Services | Explaining How to Watch All Episodes for Free
About the Live-Action Version on Netflix
In December 2023, the live-action drama version of Yu Yu Hakusho was released on Netflix. It consists of 5 episodes, with Takumi Kitamura playing Yusuke Urameshi, Shuhei Uesugi as Kazuma Kuwabara, Jun Shison as Kurama, and Kanta Sato as Hiei.
The live-action version covers the Spirit Detective arc to the Dark Tournament arc and has received mixed reviews from fans of the original work. It has a rating of 3.6/5 on Filmarks, praised for the quality of its action scenes, but criticized for the pacing of the story being too rushed due to the short length of 5 episodes.
The visual representation of special moves such as the Spirit Gun and the Evil Spirit Fire Killing Black Dragon Wave using CG is a highlight, and the muscle manipulation of Toguro's brother is expressed realistically in live-action. It serves as an introductory piece for new viewers who are unfamiliar with the anime or the original work, while existing fans can enjoy it as a new interpretation. 【Related Article】: What is the Evaluation of Netflix's Live-Action Yu Yu Hakusho? A Thorough Review of the Cast's Acting and Fidelity to the Original
Full Explanation of the Story and Synopsis of Yu Yu Hakusho
Yu Yu Hakusho is divided into four large arcs, each with different themes and charms. The story begins with the Spirit Detective arc, progressing through the Dark Tournament arc, the Sensui arc, and the Demon World arc.
- Spirit World Detective Arc - Yusuke's Resurrection and Mission
- Dark Tournament Arc - The Ultimate Battle Tournament
- Sensui Arc - The Collapse of Justice and Yusuke's Awakening
- Demon World Arc - The Conclusion of the Story
Spirit World Detective Arc - Yusuke's Resurrection and Mission
The delinquent Yusuke Urameshi dies while trying to save a child by getting hit by a car. However, the Spirit World did not anticipate Yusuke's death and decided to give him a chance to come back to life. Under the guidance of Botan, the Spirit World's guide, Yusuke overcomes various trials and successfully returns to life.
After his resurrection, Yusuke is given the mission of a Spirit World Detective by Koenma from the Spirit World. It is his job to deal with the youkai causing trouble in the human world. Although Yusuke is initially confused, he learns the Spirit Wave Fist under his master, Genkai, and acquires the technique called “Spirit Gun,” which allows him to convert his spirit energy into bullets. During this time, he meets his close friends Kazuma Kuwabara and former thief Kurama and Hiei, laying the foundation for Team Urameshi.
Dark Tournament Arc - The Ultimate Battle Tournament
This is the most popular story arc in Yu Yu Hakusho. Yusuke, Kuwabara, Kurama, Hiei, and Genkai participate as a team in the Dark Tournament held on the island of Kurama in the Demon World. This tournament is a deadly fight where youkai from the Demon World gather, leading to confrontations with numerous formidable foes.
Particularly impressive is the final battle against Younger Toguro. Younger Toguro is a B-class youkai who can manipulate his muscles at will, and his form when fully powered boasts overwhelming strength. Following the death of Genkai, Yusuke explosively grows in spirit energy and engages in fierce battles using the Spirit Wave Fist and Spirit Gun inherited from his master.
This arc depicts the growth of each character, showcasing Kurama's transformation into a fox spirit, Hiei's Evil Flame Dragon Wave, and Kuwabara's Spirit Sword, each showing off their signature techniques. It is a chapter that can be seen as the climax of the story, testing the unity and friendship of Team Urameshi. 【Related Articles】：Comprehensive Explanation of the Dark Tournament in Yu Yu Hakusho｜Results and Highlights of All Matches
Sensui Arc - The Collapse of Justice and Yusuke's Awakening
The story of Shinobu Sensui, a former spirit detective, who falls into the dark side after despairing over the ugliness of humanity. Sensui possesses seven personalities, each using different abilities. His goal is to open the Boundary Tunnel to connect the demon world and the human world, intending to annihilate humanity.
The biggest turning point in this arc is when Yusuke dies in the battle against Sensui, revealing that he actually has the blood of the demon tribe. Yusuke's ancestor was Raizen, one of the three great demons of the demon world. Awakened as a demon, Yusuke defeats Sensui with overwhelming power, but deep themes are presented regarding what justice is and where the boundary lies between humans and demons.
Unlike the tournament format of the Dark Tournament, the Sensui Arc features a more psychological and philosophical development. The process of someone who believed in justice being tainted by evil is depicted with great care, showcasing a complexity that cannot be easily described by simple morality tales. 【Related Articles】:Thorough Explanation of the Sensui and Demon World Arcs in Yu Yu Hakusho｜Story and Highlights
Demon World Arc - The Conclusion of the Story
Awakened as a demon, Yusuke heads to the demon world, where the three great demons—Raizen, Yomi, and Mukuro—awaited him. Raizen is Yusuke's ancestor and has a past of having fallen in love with Yusuke's mother's ancestor in the human world.
The Demon World Unification Tournament is held, and Yusuke, Kurama, and Hiei will fight on different sides. This tournament is depicted not as a competition for lives but as a pure martial arts tournament where they compete for strength. Ultimately, the winners are neither Yusuke, Kurama, nor Hiei, but the demons of the demon world.
The story does not revolve around major incidents; each character finds their own path to conclude the narrative. Yusuke returns to the human world, Kuwabara becomes the mediator between the spirit and human worlds, while Kurama and Hiei remain in the demon world. The refreshing and hopeful ending sparked mixed reactions as it is an unusual conclusion for a battle manga. 【Related Articles】：Is the Ending of Yu Yu Hakusho Terrible? Explanation of the Controversial Conclusion and Cancellation Reasons
The Charming Characters of Yu Yu Hakusho
The charm of Yu Yu Hakusho lies in its rich and profound characters. From the main character team to the enemy characters, each has solid beliefs and backgrounds.
- Main Character Team - Yusuke Urameshi, Kazuma Kuwabara, Kurama, Hiei
- Popular Enemy Characters
- Support Characters
- Popular Vote Rankings
Main Character Team - Yusuke Urameshi, Kazuma Kuwabara, Kurama, Hiei
The four who are active as Team Urameshi each have different personalities and abilities, yet they are bound by strong bonds. They are attractive members who always dominate the top of the popularity polls.
- Yusuke Urameshi - From Delinquent to Spirit Detective
- Kazuma Kuwabara - A Man of Friendship and Courage
- Kurama - The Dual Nature of the Fox Spirit and Human
- Hiei - The Cool Flame User
Yusuke Urameshi - From Delinquent to Spirit Detective
The protagonist of the story, he is a hot-headed but inherently kind delinquent boy. After dying while saving a child, he is resurrected as a spirit detective. His signature technique is "Spirit Gun," which releases spiritual energy from his index finger, and as the story progresses, he learns various variations such as shotguns and rapid-fire. In the Sensui arc, it is revealed that he has demonic blood, and after awakening, he gained overwhelming combat power.
A straightforward and unyielding personality is loved by many fans.
Kazuma Kuwabara - A Man of Friendship and Courage
He is a rival of Yusuke but the most reliable best friend. With strong spiritual sensitivity, he fights with a weapon called "spirit sword" created from spiritual energy. Later, he masters the "dimension sword," which can cut through space, and plays an active role in important situations. At first glance, he may seem foolish and playful, but his bravery to stake his life to protect his friends and his pure-hearted love for Yukina are truly charming qualities. He is an indispensable mood maker for the team.
Kurama - The Duality of Fox and Human
He lives in the human world as an honor student, Shuuichi Minamino, but his true identity is the legendary thief, the fox demon Kurama. He excels in cunning and has a unique fighting style that uses plants as weapons. His signature technique is the "Rose Whip Blade," which transforms roses into whips. In dire situations, he can transform into the fox demon form with long silver hair, unleashing overwhelming power. His calm demeanor, beautiful appearance, and deep love for his mother create a captivating contrast that particularly resonates with female fans. He is always a popular character, consistently ranking second in popularity polls.
Hiei - The Cool Flame User
A cool swordsman with a cursed eye on his forehead, he uses the flame secret technique known as "Black Dragon Wave." His ultimate technique, "Evil King Flame Kill Black Dragon Wave," is a deadly move that turns the flames of the demon realm into the shape of a dragon to incinerate enemies. Initially, he had a ruthless personality, but as he acted alongside Team Urameshi, he deepened his trust in his companions. He also has a side as an older brother who secretly cares for his sister Yukina, and his solitary yet kind nature has captured the hearts of many female fans. He is the most popular character, having won first place in popularity polls. 【Related Articles】: Why are Kurama and Hiei from Yu Yu Hakusho so popular? An in-depth analysis of their relationship and charm
Popular Enemy Characters
The enemy characters in Yu Yu Hakusho are not simple villains; they are fascinating beings with tragic backgrounds and beliefs.
Toguro Brother - The Tragic Strongest Demon
He is the final boss of the Dark Tournament arc and is a B-class demon capable of manipulating his muscles at will. His appearance when unleashing 100% of his power is overwhelming, cornering Yusuke. However, his true nature was that of a human martial artist who once won the Dark Tournament alongside Genkai. He has a tragic past of choosing to become a demon after the sorrow of having his precious disciples killed by a demon. His famous quote, "100% of 100%," and his self-sacrificial spirit in choosing hell at the end remain etched in the hearts of many fans as a memorable character.
Sensui Shinobu - Broken Justice
He is the final boss of the Sensui arc and has a background as a former Spirit World detective.
He, who fought for justice, sees human brutality and falls into despair, attempting to destroy humanity. He possesses seven personalities, each with different abilities and roles. The process of someone who believed in justice falling into the dark side presents a deep theme that cannot be explained by simple good versus evil. In contrast to his brother Toguro, he is depicted as an intellectual and philosophical villain. 【Related Article】: The reasons behind Toguro from Yu Yu Hakusho's popularity: Explanation of his sad past and 100% strengthSupport Characters
Genkai is Yusuke's master and a user of the Spirit Wave Fist. She raises Yusuke with strict yet affectionate guidance. Koenma is the heir to the spirit world and appears as a young child with a pacifier, but actually holds an important position in the spirit world. Botan is a guide of the spirit world, with a bright and caring personality who supports Yusuke and others. Yukina is Hiei's sister and a snow woman who manipulates ice. She has a beautiful appearance that Kuwabara falls in love with at first sight, along with a gentle personality.
Popularity Poll Ranking
In the official popularity poll of Yu Yu Hakusho, Hiei ranked first and Kurama second. Following them are Yusuke, Kuwabara, and Toguro. Interestingly, the enemy character Toguro ranks high as well. This shows that it is not just simple strength, but the depth and charm of the characters that are being appreciated. Particularly, Hiei and Kurama's popularity is overwhelming and has greatly contributed to the expansion of the female fanbase.
List of Special Skills and Abilities in Yu Yu Hakusho
The special skills that color the battle scenes in Yu Yu Hakusho reflect the individuality of each character. Here, we introduce representative techniques and their evolutions of the main members.
- Yusuke's Technique - Spirit Gun and its Evolution
- Hiei's Technique - The Secret Art of Controlling Flames
- Kurama's Technique - The Strategy of Using Plants as Weapons
- Kuwabara's Technique - From Spirit Sword to Dimension Blade
Yusuke's Technique - Spirit Gun and its Evolution
Yusuke's representative technique is the "Spirit Gun."
A technique that fires spirit energy from the index finger like a bullet; initially, it would leave the user completely exhausted after just one shot, but as training progressed, both power and accuracy improved. In the Dark Martial Arts Tournament, techniques such as continuous firing and spreading the energy like a shotgun were also learned. After awakening as a demon during the Sensui Saga, the user can unleash an overwhelming spirit ball that combines spirit energy and yokai energy. It's a simple yet versatile technique.
Hiei's Technique - The Secret Art of Controlling Fire
Hiei's ultimate technique is "Evil King Flame Killing Black Dragon Wave." This secret art shapes the flames of the demon world into a dragon form to incinerate enemies, and there was a risk of injuring himself when used for the first time. It was first showcased during his battle against Zairo in the Dark Martial Arts Tournament, stunning the audience with its overwhelming destructive power. Once he gained complete control over the Black Dragon Wave, it became a defining technique for Hiei. The evil eye on his forehead is also a crucial ability, allowing him to read opponents' movements and see through illusions. His swordsmanship is top-notch, characterized by rapid consecutive strikes.
Kurama's Technique - Strategy with Plants as Weapons
Kurama possesses a unique fighting style that utilizes plants as weapons. His signature technique is the "Rose Thorn Whip Blade," which transforms a rose into a sharp whip to slash enemies. He is also skilled at using seeds for attacks and utilizing plant toxins in his strategies. When he transforms into his kitsune form, he can use even more powerful yokai techniques. Kurama's approach to combat is not brute force; he strategically attacks after pinpointing the opponent's weaknesses. His ability to turn seemingly mundane plant-based weapons into terrifying instruments of battle shines through his fighting sense.
Kuwabara's Technique - From Spirit Sword to Dimensional Blade
Kuwabara's spirit sword technique involves shaping spirit energy into the form of a sword for combat. Initially, it was a short sword, but he is able to create a long sword through training. Additionally, in the Sensui Saga, he learned a higher-level technique called "Dimensional Blade." The Dimensional Blade has the ability to cut through space itself, nullifying any barrier or defense. With this technique, Kuwabara evolved from simply a character who flaunts his strength into an essential trump card for the team. His intuitive spiritual sensitivity is also one of Kuwabara's talents, giving him a keen ability to sense danger. 【Related Articles】:All Ultimate Techniques from Yu Yu Hakusho｜From Spirit Ball to Evil King Flame Killing Black Dragon Wave
Yu Yu Hakusho Anime Information and Voice Cast
The Yu Yu Hakusho anime, with its gorgeous voice cast and high quality, became a classic representative of the 1990s.
- Anime Basic Information
- Introduction of the Luxurious Voice Cast
- 25th Anniversary Event and Voice Actor Reunion
Anime Basic Information
The TV anime "Yu Yu Hakusho" aired on the Fuji TV network from October 10, 1992, to January 7, 1995. It consists of 112 episodes and was produced by Studio Pierrot. The broadcast time was Saturday at 7:30 PM, achieving an impressive average viewership rating of 17.6% and a peak rating of 24.7%.
While adhering closely to the original story, original anime episodes were moderately inserted, successfully deepening the characters. The animation quality of the battle scenes was highly regarded for its time, particularly the battle scenes in the Dark Tournament arc left a lasting impression on many fans.
Introduction of the Luxurious Voice Cast
One of the charms of Yu Yu Hakusho is the character performances by its luxurious voice cast. Each voice actor breathed life into their roles, enhancing the overall quality of the anime.
Main Cast
Yusuke Urameshi is voiced by Nozomu Sasaki. His performance expresses the roughness of a delinquent boy and the kindness towards his friends solely through voice. Nozomu Sasaki is known for roles such as Alfred Izuruha in "Mobile Suit Gundam 0080".
Kazuma Kuwabara is played by Shigeru Chiba. He skillfully distinguishes between comedic and serious performances, giving depth to Kuwabara's character. Shigeru Chiba is a seasoned voice actor with many notable roles, including narrating "Fist of the North Star" and as Reiji Itō in "High School! Kimengumi".
Kurama is voiced by Emi Ogata. Kurama's beautiful and calm voice perfectly matches Emi Ogata's androgynous voice quality. She is also known for her impressive role as Shinji Ikari in "Neon Genesis Evangelion".
Hiei is portrayed by Nobuyuki Hiyama. He excellently expresses Hiei's cool and solitary personality with his deep and resonant voice. An adaptable voice actor who excels at passionate characters, he is known for his role as GaoGaiGar in "Brave King GaoGaiGar". 【Related Articles】：Introducing the Voice Actors of Yu Yu Hakusho｜The Appeal of the Gorgeous Cast including Nozomu Sasaki and Shigeru Chiba
Supporting Cast
Aoyama Naoko voices Genkai, portraying both the old woman and her younger self. The role of Koenma is played by Mayumi Tanaka, a popular voice actor also known for voicing Luffy in 'ONE PIECE'. The character Botan is voiced by Sanae Miyuki, who performed wonderfully as a bright and energetic character. The role of Toguro's younger brother is voiced by Tetsu Kenda, who expresses an overwhelming presence and sorrow through his voice.
25th Anniversary Event and Voice Actors' Reunion
In 2018, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the anime broadcast of Yu Yu Hakusho, an event was held where the four main voice actors reunited. Nozomu Sasaki, Shigeru Chiba, Megumi Ogata, and Nobutoshi Canna gathered after 25 years to share memories and their thoughts on the work. This event moved many fans and proved that Yu Yu Hakusho is a beloved work that transcends time.
Yu Yu Hakusho's Opening and Insertion Songs
It is impossible to discuss the anime Yu Yu Hakusho without mentioning its collection of famous theme songs. Particularly, the opening song continues to be loved by many fans even today.
Opening Song "Explosion of Smiles"
Composed by Matsuko Mawatari, "Explosion of Smiles" was used as the opening theme for all 112 episodes of Yu Yu Hakusho. Its bright and refreshing melody, along with lyrics that sing about friendship and youth, perfectly match the world of the work.
Particularly striking in the lyrics is the phrase "Always keep smiling and let’s live in the now." This has become a symbolic lyric representing the story of the delinquent Yusuke growing up with his friends. As a classic song representing the anime songs of the 90s, it remains a popular karaoke choice.
The song has a pop tone while also evoking a sense of wistfulness with its superb arrangement. The memorable guitar riff in the intro is unforgettable once heard. Even over 30 years later, many fans find that this song brings back memories of that time.
【Related Articles】：Introducing all the theme songs of Yu Yu Hakusho｜The Lyrics and Charm of Classic Songs like "Explosion of Smiles"List of Ending Songs
Multiple songs were used as ending themes. The most famous song is "Unbalanced Kiss" sung by Hiroshi Takahashi. It's a fast-paced rock number that gained considerable support, especially from female fans, alongside the rising popularity of Kurama and Hiei.
"When the Sun Shines Again" is a song composed by Matsuko Mawatari, featured during the Dark Martial Arts Tournament arc. It’s an emotional ballad that perfectly matches the afterglow following the fierce battle with Toguro's brother.
"Daydream Generation" is an uptempo song that creates a bright atmosphere in the story. Each song reflects the distinct ambiance of different arcs and serves to heighten the audience's emotions.
Theme Songs for the Movie
In the movie "Yu Yu Hakusho: The Dark Tournament Saga - The Bonds of Flames," an original theme song was used. The song expresses the grand scale unique to movie adaptations, enhancing the world view of the film. The story depicts Yusuke and his friends battling fiery demons, with music that matches this intense theme.
Memorable Quotes and Scenes from Yu Yu Hakusho
Yu Yu Hakusho features numerous memorable quotes that stay with the heart. The lines encapsulate the philosophy and life approaches of each character.
Toguro's Quotes
Toguro's representative quote is "I'll go with 100% out of 100%." This line, delivered during the final battle of the Dark Martial Arts Tournament against Yusuke, symbolizes Toguro’s resolve and strength. His display of power beyond his limits evokes a sense of dignity as a warrior, even in his role as an enemy.
Moreover, his final line, "I'm going to hell," is also striking. Acknowledging the sins he has committed and choosing hell himself portrays Toguro's complex humanity, showing he is not just a mere villain. The tragedy that twisted him, having once fought for justice, due to the death of his disciples is encapsulated in these words.
His last words to Genkai, "You must live," also represent Toguro's humanity and feature an emotional moment that reflects his thoughts towards his former comrades at the last moment.
Kurama's Quotes
Kurama's quotes are often intellectual and calm, showcasing his aspect as a strategist. His words to Toguro's brother, "The disease that leads to death is not you, but me", symbolize Kurama's coldness and cunning.
On the other hand, his words, "Mother, thank you," reveal a warm side of Kurama as a human.
Despite being a yokai, this scene beautifully portrays Kurama's deep love for his human mother.
His calm line during battle, "As planned," exemplifies what makes Kurama who he is. It encapsulates his style of always anticipating the next move and fighting strategically.
Hiei's Famous Quotes
Hiei's quotes reflect his cool and solitary personality. The short line, "What a foolish question," is a typical expression of Hiei's disdain for waste and his confidence.
His question, "Do you know my name?" also shows Hiei's pride. It conveys his awareness of his own strength and fame while not flaunting them, showcasing Hiei's dignity.
In scenes involving Yukina, a different side of Hiei's character reveals a gentleness that differs from his usual cool demeanor. The line, "This tear is warm," is a touching scene that expresses Hiei's hidden kindness towards his sister.
Other Character Quotes
Yusuke's determined line, "I'll do it!" symbolizes his straightforward personality. It carries the courage to face any strong enemy and the resolve to protect his friends.
Genkai's words, "Don't forget that you are my disciple," express both her pride as a master and her expectations for her disciple. This quote reflects Genkai's strict yet warm personality.
Kurabara's line, "It's for the woman I love!" expresses his pure feelings for Yukina. It encapsulates Kurabara's charm as someone who is clumsy yet single-minded. Related Articles: A Collection of Memorable Quotes from Yu Yu Hakusho featuring Toguro, Kurama, and Hiei
The Truth Behind the Final Episode of Yu Yu Hakusho and the End of Serialization
The final episode of Yu Yu Hakusho remains a topic of heated debate among fans. There were deep reasons behind the author's decision to end the serialization.
- Synopsis of the Final Episode
- Evaluations of Mixed Reviews
- Reasons Yoshihiro Togashi Ended the Serialization
Synopsis of the Final Episode
After the Demon World Tournament, the story returns to the daily lives of each character. Yusuke resumes his school life in the human world, continuing his relationship with Keiko. Kurabara acts as a mediator between the spirit world and the human world, maintaining his connections with Yukina.
Kurama and Hiei chose to stay in the Demon World. Kurama serves as a close aide to Yomi, while Hiei lives a life of freely traveling in the Demon World. It is an ending where each finds their place and begins a new life.
There are no grand battles or dramatic developments, but a gentle and hopeful daily life is depicted. Although Yusuke and the others' adventures have come to an end, it wraps up in a way that leaves the feeling that their lives will continue from here on.
Mixed Reviews
Opinions on the final episode are deeply divided. Negative comments include voices saying, "It felt like it was abruptly ended," "The demon world arc was too rushed," and "I was expecting a more exciting conclusion." Especially online, some reviews are noted to be "terrible."
On the other hand, many positive opinions also exist. Reviews include comments like, "A realistic ending returning to daily life is good," "The absence of an exaggerated final battle is refreshing," and "The conclusion allows for a sense of character growth." Some argue that the unusually quiet ending for a battle manga actually leaves a lasting impression.
The reason for the divided opinions is that the ending was different from the exciting climax that readers expected from a shonen manga. However, as time passes, voices re-evaluating this ending are also increasing.
Reasons Why Yoshihiro Togashi Ended the Series
In an interview after the series ended, Yoshihiro Togashi mentioned there were "50 reasons" for concluding Yu Yu Hakusho. The main reasons were health issues and mental fatigue. It is said that he had been struggling with back pain and sleep deprivation due to the demanding schedule of weekly publications.
Additionally, differences in direction with the editorial department were also one of the reasons. Togashi wanted to depict more philosophical themes in the demon world arc, but felt limited by the format of Weekly Shonen Jump. According to former assistants, Togashi was "suffering between what he wanted to draw and what he was made to draw."
There are rumors of an "abrupt cancellation," but in reality, Togashi made the decision to end the series himself. However, it is also true that he did not have the luxury to conclude the story in the way he ideally envisioned. Afterwards, Togashi pursued a freer creative style with his next work, HUNTER×HUNTER. The end of Yu Yu Hakusho can be seen as a turning point for Togashi as a creator. [Related articles]: The truth behind the end of serialization revealed by Yu Yu Hakusho's creator, Yoshihiro Togashi
Yu Yu Hakusho Related Products and Goods Information
As a beloved work for over 30 years, related products of Yu Yu Hakusho are still actively being developed. Various items from figures to video software are being sold.
Figures and Hobbies
Figures from Yu Yu Hakusho, specifically Bandai's "S.H.Figuarts" series, are popular. Major characters such as Yusuke Urameshi, Kurama, and Hiei are intricately sculpted and have a wide range of articulation, allowing for various poses. The price is around 6,000 to 8,000 yen per figure, making them highly regarded collectors' items.
The "Puchi Character Land" series features cute deformed design figures. They are priced affordably and bring enjoyment in collecting multiple characters. This series is particularly popular among female fans.
Recommended places to purchase include specialty stores like Animate, AmiAmi, and Kotobukiya. There are also limited edition items and reservation bonuses, so it’s a good idea to check the official sites and information from specialty stores.
Video Software
The "Yu Yu Hakusho 25th Anniversary Blu-ray BOX" released to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the anime broadcast, contains all 112 episodes and is the definitive edition. It also includes event footage of the voice actor reunion, making it a must-have item for fans.
The movie "Yu Yu Hakusho: The Movie - Bonds of Fire" is also available on Blu-ray, allowing viewers to enjoy it in high quality. There are multiple versions of the DVD box available, so you can choose based on your budget.
While we live in an era where streaming services allow for easy viewing, physical packages hold value as collector's items with bonus footage and booklets.
Other Goods
Collaboration cafes held regularly offer limited goods and special menus. Items like can badges, acrylic stands, and clear files are highly popular event-exclusive items.
The game app "Yu Yu Hakusho GENKAI Battle Spirit" allows players to enjoy an original story. It's easy to play on smartphones, and the participation of the anime's voice actors is also an attractive feature.
Irregular stage adaptations and various collaboration projects are carried out, so it’s recommended to check the official social media and fan sites for the latest information. 【Related Articles】: Where can you buy Yu Yu Hakusho merchandise and figures? Latest products and purchasing methods
Conclusion: Yu Yu Hakusho Remains a Timeless Masterpiece
As a representative battle manga of the 1990s, Yu Yu Hakusho continues to be loved by many fans even today.
Yusuke Urameshi, Kazuma Kuwabara, Kurama, and Hiei, along with the charming enemy characters like Toguro and Shinobu Sensui, and a deep story that portrays friendship and growth, form the universal appeal of the work.
An environment has been established where all 112 episodes can be easily watched on streaming services such as U-NEXT, Hulu, and TELASA, and a new generation of fans is being born through the 2023 live-action version on Netflix. Iconic songs like 'Smiling Bomb' and 'Unbalanced Kiss' still resonate with many people's hearts even after 30 years.
With numerous finishing moves like Reigan, Jaou Enzai Kokuryuha, and Spirit Sword, memorable quotes such as '100% out of 100%', and a final episode that leaves a lasting impact despite mixed opinions, Yu Yu Hakusho is remembered as a cultural work that transcended a mere battle manga.
For those about to watch Yu Yu Hakusho, I recommend first watching all the episodes on a streaming service. The Dark Tournament arc is particularly a must-see. Even for those who already know the work, revisiting it will bring new discoveries. Yu Yu Hakusho is a timeless masterpiece that provides new emotions no matter how many times you watch it.
