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Shibuya Goldfish
Shibuya Goldfish
Shibuya Goldfish
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Shibuya Goldfish
Cover of the first volume
渋谷金魚
GenreHorror[1]
Manga
Written byHiroumi Aoi
Published bySquare Enix
English publisher
MagazineGangan Joker
Original runSeptember 21, 2016 – April 22, 2021
Volumes11 (List of volumes)

Shibuya Goldfish (Japanese: 渋谷金魚, Hepburn: Shibuya Kingyo) is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Hiroumi Aoi. It was serialized in Square Enix's Gangan Joker from September 2016 to April 2021 and published in 11 volumes.

Premise

[edit]

The series centers on Hajime Tsukiyoda, a high school film student who finds himself in the middle of a terrifying event where giant goldfish suddenly descend on the populace of Shibuya and begin feeding on people. Hajime meets with popular classmate Fukakusa whom he immediately crushes on and tries to save. However, she is revealed to be deranged and unsympathetic to his plight and, in an effort to have him "sacrifice" himself, ends up getting killed by the goldfish. Hajime tries to kill himself by jumping from a building, but ends up killing several goldfish on the way down and survives. He is soon rescued by several survivors who inform him that a giant glass bowl has been placed over Shibuya and now they must try to escape.

Publication

[edit]

The series is written and illustrated by Hiroumi Aoi, and began serialization in Gangan Joker on September 21, 2016.[2] In November 2019, it was revealed the series would enter its final arc after a one-month break.[3] The series ended in Gangan Joker on April 22, 2021.[4] The series individual chapters were collected into eleven tankōbon volumes.[5]

At Anime NYC 2017, Yen Press announced they licensed the series for English publication.[6]

Volume list

[edit]
No. Original release date Original ISBN English release date English ISBN
1 February 22, 2017[7]978-4-75-755253-1June 26, 2018[8]978-1-97-532744-6
2 June 22, 2017[9]978-4-75-755387-3October 30, 2018[10]978-1-97-535407-7
3 December 22, 2017[11]978-4-75-755557-0February 19, 2019[12]978-1-97-538214-8
4 May 22, 2018[13]978-4-75-755724-6May 28, 2019[14]978-1-97-538419-7
5 October 22, 2018[15]978-4-75-755884-7August 27, 2019[16]978-1-97-538505-7
6 March 22, 2019[17]978-4-75-756067-3December 24, 2019[18]978-1-97-538758-7
7 August 22, 2019[19]978-4-75-756249-3March 17, 2020[20]978-1-97-539954-2
8 February 22, 2020[21]978-4-75-756528-9November 17, 2020[22]978-1-97-531734-8
9 August 21, 2020[23]978-4-75-756803-7June 1, 2021[24]978-1-97-532462-9
10 January 22, 2021[25]978-4-75-757040-5March 22, 2022[26]978-1-97-533570-0
11 June 22, 2021[27]978-4-75-757328-4August 23, 2022[28]978-1-97-534541-9

Reception

[edit]

Katherine Dacey from The Manga Critic criticized the first volume for its characters and artwork.[1] Manga artist Hiroya Oku recommended the series.[29] At San Diego Comic-Con, Deb Aoki picked the series as the worst manga for anyone of any age.[30]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Shibuya Goldfish

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Shibuya Goldfish (Shibuya Kingyo, 渋谷金魚) is a series written and illustrated by Hiroumi Aoi. Serialized in Square Enix's Gangan Joker magazine from September 2016 to April 2021, it was collected into eleven volumes by the publisher. The narrative centers on high schooler Tsukiyoda, who visits seeking inspiration for a project only to become trapped in a sudden when massive, flesh-eating swarm the streets, devouring pedestrians and transforming the bustling district into a deadly trap from which escape seems impossible. As the grotesque invaders mutate and evolve amid the chaos—developing limbs, intelligence, and relentless hunger—the survivors band together in desperate acts of resistance, navigating 's confined urban terrain while awaiting potential rescue that may never come. The series explores themes of through vivid, nightmarish depictions of the goldfish horde's invasion, which eventually threatens to spread beyond Shibuya to engulf the world. Yen Press licensed the for English release in , with the first volume appearing on June 26, 2018, and subsequent volumes following through 2022 to complete the series. Originally targeted at a shōnen audience, Shibuya Goldfish stands out for its blend of and apocalyptic tension.

Synopsis

Premise

Shibuya Goldfish follows Tsukiyoda, a high school student and aspiring filmmaker, who visits the vibrant district of in to seek inspiration for his next video project after struggling to engage his classmates in collaborative efforts. On this ordinary day, Hajime's routine is shattered by the inexplicable arrival of enormous that descend from the sky onto the crowded streets, immediately beginning to devour passersby and transforming the bustling urban hub into a nightmarish landscape. Amid the chaos, has an initial encounter with his classmate Fukakusa, whom he assists in a moment of peril inside a store, forging a brief as they witness the horrific firsthand, including a ejecting a severed into their vicinity. The pair flees toward the station, only to discover the escalating catastrophe: the entire area is suddenly enclosed by a colossal transparent descending from above, sealing survivors like themselves inside with the relentless predators and cutting off any hope of immediate escape. This inciting incident sets the core conflict in motion, pitting a small group of survivors against the giant , which exhibit eerie by mimicking human speech and adapting to their prey, in a confined apocalyptic dome where every moment demands desperate ingenuity for survival. The narrative hooks on the raw terror of this enclosed battle, emphasizing the shift from everyday city life to primal fear without external aid.

Setting

Shibuya, one of Tokyo's most vibrant and densely populated districts, forms the central backdrop for the events in Shibuya Goldfish. Renowned for its bustling streets filled with shoppers, trendsetting , and iconic sites like the Scramble Crossing and the Hachiko statue, the area typically pulses with energy from fashion boutiques, dining options, and nightlife venues that attract millions of visitors annually. This real-world urban hub, symbolizing modernity and social vibrancy, undergoes a nightmarish inversion in the story, becoming a confined arena of terror amid the sudden emergence of massive man-eating goldfish that swarm the streets and feed on inhabitants. A pivotal environmental element is the giant glass bowl that materializes around , creating a surreal, impenetrable barrier that seals off the district and isolates survivors from external aid. This enormous, dome-like structure evokes the imagery of a colossal aquarium, heightening the themes of confinement and helplessness as the aquatic predators dominate the enclosed space. The bowl's transparent yet unyielding walls prevent escape attempts, turning the once-open into a self-contained death trap where the outside world remains tantalizingly visible but unreachable. The introduces bizarre hybrid horror to the land-based , with the —ranging from small swarms to gigantic specimens—navigating through air and urban terrain, flooding sidewalks, alleyways, and elevated walkways with their relentless pursuit. Everyday infrastructure, such as abandoned subway entrances, shuttered department stores, and scattered vehicles, contributes to an atmosphere of , as survivors repurpose these elements for barricades or hiding spots amid the chaos. The juxtaposition of Shibuya's familiar concrete jungle against the fluid, otherworldly incursion of water-like predators underscores a profound sense of disorientation and violation of natural boundaries.

Characters

Main characters

Hajime Tsukiyoda serves as the protagonist of Shibuya Goldfish, depicted as a meek and untidy high school student with a passion for filmmaking. Aspiring to become a cinematographer, he travels alone to the bustling Shibuya district seeking creative inspiration for his next project, only to find himself ensnared in a nightmarish invasion by giant, man-eating goldfish. Initially overwhelmed by shock, Hajime leverages his knowledge of film techniques—such as framing shots for better visibility and timing movements for evasion—to contribute resourcefully to survival efforts amid the chaos. Alisa Usui functions as Hajime's early ally, a popular underground idol who rescues him during the initial outbreak. Characterized by her combat skills and determination, she becomes a pivotal influence on Hajime, bolstering his resolve to endure the onslaught through their shared peril. Among the core survivors, leadership dynamics center on Hajime's gradual emergence as a guiding figure, where his analytical mindset from informs practical decisions like resource allocation and evasion tactics against the predatory . This role evolves from hesitant participation to proactive coordination, underscoring the group's reliance on his growing confidence to navigate the escalating threats.

Supporting characters

Among the key supporting human characters in Shibuya Goldfish are the survivors who form precarious alliances amid the chaos, each bringing distinct skills that aid in scavenging and while exacerbating group tensions. The Shibuya Sable, a legendary homeless man known for his ferocious prowess and rumored supernatural strength, emerges as a leader of a ragtag group of survivors, often clashing with others due to his violent reputation and unpredictable nature. His ability to confront hordes of head-on provides crucial protection, but his cannibalistic rumors and brutal methods spark interpersonal conflicts, including distrust from more cautious ensemble members like high schooler Aki Touji and her younger brother, who join scavenging efforts after fleeing initial attacks. Another pivotal survivor, Koutarou Mibu, possesses specialized knowledge in handling experimental pathogens designed to target the , positioning him as a strategic asset for the group's long-term survival plans; however, his hidden agenda leads to direct confrontations, culminating in a deadly with the that threatens the fragile dynamics of the ensemble. Aki Touji, a resourceful high school skilled in quick evasion and basic scavenging, represents the younger survivors who highlight themes of familial sacrifice, as she protects her brother during resource hunts that often expose group fractures like arguments over risk-taking. Yukino Anko, a capable , aids the group with her cool-headed skills but meets a tragic end during an escape attempt. The act as the primary antagonists, evolving through mutations that increase their threat level.

Publication

Serialization

Shibuya Goldfish began serialization in Square Enix's Monthly Gangan Joker on September 21, 2016. The , a monthly shōnen launched in 2009, specializes in a range of genres with a focus on fantasy and horror titles aimed at readers. Chapters appeared at irregular intervals, consistent with the publication schedule for many ongoing series in the , which often skip issues depending on the creator's pace. The series concluded on April 22, 2021, in the magazine's April issue, after spanning approximately five years. The end was announced on March 22, 2021, via reports from , confirming the final chapter's placement. This brought the to a total of 11 compiled volumes.

Volumes

The manga Shibuya Goldfish was compiled into 11 volumes by in , with the first volume released on February 22, 2017, and the final volume on June 22, 2021. These volumes collect the chapters originally serialized in Gangan Joker. acquired the English-language license, announced on November 18, 2017, at , and published the series from June 26, 2018, to September 20, 2022. The following table lists the release dates for all volumes in Japan and North America:
VolumeJapanese Release Date (Square Enix)English Release Date (Yen Press)
1February 22, 2017June 26, 2018
2June 22, 2017October 30, 2018
3December 22, 2017February 19, 2019
4May 22, 2018May 28, 2019
5October 22, 2018August 27, 2019
6March 22, 2019December 24, 2019
7August 22, 2019March 17, 2020
8February 22, 2020November 17, 2020
9August 21, 2020June 1, 2021
10January 22, 2021April 26, 2022
11June 22, 2021September 20, 2022
Each volume features cover artwork illustrated by author Hiroumi Aoi, typically showcasing vibrant depictions of motifs alongside characters. No special editions or unique content exclusive to the releases have been reported. Internationally, the series has been licensed in by Goen, with volumes published starting in 2020.

Reception

Critical response

Shibuya Goldfish received mixed critical reception, with reviewers praising its innovative horror premise while critiquing its execution in areas such as character development and pacing. On , the series holds an average score of 6.06 out of 10 from 1,503 users as of November 2025. Similarly, ratings for individual volumes average around 3.5 to 3.9 out of 5. The manga's absurd apocalyptic concept, featuring giant, carnivorous goldfish terrorizing , was highlighted for its creepy imagery and effective use of mundane creatures as threats, evoking comparisons to Junji Ito's . Detailed two-page spreads capturing the chaos in urban contributed to the eerie atmosphere, emphasizing the horror of an isolated district trapped in a fishbowl-like dome. Critics noted the series' strengths in visual horror, including lifeless fish eyes and gory scenes that amplify the terror of . However, the artwork faced for inconsistencies, such as uninspiring human designs and rough, distorted lines in action sequences that lacked kinetic energy. Pacing issues were a common complaint, with a dull opening that prioritizes over sustained dread, leading to predictable plot developments and delayed buildup. Character development drew significant backlash for relying on shallow tropes, such as the meek protagonist and tsundere idol, making it difficult for readers to invest emotionally in the survivors' struggles. Manga critic Deb Aoki selected Shibuya Goldfish as the worst manga of 2019 at San Diego Comic-Con International, underscoring its flaws in narrative coherence and overall impact. Despite these shortcomings, some reviewers appreciated the thematic exploration of urban horror and desperate survival choices amid the absurdity, viewing it as a fun, bonkers entry in the monster genre.

Commercial performance

Shibuya Goldfish exhibited modest commercial performance in , where its volumes, published by under the Joker imprint from September 2016 to April 2021, aligned with the niche market positioning of titles from the Gangan Joker magazine. Unlike blockbuster series from major shōnen publications, the volumes did not achieve prominent placements on the weekly sales rankings, reflecting the specialized appeal of its horror themes within a lineup focused on diverse, often experimental storytelling. The English-language edition, licensed and released by starting in June 2018, has maintained steady availability across platforms such as Amazon and , with all 11 volumes in print and accessible to readers. This ongoing distribution underscores the series' enduring niche popularity among international audiences interested in and survival narratives, evidenced by consistent listings and no indications of discontinuation. Culturally, the has cultivated a dedicated following, appearing in recommendations for horror titles and inspiring analytical content on platforms like , where videos from 2024 and 2025 exploring its grotesque premise have accumulated thousands of views. This grassroots engagement highlights its impact within horror communities, despite lacking widespread mainstream sales.

References

  1. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975327446-shibuya-goldfish-vol-1
  2. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975335717-shibuya-goldfish-vol-10
  3. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975345419-shibuya-goldfish-vol-11
  4. https://yenpress.com/series/shibuya-goldfish
  5. https://thetattooedbook.com/shibuya-goldfish/
  6. https://www.animeherald.com/2017/11/18/yen-press-picks-shibuya-goldfish-manga/
  7. https://yattatachi.com/shibuya-goldfish-vol-1-review
  8. https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3007.html
  9. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=20298
  10. https://www.thecambridgegeek.com/posts/2018/06/20180629-a.php
  11. https://www.anime-planet.com/manga/shibuya-goldfish
  12. https://www.mangaupdates.com/series/fb87goc/shibuya-kingyo
  13. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975382148-shibuya-goldfish-vol-3
  14. https://www.teilzeithelden.de/2024/04/30/shibuya-goldfish-altraverse-riesige-fische-bedrohen-tokyo-rezension/
  15. http://tirofinale-news.blogspot.com/2020/10/shibuya-goldfish-volume-1-review.html
  16. https://comicvine.gamespot.com/shibuya-goldfish-3-vol-3/4000-701175/
  17. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975354077-shibuya-goldfish-vol-2
  18. https://www.amazon.com/Shibuya-Goldfish-Vol-Hiroumi-Aoi/dp/1975354079
  19. http://titania86-fishmuffins.blogspot.com/2018/08/sibuya-goldfish-1-by-aoi-hiroumi.html
  20. https://myanimelist.net/manga/101558/Shibuya_Kingyo
  21. https://magazine.jp.square-enix.com/joker/series/shibuya_kingyo/
  22. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2021-03-22/shibuya-goldfish-manga-ends-on-april-22/.170936
  23. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/manga.php?id=20298&page=28
  24. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975384197-shibuya-goldfish-vol-4
  25. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975385057-shibuya-goldfish-vol-5
  26. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975387587-shibuya-goldfish-vol-6
  27. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975399542-shibuya-goldfish-vol-7
  28. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975317355-shibuya-goldfish-vol-8
  29. https://yenpress.com/titles/9781975324629-shibuya-goldfish-vol-9
  30. https://www.etsy.com/listing/1761705829/shibuya-goldfish-manga-by-hiroumi-aoi
  31. https://www.goodreads.com/series/230010-shibuya-goldfish
  32. https://www.theoasg.com/reviews/manga/shibuya-goldfish-volume-1-review/10971
  33. https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2019-07-22/best-and-worst-manga-of-2019-results-comic-con-international/.149230
  34. https://www.amazon.com/Shibuya-Goldfish-Vol-Aoi-Hiroumi/dp/1975327446
  35. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shibuya-goldfish-vol-1-hiroumi-aoi/1144576656
  36. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=je0gqoY0XOU
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