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Manga Guide

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988

Entering 1988 the series has only just recently surpassed 150 chapters and continues on with the Demon King Piccolo story arc, a period that Akira Toriyama describes in his Daizenshuu 2 interview as “the most interesting to draw”. The author also notes in his Daizenshuu 4 interview that he had not planned Piccolo’s background, but later thought of the idea of him being Namekian when he was developing the background for God’s first appearance. At the same time, much to the angst of his editor Kazuhiko Torishima, Toriyama decides to skip the story ahead three years and have Goku grow up. After going through with it, Toriyama notes in his author comment for issue #19 that he was “nervous at how the fans would react” to this change, but is relieved at the “positive response”. Torishima later recounts in 1995 during a past editors round-table discussion included in the 2nd Shenlong Times issue that Goku growing up “was the biggest crisis for [the series’] serialization”.

With the 23rd Tenka’ichi Budōkai story nearing its end, and now under the supervision of his new editor Yū Kondō, Toriyama decides another time skip is necessary to make an abrupt transition to the series’ story, although this time to delve into Goku’s past — the Saiyans. Similar to what he did with Piccolo’s background, Toriyama adapted by attributing many of Goku’s existing signature features, traits, and abnormal abilities (hair, tail, Ōzaru transformation, and remarkable strength) to his Saiyan lineage. Taking advantage of the newly established Saiyan heritage as laid out by Goku’s older brother Raditz, Toriyama also introduces Goku’s son, Gohan, a scholarly child who possesses enormous hidden Saiyan power. From this point on, the story line of the Dragon Ball manga drastically shifts to primarily revolve around the warriors of the Saiyan race.

As of the 5th issue of the year, which is actually the last issue published in 1987, Weekly Shōnen Jump celebrates 4.85 million copies in circulation. By the end of 1988, the number of copies in circulation has increased to 5 million. Throughout the year Dragon Ball is the featured illustration on three issues, although the cover illustration from issue #38 has unfortunately never been reprinted in either Daizenshuu 1 or the Chōgashū. Unlike previous years, Dragon Ball is not featured in any bonus material, such as calendars, foldout posters, or sticker packs. However, the series’ third anniversary is celebrated with a colored chapter in issue #13, which also marked the magazines 1,000th issue.

Over the course of the year Shueisha would release five new collected tankōbon volumes, with three featuring new cover art drawn by Toriyama and two recycling previous artwork from chapter title pages. This marks the last time previous artwork was recycled for tankōbon covers, as the remaining 27 tankōbon volumes would all feature exclusively drawn cover art from Toriyama. The twelfth volume, released in April 1988, also marks the final inclusion of a Q&A section with Toriyama in which he answers questions submitted by fans. With his increasingly hectic schedule and workload, Toriyama is finding it harder than ever to find time away from work.

In celebration of the 20th anniversary of Weekly Shōnen Jump, Shueisha hosts a touring “Jump Anime Carnival” from September thru November across various cities in Japan. This event would eventually become what is now the “Jump Super Anime Tour”. As a part of the celebration three original animated works are produced by Shueisha and screened, including Toriyama’s Kosuke-sama, Rikimaru-sama. The comical story follows two powerful brothers who protect Konpei Island, where the last dragon in the world lives. Toriyama is heavily involved with the project’s production, including writing the initial script, providing the majority of the character designs, and attending production meetings to provide input and guidance. Toriyama even attends the “Jump Anime Carnival” premiere in Kagoshima on 23 September 1988, which is his first time traveling to Kyushu, the most southwesterly of Japan’s four main islands.

Weekly Jump Issues


CoverCosmos Striker

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #01/02

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
01 January 1988
Issue Date
01 December 1987
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
Between marriage and kids, my friends are all really busy. So, we can’t quite find any opportunities to get together. I’m a bit lonely. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverHaruka Kanata

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #03/04

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
08 January 1988
Issue Date
08 December 1987
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
When I went out to dinner with my son Sasuke, he made a big fuss. So much so that I don’t know what I ate or how. Even meals are tough. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverAll Main Series Characters

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #05

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
15 January 1988
Issue Date
18 December 1987
Sale Date
¥190 (no tax)
Retail
After about one more week of work, it’ll be my long-awaited break. Being able to rest for two weeks is like a dream. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverAll Current Manga Artists

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #06

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
22 January 1988
Issue Date
04 January 1988
Sale Date
¥190 (no tax)
Retail
No matter how much I work, I never get calluses on my fingers, so naturally when I got serious on playing Famicom, I got some. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverFist of the North Star

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #07

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
29 January 1988
Issue Date
12 January 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
Thank you so much to MGC, Tamiya, and Epoch for always giving me such wonderful products. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverUmisora Prefecture High School Baseball Member Taro Yamashita-kun

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #08

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
01 February 1988
Issue Date
19 January 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I played my first game of Airsoft, and ran all over the place. Really cleared up my mood. My body moved well, and I got a real sense of “youth”. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverJoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #09

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
08 February 1988
Issue Date
26 January 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I spent my entire vacation playing Dragon Quest III. I’m happy, and sad. But it’s fun. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverKochiKame

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #10

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
15 February 1988
Issue Date
02 February 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
The battle with Piccolo has reached its apex. Drawing it, I finally got to put some strength in my hand, and when I finished drawing, my hand was tired. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverCity Hunter

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #11

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
22 February 1988
Issue Date
09 February 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I’m working hard on the color pages in commemoration of the three-year anniversary in issue #13, as well as new story developments. Please look forward to it. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverSakigake!! Otokojuku

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #12

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
29 February 1988
Issue Date
16 February 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I designed the mascot for Weekly Shōnen Jump’s 20th anniversary. It’ll be announced in next week’s 1000th-issue commemorative special. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverAll Main Series Characters

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #13

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
07 March 1988
Issue Date
23 February 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
This marks the 1,000th issue of Weekly Shōnen Jump published.
After penning these color pages, I took a break and traveled to a hot spring with my whole family. I’m taking things slow and easy. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverBASTARD!!

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #14

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
14 March 1988
Issue Date
01 March 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
When I sleep together with my son Sasuke, he’s so noisy I can’t sleep. This poor dad thought about how amazing mom is. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverJungle King Tar-chan

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #15

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
21 March 1988
Issue Date
08 March 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
Looking at children’s clothes, I was surprised at how good-looking their design was, and how good the price was. Even though they’re small, it’s impressive. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverThe Burning Wild Man

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #16

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
28 March 1988
Issue Date
15 March 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
Recently, the clothes I’ve liked to wear have been flashy and bright. My feelings will also become clear and bright…?! <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverTsuide ni Tonchinkan

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #17

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
04 April 1988
Issue Date
19 March 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I went to the zoo with my son Sasuke. My son enjoyed it too, but the one who enjoyed it most was me. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverSaint Seiya

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #18

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
11 April 1988
Issue Date
29 March 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
The match-ups for the Budōkai have finally been set. Even I myself am looking forward to seeing what sort of fights they’ll be. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverDragon Ball

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #19

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
18 April 1988
Issue Date
05 April 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I was nervous at how the fans would react to my having Goku grow up, but I’m breathing a sigh of relief at the positive response. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverSakigake!! Otokojuku

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #20

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
25 April 1988
Issue Date
12 April 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I finally saw the movie The Last Emperor. I came away extremely impressed at the careful framing. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverThe Momotaroh

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #21

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
02 May 1988
Issue Date
19 April 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I’m in the middle of a struggle against the double-attack of hay-fever and work on Golden Week! I’m doing my best so as not to lose it. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverGod is a Southpaw

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #22

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
09 May 1988
Issue Date
26 April 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I did the character design of a puppet-theater segment for Hirake! Ponkikki on Fuji TV. Please watch it, if you like. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverTransforming Warrior Asuka

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #23

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
16 May 1988
Issue Date
02 May 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
When you’re doing this job, Golden Week isn’t relevant. But, doing a proper job, I managed to get a one-week break… <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverRainbow Runner

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #24

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
23 May 1988
Issue Date
10 May 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
The koinobori I struggled to put up had to be put away after the 5th. All too soon~. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverRokudenashi Blues

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #25

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
30 May 1988
Issue Date
17 May 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
The sunny weather has increased, and thanks to my cat Koge bringing lizards in, the house has become a “Hall of Reptiles”… <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverThe Burning Wild Man

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #26

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
06 June 1988
Issue Date
24 May 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I went to Tokyo for judging on the Akatsuka Award. Seeing these newcomers’ powerful works was stimulating, and made me straighten up. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverGod Sider

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #27

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
13 June 1988
Issue Date
31 May 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I did the goldfish-scooping game at a festival stall, and brought home three goldfish. They look happy swimming around the fish tank. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverSaint Seiya

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #28

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
20 June 1988
Issue Date
07 June 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
I’m so busy every day that I have nothing to write for this column. If only this busyness would go away soon, it’d be a lifesaver. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverDragon Ball

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #29

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
27 June 1988
Issue Date
14 June 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
My City broke down, so I changed over to a Today. It’s small, but it runs well. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverCity Hunter

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #30

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
04 July 1988
Issue Date
21 June 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
My first break in a while. I just sat there, not doing anything. This is the best way to spend a day off. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverKochiKame

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #31

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
11 July 1988
Issue Date
28 June 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
It’s been two weeks since my cat Koge disappeared. I haven’t been able to sleep at night, and even when I work, I can’t relax… I’m worried about her. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverAll Main Series Characters

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #32

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
18 July 1988
Issue Date
05 July 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
Dragon Ball for the Famicom was a lot of fun. If you’re interested, please buy it in August. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverJoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #33

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
25 July 1988
Issue Date
12 July 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
My alarm clock at home is my son Sasuke jumping up on my stomach with a thud, so I wake up even if I don’t want to. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverGod is a Southpaw

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #34

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
01 August 1988
Issue Date
19 July 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
The original animation Kosuke-sama, Rikimaru-sama is proceeding smoothly. It looks like it’s coming out pretty well, so I’m looking forward to it. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverArmor of the Warrior: Masatake

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #35

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
08 August 1988
Issue Date
26 July 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
It’s hot. Apparently it’s four degrees hotter than Tokyo. So I’m working in a room with air-conditioning. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverDance! Sailor Knight

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #36

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
15 August 1988
Issue Date
02 August 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
It’ll be difficult to go to the movies until my son gets bigger, so I’m tiding myself over with videos. I’ve got a mountain of videos now. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverRokudenashi Blues

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #37

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
22 August 1988
Issue Date
09 August 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
The whole family was planning to get out and go swimming, so everybody bought new swimsuits. But I’m so busy that it’s not looking like we’ll be able to go. I’m anxiously waiting for some free time, but if we don’t do it soon, summer will be over… That’s what I’m fretting over these days. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverDragon Ball

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #38

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
29 August 1988
Issue Date
12 August 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
Even I was once a naughty child. So this one-shot was really easy to draw. I await your thoughts. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverThe Legend of Shō

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #39

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
05 September 1988
Issue Date
23 August 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I ate sweetfish by the riverbank. The sweetfish tasted refreshing, as well. It was a very nice day off. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverKochiKame

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #40

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
12 September 1988
Issue Date
30 August 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I relaxed on our first family trip in a while. I saw the sea, and bathed in a hot spring; it was a nice day off. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverThe Momotaroh

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #41

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
19 September 1988
Issue Date
06 September 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I just managed to squeeze in a vacation before the summer ends… But I’ll have fun and not let this break go to waste! <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverSakigake!! Otokojuku

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #42

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
26 September 1988
Issue Date
13 September 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I’ll be going to the Kagoshima venue of the [Jump] Anime Carnival on September 23rd. Let’s watch the Kosuke-sama anime together! <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverSaint Seiya

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #43

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
03 October 1988
Issue Date
20 September 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
The new storyline’s contents are pretty much settled, but I haven’t done the designs and such yet. But I end up goofing off. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverThe Legend of Shō

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #44

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
10 October 1988
Issue Date
27 September 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
Kosuke-sama at the Anime Carnival was a lot of fun, and moves along well. Please check it out at the Oita venue on the 10th. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverUmisora Prefecture High School Baseball Member Taro Yamashita-kun

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #45

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
17 October 1988
Issue Date
04 October 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
The Carnival’s Kagoshima venue got fired up. My first time in Kyushu was really nice. I want to go back again. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverGod is a Southpaw

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #46

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
24 October 1988
Issue Date
08 October 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I’ve watched the video of Kosuke-sama, Rikimaru-sama I had them dub for me many times over, feeling the excitement by myself. The art is really good. And on top of that, it moves well. To the director Ashida, thank you very much. To those watching, please enter for [a chance to go to] the Anime Carnival. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverCity Hunter

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #47

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
31 October 1988
Issue Date
18 October 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
Tale of the Three Kingdoms on the Famicom is fun. I’m enjoying it without letting it interfere with my work. I feel like I got my money’s worth. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverThe Burning Wild Man

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #48

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
07 November 1988
Issue Date
25 October 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
We took our son to Disneyland for the first time. The electric parade was pretty, and it was fun, but it tired me out a bit. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverMagical Taluluto

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #49

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
14 November 1988
Issue Date
01 November 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
Recently, I’ve been going out to Tokyo now and then. As I keep repeating those two hours on the bullet train, it’s getting to feel pretty long. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverI’m Shitakata-kun

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #50

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
21 November 1988
Issue Date
08 November 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
By the time this issue comes out, the results will already be out, but for the Japan Series, there’s an all-out war between my editor, who supports the Lions, and me, who supports the Dragons. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverSaint Seiya

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #51

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
28 November 1988
Issue Date
15 November 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
I was unable to attend the selection meeting for the Akatsuka Award which I was looking forward to; it’s too bad. But the candidate works were all enjoyable. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverCyber Blue

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #52

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
05 December 1988
Issue Date
22 November 1988
Sale Date
¥180 (no tax)
Retail
In the final issue of the year, I’m going to try my hand at an entirely full-color chapter! …so I’m really busy every day… but it’s cold, so it’s tough just getting out of the futon. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page

CoverJoJo’s Bizarre Adventure

Weekly Shōnen Jump 1988 #53

Softcover | JIS B5 (18.2 × 25.7 cm)
12 December 1988
Issue Date
29 November 1988
Sale Date
¥170 (no tax)
Retail
My first day off in a while. For starters, why don’t I sleep?… And as I said that, my day off came to an end. <Akira>
Chapter (No. / Title)Page