The manga Ao no Hako (Blue Box) has officially concluded with its 250th chapter, bringing an end to the beloved sports romance series that has captivated readers since 2021. Author Miura Koji and the official TV anime account shared the news on X, prompting an outpouring of gratitude from fans.
Serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump since April 2021, Ao no Hako follows earnest characters as they pour their hearts into club activities while delicately exploring the emotions of falling in love. The story’s heartfelt depiction of youth and romance resonated widely, especially after its TV anime adaptation.
In a post on X, Miura Koji announced the conclusion and shared an illustration, writing: “Ao no Hako concludes at chapter 250. There is no greater happiness than having something I drew and believed in be praised by others. This has become a precious work that changed my life. I had very happy days! Thank you very much!”
Fans flooded the post with messages of thanks, including comments such as: “Thank you for the greatest work. It was truly my reason to live,” “Your choice of words, expressions, and depictions all struck a chord and became part of my life,” “Just seeing the illustration makes me cry. Thank you for the best youth,” and “Thank you for so much happiness and purpose in life.”
Voice actor Kito Akari, who plays the character Chono Hina in the anime, also shared her thoughts in a quote retweet: “Congratulations on the conclusion of Ao no Hako! Thank you so much for creating and continuing this wonderful work. A delicate, passionate, and beautiful youth was there… I am immensely grateful for letting me meet Hina!”
The official TV anime X account also posted an illustration of Kano Chinatsu, writing: “In today’s Weekly Shonen Jump issue 33, Ao no Hako grandly concludes! With a special center color page and congratulatory comments from the anime cast and artists. Thank you for over five years of reading #250 Kono Hako ni.”
Many fans responded: “I’m so glad I found Ao no Hako,” “It made every Monday worth looking forward to! I’m grateful to have encountered such a wonderful work,” “I’m looking forward to the second season of the anime in October!!” and “Ah, I can’t stop crying… It’s one of the works that influenced my life, having read it every week since the start. I’m sad but very happy to have seen it through to the end.”
Weekly Shonen Jump’s official account also noted the conclusion, announcing that issue 33 features a “super climax special center color page” for Ao no Hako.
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
From August 22 (Saturday) to September 27 (Sunday), 2026, the “Ao no Hako Exhibition” will be held in Nagoya. The venue will feature a special display of Miura Koji’s original manuscripts, offering a rare opportunity to see both digitally finished pages and hand-drawn drafts side by side.
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
The special edition official pamphlet comes with an original sticker sheet (B5 size) using Miura Koji’s X post illustration, and a four-fold key visual poster (B3 size).
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
Additionally, visitors will receive a random “postcard (8 types)” as an entry gift.
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
Exclusive goods using newly drawn illustrations for the exhibition, as well as event-limited merchandise, will be available for purchase.
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
“Ao no Hako Exhibition” Nagoya Venue
Although the manga has concluded, the anime Ao no Hako 2nd Season is scheduled to begin broadcasting on October 4, 2026, every Sunday at 16:30 on TBS network’s 28 stations nationwide. Fans can look forward to the continuation of the story.
Exhibition Details
- Period: August 22 (Sat) – September 27 (Sun), 2026
- Venue: Telepia Hall
- Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
- Organizer: Ao no Hako Exhibition Nagoya Executive Committee
Ticket Prices
- With goods: 3,500 yen
- General/Student: 1,800 yen
- High school/Middle school: 1,300 yen
- Elementary school: 800 yen
- Preschool children: Free (must be accompanied by a paying adult 18+)
(C) Miura Koji / Shueisha, “Ao no Hako” Production Committee
(C) Miura Koji / Shueisha
