Yoshihiro Togashi’s legendary series, Hunter x Hunter, is breaking its hiatus once again. Shueisha quietly updated its release schedule to reveal a massive new announcement, naturally sending long-waiting HxH fans into a frenzy.

If you are wondering when the new Hunter x Hunter chapters drop, the official Volume 39 release date and what this possible comeback means for Weekly Shonen Jump, here is everything you need to know about the 2026 return.

Hunter x Hunter Volume 39 Release Date and New Chapters

Shueisha has announced that Hunter x Hunter Volume 39 is scheduled to release on July 3, 2026. Veterans of the fandom know that a tankobon volume drop is a classic signal fire that fresh chapter serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump (WSJ) is right around the corner.

Togashi has been highly transparent on social media regarding his manuscript progress. Here is the current status of the upcoming chapters:

  • Chapters 411–420: These 10 chapters are completed and publication-ready.

  • Chapters 421–430: Production is well underway. Togashi recently confirmed that the manuscript for Chapter 421 is finished, with character inking stretching deep into the next batch.

Will a Hunter x Hunter Return Be Weekly?

While Weekly Shonen Jump has yet to announce the exact magazine return date, editorial staff previously confirmed that HxH will abandon its traditional weekly serialization format. Because there are limited batches of chapters available, Shueisha will likely adopt a modified release schedule to preserve the author’s health.

Understanding the Hiatus: Togashi’s Illness and Artistic Pride

To understand why Hunter x Hunter moves at a glacial pace, one must look at the grueling physical toll of the manga industry. Togashi’s intense work conditions dating back to the 1990s resulted in debilitating, chronic back ailments. Togashi’s condition has occasionally been so severe that he was unable to sit at a desk, forcing him to draw while lying flat on his back.

Because of his physical restrictions, Togashi even drafted four possible conclusions to Hunter x Hunter via a personal letter, ensuring the story has a blueprint if he is unable to personally finish it. Fortunately, his wife — Naoko Takeuchi, the legendary creator of Sailor Moon — and his dedicated assistants have provided crucial support to keep the series moving forward.

Despite his health struggles, Togashi refuses to compromise on quality. He is famous for his intense artistic pride, frequently redrawing entire sections for the final volume releases if he deems the magazine drafts inadequate. It is this exact commitment that keeps millions of fans fiercely loyal, even after years of waiting.

With Volume 39 set for release and at least 10 brand-new chapters locked in the vault, the long drought may officially be over.

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