Tetsuko no Tabi
In a unique seinen manga by Kikuchi Naoe and Yokomi Hirohiko, serialized in IKKI, a manga artist reluctantly embarks on a journey with her boss and a train enthusiast travel writer. The twist? This manga is a raw, unembellished account of their real train adventures across Japan. With a disclaimer upfront acknowledging the lack of drama due to its non-fiction nature, the story unfolds as they ride trains, wait on platforms, and traverse the country. The travel writer, a meticulous train-otaku obsessed with schedules and achieving his precise goals, clashes with the apathetic, snack-loving artist who tags along. Despite the mundane premise, the realistic portrayal of train travel in Japan immerses readers in familiar landscapes and vibes. As conflicts arise between the divergent personalities, the narrative stays engaging with well-paced storytelling and subtle nuances. Adding to the meta aspect, characters from previous episodes appear in the manga after reading about themselves, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. Alongside the interpersonal dynamics, readers get glimpses of lesser-known Japanese train lines and stations, showcasing the allure of these unique locations. Amidst the surreal backdrop of meticulously planned trips aiming to conquer thousands of stations, the story delves into the eccentric world of train-otaku culture. While the focus remains on the central characters, the peripheral presence of this niche subculture adds depth and richness to the narrative.