Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Reading Order (Complete Guide for New Readers)
If you’re planning to start the Jujutsu Kaisen manga or you’re confused about the correct reading order, you’re not alone. With prequels, main story arcs, and special volumes, many readers wonder where to begin and how to read everything without missing key story details.
This guide explains the correct Jujutsu Kaisen manga reading order, including Jujutsu Kaisen 0, the main manga volumes, and how the story flows chronologically. Whether you’re new to the series or switching from the anime, this article will help you read the manga the right way.
What Is the Correct Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Reading Order?
There are two valid ways to read the Jujutsu Kaisen manga:
- Release Order (Recommended for most readers)
- Chronological Order (For lore-focused readers)
Both are correct, but the experience feels different. Below, we’ll break down each method clearly.
Recommended Reading Order (Release Order)
For first-time readers, release order is the best way to experience Jujutsu Kaisen. This is how the author, Gege Akutami, intended the story to unfold.
Step 1: Start With Jujutsu Kaisen 0
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is a prequel, but it was published after the series concept was finalized. It introduces major characters and themes that become extremely important later.
Why read it first?
- Introduces Yuta Okkotsu
- Explains Rika and cursed spirits in depth
- Adds emotional weight to later arcs
- Makes Gojo’s role clearer early on
Recommended order:
- Jujutsu Kaisen 0 (Volume 0)
Step 2: Read the Main Jujutsu Kaisen Manga (Volumes 1-Present)
After finishing Jujutsu Kaisen 0, move directly into the main manga series.
Jujutsu Kaisen Main Story Order:
- Volume 1 → Volume 2 → Volume 3 → onward
- Read all chapters in numerical order
- Do not skip arcs
The main story follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who becomes the vessel for Ryomen Sukuna, the King of Curses.
Chronological Reading Order (Optional)
If you prefer strict timeline order, you can read the manga chronologically—but this method is not recommended for first-time readers.
Chronological Order:
- Jujutsu Kaisen 0
- Jujutsu Kaisen Volumes 1–Present
While this looks identical to release order, the difference is how you interpret events. Chronological reading assumes you already understand concepts that are better explained later.
Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Story Arcs (In Reading Order)
Understanding the arcs helps you track the story and pacing. Below is the full arc breakdown in correct order.
1. Cursed Womb Arc
- Introduction to Yuji Itadori
- Sukuna’s first appearance
- Basics of cursed energy
2. Fearsome Womb Arc
- Early missions
- Character development for Megumi and Nobara
3. Kyoto Goodwill Event Arc
- Sorcerer schools clash
- First major battles
- Power scaling begins
4. Death Painting Arc
- Choso and cursed wombs introduced
- Deeper lore elements appear
5. Gojo’s Past Arc
- Gojo and Geto’s backstory
- Origin of major conflicts
- One of the most important arcs in the manga
6. Shibuya Incident Arc
- Turning point of the series
- Massive character deaths
- Gojo sealed
- Darker tone begins
7. Culling Game Arc
- High-stakes survival battles
- New sorcerers introduced
- Heavy lore and rules-based combat
8. Shinjuku Showdown / Final Arc
- Endgame battles
- Sukuna vs top sorcerers
- Story resolution (ongoing/ending depending on release)
Do You Need to Read Jujutsu Kaisen 0 First?
Yes—strongly recommended.
While you can start with Volume 1, reading Jujutsu Kaisen 0 first gives you:
- Better understanding of Yuta’s importance
- Emotional context for later events
- Clearer view of Gojo’s role in the story
Many key moments in later arcs reference events from Volume 0.
Manga vs Anime: Does the Reading Order Change?
No. The manga reading order stays the same, regardless of whether you’ve watched the anime.
However:
- The anime adapts arcs faithfully
- Manga includes extra details, dialogue, and pacing
- Some fights are clearer in manga form
If you’re anime-only, you can jump into the manga at the chapter where the anime ends, but starting from Volume 0 is still ideal.
Where Can You Read Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Legally?
To support the creators, read from official sources:
- Shonen Jump (digital)
- Viz Media
- Physical manga volumes
These platforms ensure accurate translations and complete chapters.
Is Jujutsu Kaisen Manga Finished?
As of now:
- The manga is in its final stages
- New chapters may still release depending on publication status
- The ending is heavily anticipated
Always check the latest volume release for updates.
Best Reading Order Summary (Quick Answer)
For New Readers:
- Jujutsu Kaisen 0
- Jujutsu Kaisen Volumes 1–Present
For Re-Readers or Lore Fans:
- Same order, but with deeper arc analysis
Final Thoughts
The Jujutsu Kaisen manga reading order is simple, but reading it correctly makes a huge difference in understanding the story, characters, and emotional impact.
Start with Jujutsu Kaisen 0, then move straight into the main series without skipping arcs. This approach gives you the best experience—just as the story was meant to be told.