Kamudo, Vol. 1

Kamudo #1

by Akira Himekawa

Before humans claimed their place in history, the skybound paradise of Hinoaruchi was ruled by demi-beings under the watch of Ryujinkyo’s demi-dragons. Now, as prophecy firetells a turbulent new age, will the birth of Kamuna, the first human child, bring disaster or salvation?

In the utopian nation of Ryujinkyo, Kamuna—a boy born with the form of a human and the left hand of a dragon—grapples with his identity in a society that both questions and fears his existence. As he begins his training in the ancient art of ryuken, his determination to prove himself fuels a growing rivalry with the fierce demi-dragon Gindu. Meanwhile, tensions simmer beneath the surface as factions outside Ryujinkyo grow restless, seeking to control the divine pulse that sustains the land...

Genres: Manga, Fantasy, Graphic Novels, Comics, Action, Dragons, Young Adult

200 pages, Paperback

First published October 7, 2025

About the author

Akira Himekawa is the collaboration of two women, A. Honda and S. Nagano. Together they have created nine manga adventures featuring Link and the popular video game world of The Legend of Zelda, including Ocarina of Time, Oracle of Seasons and Four Swords. Their most recent work, Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass, was serialized in Shogaku Rokunensei.

Reviews

[Cozy Puppy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Must-Read Manga for Art & Fantasy Fans! ✨️

Akira Himekawa, the acclaimed duo behind the Legend of Zelda manga, brings all their visual magic to this brand-new fantasy adventure. If you're a fan of classic manga or grew up loving the Zelda series (like me!), you absolutely need to pick up Kamudo Volume 1. I was immediately hooked by the richness of the art, blended with the traditional design aesthetic. The creators' decades of experience shine through with visually stunning artwork that sparks nostalgia, making me think back to some of my favorite comics and manga growing up.

The line work is equally gorgeous and dynamic. I was captivated by how the artwork beautifully depicted the natural elements, making the world's magical introduction a visual treat in some of my favorite panels. The sheer skill in character design is incredible—from the tough wolf warrior, who embodies primal strength, to the mythical and magical shapes of the elders, who exude ancient wisdom, every character feels alive. This is especially true when noticing the fluid lines of character's fur and clothing, juxtaposed with the sharp, kinetic lines that bring the action scenes to life. The creators’ powerful black-and-white shading conveys such strong emotion and kinetic energy, no color required.

Beyond the dynamic action, the world itself is rendered with a breathtaking sense of wonder. If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli films, you will find Kamudo captures that same magic, grand adventure, and devotion to nature. The beautiful artwork and detailed creature designs strongly recall favorites like the deep environmental themes of Princess Mononoke and the sheer imaginative scale of Spirited Away.

This debut volume expertly handles the story pacing, delivering thrilling action sequences and satisfying training montages. It provides an excellent introduction to the high-fantasy world of Hinoaruchi, setting the stage for a grand conflict hinted at by the ominous prophecy. The story sets up what promises to be an exciting and epic series that perfectly balances thrilling action with the poignant journey of Kamuna, our fascinating protagonist. He is a true underdog—a boy uniquely different from everyone else—fighting against a society that struggles to understand him. I cannot wait to find out what is next in store for this new series.

Highly recommended! I've already added this to my book wishlist for a physical copy for my home library!

Perfect for fans of:
✨️ The Legend of Zelda
💖 Studio Ghibli (especially Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away)
💛 Fantasy adventure series
💕 Magical worlds
💖 Cozy books
💛 Underdogs and misfits
🐾 Animals and nature

Thank you to VIZ Media and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of this manga for review consideration. This review is voluntary. All opinions are my own.

[Anna Quilter · Rating 4 out of 5]

the story seems promising but its really the amazing detailed art that grabs your attention.

[AK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful art. I love the concept of the world, but I do think there were opportunities for more character development. I am so curious as to where this is going though, so I'm excited for the next volume!

TW: bullying, violence, ableism

[Aubree Lanman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some of the most beautifully illustrated panels I've ever seen in a manga series! I will definitely be continuing, especially for the art.

[J MaK · Rating 4 out of 5]

(4.3) Long before humans took control, air-bending demi-dragons ruled the nation of Ryunjinkyo. This was a really fun read, filled with engaging artwork and rich dragon mythology that brought the world vividly to life.

[Sarah Maddaford · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'll give the next volume a try. This one was interesting and I love the world that the creator is building. Having all of that background and setting slows the pace of any action. I'm hopeful that the adventure kicks off soon.

[Canyen Heimuli · Rating 4 out of 5]

This seemed to have some promise. Visually, the art looks much like The Dark Crystal but the story is not depressing as shit. Also, support women mangakas! I will continue reading with high hopes 🐉 💪

[Mersi · Rating 4 out of 5]

absolutely stunning artwork! I am eager to see where the story goes.

[Care · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just really loved the artwork! Will def want to draw some of the panels!

[Ophelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Immersive and beautiful art and storytelling

[Amanda (MetalPhantasmReads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cool idea with this world and mystery. I do wish it was full color but can't wait to read more when the next comes out!

[Noah_Wasa Mata · Rating 4 out of 5]

No but the art is amaziiing, love it

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review in Booklist Magazine

This book is beautifully illustrated, and the world Himekawa has created is complex. This is a fully fantasy with several societies and a whole pantheon worked out. The flashes of Kamuna's future we get in this volume set up an epic quest that I hope spans many volumes. I look forward to seeing how Kamuna develops from the point he is in volume 1 to what seems like a confident, powerful warrior in his future. This is some of the best illustrative work from veteran Himekawa -- there are full panels of fantasy landscapes, detailed character designs with gorgeous clothing details, and breathtaking panel composition throughout. The entire story feels like an epic blockbuster movie with a large budget.

Read more graphic novel reviews at The Graphic Library.

[Mikey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great start for a series! I was interested in reading this after rereading the Legend of Zelda manga adaptations, last year. I loved the artwork in those books but struggled with the pacing of those books, so I wanted to see what these artists/writers could do with an original story, and I was not disappointed. The first 3 chapters in this volume are well paced, do a great job at introducing this fantasy world and the artwork is just stunning.
When I first started the story, I was very excited as I thought this was going to be a fantasy series where we follow a nonhuman character, which I thought was a great idea as that is surprisingly uncommon. But when the human character is introduced, I was genuinely surprised at the unique take on how his story begins. The rest of the volume shows his childhood and relationships to his family and community as well as expanding on the history, hierarchy's and magic systems of this world. I'm really intrigued to see where this series goes. It kind of gives similar vibes to Jim Henson's the Dark Crystal in my opinion.
I really only have one complaint about the story so far and it honestly may just be a translation thing. Every time they refer to the origins of their world, they mention a singular, capital-G, God. This is totally a me thing, but I kept leaning out every time they mentioned that. Like is it the Christian God? that would be very weird if so. The characters in this series may just be monotheistic which isn't a bad thing, it's just not what I'm used to in fantasy series. If there is a monotheistic God, often writers give it another name, like "the all-knowing one", or "the guardian." To have the characters just drop "yeah God created the universe" gave me a kind of Christian Ick. This minor thing didn't deter me from continuing to read though, especially because everything surrounding it was so strong. I just hope they either drop it completely or extrapolate on this in future volumes to clear up the differences.

[Lucien Blackthorne · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Stars – Kamudo Volume 1 Review
Kamudo Volume 1 is an impressive start to a series that immediately grabs your attention with its unique world, compelling characters, and strong sense of mystery. From the opening chapters, the story balances action, emotion, and intrigue in a way that keeps the pages turning.
The artwork is a major highlight. Character designs are memorable, action sequences are easy to follow, and the environments are filled with detail that helps bring the world to life. Whether during quiet character moments or intense confrontations, the visual storytelling remains consistently strong.
What makes this first volume stand out is its ability to introduce its cast while steadily building larger questions about the world and the challenges ahead. The protagonist is easy to root for, and the supporting characters add depth and personality to the story. Their interactions help create an emotional foundation that makes the stakes feel meaningful.
The pacing is excellent, giving readers enough information to stay engaged without revealing too much too soon. Each chapter adds another layer to the story, creating a sense of anticipation for what comes next.
By the end of the volume, Kamudo successfully establishes itself as a series with tremendous potential. It offers exciting action, strong character development, beautiful artwork, and a world that feels worth exploring.
Kamudo Volume 1 is a fantastic introduction to the series and a must-read for manga fans looking for a story filled with mystery, adventure, and heart. It delivers on every front and leaves readers eager for the next volume. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

[Tiffany Seward · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐ Manga | Fantasy

Thank you to VIZ Media LLC for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!

Kamudo, Vol. 1 introduces a rich fantasy world inhabited by demibeings, creatures that are half human and half beast. The title Kamudo, meaning the God Gate, sets the tone for a story steeped in identity.

This volume is fairly text-heavy, taking its time to establish the world and its lore. Most of the creatures lean far more beastly than human, which makes the central mystery stand out even more when a baby hatches from an egg who looks strikingly human. This child is named Kamuna the main character, a.k.a Child of God, and the story follows his life from infancy onward.

Despite being raised by deeply loving caretakers, Kamuna grows up feeling like an outcast. Unlike his siblings, who are full dragons, he struggles to understand why he was born so differently, and what that difference might mean. His desire to uncover the truth about his origins and purpose becomes the core of the story.

Since it's going to be a series, there is a lot of buildup, and towards the last few pages, action is about to happen, but none really takes place yet.

Overall, Kamudo, Vol. 1 is a fantasy manga focused on belonging, self-discovery, and destiny. While slower and more dialogue-driven, it lays a strong foundation for a mythological coming-of-age story that invites readers to reflect on identity and what it means to be “other.” A solid start for readers who enjoy lore-heavy fantasy.

[Jacob Jordan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and VIZ Media for this ARC!

I was drawn to this book because of the author, Akira Himekawa. Himekawa previously wrote The Legend of Zelda manga series which my daughter and I still regularly reread. When I first heard that Himekawa was releasing a new original story, I was very excited. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this one nearly as much as his prior work.

This story follows Kamuna, a young half-dragon that was born with a mostly human body. Kamuna struggles to fit in with his peers and his environment due to his differences. This book is filled with lore and world building, which can feel overwhelming at times. The art, while beautiful and highly detailed, did not really appeal to me. I feel like this series would be a better match for a more furry friendly crowd.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so lucky to win a copy of this beautiful paperback through a Goodreads giveaway! As soon as it arrived, I couldn’t help myself — I sat down and started reading right away. 💫

Kamudo is such a gorgeous fantasy. The artwork was truely beautiful, and the story pulled me in before I even realised it. There’s just something magical about the world of Hinoaruchi… rich, mysterious, and full of secrets waiting to be uncovered. 🌿🌌

It’s such a strong start to the series, and those little hints of an ominous prophecy have me so curious (and a bit anxious!) to see what’s coming next. I can’t wait for Volume 2! ✨📖

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kamudo is a fantastically drawn graphic novel that tells the story of Kamuna, who is born to a dragon. His left hand is that of a dragon, and he has a tiny tail, but the rest of him is human. This is a place and time when various animals are sentient, walk upright, and rule in various areas on Earth. Humans are not yet among them.

This is volume 1 in the story and contains the first 3 chapters. It was a quick read and left me wanting to get the next book in the series, which sadly hasn’t been created yet.

I was given an advance reader’s copy (ARC) of the book courtesy of NetGalley and VIZ Media in exchange for an honest review. I’m hoping volume 2 will soon be available!

[Zaidee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was initially drawn to this book when I saw the colorful and striking cover illustration, and was intrigued to learn it was the same artist from the Zelda manga. The art style reminds me of 80s/90s fantasy and animation, with creature designs that bring to mind The Dark Crystal. I really enjoyed the introduction into the world and characters, setting the atmosphere and building up the lore. It takes a good portion of the book before main character Kamuna is center-stage, but I found everyone else interesting enough to be invested in the story. Off to a promising start and I look forward to seeing how the series progresses!

[Chikara_Niiii · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because I loved the Zelda mangas this duo previously did, I gave this one a shot and I'm not only very pleased with the artistic decisions in this fantasy manga, but also with the worldbuilding, the characters etc. It's honestly refreshing seeing more "out there" designs, with the characters mostly being dragons or other sorts of animals.
I'm very interested how this will go down, I especially liked the rivalry that arose in the first volume ^^
Vibe-wise, it is definitely in line with previous works and at times it does feel a little like a Zelda sidestory :)

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This stunning first volume is really something every fantasy lover needs to read. It is a beautiful mix of Legend of Zelda, Studio Ghibli, and Dark Crystal.

I really loved the world building and the art... Don't even get me started! Some of the panels are just awe-inspiring.

It's funny that I mentioned Legend of Zelda as the author worked in the Twilight Princess manga (which now I need to read) and I just learned that after I finished the volume.

Now... Time to wait for volume 2...

[MightySSStrawberry · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sadly, the story is plain, boring, mediocre. I’ve enjoyed cheap vanilla ice cream better than this story. I love the art style and I’m always interested in strange births but…the story is just meh. Only the art kept me going to the end. I almost gave this 3 stars because of the art. Looks like most people gave this high ratings because the ART is beautiful…yes, it is, but the story is so BLAND!! I guess for some people if you have enough toppings even gritty vanilla ice cream is palatable.

[Casey Halvorsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Viz Media for this arc!

4/5 stars

I was really excited to read this as I love Himekawa's Zelda graphic novels, and this was a fun read! The art was absolutely stunning, as I expected. I would love to see some full colour illustrations! The story was good but didn't pull me in right away, but i feel like there was just a lot of set up in this volume and we will get more substance in future installations. I'm excited to see where the story goes next!

[Nya Savage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic manga! It’s written and illustrated by the illustrator of the Zelda manga, and that beautiful art style is carried here.

This is such a neat story and I love the progression of the main character’s story so far.

It said rated for 13+ years old, and that is so dramatic🙄 there’s nothing inappropriate about it, just has normal action with zero gore. I’d say it’s perfectly fine for 8-9 years old at least.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll be interested to see where this goes.
The protective goddess of their world is fading and a vision is sent to warn the senior Elder.
A strange dragon is hatched from the dragons eggs as a new era approaches. Can he be the one they have been waiting for?
The illustrations are awesome & reminiscent of Dark Crystal in some ways but I enjoyed the story, hope I don't have to wait long for the rest in the series.

[E (manga_runner) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this one and honestly wasn't sure if I was originally going to like it.

The art is detailed, great world building, and setting up for the rest of the series. The big focus does seem to be that he is different than the other demi dragons or other creatures, but that is ok and some see his strength (trying not to give a spoiler).

[nash [larrythelatypus] · Rating 5 out of 5]

the fact that I have to wait til June 2026 for the next volume is criminal. this story is everything, it gives classic fantasy and reminds me of The Dark Crystal for reasons I don't even know, the art is fucking fantastic and mesmerizing and I am in love with this world and the characters.

and by fuckin jove if this isn't the most beautiful volume of manga I've ever fuckin seen jesus christ

[Sarah AK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Impressive art, deep cuts into Japanese mythology, and created by two women... yes to all of it! This first volume is very much setting the stage, and felt more like a 3.5 for me, but I'm absolutely down to see how this story evolves in the next volume.

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read it and liked it!

I then gave it to my daughter who's into these types of books and she raved about it.

She enjoyed the characters, the story line and said she cant wait for the sequel!