In a bold and humorous move, Japanese publisher Akita Shoten has launched a special tribute to the iconic Baki manga series during the demolition of its headquarters in Iidabashi, Tokyo. To mark the occasion, the construction site now features large-scale graphics based on the legendary “Strongest Father-Son Fight” between Baki Hanma and his father Yujiro Hanma, a battle so intense it has—fictionally—reduced the company’s headquarters to rubble.

The publisher announced with playful flair:
“Our HQ has been destroyed by the strongest father-son fight in history.”

From Real Demolition to Manga Homage

Originally built in 1973, Akita Shoten’s headquarters had been home to decades of manga history. However, due to aging infrastructure, the company moved to a temporary location in Bunkyo, Tokyo in January 2024. The new building is scheduled for completion in September 2027.

As part of the farewell to the old HQ, the publisher turned the site’s temporary construction walls into an artistic tribute to Baki, featuring dramatic visuals of the father-son battle that “shook the streets” in the original manga. One graphic even shows Baki kneeling in apology, bowing to local residents affected by the demolition—a clever and respectful gesture wrapped in entertainment.

Celebrating a Legendary Franchise

First serialized in Weekly Shonen Champion in 1991, the Baki series has become one of Japan’s most renowned martial arts manga franchises, with over 100 million copies sold. The story centers around high schooler Baki Hanma, the son of the "strongest creature on Earth," Yujiro Hanma. From dominating the underground arena beneath Tokyo Dome to settling his brutal rivalry with his father, Baki's journey is defined by relentless combat and extreme strength.

Voices from Akita Shoten

Koshi Sawa, Executive Managing Director and Baki’s original editor, commented:
“A new manga! A new world!! A new era!!! The energy of Baki and Yujiro’s all-out battle is erupting through this project. And with that power, we’re smashing the old headquarters to bits! We humbly ask for the understanding of our neighbors… Respectfully!”

President Tokuji Yamaguchi added:
“We deeply apologize for the inconvenience caused by the demolition. But if you can imagine that, just beyond this wall, the ultimate father-son showdown is taking place… maybe it’ll bring a smile to your face, even if it's just our interpretation. Please bear with us for a little while longer.”

Source : ORICON NEWS