Touring After the Apocalypse Volume 4-6 Manga Review

Touring After the Apocalypse Volumes 6-7: A Journey Through Ruin

Sakae Saito's Touring After the Apocalypse continues to captivate readers with its poignant exploration of a post-human Japan. The manga follows Youko, a young woman, and Airi, her android companion, as they traverse the desolate landscapes on a Yamaha Serow motorcycle. Volumes 6 and 7 delve deeper into the mysteries of this world, raising questions about the past and hinting at potential futures.

Echoes of the Past

These volumes offer glimpses into the world before its demise. Through Youko's visions, readers witness vibrant tourist destinations, now eerily empty and overgrown. The stark contrast between these memories and the present-day reality underscores the magnitude of the disaster. The introduction of flashbacks showing Youko and Airi in a shelter further complicates the narrative. These scenes reveal their training by robotic caretakers, preparing them for survival in the outside world. However, they also raise questions about the timeline and the circumstances surrounding their entry into the shelter.

The Enigmatic Companions

Youko and Airi's relationship remains at the heart of the story. Their contrasting personalities – Youko's optimism and Airi's more pragmatic nature – create a dynamic that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. While Youko embraces each new experience with childlike wonder, Airi often provides a grounding perspective, reminding readers of the harsh realities of their world. The mysteries surrounding Youko's survival and her apparent lack of emotional response to the world's end continue to linger. Is she truly human? And if so, why does she seem so detached from the tragedy that has befallen humanity?

Detailed Decay

Saito's artwork is a standout feature of the series. Every panel is meticulously rendered, showcasing the intricate details of a world reclaimed by nature. Ruined buildings, overgrown landscapes, and decaying infrastructure are brought to life with stunning precision. The artist's ability to juxtapose the beauty of these locations with the stark reality of their abandonment creates a powerful visual experience. The inclusion of QR codes that lead to virtual "stamps" for each location adds an interactive element to the reading experience. This unique feature further immerses readers in Youko and Airi's journey, making them feel like active participants in their adventure.

Unanswered Questions

As the series progresses, the mysteries surrounding the apocalypse deepen. The cause of humanity's demise remains elusive, with only subtle clues scattered throughout the narrative. The presence of volcanic gases and the lack of evidence of an EMP attack suggest a more gradual and complex catastrophe. The introduction of other androids, such as Eight, raises further questions about the nature of artificial intelligence and its role in the world's downfall. While these mysteries add to the series' intrigue, they also create a sense of frustration. The lack of concrete answers can be a bit of a drag, leaving readers longing for closure.

A Lingering Sense of Hope

Despite the bleak setting, Touring After the Apocalypse maintains a sense of hope. Youko and Airi's unwavering optimism and their determination to find joy in the small things serve as a beacon of light in the darkness. Their journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable loss. As the series approaches its conclusion, new signs of life emerge, hinting at the possibility of a brighter future. Whether or not the mysteries surrounding the apocalypse will be resolved remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: Youko and Airi's journey will leave a lasting impression on readers long after the final page is turned.

Final Thoughts

Touring After the Apocalypse Volumes 6 and 7 continue to deliver a compelling and visually stunning exploration of a post-human world. While the lack of answers regarding the apocalypse can be frustrating, the series' strengths lie in its captivating characters, its detailed artwork, and its underlying message of hope. The manga's ability to evoke both a sense of wonder and a sense of melancholy makes it a truly unique and unforgettable reading experience.