Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun 2 [Season 2 Episodes 1-12]

Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun Season 2: A Hauntingly Beautiful Return to Kamome Academy

If you thought the first season of Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun was a wild ride of ghosts, curses, and heart-wrenching backstories, Season 2 doubles down on everything that made the original great—with a few gut-punches thrown in for good measure. Produced by Lerche and split into two parts (January-March and July-September 2025), this season dives deeper into the Seven Wonders of Kamome Academy, focusing on fan-favorite characters like Mitsuba and the mysterious Yugi twins. Let’s break down why it’s worth staying up past curfew for.

First off, the visuals are stunning. Fans on MyAnimeList can’t stop raving about the lighting and art direction this season, especially in episodes centered around the Red House arc. The vibrant, almost pastel color palette contrasts sharply with the darker themes, making scenes like Mitsuba’s tragic backstory hit even harder. “The way they brought out the lighting this episode was chef’s kiss,” one user gushed. “It’s like every frame is a painting.” And let’s not forget the character designs—Smol Tsukasa is equal parts adorable and creepy, a perfect mix that keeps viewers on edge.

But what really makes Season 2 shine is its emotional depth. The Mitsuba-focused episodes are a masterclass in storytelling. We already knew Mitsuba’s death was tragic, but seeing his final moments and the impact on his mother? Oof. “I’m still mad they had to break our hearts with the severance last week, then do it again with Mitsuba’s mom this week,” a fan lamented. The scene where Kou rifles through Mitsuba’s old belongings—photos, a half-eaten snack, a notebook filled with doodles—feels so raw and personal. It’s not just about a ghost; it’s about a life cut short, a mother’s grief, and the quiet tragedy of what could have been.

And let’s talk about Kou. This season gives him some much-needed closure with Mitsuba, and their dynamic is both sweet and heartbreaking. “Kou had such a crush on Mitsuba—can’t convince me otherwise,” another user noted. Their interactions, from playful banter to Kou’s silent tears as he accepts Mitsuba’s fate, add layers to both characters. It’s a reminder that even in a world of curses and apparitions, the most powerful magic is human connection.

The Red House arc, which kicks off mid-season, is where things get really interesting. Fans are speculating nonstop about the house’s connection to the Yugi twins—Hanako and Tsukasa. “I knew it was the twins’ house!” one user exclaimed after a shocking reveal. The arc blends horror and mystery seamlessly, with the house itself feeling like a character: creaky floors, flickering lights, and a sense of dread that lingers long after the episode ends. The music here is a standout too—“a weird mix of Satie and NieR,” as one fan put it, which perfectly captures the eerie yet melancholic tone.

Of course, no Hanako-kun season is complete without its share of humor and charm. The classic detective-style episodes, where Nene and Kou investigate school mysteries, feel like a nostalgic throwback to the first season. “This episode brings back the root of the show with school investigations,” a viewer noted. “Just good old classic Hanako-kun.” And Tsukasa’s antics—whether he’s being a menace or a tiny, mischievous gremlin—provide much-needed comic relief amid the heavier moments.

If there’s one complaint, it’s that the season can feel a bit rushed at times. Some arcs wrap up quicker than fans would like, leaving questions unanswered. But overall, the pacing works—each episode leaves you craving more, whether it’s the next clue in the Red House mystery or another glimpse into a character’s past.

In the end, Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun Season 2 is a love letter to fans. It honors the original manga’s spirit while adding new layers to beloved characters. The emotional beats hit harder, the mysteries are more compelling, and the visuals are better than ever. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this season is a must-watch. Just be prepared to laugh, cry, and maybe sleep with the lights on—Kamome Academy’s ghosts are back, and they’re not done haunting us yet.

Final Verdict: 9/10. A hauntingly beautiful continuation that proves some curses are worth breaking—especially for the ones we love.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go hug my Mitsuba plushie and pretend I’m not still crying about his mom. 🥺✨