Toilet-bound Hanako-kun [Season 2 Episodes 1-2]

Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun Season 2 Episodes 1-2: A Long-Awaited Return Worth the Wait

Five years. That’s how long fans waited for the return of Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun, and let’s be real—no one thought it’d take this long. But when the first two episodes dropped (leaked early, oops), the hype was real. Like, “screaming into my pillow at 2 AM” real.

Let’s start with the basics: Season 2 picks up right where Season 1 left off… kind of. The first episode kicks off with the Clock Keepers arc, one of the manga’s most beloved storylines. For those who forgot (no shame—it’s been half a decade), the Clock Keepers are the first of Kamome Academy’s Seven Wonders, controlling time itself. And of course, Nene’s best friend drops the classic line: “Have you heard about the _ of the Seven Wonders?” Cue the trio—Hanako, Nene, and Kou—diving headfirst into another supernatural mess.

The animation? Chef’s kiss. Lerche stepped up their game this time. The colors are brighter, the movements smoother, and that iconic watercolor art style? It’s even more stunning. Fans are raving about the opening sequence (“Masayoshi Ooishi did it again!”) and the ending theme by Akari Kito (“Her voice is like honey”). The ED’s visuals, with their dreamy pastels, had people screenshotting every frame.

But let’s talk about the real stars: the characters. Hanako’s back with his signature pervy jokes (love him or hate him, he’s consistent), Nene’s still the relatable daikon-leg queen, and Kou? He’s the chaotic good boy we all need. The trio’s chemistry is as electric as ever—their banter feels like catching up with old friends.

Now, the drama. The Clock Keepers arc introduces Akane Aoi, a student with a secret identity that had manga readers screaming. Seeing his story animated? Chef’s kiss. The first two episodes set up the conflict perfectly: time is unraveling at Kamome Academy, and only Hanako’s crew can stop it. The cliffhanger at the end of Episode 2? Let’s just say fans are already theorizing like crazy.

But wait—let’s address the elephant in the room: the leak. Yeah, it was a bummer, but honestly? Most fans were just happy to have new content. And the community’s reaction? Mixed. Some loved the fast pacing (“Straight into the action!”), while others wished for a recap (“Five years is a long time, guys”). But overall, the consensus is clear: this season is off to a great start.

The MAL score? It’s sitting at a solid 7.2 right now, but fans are convinced it’ll climb. “This deserves an 8+,” one user ranted. “MAL’s being too harsh!” Another added, “Solo Leveling gets an 8.8, but this is ‘garbage’? C’mon.”

Let’s be real—Season 2 isn’t perfect. The pervy jokes might rub some the wrong way, and the pacing is a bit rushed. But for fans who’ve waited half a decade? It’s a love letter. The art, the characters, the nostalgia—it all comes together to make something special.

So, is Season 2 worth the wait? Abso-freaking-lutely. Whether you’re a die-hard manga reader or a casual fan, these first two episodes will hook you. The Clock Keepers arc is just the beginning, and if Lerche keeps this up? We’re in for a wild ride.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to rewatch the ED for the 100th time. Akari Kito’s voice is chef’s kiss.

Final Verdict: 4.5/5 stars. Welcome back, Hanako-kun. We missed you.

P.S. If you haven’t watched Season 1, go binge it. You won’t regret it.