Wings of Wonder: A Shy Girl’s Countryside Slow Life Takes Flight in ‘Chii no Hanegurashi’ Vol. 1

Wings of Wonder: A Shy Girl’s Countryside Slow Life Takes Flight in ‘Chii no Hanegurashi’ Vol. 1
Embrace the gentle charm of a new fantasy manga where ordinary life meets the extraordinary.

The highly anticipated first volume of “Chii no Hanegurashi” (Chii’s Winged Life), penned by the imaginative Akitoki Taiki, officially launched on January 17, 2026. Published by Takeshobo, this new series invites readers into a serene Japanese countryside, where a unique phenomenon known as “Hanebito”—individuals born with wings—adds a touch of magic to everyday existence.

At the heart of this tale is Chii, a naturally shy girl who relocates to the peaceful countryside. Her life takes an unexpected turn when, during a leisurely stroll through mountain paths with her childhood friend Sen-chan, tiny wings suddenly unfurl from her back. This pivotal moment transforms Chii into a Hanebito, a being said to possess superior physical abilities, but her journey isn’t one of grand adventures or heroic feats. Instead, the manga lovingly portrays her continuing a relaxed, slow-paced life, finding quiet joys and gentle humor in her newfound identity. The narrative emphasizes the calming, “healing” atmosphere of her rural surroundings, a comforting blend of fantasy and the mundane.

The concept of “Hanebito” is subtly integrated into the world, where they are recognized for their heightened physical capabilities, often described as an “upper species” of humanity. Yet, Chii’s initial experience with wings is less about soaring through the skies and more about the small, personal discoveries that come with this change. One panel shows Chii, with her newly sprouted, small wings, contemplating the future with her friend, wondering if her wings will grow larger and allow her to fly. This humanizes the fantasy element, making it relatable to anyone who has ever dreamed of a little extra something in their life.

The manga’s strength lies in its ability to find wonder in the ordinary. Imagine the soft rustle of leaves as Chii navigates familiar country roads, now with a slight lift in her step, or the quiet joy of a shared moment with a friend in a vast, open field. The artwork beautifully captures the idyllic charm of the Japanese countryside, with its rolling hills and tranquil atmosphere, providing a perfect backdrop for Chii’s unhurried journey of self-discovery.

To celebrate the release of Volume 1, a special repost campaign is currently underway on X (formerly Twitter). Fans have the chance to win an exclusive “Chii’s Swimsuit Clear File,” with 77 lucky winners chosen. To participate, simply repost the designated post and follow the official Takecomic! editorial account (@takecomic_hen). The campaign runs until February 16, 2026, at 23:59 JST. “Who wouldn’t want a clear file featuring a winged girl enjoying a relaxing beach day?” is the enthusiastic call from fans.

For those looking to add a physical copy to their collection, the B6-sized, 144-page volume is priced at 880 yen (tax included). Special benefits are also available at select retailers:

Melonbooks: Exclusive illustration card
Gamers: Exclusive bromide
Digital Edition: Comes with an exclusive illustration

Akitoki Taiki, known for works such as “Shokugeki no Soma L’etoile,” brings a distinctive touch to this new series. Readers can explore more of Akitoki Taiki’s work and connect with the author via their official X account and Pixiv page.

“Chii no Hanegurashi” is serialized on “Takecomic!”, Takeshobo’s daily updated web comic site. This platform is also home to other popular titles such as “Made in Abyss,” “Mahou Shoujo ni Akogarete,” and “Pop Team Epic.”

The blend of a fantastical element like “Hanebito” with the tranquility of a countryside “slow life” narrative offers a refreshing take on the slice-of-life genre. This manga genre, often centered on the mundane and heartwarming aspects of daily existence, gains a subtle layer of wonder through Chii’s wings. It’s a gentle reminder that even with extraordinary abilities, the simple moments—like trying to deliver a package with a little jump-boost, or simply enjoying the vastness of a field—can be the most profound.

“Chii no Hanegurashi” Volume 1 is available now, promising a heartwarming escape into a world where a little bit of magic makes everyday life just a bit more enchanting. This kind of gentle fantasy, rooted in personal growth and serene settings, will likely continue to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a peaceful counterpoint to more action-packed narratives and further enriching the global tapestry of Kawaii culture with its unique charm.

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