Where to Start with Junji Ito? A Beginner's Reading Order

The Master of Horror

You've seen the memes. You've seen the tattoos. Now you want to read the books. But Junji Ito has dozens of short story collections. Where do you begin?

Do NOT start with Gyo (unless you like weird trash movies). Follow this path instead.

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Path A: "I Want the Best Story" -> Start with Uzumaki

This is his magnum opus. It’s a complete story (not a collection) about a town haunted by spirals. It has the best pacing, the creepiest art, and a solid conclusion.

• Why: It represents everything Ito is good at (Body Horror + Cosmic Dread).

Check Uzumaki (3-in-1 Deluxe Edition) on AMAZON

Path B: "I Want Quick Scares" -> Start with Shiver

If you aren't ready to commit to a full book, Shiver is a "Best Of" collection selected by Ito himself. It includes "The Hanging Balloons" and "Fashion Model."

• Why: It gives you a taste of his style without the commitment.

Check the Shiver Junji Ito Selected Stories

Path C: "I Want a Villain" -> Start with Tomie

If you like characters like Patrick Bateman or terrifying femme fatales, Tomie is for you. It’s episodic, following an immortal girl who ruins men's lives.

• Why: Tomie is an icon of horror.

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Conclusion

Start with Uzumaki. If you survive that, you can read anything else.

Are you afraid of spirals yet?