by The long-awaited second season of the TV anime Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (also known as Funeral of Frieren) has finally begun airing, and excitement among fans reached a peak even before the first episode was broadcast. In the days leading up to the premiere, social media was already filled with anticipation thanks to a series of beautifully crafted countdown illustrations shared by the official anime account.
Let’s take a closer look at how these illustrations, created by key staff members including the original manga artist Abe Tsukasa and director Tomoya Kitagawa, helped build momentum for Season 2.
Countdown Illustrations That Captured the Spirit of “Frieren”
Ahead of the Season 2 premiere, the official anime X (formerly Twitter) account @Anime_Frieren posted a daily countdown series, each illustration offering a different mood and perspective on the story and its characters.
7 Days Left – Frieren in Battle Mode
The countdown began with a striking illustration by Takasemaru, showing Frieren in full combat readiness. The image immediately reminded fans of Frieren’s overwhelming magical power and her calm, almost detached presence, setting a serious and dramatic tone for the new season.
6 Days Left – Stark’s Daily Struggle
For “6 Days Left,” illustrator Keisuke Kojima depicted Stark running desperately between towering rock formations. Sweating and shouting, “Why am I the only one running?!”, Stark’s expression perfectly captured the humor of traveling with a powerful elf mage and an elite wizard. Above him, tiny versions of Frieren and Fern float effortlessly, highlighting the comedic contrast that fans love.
5 Days Left – Himmel’s Gentle Smile
The “5 Days Left” illustration by Yuri Fujinaka featured Himmel, seated among blue flowers with his familiar, calm smile. His expression seemed to suggest quiet reflection, as if thinking about Frieren, Heiter, and Eisen. The illustration resonated deeply with fans who cherish the emotional weight of Himmel’s presence in the story.
4 Days Left – A Divine Rest
Concept artist Seiko Yoshioka handled “4 Days Left,” portraying Frieren, Fern, and Stark resting in a meadow bathed in soft, pale light. The gentle glow behind them gave the image a divine, almost sacred quality, prompting reactions such as “So beautiful…” and “This feels like Frieren itself.”
3 Days Left – A Playful Change of Pace
Breaking from the serene atmosphere, assistant director Keiichiro Saito created a pop-style illustration for “3 Days Left.” It shows a chibi-like Frieren drinking milk after a bath, looking relaxed and satisfied. The casual charm of the image highlighted Frieren’s unexpectedly cute side.
2 Days Left – Winter Journey
The “2 Days Left” illustration by assistant director Daiki Harashina depicted Frieren from behind, her long hair flowing in cold air as Fern and Stark stand ahead. Details such as visible breath and snow-covered trees conveyed a strong sense of winter travel and quiet determination.
1 Day Left – A Lively Farewell Before the Journey
The final countdown illustration was drawn by director Tomoya Kitagawa himself. Set in a bustling tavern, the artwork featured many familiar characters enjoying themselves in different ways. From Heiter’s flushed face after drinking too much to Kraft doing push-ups outside, the scene was packed with personality and warmth, celebrating the world of Frieren just before the new journey begins.
Music Elevates the Emotional Journey
Season 2’s opening theme is “lulu” by Mrs. GREEN APPLE, a song that blends refreshing melodies with a sense of grandeur. The newly released promotional video, set to this music, showcases Frieren’s next journey and instantly heightened expectations among viewers. Many fans praised how perfectly the song matches the anime’s themes of time, memory, and quiet emotion.
Original Author Abe Tsukasa’s Special Season 2 Illustration
To commemorate the start of Season 2, original manga illustrator Abe Tsukasa released a special illustration featuring Frieren holding two spellbooks while forming the number “2.” The artwork cleverly incorporates multiple “2” motifs and captures Frieren’s subtle cuteness—especially her expression as she writes the number.
This illustration symbolized not only the second season but also the continuation of Frieren’s long journey through time and memory.
Season 2 Episode 1: “Let’s Go, Then”
The first episode of Season 2 is titled “Let’s Go, Then.” Simple yet powerful, the title reflects Frieren’s quiet resolve and hints at the emotional and philosophical journey that lies ahead. Viewers are once again invited to explore themes of loss, growth, and the passage of time alongside Frieren, Fern, and Stark
Why Season 2 Matters
After the massive success of Season 1, which captivated audiences with its gentle storytelling and emotional depth, Season 2 carries high expectations. The careful preparation, stunning visuals, heartfelt music, and strong involvement from the original creators suggest that Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End will continue to resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers.
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