Fans of the beautiful yet melancholic anime Children of the Whales (Japanese: Kujira no Kora wa Sajou ni Utau) have been hoping for a second season for years. The series, which captured many hearts with its emotional storytelling, deep themes, and stunning style, premiered in 2017 and left a lasting impression. But since the end of the first season, many have been wondering: will there ever be a Season 2?
The world of Children of the Whales is fascinating – it takes place on a huge ship drifting through a sea of sand called the “Mud Whale”. There live people who either possess special magical powers or belong to the so-called “non-gifted”. The main character Chakuro, an archivist, documents life on the Mud Whale – until one day a mysterious girl appears and changes everything. The series combines fantasy, philosophy, and tragedy in a unique way, setting it apart from other anime.
No Season 2 of Children of the Whales
Unfortunately, fans will have to prepare for some disappointment: a second season of Children of the Whales has neither been announced nor is it currently in production. Since the end of the first season, things have been unusually quiet around the series. The studio J.C. Staff, which was responsible for the production, has not commented on a possible continuation. Also, from official sources – such as Netflix, which distributed the anime internationally – there are no signs that a second season might be coming.
The first season consisted of twelve episodes and covered roughly the first six volumes of the manga of the same name. The anime ended at a point that answered some questions but raised many new ones. That’s why the hope for a sequel was so high. But since there have been no new updates since 2017, things currently don’t look too promising.
Another issue is that viewership for Children of the Whales outside Japan wasn’t as strong as one might have hoped. Although the anime was available on Netflix and visually impressed many, it remained more of a hidden gem. That makes a sequel less likely, as without enough financial support or strong fan interest, second seasons are rarely greenlit.
However, there’s still a small glimmer of hope: in the anime industry, it’s not uncommon for series to be continued many years later – for example, Attack on Titan, which was also revived after long pauses. So, we can’t completely rule out a continuation. Still, it’s best to stay realistic: as of now, there are no concrete plans or announcements for Children of the Whales Season 2.
Alternatives to Children of the Whales
If you loved the magical, emotional atmosphere of Children of the Whales, there are several anime that might also appeal to you. A great recommendation is Made in Abyss. Here too, the focus is on a mysterious, beautiful, yet dangerous world. The series shares the melancholic tone and deep character development of Children of the Whales.
Another excellent choice is From the New World (Shinsekai yori). This anime combines sci-fi, mystery, and social criticism in an intense story about power, memory, and morality – similar to Children of the Whales but with a noticeably darker tone.
To Your Eternity (Fumetsu no Anata e) is also perfect for fans who enjoy emotional and thought-provoking stories. The anime follows an immortal being that gathers human experiences and learns about love, pain, and loss.
For those who appreciate the aesthetic side of Children of the Whales, Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song or Mushoku Tensei are worth checking out. Both series combine breathtaking animation with strong characters and emotional storytelling.
In short: even though there won’t be a second season of Children of the Whales, you don’t have to miss out on similar experiences. There are plenty of anime that capture the same atmosphere and can move you just as deeply.
Also interesting: Kemono Jihen Season 2: What we Know
Is There a Manga?
Yes, and that’s the good news: Children of the Whales is based on a manga by Abi Umeda, which goes far beyond the events of the anime. The manga began in 2013 in Japan and was completed in 2023 with its 24th volume. So if you want to know what happens after the end of the anime, you should definitely check out the manga.
The manga offers much more depth, both in the world and in the characters. Many questions that remain unanswered in the anime are addressed as the story progresses. Additionally, the manga’s art style is just as beautiful as the animation – sometimes even more detailed.
Readers will also find that the story becomes increasingly epic in later volumes. It’s not only about the survival of the Mud Whale’s inhabitants but also about greater themes like destiny, freedom, and the search for identity in a hostile world.
