かがみの孤城 [Kagami no Kojou]

In this haunting five-issue series from Shueisha (2019–2022), a group of middle school outcasts discovers a mysterious mirror that transports them to a fantastical castle where they must solve a puzzle to survive. Adapted from the acclaimed novel by Mizuki Tsujimura, the manga is brought to life by artist Tomo Taketomi, whose delicate, atmospheric art captures both the loneliness of adolescence and the eerie wonder of the castle. The story resonates for its sensitive exploration of trauma, friendship, and the power of empathy, making it a standout in contemporary Japanese comics.