Hirohiko Araki - JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 1: Phantom Blood (Hardcover Edition) Manga

"How my heart resonates! I'm pulsing with heat and life! My very blood is a symphony within me! SUNLIGHT YELLOW OVERDRIVE!"

In late 19th-century England, the noble Joestar family adopts Dio Brando, a brilliant but cruel youth whose ambition and resentment set him on a dark path. As Dio seeks power through an ancient Stone Mask, Jonathan Joestar trains in the art of Hamon—sun-powered martial energy—to stop Dio’s transformation into an immortal vampire. Their rivalry becomes a generational curse that defines the Joestar bloodline and sets the foundation for the entire series.

Phantom Blood blends gothic horror, Victorian melodrama, supernatural action, and classic heroism, introducing the mythos, themes, and destiny-driven conflicts of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.

Notes About Hirohiko Araki (

Araki conceived Phantom Blood as a tragic, operatic rivalry inspired by Western literature and classic horror films, deliberately framing Jonathan as an idealized gentleman hero contrasted against Dio’s ruthless ambition. He entered the industry independently after receiving a Tezuka Award honorable mention and did not apprentice under a specific senior mangaka, developing his style through serialization and long-term editorial collaboration.

Japanese Name: ジョジョの奇妙な冒険 第1部 ファントムブラッド
English Title: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 1: Phantom Blood — Hardcover Edition
Story & Art: Hirohiko Araki
Original Publisher: Shueisha (Weekly Shōnen Jump)
English Publisher: VIZ Media (Hardcover Deluxe Line)
Release Years (Original): 1987–1988
Hardcover Edition Release: 2014
Volumes: 3 hardcover volumes (collects complete Part 1)
Age Rating: Teen (T)
Genre: Action, Supernatural, Gothic Horror, Adventure, Shōnen
Themes: Fate & Bloodline, Good vs. Evil, Ambition, Sacrifice, Immortality, Honor

Adaptations

2007 theatrical anime film adaptation and inclusion in the 2012–2013 TV anime series produced by David Production covering Parts 1 and 2.

Awards, Nominations & Sales Milestones

The JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure franchise has sold over 120 million copies worldwide. Phantom Blood established the series’ enduring themes and iconic rivalry that continue across all subsequent parts.

Other Notable Works by Hirohiko Araki

Hirohiko Araki is the creator of the multi-part JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure saga, as well as Baoh the Visitor and The Gorgeous Irene. Later JoJo parts such as Battle Tendency, Stardust Crusaders, and Steel Ball Run are widely credited for redefining battle manga through stylistic evolution and narrative reinvention.

Comics & manga are assumed VG+ or better unless otherwise noted. No broken spines, no writing, no stickers, and may have light shelf wear. Mid-2000s or earlier manga may have slight yellowing due to the age of the paper. All manga and comics are assumed to be pre-owned.