NIUHI, the global manga distribution platform, will serialize original manga series (only available here!) as part of its unique content offerings.

To mark the launch of MOON CIDERS as the first title in the NIUHI Originals lineup, I, as a producer at NIUHI, visited the hometown of its creator, TALI, in Kagawa Prefecture. This article presents an in-depth interview that explores TALI's usual creative process, the path that led them to become a manga artist, and their message to aspiring creators.

■ Creator: TALI (pronounced "Tah-lee")
TALI is a manga artist duo from Kagawa, Japan, consisting of Takafumi, the original story creator, and Ginko, the illustrator.
They made their debut in 2009 in Gangan Comics and won the Grand Prize at the Square Enix Manga Awards. In 2012, they launched their first serialized work, Six Trigger, in Gessan (Monthly Shonen Sunday) by Shogakukan, and have been active as serialized manga creators ever since.
Their notable works include Does Humanity Need Civilization at the End of the World? and Katagiri-san, Blocking the View at the Last Moment.
Alongside their serialized works, they regularly post slice-of-life manga such as #Tarike 4-Panel and #Masked Dad on their X account. Currently, they are serializing To the Mom Who Got Lost on the manga platform GANMA!.

■ What are NIUHI Originals?
Exclusive original digital manga titles available only on NIUHI, the global manga distribution platform.

Background Behind the Serialization Decision — A Love Call from the Producer

I had long been a fan of TALI's manga works and illustrations, so reached out to the duo one day with the message: "There's no rush, but I would love to collaborate with you in the future!" This marked the beginning of our collaboration.

Shortly after, I received a reply and exchanged greetings online. During the conversation, TALI happened to mention, "We currently have a theme we want to explore and even have a name (a rough manga draft outlining the story and panel layout) ready." Seizing the opportunity, I eagerly proposed, "In that case, how about serializing it on NIUHI?" — and that's how it all began.

What It Means to Serialize on NIUHI — Sharing at Your Own Pace with a Global Audience

As can be seen from their manga series #Tarike 4-Panel (#たりけ4コマ) published on X, the duo are a married couple who balance parenting while maintaining steady serializations on other platforms.

While I was initially hesitant to propose a new serialization, the timing coincided with the launch of NIUHI, a service built around the theme of allowing creators to share their work at their own pace, so to embody that spirit, I placed no restrictions on publication timing or volume and decided to collaborate at TALI's pace.

Additionally, since TALI had a clear vision for the work and possessed extensive industry experience, I chose not to involve an editor and instead proceeded with a direct serialization approach. Currently, we are exchanging manuscripts and preparing for the next update.

Visit to TALI's Hometown in Kagawa — Based on an On-Site Interview

One day in May, I personally visited TALI's hometown in Kagawa! Up until then, I had only communicated online, so it was my first time meeting them in person.
(From this point onward, the article takes the form of an interview with Takafumi, the original story creator, and Ginko, the illustrator. Below, you'll find insights into their typical creative process, what inspired them to become manga artists, and messages for those aspiring to pursue a career in manga.)

How do you typically create your works?
Takafumi: It depends on the editor and the project, but usually I come up with a rough manga draft or plot, and then Ginko takes care of the artwork.

Do you have a fixed daily work schedule?
Ginko: We don't have a fixed schedule at the moment. Since we divide the work, the amount I work depends on the stage the project is at, so I progress step by step while balancing childcare.

What inspired you both to become manga artists?
Takafumi: I've loved manga since I was a child, and as a hobby, I once drew an Ultraman comic. That experience sparked my first desire to create stories that truly connect with readers. I met Ginko when we were in vocational school together.
Ginko: I've also always loved drawing, but I vaguely felt that creating manga was more enjoyable than just doing illustrations. During vocational school, I often struggled with scenarios, so naturally, I started working on projects together with Takafumi. After that, we decided to seriously pursue a career as manga artists, and our first experience as manga creators was exhibiting together at Comitia.
Takafumi: Back then, we were even advised that "it's better to assume that editors won't approach you at Comitia." But in reality, it was quite the opposite (laughs). Luckily, an editor did approach us that very day, which led to our debut as professional manga artists.

What influences your everyday manga creation?
Takafumi: Both of us enjoy games and manga and often engage with them. I, in particular, have been a big fan of Gundam since I was young…
Ginko: I really love Cowboy Bebop!

When looking at your X posts, I've noticed comments in languages other than Japanese. Do you interact with readers in other languages as well?
Takafumi: Even after a series has finished, we often get lengthy messages from overseas fans requesting sequels. We're very grateful for such support!

What are your expectations for NIUHI going forward?
Takafumi: Thanks to the platform's open nature, where anyone can freely submit their work, I'm excited to see new talents continue to emerge! Even if someone has never drawn manga before but wants to give it a try, that's totally fine. This can be a great opportunity for them to get started. It's a tough industry, a place where talent is often valued more than career experience. So I hope everyone will take on the challenge without hesitation.

Do you have any important advice or key points for those who are about to start their careers as manga artists?
Ginko: My advice is to never lose your passion for what you love and want to do. Continuing on is truly important. Above all, just keep drawing.
Takafumi: It's also important to share your work as soon as you create it! Plus, communication skills are essential. Building good relationships with people around you can lead to your next job opportunities.

Thank you so much for sharing all these insights!
By the way, I'm sure that thanks to TALI, some people might become interested in the Shikoku region or Kagawa Prefecture. Lastly, could you please introduce some recommended local spots?
Takafumi: There is a beautiful beach called Chichibugahama Beach.
I have seen this scenery since I was a child, and I always thought, "the sunset here is especially beautiful." Then, a few years ago, this beach somehow became famous (laughs). It used to be a quiet spot where locals would gather shellfish at low tide, but recently new shops have opened and the atmosphere has changed quite a bit to feel more like a tourist destination. But it's still beautiful, so please do visit if you get the chance!

So, what is MOON CIDERS, the newest story by TALI?

Here is the synopsis of MOON CIDERS, the first original series on NIUHI by TALI, which is currently being serialized.
Surprisingly, the first two episodes are available to read for free!

With the Moon colonized, humanity has brought its way of life beyond the bounds of Earth. The citizens of the Moon lived stable, unworried lives, until one day a colossal creature appeared. Soon, "it" began to prey on humans, and a mysterious warrior suddenly appeared from outer space to fight it, known only as Moon Cider!?
(Genre: Sci-Fi, Action)

The main characters are students, so the story includes some unexpected school life elements. From the very beginning, shocking truths are revealed... making this a work full of twists and surprises.
I won't say too much to avoid spoilers... so please enjoy the episodes currently available! (I'd love to hear your thoughts as well!)
You can check out MOON CIDERS free today on NIUHI!