Hunter x Hunter (2011) – Season 2

Heaven’s Arena & The Birth of Nen

Season 2 of Hunter x Hunter (2011) expands the world dramatically as Gon and Killua step into the brutal combat tower of Heaven’s Arena, unlocking the power system that defines the entire series — Nen. With new mentors, rivalries, and rising stakes, this season transforms the boys from beginners into true fighters while teasing the darkness that awaits in Yorknew City.

Season 2 Overview

Title: Hunter x Hunter (2011) – Season 2
Japanese Title: ハンター×ハンター (2011) – シーズン2
Episodes: 13 (Episodes 27–39)
Air Date: April 15, 2012 – July 15, 2012
Studio: Madhouse
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Prime Video, DVD, Blu-ray

Opening Theme: “Departure!” by Masatoshi Ono
Ending Theme: “Hunting for Your Dream” by Galneryus

Story Summary

After narrowly surviving the Hunter Exam, Gon and Killua travel to Heaven’s Arena, a massive tower where fighters climb floors to earn money and fame. What begins as a simple training trip becomes a turning point in their lives when they meet Wing, who introduces them to Nen — the life energy system that only true hunters master.

As they train to unlock Ten, Zetsu, Ren, and Hatsu, the boys face dangerous opponents like Zushi and Hisoka, whose return adds overwhelming tension. Meanwhile, small hints begin leading toward the coming Phantom Troupe conflict, setting the stage for the next major arc.

Season 2 is all about growth, discipline, friendship, and the awakening of real power.

Major Arcs Covered

Heaven’s Arena Arc

• Gon and Killua train under Wing.

• The fundamentals of Nen are revealed.

• Gon earns the right to punch Hisoka back — fulfilling his Exam promise.

Prelude to Yorknew

• Kurapika’s journey begins as he seeks power to face the Phantom Troupe.

• Gon and Killua prepare for their next destination.

Main Characters

• Gon Freecss – Determined to grow strong enough to face Hisoka and eventually find his father.

• Killua Zoldyck – A former assassin finding purpose and freedom through friendship.

• Hisoka Morrow – A terrifying wildcard whose obsession with potential makes him both mentor and predator.

• Wing – The Nen instructor who guides the boys into a world far more dangerous than they expected.

• Zushi – A kind but competitive student challenging Gon and Killua’s limits.

Themes and Style

• Awakening Power – Season 2 introduces Nen, one of anime’s most iconic power systems.

• Friendship & Rivalry – Gon and Killua grow together while Hisoka looms as a constant challenge.

• Discipline Through Training – Strength is earned through knowledge, effort, and resolve.

• Build-up to Darkness – The lighthearted tone begins to fade as the story hints at the brutal Yorknew arc.

Animation & Visuals

Madhouse delivers crisp, fluid fights and expressive character animation. Heaven’s Arena glows with scale and atmosphere, while Nen abilities are visualized with clarity and energy. Hisoka’s scenes — from smiles to strikes — are especially sharp and unsettling.

The soundtrack intensifies both training and battles, blending hopeful melodies with tense battle themes.

Where to Watch

You can watch Hunter x Hunter Season 2 on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix

• Prime Video

• DVD 

• Blu-ray (Region availability may vary)

Popularity & Reception

Season 2 is widely praised for introducing Nen — considered one of the best power systems in anime — and for deepening Gon and Killua’s development. Fans appreciate the balance of humor, training, tension, and foreshadowing that sets the stage for one of anime’s greatest arcs: Yorknew City.

Final Thoughts

Hunter x Hunter Season 2 is a perfect blend of growth, tension, and worldbuilding. It transforms Gon and Killua from talented rookies into real fighters, lays the foundation for future conflicts, and elevates the series’ depth through Nen. A must-watch progression that prepares viewers for the emotional storm ahead.