Hunter x Hunter (2011) – Season 3

The Yorknew City Conspiracy

Season 3 of Hunter x Hunter brings the dark, suspense-filled Yorknew City arc — one of the most acclaimed arcs in modern shonen anime. Centered around Kurapika’s revenge against the Phantom Troupe, it shifts the tone from adventure to crime thriller, blending emotional tragedy with high-stakes battles and underground conflict.

This is the season where Hunter x Hunter becomes a masterpiece.

Season 3 Overview

Title: Hunter x Hunter – Season 3 (Yorknew City Arc)
Japanese Title: ハンター×ハンター (Hantā × Hantā)
Episodes: 20 (Episodes 37–56)
Air Date: July 2, 2012 – November 5, 2012
Studio: Madhouse
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime, DVD, Blu-ray 
Opening Theme: “Departure!” by Masatoshi Ono
Ending Theme: “Hunting for Your Dream” by Galneryus

Story Summary

Gon and Killua travel to Yorknew City to earn money for the Greed Island game — but the story takes a dark turn as Kurapika resurfaces, consumed by vengeance against the Phantom Troupe for massacring his clan.

As the mafia, the Troupe, and the world’s most dangerous criminals collide, Kurapika fights desperately against fate. Meanwhile, Gon and Killua are drawn deeper into a deadly web of alliances, betrayals, and impossible decisions.

Season 3 explores morality, loss, and the haunting cost of revenge.

Major Arcs Covered

Yorknew City Arc

• Kurapika becomes a bodyguard for the Nostrade family.

• The Phantom Troupe launches a massive underground heist.

• Gon, Killua, and Leorio attempt to help Kurapika.

• Kurapika confronts Uvogin and declares war on the Troupe.

• Chrollo Lucilfer faces Nen restrictions that change the Troupe forever.

Main Characters

• Gon Freecss – Driven to help his friends despite the danger.

• Killua Zoldyck – Uses his assassin skills to protect Gon and survive Yorknew.

• Kurapika – Takes center stage, fueled by revenge against the Phantom Troupe.

• Leorio – Returns to support his friends in critical moments.

• Chrollo Lucilfer – Leader of the Phantom Troupe, a calm yet terrifying genius.

• Hisoka – Manipulates the chaos for his own mysterious goals.

• Phantom Troupe (Spider) – A deadly group whose motives blur the line between villains and tragic figures.

Themes and Style

• Revenge & Consequences – Kurapika’s obsession defines the arc.

• Moral Ambiguity – No character is truly innocent or evil.

• Crime & Underground Power – Mafia wars and Troupe politics dominate the season.

• Friendship & Loyalty – Gon and Killua stand by Kurapika despite the danger.

Season 3 introduces some of the richest emotional storytelling in the entire series.

Animation & Visuals

Madhouse elevates the tone with a darker palette, cinematic lighting, and dramatic slow-burn tension.
Character expressions, especially Kurapika’s rage and grief, are animated with realism and emotional weight. The Phantom Troupe battles are fluid, intense, and choreographed with chilling precision.

Music transitions from adventurous to ominous, matching the shift in atmosphere.

Where to Watch

You can stream Hunter x Hunter – Season 3 on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix

• Amazon Prime Video

• DVD (Retail & Online Stores)

• Blu-ray (Retail & Online Stores)

Popularity & Reception

The Yorknew City arc is widely considered:

• One of the greatest arcs in anime

• Kurapika’s best storyline

• A masterclass in emotional writing and villains

This season is often praised for elevating Hunter x Hunter from a “great shonen” to a “legendary anime.”

Final Thoughts

Hunter x Hunter Season 3 is a dark, emotional masterpiece that reshapes the entire narrative. With unforgettable battles, deep character conflict, and the haunting brilliance of the Phantom Troupe, it stands as one of the most powerful arcs in anime history.

A must-watch — especially for fans who love intense, mature storytelling.