'From Far Away' First Anime Premieres October 4, 2026
From Far Away, Kyoko Hikawa's 1990s shōjo isekai classic, is finally getting an anime. The Studio DEEN adaptation premieres October 4, 2026 on Tokyo MX, with a four-member main cast led by Tomoyo Kurosawa and Kentarō Kumagai, and Hikawa herself is supervising the entire series.
'Tsugumi Project' Gets TV Anime After French Breakout
Tsugumi Project, ippatu's survival sci-fi action manga that became a hit in France before earning a Weekly Young Magazine serialization in Japan, is getting a TV anime. The July 14, 2026 announcement arrived with a teaser visual and teaser PV, though the studio, cast, and premiere date are all still under wraps.
'Demon Slayer' Star Natsuki Hanae Leads 'Rika Daman' Anime
The hit Korean learning manga Tsukame! Rika Daman is getting an anime, and it premieres free on YouTube. Publisher Magazine House will stream episodes 1-3 on the series' newly opened official channel at noon JST on July 16, 2026, with Demon Slayer's Natsuki Hanae voicing protagonist Shin. The gag-science series has sold a combined 4 million copies across Japan and Korea.
Demon Slayer's Zenitsu Tops Japan's Yellow Character Poll
Zenitsu Agatsuma has won Anime Anime's annual "yellow image color" character poll for the sixth straight year, taking about 14 percent of the vote in the 2026 edition. Pikachu holds second place at roughly 10 percent, while Touhou Project's Marisa Kirisame climbs into third after tying for seventh last year.
Haikyu!! Challengers Exhibition Reveals Hinata Key Visual
Haikyu!!'s third original art exhibition, Haruichi Furudate Haikyu!! Exhibition: Challengers, has revealed its second newly drawn key visual, Run-Up (Shoyo Hinata), ahead of its October 30, 2026 opening at Tokyo's Mori Arts Center Gallery. The reveal came with the full zone lineup, ticket details, and merchandise info, and an advance ticket lottery for digital Weekly Shonen Jump subscribers opened July 14.
BS12 Airs 'Lupin vs. Conan' and 'Conan vs. Kid' This July
BS12 TwellV's free Sunday Anime Theater block is running back-to-back Detective Conan crossover events this month. The uncut Lupin the 3rd vs. Detective Conan: The Movie aired July 12, and the 2024 compilation film Detective Conan vs. Kid the Phantom Thief follows on Sunday, July 26, 2026 at 7 p.m.
New Sword Art Online Movie 'Integral Domain' Set for 2028
Sword Art Online is heading back to theaters. Aniplex has announced Sword Art Online the Movie: Integral Domain, a completely original film set after the Alicization arc, for a 2028 release. Longtime series character designer Shingo Adachi directs, and Yoshitsugu Matsuoka and Haruka Tomatsu return as Kirito and Asuna.
'Noa-senpai wa Tomodachi.' Gets TV Anime From Studio feel.
Noa-senpai wa Tomodachi., Enma Akiyama's office comedy manga from Weekly Young Jump, is getting a TV anime. Studio feel. is animating, with Shinsuke Yanagi directing and The Quintessential Quintuplets writer Keiichirō Ōchi on series composition. A teaser visual is out now, and the show's official site and X account are live.
Nontan Gets New 3DCG Anime for Its 50th Anniversary
Nontan, the picture book character that has anchored Japanese childhoods since 1976, is getting a new anime. The announcement landed on July 11, 2026, the character's official 50th birthday, together with a teaser visual that rebuilds Nontan in 3DCG. The book series has sold more than 35 million copies to date.
'The Elusive Samurai' Season 2 Ending Taps Hinatazaka46 Trio
The Elusive Samurai Season 2 has locked in its ending theme: "Romantic ga Hoshii nara" (If You Wish for Romance), a new song from Bocchiboromaru, the artist behind Season 1's "Kamakura STYLE." Three members of the idol group Hinatazaka46 join as guest vocalists, and their identities stay secret until the season premieres July 17 on Fuji TV's Noitamina block.
'Kizuguchi to Hotai' Yakuza Rom-Com Gets J.C.Staff Anime
Umihoshi Nanai's yakuza rom-com manga Kizuguchi to Hōtai is getting a TV anime, set to premiere in January 2027 on ABC and TV Asahi's nationwide ANiMAZiNG!!! block. J.C.Staff handles animation production, with Miyuki Ishida directing.
IDOLiSH7's Momo Edges Demon Slayer's Kaigaku in Peach Poll
Momo of the idol duo Re:vale has won the 2026 "peach character" reader poll at Japanese anime news site Anime Anime, finishing a single vote ahead of Demon Slayer's Kaigaku. The site collected 319 responses between June 22 and 29, timing the results to Fukushima Peach Day on July 13.
Blue Box Finale and Jump Sellouts Top Japan's Anime News
Blue Box ended its five-year Weekly Shonen Jump run on July 13, 2026, with chapter 250, and the finale led Oricon's most-read anime news of the day. The commemorative issue then sold out across Japan, not because of the manga, but because scalpers targeted a ONE PIECE trading card bundled with the magazine. Shueisha had already printed an extra 500,000 copies, and it still wasn't enough.
ReoNa Brings 'SAO' and Summer Anime Themes to Anisama 2026
ReoNa took the stage on the final day of Animelo Summer Live 2026 "-Messenger-" at Makuhari Messe on July 12, opening with "forget-me-not," her ending theme from Sword Art Online: Alicization. She then performed the theme songs of two currently airing Summer 2026 anime, The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System and I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day, before closing out the first half of Day 3.
Blue Box Manga Ends With Chapter 250 After Five-Year Run
Blue Box, the sports-romance manga by Kōji Miura (三浦糀), has ended its five-year run in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump with chapter 250, published July 13, 2026. Miura called it "a work that changed my life," and Demon Slayer's Akari Kitō joined readers in a wave of farewell posts. The story isn't leaving screens, though: the anime's second season premieres October 4 on TBS.
Monster Strike's Third Jujutsu Kaisen Collab Lands July 14
Monster Strike kicks off its third Jujutsu Kaisen collaboration on July 14 at noon JST, adding Yuta Okkotsu, Choso, and Maki Zenin to the limited-time gacha. The bigger news for longtime players: Satoru Gojo, Yuji Itadori, and Kento Nanami become the first collaboration characters in the game's history to receive Shin-Jushinka upgrades.
MegaHouse Turns One Piece Crew Into Cat Diner Staff Figures
MegaHouse is celebrating five years of its cat-ified One Piece figure line with MEGA CAT PROJECT One Piece Nyan Piece Nyan! DINER!, a set that reimagines Luffy, Zoro, Nami, Sanji, Chopper, and Trafalgar Law as feline diner staff. A box of six costs ¥6,600 and ships in late December 2026, with preorders open now in Japan.
100 Girlfriends Season 3 Previews Chiyo's Family Debut
The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You Season 3 has released the synopsis and preview stills for Episode 26, "Chiyo-chan's Family Guidance," airing Sunday, July 12, 2026. The episode hands the spotlight to new girlfriend Chiyo Iin (伊院知与), voiced by Kaori Ishihara, as she meets Rentaro's famously chaotic "family" of girlfriends and immediately tries to whip it into shape.
Demon Slayer Rerun: Inosuke Unmasked, Zenitsu Meets Nezuko
Japan's full-series Demon Slayer rerun reached episode 14, "The House with the Wisteria Family Crest," on July 12, 2026, and the boar head finally came off. Inosuke's face reveal and Zenitsu's first meeting with Nezuko dominated Japanese social media, while Inosuke voice actor Yoshitsugu Matsuoka added a comment on how far his character has come since 2019.
ABEMA Anime Fes 2026 Reveals September Dates, First Lineup
ABEMA Anime Fes 2026 runs September 19 and 20 at Shibuya's MIYASHITA PARK, giving ABEMA's anime festival a third straight year. The first participation lineup covers ten anime, including The Apothecary Diaries, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4, and Hiromu Arakawa's Daemons of the Shadow Realm.
Seven Sleeping Beauties Gets 2027 Anime With 'Frieren' Star
Fiok Lee's fantasy rom-com manga Seven Sleeping Beauties (7-nin no Nemurihime) is getting a TV anime in 2027, the production announced on July 7. All seven princesses are cast, headlined by Kana Ichinose of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, Yoshino Aoyama of Bocchi the Rock!, and Miku Itō of The Quintessential Quintuplets, with Studio Gokumi and AXsiZ SMASH sharing animation production.
Mushoku Tensei III Episode 3 Opens Rudeus' Young Adult Arc
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 has released the synopsis and preview stills for Episode 3, "Kaettekita Nichijō" (roughly "The Everyday Life That Came Back"), airing July 12, 2026. The episode opens the young-adult chapter of Rudeus' story, with Roxy now his second wife and friction already waiting at the Ranoa Magic Academy.
Murciélago TV Anime Confirmed for 2027 With Teaser PV
Murciélago, Yoshimurakana's ultraviolent buddy-action manga with more than 2.3 million copies in circulation worldwide, is getting a TV anime in 2027. The announcement landed at Anime Expo 2026 alongside a teaser PV and teaser visual, with Satelight and Staple Entertainment sharing animation production.
Rie Takahashi Sings Re:Zero's 'Stay Alive' at Anisama 2026
Rie Takahashi took the Anisama 2026 stage in character as Emilia on July 11, performing "Stay Alive ~Regain~," the insert song from Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 4. Her set late on Day 2 at Makuhari Messe opened with Emilia's narration and closed on the character's emblematic line: "Please, tell me your name."
'Detective Conan' J.League Crossover Episode Airs July 18
Detective Conan is teaming up with the J.League for a new episode airing July 18, 2026. In "J.League: The Opening Whistle," a bomb is planted somewhere in a packed stadium at the league's season opener, set to go off the moment the match ends. Former Japan international Hiroaki Morishima (森島寛晃) and actor Yūka Kageyama (影山優佳) guest-star as themselves.
AIR TWOKYO Opens My Hero Academia Season 4 Merch Pre-Orders
Japanese fashion brand AIR TWOKYO has opened pre-orders for a My Hero Academia Season 4 goods collection, live as of July 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. JST. The line covers seven scene-illustration T-shirts and three sweatshirts drawn from the Shie Hassaikai arc and the U.A. School Festival, plus a batch of smaller goods including magnets, keychains, and a tote bag.
Dragon Ball, Naruto Hit Half Price in Shueisha Kindle Sale
Amazon Japan's Kindle store has cut a big slice of Shueisha's manga catalog to half price through July 13, 2026. The coupon campaign covers complete runs of Dragon Ball, Naruto, Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, Gintama, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Golden Kamuy, but the 50% discount only applies if you check a coupon box before buying.
Detective Conan x Graniph Apparel Collab Launches July 14
Japanese graphic-apparel brand Graniph is releasing a 20-item Detective Conan collection on July 14, 2026, built around Kaito Kid, the Black Organization, and some of the series' most famous scenes. Prices run from ¥1,200 socks to an ¥8,900 zip hoodie, and pre-orders are open on Graniph's online store through July 13.
'Tiny Metal: Zero Line' Anime Pilot Premieres at Japan Expo
The strategy game series Tiny Metal is getting its first anime. AREA 35 world-premiered the pilot episode of Tiny Metal: Zero Line at Japan Expo 2026 in Paris, launching an official site and teaser trailer alongside the screening.
Nami's 'One Piece Heroines' Sandals Get Real Diana Release
Japanese shoe brand Diana has turned the 'battle-ready shoes' Nami wears in the ONE PIECE HEROINES anime special into a real pair of sandals. The ocean-blue satin heels went on sale July 6, 2026 for ¥25,300 (about $170) through Diana's official web shop and 19 stores across Japan, and they come with the anklet Nami wears on screen.
'Tokyo Swindlers' Author Ko Shinjo Talks the Novel's Future
Ko Shinjo, the novelist behind Netflix's 2024 hit Tokyo Swindlers, sat down with mystery writer Shinichiro Yuki for a new dialogue published July 11, 2026 by Shueisha Online. The occasion is the paperback release of Yuki's food-delivery mystery Nanmon no Ōi Ryōriten, and the theme is what the screen boom means for novels: as the headline puts it, "Novels can still go places. There is a dream here."
'Watashi o Center ni Suru to Chikaimasu ka' Gets TV Anime
Kodansha's viral idol rom-com Watashi o Center ni Suru to Chikaimasu ka? (Watacen) is getting a TV anime adaptation. The announcement came with a teaser visual and a celebratory illustration from creator Jun Wakatsuki, though the director, studio, cast, and premiere window are all still under wraps.
One Piece x NBA T-Shirt Collab Closes Preorders on July 12
Preorders for the ONE PIECE × NBA T-shirt line close Sunday, July 12, 2026 at 11:00 p.m. Japan time on Premium Bandai, Bandai's official online store. The collaboration covers seven character designs, each in white and black, priced at 6,600 yen (about $45) per shirt and shipping in September 2026.
Hinatazaka46 Trio Guests on The Elusive Samurai Season 2 ED
Botchi Boromaru is back on ending-theme duty for The Elusive Samurai Season 2 with the new song "Romantic ga Hoshii nara," and this one comes with a twist: three members of idol group Hinatazaka46 join as guest vocalists. Their identities stay secret until the season premieres July 17, 2026 on Fuji TV's noitaminA block.
'Gantz' Creator's GIGANT Gets Anime Film From K2 Pictures
Hiroya Oku's giant-heroine manga GIGANT is being adapted into a theatrical anime film, K2 Pictures announced at its Cannes press conference on May 17, 2026. The project is the first animated feature from the Tokyo film company, which also produces the live-action Look Back. No staff, cast, or release date has been revealed yet.
Talentless Nana Manga Ends 10-Year Run in Shonen Gangan
Talentless Nana is over. The suspense manga by Looseboy and artist Iori Furuya published its final chapter in Monthly Shonen Gangan on July 10, 2026, closing out a serialization that began in 2016. The 15th and final collected volume arrives in September.
Maaya Sakamoto Reflects on Motoko in New Ghost in the Shell
Maaya Sakamoto and the main voice cast of Science SARU's Ghost in the Shell have shared extended comments on the series, which began airing July 7, 2026. Sakamoto reveals that recording on every episode is already finished, and that she initially hesitated to take over Motoko Kusanagi from the late Atsuko Tanaka. A sixth promotional video, a fourth key visual, and an episode 1 end card by Death Stranding artist Yoji Shinkawa arrived alongside the comments.
Jujutsu Kaisen's Gojo Tops 2026 Yukata Character Fan Poll
Satoru Gojo of Jujutsu Kaisen is the male anime character fans most want to see in a yukata, taking about 11 percent of the vote in Anime Anime's annual 2026 reader poll. Demon Slayer's Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka finished second at roughly 7 percent, and Gintama's Gintoki Sakata took third at about 6 percent. The survey collected 434 responses between June 9 and June 17.
'Mushoku Tensei' Season 3 Episode 3 Brings Rudeus Back Home
Rudeus is back at the center of Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3. Dengeki Online has published the synopsis and preview stills for Episode 3, "Kaettekita Nichijō" (roughly "Everyday Life Returns"), in which Rudeus welcomes Roxy as his second wife, returns to Ranoa Magic Academy, and runs into resistance from Cliff, who cannot accept the marriage on religious grounds.
'To Your Eternity' Star Reiji Kawashima Voices BL Manga PV
The BL manga Rainen no Koto o Ie, Ore ga Warau, which pairs a professional comedian with the shut-in superfan who writes postcards to his radio show, wrapped up on July 10, 2026, with its second and final collected volume. To send it off, producer AOI Pro. released a voiced promotional video starring Ryōta Iwasaki and Reiji Kawashima.
NARUTO Shippuden War Arc Sasuke Figure Gets 2027 Rerun
MegaHouse's G.E.M. Series figure of Sasuke Uchiha in his Fourth Great Ninja War look is coming back. Preorders for the rerun are open now on Premium Bandai at ¥17,600 (around $115), and shipping is planned for January 2027.
Attack on Titan Animate Fair Puts Eren and Levi Behind Bars
Attack on Titan is getting a nationwide Animate fair in Japan this fall, built entirely around newly drawn art with a prison guard and prisoner theme. Merchandise maker arma bianca opens online pre-orders on July 9, 2026, ahead of the in-store event at nine Animate locations from October 3 to October 18.
Dandadan Debuts Williams F1 Car at Anime Expo for Season 3
The Dandadan anime now has its own Formula 1 car. A one-of-a-kind Williams Racing concept car wrapped in Dandadan artwork debuted at Anime Expo 2026 in Los Angeles, kicking off what broadcaster MBS calls an "off the scale" global campaign running ahead of Season 3's 2027 premiere.
Grand Blue Dreaming Season 3 Unveils Episode 2 and Clean OP
Grand Blue Dreaming Season 3 has released the synopsis and scene photos for Episode 2, "Kisei" ("Homecoming"), the next stop on the road to the series' first overseas arc in Palau. The show also dropped its creditless opening, set to FUNKY MONKEY BΛBY'S theme "Natsuko" and starring, per the official announcement, the series' infamous censor circle.
New Gundam Anime Reveal Hits SDCC and YouTube on July 23
A brand-new Gundam anime will be revealed at San Diego Comic-Con's "GUNDAM Showcase 2026 - Unveil the Next Gundam" panel on July 23, 2026. A special program carrying the same announcements streams worldwide on the official Gundam Channel YouTube channel at 3:00 a.m. JST on July 24, with an archive available afterward.
Demon Slayer Infinity Castle DVD Gets Lawson-Only Stickers
The standard-edition DVD and Blu-ray of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle Part 1: Akaza's Return arrive at Lawson convenience stores across Japan on July 29, 2026. Buying either disc at the chain includes an exclusive bonus: a set of three smartphone stickers made from scene stills of Tanjiro, Giyu Tomioka, and Akaza.
TenSura Season 4 Episode 14 Sends Diablo to the Demon World
Diablo takes center stage in That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4. Japanese gaming and anime news site Dengeki Online has published the synopsis and scene stills for Episode 14, "Kokushoku Gundan" (黒色軍団, roughly "Black Corps"), which follows the demon as he leaves Rimuru's side for the demon world to put three old acquaintances to work for Tempest.
Detective Conan Shinkansen Puzzle Campaign Starts August 10
Detective Conan is boarding the Tokaido Shinkansen. JR Central's Oshi-Tabi fan-travel program is running a mystery-solving campaign on the bullet train from August 10 to November 9, 2026, and riders who ace all five onboard puzzles get an original acrylic keychain. An AR photo frame giveaway and a lottery-only railway tour featuring Conan himself round out the package.
'Seven Sleeping Beauties' Gets 2027 Anime, 7-Princess Cast
Fiok Lee's fantasy rom-com manga Seven Sleeping Beauties (7-nin no Nemurihime) is getting a TV anime in 2027. The announcement came with all seven princesses cast at once: Aya Yamane, Yoshino Aoyama, Miku Itō, Ayasa Itō, Kana Ichinose, Fūka Izumi, and Rina Kawaguchi. Studio Gokumi and AXsiZ SMASH are producing.
Mushoku Tensei Season 3 Drops Episode 3 Stills, Cast Event
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 has released preview stills for episode 3, "Kaettekita Nichijō" (roughly "Everyday Life Returns"). Before the episode hits TV, four of the show's lead voice actors will appear at an advance screening of episodes 3 and 4 at TOHO Cinemas Hibiya in Tokyo on July 11, 2026.
Idol Rom-Com 'Promise Me the Spotlight' Gets TV Anime
Jun Wakatsuki's idol rom-com manga Promise Me the Spotlight is getting a TV anime, announced July 8, 2026 alongside a teaser visual. The Kodansha series about a last-place idol and her single devoted fan has passed 200,000 copies in circulation, and Wakatsuki marked the news with a congratulatory illustration and comment.
Haikyu!! Turns Date Tech's Iron Wall Into Sendai Sweets
Sendai confectioner Kasho Sanzen is bringing Haikyu!! back for a third straight year of collaboration sweets, and this time Date Tech gets the spotlight. Takanobu Aone and Kenji Futakuchi front a special edition of the Date Emaki layered cake, on sale at JR Sendai Station from August 11 to August 25, 2026.
Shangri-La Frontier Season 3 Teaser Confirms January 2027
The first teaser PV for Shangri-La Frontier Season 3 is here, and it hands the spotlight to the villains. The new season premieres in January 2027 in the Sunday 5:00 p.m. slot on the MBS/TBS network, airing across 28 stations in Japan. Protagonist Sunraku is nowhere in the footage, while Arthur Pencilgon and Nu2meg run wild as the bad guys.
'Tensura' Episode 86 Sends Diablo to Three Familiar Demons
Diablo finally gets an episode built around him. Oricon News has published the advance synopsis and preview stills for That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime episode 86, "Kokushoku Gundan" (roughly, "The Black Corps"), airing July 10, 2026 in Japan. The story follows the demon butler as he leaves Rimuru's side to visit three old acquaintances in the demon world.
Ghibli Park's First Original Short Casts SixTONES' Jesse
Jesse of J-pop group SixTONES voices the lead in Majo no Tani no Yoru (魔女の谷の夜, roughly "Night in the Valley of Witches"), Studio Ghibli's first original short animation made specifically for Ghibli Park. The roughly 14-minute film, co-directed by Goro Miyazaki and Akihiko Yamashita, began screening July 8, 2026 inside the park's Grand Warehouse in Aichi Prefecture. It is Jesse's first voice role in a Ghibli production.
The Elusive Samurai Season 2 Trailer Confirms July 17 Debut
The Elusive Samurai Season 2 premieres July 17, 2026 at 11:30 p.m. in Fuji TV's Noitamina block, and the main trailer is out now. Solo idol Kento Nakajima performs the new opening theme 'Onigoto,' episodes hit Prime Video in Japan the same night, and Crunchyroll streams the season internationally.
Demon Slayer Cube Plush Mascots Hit AMNIBUS Through July 29
Demon Slayer's next collectible turns Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Giyu, Shinobu, Rengoku, and Akaza into palm-sized plush cubes. The Chimi Cube mascots went up for pre-order on Japanese merch site AMNIBUS on June 29, 2026, with orders open through July 29 and shipping planned for early December.
Magic Knight Rayearth Adds 'Attack on Titan' Star Yuki Kaji
The new Magic Knight Rayearth TV anime has added Yūki Kaji as the mage Clef, Emiri Katō as the weaponsmith Presea, and Yoshitsugu Matsuoka as the swordsman Ferio, alongside a second key visual and a full main trailer. The CLAMP adaptation premieres October 7, 2026 on TV Asahi's national network.
'One Piece' Star Mayumi Tanaka Joins 'Dandadan' Stage Play
Mayumi Tanaka, the voice of One Piece's Luffy, will reprise her TV anime role as Turbo Granny in Stage Dandadan: Occultic Stage, the manga's first stage play, opening August 26, 2026 in Tokyo. The production also released a second PV shot on location in real ruins and an abandoned tunnel, along with the first look at fan-favorite yokai Acrobatic Silky.
Shinichi Kudo, Satoru Gojo Top Japan's Tanabata Anime Poll
Detective Conan's Shinichi Kudo and Jujutsu Kaisen's Satoru Gojo tied for first place in Anime Anime's Tanabata reader poll asking which male anime character fans would want to meet if they could meet just once a year. Bungo Stray Dogs claimed both third-place spots with Osamu Dazai and Chuya Nakahara, while Gintoki Sakata and Doraemon rounded out the top five.
AnimeJapan's Student Anime Award Debuts at Anime Expo 2026
AnimeJapan brought its student short-anime competition, the Newcomer Creator Award, to Anime Expo for the first time, exhibiting at the Los Angeles convention from July 2 to 5, 2026. The 2026 winners made the trip too, screening their films at a dedicated booth and speaking on stage. The next edition's award ceremony lands at INTEX Osaka in March 2027.
'Fired? But I Maintain All the Software!' Gets TV Anime
Fired? But I Maintain All the Software! is getting a TV anime. Japanese entertainment news site Comic Natalie reported the adaptation of Yuki Kashirome's light novel series on June 3, 2026, two days before volume 5 of the manga version hit shelves. Staff, cast, and a broadcast window are still to be announced.
Magic Knight Rayearth Adds Eren and Kirito Voice Actors
The new Magic Knight Rayearth TV anime has cast Yūki Kaji as Clef, Emiri Katō as Presea, and Yoshitsugu Matsuoka as Ferio, alongside a second key visual and a main trailer. The series is the first new Rayearth animation in 29 years, counting from the 1997 OVA, and premieres October 7, 2026 on TV Asahi.
'One Piece' Paper Knife Recreates Shanks' Sword Gryphon
Shanks' saber Gryphon is the newest One Piece sword to become a paper knife, with advance sales open as of July 6, 2026 and general release set for August 3. The 215mm katana-style letter opener is hand-edged by craftsmen in Seki, Japan's famed blade-making town, and sells for ¥5,500.
'The Ramparts of Ice' Season 2 Premieres October 1 on TBS
The Ramparts of Ice is coming back this fall. Right after the season 1 finale aired in Japan, the anime adaptation of Kocha Agasawa's manga was confirmed for a second season starting October 1, 2026, across 28 TBS-network stations. The announcement came with a pointedly uneasy teaser visual in which none of the four leads make eye contact.
My Hero Academia 'OUR HERO' Exhibition Set for January 2027
My Hero Academia's anime is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a dedicated exhibition. "OUR HERO" runs January 8 to February 7, 2027 in Tokyo before moving to Osaka from March 5 to 28, packing ten years of visuals, original key animation, and a new life-size figure into one show. The first Tokyo ticket lottery opens July 10, 2026.
Apothecary Diaries Novel Exhibition Opens in Osaka July 15
The Apothecary Diaries original novel exhibition, 'Poison and Medicine, Science and Mystery,' comes to Osaka's Hanshin Umeda Main Store from July 15 to 27, 2026. Organizers have revealed an Osaka-exclusive key visual that puts Maomao and Jinshi in front of the department store itself, plus a venue-limited design for the goods-bundled ticket's pass and neck strap.
Ado's 'Shinka' Opens SAO Creator's Demons' Crest Anime
Ado will perform "Shinka," the opening theme for Demons' Crest, the anime adaptation of Sword Art Online creator Reki Kawahara's light novel series. The song was written for the show by Vocaloid producer YurryCanon and gets its first listen in a new trailer. The series streams exclusively worldwide on Prime Video starting November 6, 2026.
'100 Girlfriends' Season 3 Premiere Introduces Cousin Chiyo
The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You returns for Season 3 on July 5, 2026, and the synopsis and preview stills for episode 25, "The Cousin Girlfriend," are out. The premiere introduces Chiyo Iin, Rentaro's cousin, voiced by Kaori Ishihara.
'Murciélago' Manga Gets TV Anime in 2027 With First Teaser
Murciélago, Yoshimurakana's long-running assassin action manga, is getting a TV anime in 2027. Satelight and Staple Entertainment will co-produce, and a first teaser trailer and visual are already out. HIDIVE has locked exclusive streaming rights for the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand.
'Demon Slayer' Rerun Episode 13 Reignites Love for Zenitsu
Japan's full-series Demon Slayer rerun reached Episode 13, "Something More Important Than Life," on July 5, 2026, and Zenitsu's battered vow to protect Nezuko's box had viewers tearing up all over again. The broadcast also came with a new cast comment from Junichi Suwabe, the voice of the drum demon Kyogai.
Jujutsu Kaisen Turns 5 With Gojo Perfume and Sukuna Squishy
The Jujutsu Kaisen anime is celebrating its 5th anniversary with pre-orders on two new merch lines. Cosmetics brand AMORISÉ has character fragrances for Yuji Itadori, Satoru Gojo, and Yuta Okkotsu at ¥3,960 (about $25) each, while hobby brand TOKOTOYZ counters with puffy drop stickers and a squeeze-toy series that includes Sukuna's finger.
Nishigori and CloverWorks' 'GROTESQQQUE' Opens November 6
GROTESQQQUE, the original omnibus anime film from Darling in the Franxx director Atsushi Nishigori and studio CloverWorks, opens in Japanese theaters nationwide on November 6, 2026. The date lands alongside a full trailer, a new key visual, and confirmation that METALVERSE performs the opening theme, "Shoot Shoot Shoot."
You and I Are Polar Opposites Returns with a Christmas Date
You and I Are Polar Opposites Season 2 premieres July 5, 2026, and the opener goes straight for the romance. Episode 13, "Christmas Eve," sends Suzuki and Tani on their first Christmas Eve date together, complete with an earnest attempt at baking a cake. Japanese anime news site Anime Anime has published the episode's synopsis and preview stills ahead of the broadcast.
Demon Slayer Corps Jinbei Leads Cospa's New Summer Lineup
Japanese anime-apparel maker Cospa is turning the Demon Slayer Corps uniform into summer loungewear. A breathable Corps-themed jinbei priced at ¥13,750 headlines a new Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba merch line, joined by quick-dry T-shirts for Tanjiro, Giyu, and Shinobu that hit advance sale July 26, 2026 at Wonder Festival 2026 [Summer].
'Lupin III' Star Miyuki Sawashiro Joins Suikoden Anime
Suikoden: The Anime has added Miyuki Sawashiro, Jin Yamanoi, and Kōdai Sakai to its cast, and a new trailer debuts amazarashi's opening theme "Kanashimi Sae Otonabite." The adaptation of Konami's classic RPG premieres in October 2026 across 32 Japanese stations, with episodes 1-3 screening in theaters from August 21.
Ado's New Song Shinka Named 'Devils' Crest' Opening Theme
Ado will perform Shinka, the opening theme for Devils' Crest, the anime adaptation of Sword Art Online creator Reki Kawahara's latest novel series. Warner Bros. Japan revealed the song in the show's first full trailer, ahead of a worldwide-exclusive Prime Video premiere on November 6, 2026.
'Loner Life in Another World' Season 2 Officially Announced
Loner Life in Another World is getting a second season. GREE Entertainment announced Season 2 on July 4, 2026, during an Overlap Bunko all-star livestream on ABEMA, releasing a new teaser visual along with comments from author Shoji Goji and the three returning leads. The news lands as the series passes 4.3 million copies in circulation across its light novels and manga.
King Gnu's 'GO GHOST' Opens the New Ghost in the Shell Anime
King Gnu's "GO GHOST" will serve as the opening theme for The Ghost in the Shell, Science SARU's new TV anime take on Masamune Shirow's cyberpunk classic. The reveal came at the series' Anime Expo 2026 panel alongside a fifth promotional video, just two days before the July 7, 2026 premiere on Fuji TV and Prime Video.
Delicious in Dungeon Season 2 Hits Netflix in October 2027
Delicious in Dungeon Season 2 will premiere in October 2027, Oricon News reported alongside a new teaser visual. The image shows Falin in her chimera form under the control of the mad mage Thistle, with Laios, Marcille, Chilchuck, Senshi, and Izutsumi pressing toward the dungeon's deepest floors to save her.
First 'Apothecary Diaries' Movie Opens December 11 in Japan
The Apothecary Diaries' first theatrical film now has a title, a date, and a trailer. Gekijōban Kusuriya no Hitorigoto: Bōhi no Hihō, built on a fully original story by series author Natsu Hyuuga, opens in Japanese theaters on December 11, 2026. Hunter x Hunter's Mariya Ise joins the cast as Mu Qing, the boy who holds the key to the mystery.
Ado's 'Shinka' Opens Devils' Crest on Prime Video Nov. 6
Ado's new song "Shinka" will serve as the opening theme for Devils' Crest, the anime adaptation of Sword Art Online creator Reki Kawahara's mixed-reality death game novels. The reveal came with a first key visual, a debut trailer, and two new cast members, plus a premiere date: the series streams worldwide exclusively on Prime Video starting November 6, 2026.
Heir to a Monstermancer Novels Get TV Anime at project No.9
Heir to a Monstermancer, Damu Amato's fantasy light novel series about a witch's descendant who can command any monster, is getting a TV anime at studio project No.9. Drecom announced the adaptation on July 3, 2026 with a teaser visual and its lead trio: Manaka Iwami as Leen, Chiaki Kobayashi as Hakura, and Akio Ōtsuka as the slime Ao. It is the first work from the company's Drecom Media Award contest to reach the screen.
'Reincarnated as a Slime' Season 4 Cour 2 Kicks Off July 3
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 rolled into its second consecutive cour on July 3, 2026, opening with episode 85, "New Comrades." The anime airs in Nippon TV's FRIDAY ANIME NIGHT block across 30 stations in Japan, and Crunchyroll streams new episodes internationally with subtitles and an English dub.
Mushoku Tensei Season 3 Kicks Off Eris Training Arc July 4
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 premieres July 4, 2026, with a special back-to-back broadcast of its first two episodes, "Burn, Mad Dog" and "Howl, Mad Dog." Newly released synopses and advance stills show the season opening on the Eris Training Arc, which follows Eris to the Sword Sanctum after she walks away from Rudeus.
Demon Slayer Hot Spring Collab Hits Hakone Yunessun July 18
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is taking over Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, a swimsuit-friendly hot spring theme park in Kanagawa, from July 18 to October 4, 2026. The event, titled Kimetsu no Yaiba x Yunessun Hakone Onsen Tan ~Fuji no Hana no Kyusoku~, packs in themed baths, a wisteria-flower drink, exclusive ufotable-drawn yukata art, and collab hotel rooms next door.
CoroCoro's 'Fate Rewinder' Anime Goes Late-Night in 2027
Fate Rewinder, the Shogakukan Manga Award winner from the pages of Monthly CoroCoro Comic, is getting its TV anime in April 2027. In an unusual move for a kids' magazine title, the series will air in TV Asahi's late-night IMAnimation block, with Bones Film animating, Blood Blockade Battlefront director Rie Matsumoto at the helm, and a four-member main cast now confirmed.
Detective Conan Escape Game Picks Up Where 2026 Movie Ends
SCRAP's Real Escape Game series has turned Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway into a playable epilogue. The new collaboration game opened July 2, 2026, casting players as Kanagawa Prefectural Police recruits racing to rescue Ran from a hijacked self-driving bus in Yokohama. It is rolling out to more than 40 venues worldwide, Taiwan included.
'Bocchi the Rock' Star Yoshino Aoyama Leads Dengeki Daisy
Kyousuke Motomi's shojo favorite Dengeki Daisy now has its two anime leads: Yoshino Aoyama and Taku Yashiro will star when the Studio Deen adaptation hits TV in 2027. The casting news arrived with a teaser PV cut from actual footage of the show, giving fans their first listen to both characters' voices.
Solo Leveling Sequel Movie 'Beyond the System' Announced
A theatrical sequel to Solo Leveling is officially in production. The film, titled Solo Leveling: Beyond the System, continues the TV anime's story after Season 2, and a first teaser trailer and teaser visual arrived with the announcement. Taito Ban returns as Sung Jinwoo, with Hiroyuki Sawano back on music and A-1 Pictures animating.
Witch Hat Atelier Season 2 Teaser Debuts at Anime Expo 2026
Witch Hat Atelier Season 2 showed its first footage on July 4, when an ultra teaser trailer debuted during the series' Anime Expo 2026 panel in Los Angeles. The video picks up directly from the first season's finale, with the people of Romonon closing in on Coco. It arrived alongside a message from director Ayumu Watanabe, who promised the anime will see the story through to its end.
'Here U Are' Webtoon Gets TV Anime, Crunchyroll to Stream
Here U Are, D JUN's college-set romance webtoon with more than 390 million cumulative views worldwide, is getting a TV anime. Yūki Inoue and Ryōta Suzuki voice leads Yang Yu and Huan Li, with pianist Shinya Kiyozuka composing the music and studio Rouseact handling animation. Crunchyroll has already confirmed it will stream the series.
Yamato and Unicorn Gundam Team Up in New REBEL 3199 Visual
Be Forever Yamato: REBEL 3199 has revealed a collaboration visual with the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue in Odaiba, newly drawn by Kia Asamiya. It ties into Chapter 6, in Japanese theaters since June 26, 2026, which opens with the Yamato appearing over present-day Tokyo, and the chapter's opening footage is now on YouTube.
Tougen Anki Sequel Adds 'Black Clover' Star Gakuto Kajiwara
The Oni Brigade has arrived in Tougen Anki. A July 2 special broadcast unveiled a new key visual for the anime's second season, Tougen Anki: Nikko Kegon Falls Arc, along with the eight new cast members playing the rogue oni faction, led by Black Clover star Gakuto Kajiwara as its general, Hayate Todoroki (等々力颯). The new season premieres in October 2026.
Dandadan Summer Festival Pop-Up Shop Hits Shibuya July 24
Dandadan is getting a pop-up shop at AMNIBUS STORE -white- inside Tokyo's Shibuya Modi building, running July 24 through August 9, 2026. The event debuts newly drawn chibi art of the cast in a summer festival concept, sold there ahead of general release, per merch maker arma bianca.
'One Piece Heroines' One-Night Anime Special Airs July 5
The women of One Piece are getting the anime spotlight to themselves, for one night only. ONE PIECE HEROINES, a special adapting Jun Esaka's spin-off novels, airs Sunday, July 5, 2026 at 11:15 p.m. JST on Fuji TV, with singer AiNA THE END performing the theme song "Blue Shining Star." Crunchyroll streams it the same day, and Netflix picks it up worldwide on July 11.
The Apothecary Diaries Movie Opens December 11, Trailer Out
The Apothecary Diaries' first theatrical film finally has a title, a release date, and a trailer. Bōhi no Hihō (roughly "The Late Consort's Secret Treasure") opens in Japanese theaters on December 11, 2026, telling a brand-new story written by series author Natsu Hyūga. Mariya Ise, the voice of Hunter x Hunter's Killua, joins the cast as a mystery boy named Muchin.
'Mashle' Season 3 Sets January 2027 Premiere, Drops Teaser
Mashle: Magic and Muscles is coming back in January 2027. A-1 Pictures unveiled a teaser PV for the anime's third season at Anime Expo 2026, confirming it will adapt the Tri-Magicathalon Divine Visionary Final Exam Arc with new character designs and the returning core cast.
'Demon Slayer' Gets Themed Baths at Hakone's Yunessun Resort
Demon Slayer is taking over one of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts. Hakone Kowakien Yunessun will host a full collaboration event from July 18 through October 4, 2026, complete with themed baths, exclusive yukata-themed merchandise, collab drinks, and bookable hotel rooms at the adjacent Hakone Hotel Kowakien.
'Witch and Hound' Light Novels Get TV Anime Adaptation
Rainy Kamitsuki's dark fantasy light novel series Witch and Hound is getting a TV anime adaptation at TriF Studio. Director Takanori Tsujimoto and composer Yūki Hayashi lead the production, with Kamitsuki himself co-writing the anime's scripts. A teaser PV and visual have been released.
9 Manga Legends Draw Tributes for 'Draw This, Then Die!'
Nine of Japan's most celebrated manga artists, including Detective Conan creator Gosho Aoyama and Inuyasha creator Rumiko Takahashi, drew original tribute illustrations for Draw This, Then Die! as the award-winning manga's anime adaptation premieres tonight, July 3, 2026, on NTV.
'On-Gaku' Studio Unveils Hand-Drawn Anime Short 'Rusuban'
Rock and Roll Mountain, the animation studio behind On-Gaku: Our Sound and 100 Meters, is releasing a 13-minute hand-drawn short film called Rusuban on August 1, 2026. Adapted from manga artist Akiko Okuda's acclaimed short story collection, the film marks the studio's first project without its signature rotoscope technique and the directorial debut of Studio Ghibli-trained Ayumi Yanagisawa.
'Mushoku Tensei' Season 3 Previews Eris' Training Arc
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 has released preview screenshots for Episodes 1 and 2, both focused on the Eris Training Arc at the Sword Sanctum. The season premieres with a back-to-back broadcast on TOKYO MX on July 4, 2026, with Crunchyroll streaming worldwide from July 5.
'Soara and the House of Monsters' Gets TV Anime in 2027
Hidenori Yamaji's fantasy manga Soara and the House of Monsters is getting a TV anime in 2027. Ikumi Hasegawa (Bocchi the Rock!) and Ayumu Murase (Haikyu!!) will voice leads Soara and Kiriku, with Takaharu Ozaki directing at studio FelixFilm.
'Apothecary Diaries' Cafe Pops Up in Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka
The Apothecary Diaries is getting a themed collaboration café across three Japanese cities this summer. The "Coolness of Frozen Treats" pop-up runs July 24 through August 9 at Share CAFE locations in Tokyo's Harajuku, Osaka's Shinsaibashi, and Fukuoka's Hakata, featuring new original character illustrations and exclusive merchandise.
'Witch and Hound' Dark Fantasy Anime Announced for 2027
Rainy Kamitsuki's dark fantasy light novel Witch and Hound is getting a TV anime adaptation at TriF Studio, with a teaser PV and visual now available. The series is set to broadcast in 2027, with the original author co-writing the anime's scripts.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Eco Bags Unfold Domain Expansion Scenes
A six-item Jujutsu Kaisen 5th anniversary merch collection launches July 15, headlined by eco bags that hide Domain Expansion art on their inner lining. The lineup from Tokyo textile maker Blooming Nakanishi also includes charms based on Satoru Gojo's in-show doodles, Special Grade sorcerer pouches, and handkerchiefs spanning the anime's major arcs.
'Demon Slayer' Artisan Koyuki Hair Ornament Now on Pre-Order
A handcrafted hair ornament inspired by Demon Slayer's Koyuki is now up for pre-order through Bandai's Bancole! fashion store. Japanese artisans make each piece individually using crystal glass with gradient coloring, priced at 8,800 yen (approx. $57). Pre-orders close July 26, 2026.
'Saga of Tanya the Evil' S2 Drops New Trailer, ED Theme
The second main PV for Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2 is here, spotlighting Imperial generals Zettour and Rudersdorf alongside a newly announced character. The trailer also debuts both theme songs, including an ending theme sung in-character by Aoi Yūki as Tanya Degurechaff, ahead of the July 8, 2026, premiere.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Anime Exhibition Tour Adds Three New Cities
The Animation Jujutsu Kaisen Exhibition covering the Hidden Inventory and Shibuya Incident arcs is expanding its Japan-wide tour to Sapporo, Kanazawa, and Sendai this summer and fall. The exhibition, which features original production artwork and a life-size Yuji Itadori figure, has already completed runs in Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Osaka since its December 2025 debut.
'Tanya the Evil' Season 2 Trailer Debuts Theme Songs
Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2 released its second main trailer, giving fans their first listen to MYTH & ROID's new opening theme and Aoi Yuki's in-character ending theme ahead of the July 8 premiere. The trailer also introduces a new character, Calandro, voiced by Eiji Hanawa (花輪英司), the Japanese voice of Jon Snow in Game of Thrones.
'Marriage Toxin' Renewed for Season 2, January 2027
Marriage Toxin has been renewed for a second season, premiering in January 2027 on Kansai TV and Fuji TV. The announcement and a new promotional video dropped immediately after the Season 1 finale aired on June 30, with manga creator Joumyaku sharing a celebratory message.
Mushoku Tensei III, BLEACH Lead Summer 2026 Anime Lineup
Japanese cable provider J:COM confirmed its Summer 2026 anime streaming lineup, headlined by Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3, Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2, and the final BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War cour. Most titles are also streaming internationally via Crunchyroll, Hulu, and other platforms starting in July.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' 5th Anniversary Merch Drops July 15
The Jujutsu Kaisen TV anime's 5th anniversary celebration continues with a six-item accessories collection launching July 15 in Japan. Highlights include eco bags whose interior lining reveals full domain expansion artwork when opened, gadget pouches themed to all four special grade sorcerers, and embroidered charms recreating Gojo's hilariously crude in-show doodles of Jogo and Hanami.
'TenSura' Season 4 Cour 2 Opens With a Demon Lord's Visit
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 kicks off its second cour this Friday, July 3, with Episode 13, "New Companions." The preview synopsis finds Rimuru scrambling to fulfill Diablo's spiritual vessel requests while a mystery Demon Lord pays an unexpected visit to Tempest.
'Goblin Slayer' Author's 'Blade & Bastard' Gets 2027 Anime
Blade & Bastard, the Wizardry-set dark fantasy from Goblin Slayer author Kumo Kagyu and Overlord illustrator so-bin, has confirmed its anime production team and streaming home ahead of a 2027 premiere. Tomoki Kobayashi directs at Xingfu Entertainment, with HIDIVE locked in for exclusive international simulcasting.
'Chainsaw Man' x glamb Wave 2 Drops Nine Street-Style Pieces
The second wave of the Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc x glamb fashion collaboration is now open for pre-order, featuring nine unisex pieces that run the gamut from UK-punk tees to a Denji all-over-print knit sweater. Items ship from late August through mid-September 2026, with prices ranging from ¥8,470 (approx. $55) to ¥38,500 (approx. $250).
'Gintama' Tops Japan's Most-Wanted Anime Rebroadcast Poll
Gintama took first place in a Japanese reader poll asking which anime fans most want to see rebroadcast on TV, beating out Bungo Stray Dogs and My Hero Academia. The survey, conducted by Anime Anime with 774 respondents, saw long-running fan favorites dominate the top 10, with a five-way tie at eighth place.
'Kept Man of the Princess Knight' Gets January 2027 Premiere
The Kept Man of the Princess Knight, a fantasy-noir light novel that won the 28th Dengeki Novel Grand Prize, will premiere as a TV anime in January 2027. Jun'ichi Suwabe and Mikako Komatsu lead the cast, with a teaser PV now available.
'Frieren' Gets Reversible Sukajan Jackets With 3D Embroidery
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is getting two reversible souvenir jackets from apparel brand AKROS, featuring Frieren and Himmel on one and Aura on the other. Each jacket uses raised 3D embroidery to recreate Frieren's staff, Himmel's sword, and Aura's Scales of Obedience, with full-color anime art on the reverse side. Pre-orders are open now at approximately $210 each, with shipping in late July 2026.
'Blade & Bastard' Drops First Anime Teaser for 2027 Debut
The dark fantasy light novel Blade & Bastard, created by Goblin Slayer author Kumo Kagyu and Overlord illustrator so-bin, has released its first anime teaser PV along with its full staff lineup. Studio Xingfu produces the 2027 adaptation, which HIDIVE will stream exclusively alongside the Japanese broadcast.
'Wistoria: Wand and Sword' Anime Renewed for Season 3
Wistoria: Wand and Sword has been renewed for a third season. The announcement dropped right after Season 2's finale on June 28, alongside a commemorative visual drawn by character designer Sayaka Ono and a teaser trailer. No premiere date has been set.
'Lupin III vs Detective Conan' Movie Airs Free This July
Japan's BS12 Twelbi channel is airing two Detective Conan crossover specials free on its Sunday Anime Theater block this July. Lupin III vs Detective Conan THE MOVIE broadcasts uncut on July 12, followed by the 2024 Kaito Kid theatrical compilation on July 26.
'The Bugle Call' Manga Lands 2027 TV Anime Adaptation
Shueisha's military-fantasy manga The Bugle Call (戦奏教室) is getting a TV anime in 2027, produced at CA Soa, CyberAgent's brand-new animation studio. A nearly four-minute teaser PV dropped alongside the announcement, showcasing a staff roster stacked with Gundam franchise veterans.
'Slime' Season 4 Episode 85 Teases a Mystery Demon Lord Visit
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 has revealed the synopsis and scene stills for Episode 85, "New Companions." Rimuru buckles down on crafting vessels for Diablo's recruits, only to find his lab dangerously understaffed. The preview promises a surprise visit from a fellow Demon Lord.
MAPPA Brings Exclusive Merch, Exhibits to Anime Expo 2026
MAPPA is heading to Anime Expo 2026 in Los Angeles with a booth featuring production exhibits for Chainsaw Man, Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, and Dorohedoro. The studio will also sell convention-exclusive merch including happi coats, skateboard decks, and MAPPA-branded caps at booth 720 from July 2 through 5.
'Sgt. Frog' Movie Tops ¥150M in 3 Days, Adds Gundam Cards
The new Sgt. Frog movie earned over ¥150 million (roughly $1 million) in its first three days at the Japanese box office, drawing more than 100,000 viewers to its first theatrical outing since 2010. Starting July 3, theaters will hand out a second wave of bonus postcards featuring the franchise's first-ever official Gundam collaboration artwork.
'Iron Wok Jan' Anime Debuts July 5 From 'Fate/Zero' Director
Iron Wok Jan (Tetsunabe no Jan!), the cult 90s cooking battle manga with over 10 million copies in circulation, premieres as a TV anime on July 5 on TV Tokyo. Fate/Zero director Ei Aoki helms the adaptation at TROYCA, with Kikunosuke Toya leading the cast as the ruthless chef protagonist.
'Madoka Magica' Movie Drops Full Trailer, Reveals Theme Song
The full trailer for Puella Magi Madoka Magica the Movie: Walpurgisnacht Rising has arrived, featuring the first listen of theme song "Kanata" by FictionJunction, composer Yuki Kajiura's vocal project. The film opens in Japanese theaters on August 28, 2026, with a detailed synopsis now confirming the sequel's premise.
Haikyu 'On The Court' Exhibit Opens in Osaka, Tokyo Next
The immersive Haikyu!! exhibition "On The Court" opened June 27 at Osaka's Dojima River Forum, letting fans physically experience volleyball plays from the anime. Hinata voice actor Ayumu Murase attended the media preview alongside professional volleyball players from Japan's SV League. The exhibition runs through August 2 before moving to Tokyo.
'MHA' Star Koki Uchiyama Joins Netflix's 'The Ribbon Hero'
Netflix anime film The Ribbon Hero, a reimagining of Osamu Tezuka's Princess Knight, has dropped its second trailer alongside three new cast members: Koki Uchiyama as Velvet, Seiran Kobayashi as Pine, and Mayumi Shintani as Zirco. The film also revealed its theme song, "Reborn," performed by Japan-Korea unit Girls Archives., and streams worldwide on Netflix starting August 8, 2026.
'Witch Hat Atelier' Renewed for Season 2 After Finale
Witch Hat Atelier has been renewed for a second season. Studio BUG FILMS and director Ayumu Watanabe announced the continuation immediately after the Season 1 finale aired on June 29, with manga creator Kamome Shirahama calling the upcoming season "worth the wait."
'Naruto' Star Takashi Kondo Joins 'Country Bumpkin' S2
From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman Season 2 has revealed four new voice actors joining the cast as members of the Verdeapis Mercenary Company. The anime premieres July 8 on TV Asahi, with Prime Video picking up exclusive worldwide streaming starting July 9.
'Mission: Yozakura Family' Returns in October for Cour 2
Mission: Yozakura Family Season 2 will return for its second cour in October 2026, continuing every Sunday at 5:00 PM on the MBS/TBS network. Silver Link's spy-family action-comedy picks up after the first cour's dramatic finale with Gold-rank spies entering the fray and patriarch Yozakura Momo escalating his threat against his own children.
'Haikyu!!' Miya Twins Take Over Japan's Ikinari Steak
Haikyu!! is teaming up with Japanese steakhouse chain Ikinari Steak for a summer collaboration themed around the Inarizaki High School volleyball squad. Running July 17 through August 23, 2026, the "Inarizaki! Steak" campaign brings themed steak combos, exclusive collectibles, and full restaurant makeovers to five stores across Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Sendai.
KAT-TUN's Nakamaru Stars in Anime He Created 15 Years Ago
Yuichi Nakamaru of KAT-TUN voices the lead in Chikyuu Daisuki! Kikkun (地球大好き！きっくん), a short anime about an alien invasion squad that falls in love with Japan instead of conquering it. Based on a character Nakamaru first sketched roughly 15 years ago, the series premieres in July 2026 on TOKYO MX with Akio Otsuka and Tomokazu Sugita in the cast, both personally requested by the creator himself.
'Demon Slayer' Returns to Joyfull With 13 Limited Menu Items
The Demon Slayer x Joyfull restaurant collaboration is back starting July 14, 2026, with 13 character-themed dishes, exclusive ufotable-illustrated merchandise, and a four-day pop-up store in Osaka. The 2024 edition topped one million meals sold, and this year's campaign marks Joyfull's 50th anniversary.
WIT STUDIO Announces Original Anime 'LONA' for Spring 2027
WIT STUDIO has revealed LONA, an original TV anime premiering in spring 2027. The series is written by live-action screenwriter Akiko Nogi (Unnatural, MIU404, Last Mile) in her anime debut and directed by Takashi Katagiri of SPY x FAMILY CODE: White.
Attack on Titan Launches Survey Corps Jinbei for Summer
A new Attack on Titan jinbei, traditional Japanese summer loungewear featuring the Survey Corps' Wings of Freedom emblem, is available for pre-order through July 20, 2026. The set also includes a matching carabiner mini pouch, with early sales starting in early August at locations in Hita, the real-life hometown of creator Hajime Isayama.
Jujutsu Kaisen 5th Anniversary Cafe Opens in Three Cities
A Jujutsu Kaisen themed café celebrating the TV anime's fifth anniversary will open across Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka starting July 9, 2026. The pop-up features character-themed food and drinks spanning three major arcs, exclusive merchandise, and a revival of the fan-favorite Prison Realm Tiramisu from the 2023 Shibuya Incident café.
'Magilumiere' Season 2 Trailer Teases Koshigaya's Past
Magilumiere Magical Girls Inc. has dropped its second trailer for Season 2, giving fans a glimpse of Koshigaya before she joined the company. The anime premieres July 4, 2026 on NTV, with streaming on Amazon Prime Video and additional platforms.
Demon Slayer Returns to Joyfull With 13 Themed Dishes
Joyfull, a Japanese family restaurant chain with roughly 630 locations, is bringing back its Demon Slayer collaboration for a second year. The campaign runs July 14 through August 18, 2026, with 13 character-themed menu items split across two phases. The chain's 2024 collab moved over one million servings.
'Spy x Family' Director Helms WIT Studio's New Anime LONA
WIT Studio announced LONA, an original TV anime premiering Spring 2027. Screenwriter Akiko Nogi, known for the live-action dramas Unnatural and MIU404, provides the original story and screenplay. Takashi Katagiri (SPY x FAMILY CODE: White) directs, with Posuka Demizu (The Promised Neverland) handling original character design.
'My Hero Academia' 10th Anniversary Fair Hits Hands July 24
My Hero Academia's anime 10th anniversary celebration heads to retail with a month-long merchandise fair at 21 Hands stores across Japan. Three exclusive product lines, new illustrations of the cast tackling DIY projects, and collectible postcard bonuses run from July 24 through August 23, 2026.
'Dragon Ball Z' Ayataka Green Tea Hits Japan June 29
Coca-Cola Japan is releasing Ayataka green tea bottles with Dragon Ball Z character packaging starting June 29. Seven designs feature Goku, Vegeta, Cell, and more, while a months-long campaign offers prizes including a Dragon Ball-shaped wireless speaker.
UNICORN, BLUE ENCOUNT Perform 'Bumpkin Swordsman' S2 Themes
Legendary rock band UNICORN and anime-veteran group BLUE ENCOUNT will perform the opening and ending themes for From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman Season 2. Comment videos from both artists debuted at a pre-screening event in Tokyo on June 28, with the series premiering July 8 on TV Asahi and streaming worldwide on Prime Video from July 9.
'Re:Zero' Season 4 Finale Scene Tops Emilia's Confession
The first cour of Re:Zero Season 4 wrapped with Episode 77 on June 17, and streaming platform ABEMA has revealed which moments had viewers flooding the comments. The winner wasn't Emilia's confession to an amnesiac Subaru, but a creepy discovery carved into the walls of the Pleiades Watchtower.
Haikyu!! 'On The Court' Experience Now Open in Osaka
Haikyu!! On The Court, an interactive volleyball experience featuring three playable zones and newly recorded lines from 12 original cast members, opened at Osaka's Dojima River Forum on June 27. At a media preview, SV League pro Kōtarō Kaneda hit a 314cm spike reach, while Hinata voice actor Ayumu Murase tried the receive challenge and missed every ball.
'Space Brothers' Gets Grand Finale Exhibition in Shibuya
Space Brothers is getting a farewell exhibition in Tokyo's Shibuya district to celebrate the manga's conclusion after 19 years. The Final Space Brothers Exhibition runs July 31 through August 23 at the Seibu Shibuya department store, with creator Chuya Koyama contributing a new key visual that mirrors the manga's first volume cover.
Sanrio's Marron Cream Gets First LILY BROWN Fashion Collab
Sanrio's Marron Cream and Japanese fashion label LILY BROWN have teamed up for the first time on an eight-piece apparel and accessories collection. The "LILY BROWN MARRONCREAM" line launched June 25, 2026 as a sanrio house exclusive, with the Lucua Osaka location's reservations already sold out through July 5.
'Daemons of the Shadow Realm' Unveils Second-Cour Trailer
Hiromu Arakawa's Daemons of the Shadow Realm has revealed its second-cour key visual, main PV, and theme song artists ahead of the July 4, 2026, premiere. The new trailer previews intense clashes between the Left-Right pair and antagonist Ivan, alongside a mysterious new character and fresh opening and ending themes.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Culling Game Gets Pastel Art Merch Line
A new PALE TONE series merchandise line brings five Jujutsu Kaisen Culling Game characters to life in soft watercolor-inspired artwork. The collection includes clear cards, aurora pin badges, acrylic keychains, and acrylic figures, all available for pre-order on THE Chara through July 13, 2026.
Chainsaw Man Reze Arc Gets Cartoon-Style PalVerse Figures
Bushiroad Creative has released three new PalVerse Palé deformed figures based on the Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc movie, featuring Reze, Aki Hayakawa, and Angel Devil in an American cartoon-inspired style. Priced at ¥3,300 (approximately $30) each, the figures are already on sale in Japan and available through international retailers including the Crunchyroll Store and Bushiroad Global Online Store.
'Rent-a-Girlfriend' Season 6 Cohabitation Arc Confirmed
Rent-a-Girlfriend is coming back for a sixth season. Announced moments after Season 5's finale aired on June 26, the new installment will adapt the manga's Cohabitation Arc, marking the next chapter in Kazuya and Chizuru's long-running will-they-won't-they.
Detective Conan 'Port Town Retro' SEGA Lottery Now on Sale
SEGA's Lucky Lottery Online is selling a Detective Conan Cafe "Port Town Retro" collection featuring plushies, art panels, and stainless steel plates. The lottery runs through August 18, 2026, at 770 yen per draw, with seven characters dressed in vintage port-town outfits.
'Fuufu to 16-sai' Drama Adds Cast, JO1 Star Sings OP
TV Tokyo's upcoming live-action drama Fuufu to 16-sai: Kyouki no Rinjin has added Yurina Yanagi and Yoko Natsuki to its cast and locked in its theme songs. JO1 member Mamehara Issei, who co-leads the series, performs the opening theme "Murasakiiro" under his solo name MAME, while new band FRIDAY CATS handles the ending with "Doppelganger." The Shonen Jump+ manga adaptation premieres July 2, 2026.
'Record of Ragnarok' Gets Season 4 After Netflix Hit
Record of Ragnarok has been renewed for a fourth season, with a teaser PV and new logo revealed on June 27. The anime hit Netflix's weekly top 10 in 83 countries during its Season 3 run, claiming the number-one spot in 13 of them.
AIR TWOKYO Drops 'Jujutsu Kaisen' Culling Game Apparel Line
Fashion brand AIR TWOKYO has launched a new Jujutsu Kaisen collection featuring Culling Game arc scenes redrawn in a cute, deformed illustration style across T-shirts, hoodies, and accessories. Pre-orders are open now through July 15, 2026, with all items produced made-to-order.
'Quintessential Quintuplets' Director Takes on Mahjong Anime
Tsukasa Unohana's mahjong comedy manga Gokigenyou, Ikkyoku Ikaga? (ごきげんよう、一局いかが？) is getting a TV anime adaptation at Felix Film. Director Kaori, a Manga Time Kirara veteran who previously helmed The Quintessential Quintuplets ∬, leads a staff that includes series composer Kazuyuki Fudeyasu and character designer Mai Ōtsuka.
'Dangers in My Heart' Movie Hits Prime Video July 13
The Dangers in My Heart movie begins streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video Japan on July 13, five months after its theatrical run. The platform's July anime lineup also features the new Ghost in the Shell TV anime from Science SARU premiering July 7 and over 20 classic Pokémon movies arriving July 4.
CLAMP's 'Lost' 1993 X JAPAN Anime MV Finally Hits YouTube
A legendary 1993 anime music video pairing CLAMP's manga X with X JAPAN's song "X" is streaming on YouTube for the first time. The animation portion of X2 (Double X), directed by Rintarō and produced with Madhouse, is available on Aniplex's channel until July 31, 2026, after a remastered version debuted on Crunchyroll earlier this month.
'The Ogre's Bride' Taps ClariS for Opening, Drops Trailer
The Ogre's Bride, the upcoming anime adaptation of the 6.5-million-copy supernatural romance, has revealed its theme song artists: pop duo ClariS will perform the opening, while musical theater star Ikusaburo Yamazaki handles the ending. The series' main PV and key visual are now live ahead of the July 4, 2026 premiere.
'Snowball Earth' Anime Confirms Season 2, Drops New PV
Snowball Earth, Studio KAI's sci-fi mecha anime about a shy boy and his giant robot surviving on a frozen planet, is coming back for Season 2. The renewal was announced with a new PV that aired immediately after the Season 1 finale on Nippon TV on June 26.
'Salty Koharu' Adds Six Cast Members, Sets October Premiere
The Salty Koharu Has a Soft Spot for Me has added six new voice actors to its cast, including Frieren's Chiaki Kobayashi and Kaguya-sama: Love is War's Miyu Tomita. The rom-com anime from Tezuka Productions premieres in October 2026, with a character PV and first key visual now available.
'Koala's Diary' Kicks Off Summer With New Latin Theme
YouTube anime Koala's Diary continues into its summer run on July 2, unveiling a sparkler-themed fourth key visual and a Latin rearrangement of its recurring theme song "Niji to" by Punipuni Denki feat. Kan Sano. The new track drops digitally on July 3.
'Frieren' Real Escape Game Returns With Demon-Hunting Sequel
SCRAP's hit Frieren: Beyond Journey's End escape room is getting a sequel. "Escape from the Village Where Demons Lurk" opens at SCRAP's Harajuku location on September 10, with a nationwide Japan tour to follow. The first collaboration drew over 30,000 participants across 15 cities.
'Oshi no Ko' Marriage and Birth Forms Hit Shelves Today
Oshi no Ko now has officially submittable marriage and birth registration forms, thanks to a collaboration with Japan's leading designer certificate maker Konin Todoke Seisakusho. The four-product lineup, featuring six character designs from Ai to MEMcho, went on sale June 26, 2026 through the company's online store and Amazon Japan.
‘Fullmetal Alchemist’ Star Rie Kugimiya Joins MAO Cour 2
Rumiko Takahashi's MAO anime adds five new voice actors for its second cour, premiering July 4 on NHK. The lineup includes Rie Kugimiya and Katsuyuki Konishi as onmyōji clan members. Former V6 trio 20th Century also returns to a Takahashi anime for the first time in 26 years with a new opening theme.
'My Hero Academia' Game Opens Global Pre-Registration
My Hero Academia UNITED SURVIVAL, a new roguelite action game co-developed by KLab and gumi, has opened simultaneous worldwide pre-registration on the App Store, Google Play, and its official website. The free-to-play mobile and PC title is set to launch later in 2026 with support for Japanese, English, and Traditional Chinese.
'One Piece' Star Mayumi Tanaka, 71, Keeps Luffy in Remake
Mayumi Tanaka, the voice of Monkey D. Luffy since 1999, will reprise her role in The One Piece, WIT Studio's upcoming Netflix remake premiering February 2027. The 71-year-old voice actor admitted to feeling anxious about starting fresh at her age, but the production team told her there was simply no replacing her.
MAPPA Animates Kenshi Yonezu's World Cup Song 'Karasu'
MAPPA has produced a short anime for Kenshi Yonezu's "Karasu" (Raven), the official 2026 NHK Soccer Theme written for Japan's FIFA World Cup coverage. The pencil-sketch animation, now streaming on YouTube, marks the third collaboration between the chart-topping artist and the studio behind Chainsaw Man.
'Nabetama' Gourmet Manga Gets 2027 Anime at J.C.STAFF
Nabe ni Dangan wo Ukenagara (鍋に弾丸を受けながら), the nonfiction gourmet travel manga where an otaku who sees every human as a beautiful anime girl eats his way through the world's sketchiest restaurants, is getting a TV anime in 2027. J.C.STAFF is producing the adaptation, and a teaser visual featuring protagonist Juntaro has been released alongside the announcement.
Demon Slayer's Tanjiro Tops Natsuki Hanae Birthday Poll
Japanese entertainment site Anime Anime polled 713 readers on their favorite Natsuki Hanae role for the voice actor's birthday on June 26. Tanjiro Kamado from Demon Slayer claimed the top spot for the second consecutive poll with 28% of the vote, followed by Riddle Rosehearts from Disney Twisted Wonderland and Ken Kaneki from Tokyo Ghoul.
Zeta Gundam Leads Sunrise Chibi Robot Fair's Second Wave
Sunrise World shops across Japan will host the second wave of their super-deformed robot fair starting July 17, 2026, featuring six classic mechs drawn by SD Gundam creator Koji Yokoi. The lineup spans over two decades of Sunrise history, from Aura Battler Dunbine's Billbine to Code Geass' Lancelot.
'100 Girlfriends' Star Wataru Kato Leads New Zombie Anime
Wataru Kato and Yuno Azuma have been cast as the leads of zombie anime In a World Full of Zombies I'm the Only One Who Doesn't Get Attacked, with a teaser PV now online featuring both actors' character voices. The series, originally announced for 2026, has been pushed back to January 2027 on AT-X.
'Cyborg 009 Nemesis' Drops Full Trailer, Sukima Switch ED
Cyborg 009 Nemesis has released its full trailer, showcasing intense 9-on-9 battles between the original cyborg team and the rival Nemesis group led by Graviton. The 3-episode ONA also confirmed Sukima Switch as its ending theme artist and announced a July 18 advance screening at Tokyo's Shinjuku Wald 9 with lead voice cast members Yuki Kaji, Yuichi Nakamura, and Saori Hayami.
Netflix Dates Ray Gunn, Steps, In Waves at Annecy 2026
Netflix locked in release dates for three animated films at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival on June 24. Brad Bird's retro-noir thriller Ray Gunn premieres December 18, Cinderella stepsister story Steps arrives November 20, and Cannes Critics' Week opener In Waves lands December 11, all as worldwide Netflix exclusives.
'The One Piece' Confirms 71-Year-Old Tanaka Mayumi as Luffy
Mayumi Tanaka, now 71, will reprise her role as Monkey D. Luffy in THE ONE PIECE, WIT Studio's complete re-animation of the manga for Netflix. The announcement came alongside the first footage from the series, which premieres in February 2027 with a 7-episode first season covering the East Blue arc.
Classroom of the Elite Confirms Season 5 After Finale
Classroom of the Elite is coming back for a fifth season. The announcement dropped immediately after Season 4's finale aired on June 24, alongside a newly drawn key visual of protagonist Ayanokoji Kiyotaka. No release window has been set for the 5th Season.
Studio Ghibli's 'Zen and Ghibli' Show Comes to Kyoto
Studio Ghibli is bringing its immersive "Zen and Ghibli" exhibition to Kyoto's Kyocera Museum of Art from October 3 to December 6, 2026. Japanese actress Yuriko Ishida, who voiced San in Princess Mononoke, has been named the show's official ambassador.
'DanMachi' Creator's 'Wistoria' Anime Returns for Season 2
Wistoria: Wand and Sword, a magic battle fantasy from DanMachi creator Fujino Ōmori, returned in April for Season 2 with Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc director Tatsuya Yoshihara at the helm. The anime streams weekly on Crunchyroll.
My Hero Academia POTEmocho Wave 4 Pre-Orders Open Today
My Hero Academia's POTEmocho collectible line from Sync Innovation has reached Wave 4, putting five of Class 1-A's less-merchandised members in the spotlight. Pre-orders for acrylic stands, badges, and keychains featuring Yuga Aoyama, Mezo Shoji, Mashirao Ojiro, Toru Hagakure, and Koji Koda opened June 24 on the VIVIT storefront, with shipping set for mid-September 2026.
'Uchuu Nanchara Kotetsu-kun' Gets First Theatrical Film
NHK's kids' space anime Uchū Nanchara Kotetsu-kun is getting its first theatrical film on September 11, 2026. The movie takes a hybrid approach, combining re-edited anime footage with real space exploration video from NHK science programs and JAXA to tell an original story about Kotetsu and friends searching for aliens.
ABEMA Celebrates UFO Day With 3 Alien Anime Picks
Japanese streaming platform ABEMA is marking UFO Day on June 24 with a spotlight on three anime where extraterrestrials steal the show: DanDaDan, Gintama, and Sgt. Frog. All three are currently streaming on the platform, covering everything from occult battles to samurai comedy to amphibian invaders who forgot their mission.
'Reincarnated as a Slime' Stars Head to Anime Expo 2026
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 is heading to Anime Expo 2026 with a panel and signing session featuring Rimuru voice actor Miho Okasaki and Raphael voice actor Megumi Toyoguchi. The show also released its Episode 84 preview, "The Evolving Tempest," as Rimuru surveys Tempest's expanding influence after Mariabell's defeat.
'Chainsaw Man' Star Toya Joins 'Sakamoto Days' Season 2
Sakamoto Days Season 2 premieres in January 2027, with a new teaser PV revealing the JCC infiltration arc. Kikunosuke Toya, the voice of Denji in Chainsaw Man, leads three new cast additions alongside veterans Misa Watanabe and Shinshū Fuji.
Netflix's 'The Ribbon Hero' Reveals New Cast, Theme Song
Netflix's animated film The Ribbon Hero, a reimagining of Osamu Tezuka's classic manga Princess Knight, has dropped its second trailer alongside three new cast additions and a theme song reveal. Koki Uchiyama, Seiran Kobayashi, and Mayumi Shintani join the voice cast, while Japan-Korea unit Girls Archives. will perform the theme song "Reborn" as their pre-debut single when the film launches worldwide on August 8, 2026.
'Haikyu!!' Rival School Smartwatches Join GARRACK Lineup
GARRACK, the character collaboration brand from Japanese watch distributor Ueni Trading, is expanding its Haikyu!! smartwatch line with three new models inspired by Karasuno High's rival teams. The second wave launches in late July 2026, following the Karasuno and Nekoma models that debuted last September.
'Frieren' Gets Adorable Walking Chibi Merch Line
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End has a new line of merchandise featuring all seven main characters as walking chibi figures. The "Chibitoko" series from AMNIBUS includes acrylic stands, stickers, can badges, and a clever 3-way badge that works as a pin, a stand, and a hanging ornament. Pre-orders are open now.
The Ribbon Hero Casts 'My Hero Academia' Star Koki Uchiyama
Netflix's The Ribbon Hero, an anime film reimagining Osamu Tezuka's Princess Knight, dropped its second trailer with three new cast additions. Koki Uchiyama, Seiran Kobayashi, and Mayumi Shintani join the film ahead of its August 8, 2026 worldwide premiere, while new Japan-Korea unit Girls Archives. performs the theme song "Reborn."
'Chainsaw Man' Stage Play Streams Free on YouTube June 26-28
The first Chainsaw Man stage play is getting a full free stream on YouTube from June 26 to 28, marking the first time the 2023 production has been available to watch in its entirety. The limited-time release celebrates the upcoming second stage play, Chainsaw Man: The Stage Reze Arc, which opens in Tokyo on July 25.
Sunrise, Shaft Join Forces for Netflix's 'Fool Night' Anime
Kasumi Yasuda's dystopian manga Fool Night is getting an anime co-produced by Sunrise and Shaft, marking the two studios' first-ever collaboration. Koki Uchiyama and Minako Kotobuki lead the cast, with the series streaming exclusively on Netflix worldwide in 2026.
'The One Piece' Reveals Episode 1 Art for 2027 Debut
Wit Studio's highly anticipated One Piece remake has unveiled its first episode art, showing Luffy charging into the open sea. The One Piece launches globally on Netflix in February 2027, with all seven episodes of Season 1 dropping at once for a total runtime of roughly 300 minutes.
'Red River' and Streaming Growth Fuel Historical Anime Boom
Two historical manga adaptations premiere in July 2026: Red River, a 20-million-copy shojo classic that ended serialization 24 years ago, and Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia. An industry expert says the streaming boom and global demand for female-led court stories are driving the trend.
Haikyu!! Quote Stickers Hit 100-Yen Shops This September
Bandai is launching a new collectible sticker line called Petashiki Seal Collection, and Haikyu!! is the first series to get the treatment. The 24-design set features famous quotes and in-manga banners printed on silver shikishi-style stickers, priced at just ¥110 apiece. Pre-orders are open now at Animate's online store ahead of a late September 2026 release.
'Dandadan' Stage Play Reveals Main Visual, Event Lineup
The Dandadan stage play, Dandadan ~Occultic Stage~, revealed its main visual today with the full lead cast in costume. The production runs August 26 through September 3 in Tokyo and September 11 through 13 in Osaka, with rotating audience events including photo-allowed curtain calls and character send-offs at every performance.
'Bleach' Final Arc Premieres July 25 With New Theme Songs
BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War - The Calamity, the anime's final cour, premieres July 25 on TV Tokyo. jo0ji performs the opening theme "I-BULL" and 9Lana delivers the ending "Rasen" (Spiral), with creator Tite Kubo revealing he personally selected both tracks from demos after receiving more submissions than any previous round.
'K-On!' and 'Frieren' Stars Join 'Migawari Reijou' Cast
Short-form anime Migawari Reijou has added Kana Ichinose, Shoya Chiba, Yoko Hikasa, and Ruriko Aoki to its cast ahead of its July 7 premiere on TV Kanagawa. A second teaser PV and an ending theme performed by neNna were also revealed.
'One Piece Heroines' Trailer Drops With Aina The End Theme
The One Piece Heroines anime special has unveiled its full trailer, confirming "Blue Shining Star" by Aina The End as the theme song. The Nami-focused spinoff, produced at Toei Animation, airs as a one-night event on Fuji TV on July 5, 2026.
'The Apothecary Diaries' Wraps Two-Year Visual Series
The Apothecary Diaries has released the final installment of its two-year four-seasons visual campaign, closing out the monthly series with an illustration of Maomao and Jinshi surrounded by white clover. The visual lands ahead of a packed schedule for the franchise, with Season 3 premiering in October 2026 and a theatrical film following in December.
MAPPA EXPO Brings Chainsaw Man, JJK Art to Tokyo This Fall
MAPPA is celebrating its 15th anniversary with an 80-day exhibition at Tokyo's Yurakucho Museum from September 16 to December 7, 2026. MAPPA EXPO 15th Anniversary showcases original key animation from Chainsaw Man: The Movie Reze Arc, Attack on Titan The Final Season, and Jujutsu Kaisen, alongside exclusive merchandise and newly commissioned illustrations. First-period lottery tickets are open now through June 30.
Free 'Mushoku Tensei' Marathon Hits ABEMA Ahead of Season 3
Japan's streaming platform ABEMA will launch a dedicated Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation channel on June 27, broadcasting all 49 episodes from Seasons 1 and 2 for free daily through July 4. The week-long marathon caps off with a cast-led pre-Season 3 special and the Season 3 two-episode premiere that same evening.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Star Komatsu Leads 'HoreMajo' Anime Cast
Hello, I Am a Witch, and My Crush Wants Me to Make a Love Potion! (HoreMajo) premieres as a TV anime in October 2026. Mikako Komatsu and Yōhei Azakami lead the cast as witch Rose and knight Harij Azm, with studio Diomedéa animating and a teaser PV now streaming.
'Apothecary Diaries' Final Visual Caps Two-Year Campaign
The Apothecary Diaries anime has released the last illustration in its two-year monthly visual series. The June image, published on the 22nd to mark "Maomao Day," shows the heroine teaching Jinshi to weave a white clover crown, closing out a 24-month promotional effort that began in July 2024.
'Sakamoto Days' Exhibit Gets Character Menus, Art Book
The upcoming Sakamoto Days Exhibition at Tokyo Dome City will feature themed food collaborations at seven restaurants, with each dish inspired by a different character from Yuto Suzuki's hit manga. An official guidebook featuring a seven-page interview with Suzuki has also been announced, alongside plans to bring the exhibition to Nagoya this autumn.
Haikyu!! Loungewear Wave 2 Stars Oikawa and Miya Twins
Anime loungewear brand Palude has unveiled Wave 2 of its Haikyu!! fluffy roomwear collection, featuring Toru Oikawa, Hajime Iwaizumi, Keiji Akaashi, and the Miya twins. Each character's favorite food is woven into cozy pullover designs, with pre-orders open now through July 20, 2026.
Tite Kubo Picks Rising Artists for 'Bleach' Final Themes
Bleach creator Tite Kubo revealed he personally selects every Thousand-Year Blood War theme song from the demo stage, intentionally tapping emerging artists. The final cour, subtitled The Calamity, premieres July 25 on TV Tokyo with jo0ji performing the opening "I-BULL" and 9Lana singing the ending "Rasen."
Steiff Crafts Handmade 'Haikyu!!' Hinata Teddy Bear
German luxury plush maker Steiff has teamed up with the Haikyu!! anime for a handcrafted mohair teddy bear modeled after Shoyo Hinata, priced at ¥66,000 (approx. $440). Pre-orders opened today, June 21, on TOHO animation STORE ONLINE, with shipping set for May 2027.
Crayon Shin-chan's Dad Named Best Anime Father Again
Hiroshi Nohara from Crayon Shin-chan has claimed the top spot in a Japanese reader poll of the best anime father characters for the second year running. Loid Forger from Spy x Family held steady at #2, while Kogoro Mouri from Detective Conan rounded out an unchanged top three in the 2026 edition of the annual survey by Japanese entertainment news site Anime Anime.
Bones Calls Arakawa's New Anime a 'Challenge,' Not FMA 2.0
In a Mantan Web interview, Bones Film producers discuss the making of Daemons of the Shadow Realm, the anime adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa's latest manga. They describe the project not as a Fullmetal Alchemist reunion, but as a new challenge for a studio that has changed in the 20 years since FMA.
'Akane-banashi' Season 2 Casts 6 Veterans for January 2027
Akane-banashi, the rakugo anime based on the Weekly Shonen Jump manga, is officially getting a Season 2. The Apprentice Training Arc premieres in January 2027 on TV Asahi, with six veteran voice actors joining the cast, headlined by Hochu Otsuka and Tomokazu Seki.
'Chainsaw Man' Drops Assassins Arc Trailer, Mobile Game
MAPPA's 15th anniversary event delivered a second Chainsaw Man Assassins Arc trailer showing international assassins converging on Denji, along with the first look at new characters. The event also announced a Chainsaw Man mobile game with Maximum the Hormone providing the opening theme.
'Ranma 1/2' Season 3 Drops Second Trailer at MAPPA Event
MAPPA unveiled the second trailer for Ranma 1/2 Season 3 during the studio's 15th anniversary lineup reveal on June 19. The PV previews new characters with voice performances alongside Ryoga's Breaking Point training, ahead of the season's October 2026 premiere on NTV and Netflix.
MAPPA Returns to 'Attack on Titan' for New Game Opening
MAPPA, the studio behind Attack on Titan: The Final Season, is producing an all-new opening animation for Koei Tecmo's upcoming game Attack on Titan 3. The game launches July 1, 2026 on PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam, with the MAPPA-produced opening arriving as a post-launch update.
Detective Conan Snack Cards Return With 33 OP/ED Designs
Bandai's popular Itajaga collectible snack line is back with a Detective Conan vol.7 set featuring 33 metallic cards depicting scenes from the TV anime's opening and ending sequences across its 30-year history. Pre-orders opened June 19 on Premium Bandai, with shipping and retail availability set for October 2026.
Haikyu!! Drops Second Palude Loungewear Collection
The anime loungewear brand Palude has unveiled its second Haikyu!! collection, featuring fluffy knit roomwear, cushions, and accessories themed around five characters' favorite foods. Pre-orders open June 22, 2026, with delivery expected in early November.
'Rilakkuma' Anime Reveals 'World Trip' Season, New PV
The Rilakkuma short anime has revealed its next story arc: Tekuteku Sekai Ryokō, a globe-trotting adventure for the beloved San-X bears. A second promotional video dropped June 20, showing Rilakkuma, Korilakkuma, and Kiiroitori dancing, eating, and exploring destinations around the world in travel gear.
MAPPA Reveals 'Beat & Motion' Anime for Netflix in 2027
MAPPA unveiled the anime adaptation of Beat & Motion at its 15th anniversary event, confirming an exclusive Netflix debut in 2027. Shūichirō Umeda and Aya Gomazuru star as an aspiring animator and a determined indie musician in this adaptation of Naoki Fujita's Shonen Jump+ manga.
'Viral Hit,' MAPPA 15th Anniversary Top Natalie's Week
Netflix's live-action Viral Hit topped Japanese entertainment site Comic Natalie's weekly most-read list for June 11-17, 2026, with its character relationship chart drawing the heaviest traffic. MAPPA's 15th anniversary key visuals featuring Chainsaw Man and Attack on Titan also claimed two spots in the top 10.
'Fireworks' Singer Daoko Takes On 'TenSura' Cour 2 OP
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 unveils a second trailer and key visual for its July 3 second-cour premiere. Daoko performs the new opening theme "TACTIC," Azusa Tadokoro sings the ending "Hymnal," and the Primordial Demons finally take center stage.
MAPPA Turns Viral Manga 'Jimoto Saiko' Into Netflix Anime
MAPPA (Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man) is adapting the hit SNS manga Jimoto Saiko! into an anime series streaming exclusively on Netflix worldwide. The announcement, made during MAPPA's 15th anniversary event, came with a teaser PV set to singer-songwriter aiko's "milk," and a full staff reveal led by director Tokio Igarashi.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Season 4 Names New Director, Drops Teaser
MAPPA's Jujutsu Kaisen Season 4 has a new director. Takeshi Satō, who served as assistant director on the Culling Game's first half, steps up to lead Part 2. A teaser PV unveiled at MAPPA's 15th anniversary event showcases intense battles across the arc's most anticipated clashes.
'One Piece' Teams Up With Matsuya for Elbaf-Themed Collab
Japan's beef bowl chain Matsuya is launching a nationwide One Piece collaboration on June 30, running through October 6, 2026. The tie-up celebrates the anime's current Elbaf arc with oversized food sets and 12 collectible acrylic chopstick rests, plus a web lottery for exclusive donburi bowls.
'Gintama' Star Tomokazu Sugita Joins 'Clevatess II' Cast
Tomokazu Sugita and Megumi Han have been cast in Clevatess II, the second season of Lay-duce's dark fantasy anime based on Yuji Iwahara's LINE Manga series. Sugita plays Raswell and Han voices Zaftieh, two new characters debuting when the season premieres on July 8, 2026. Singer Mayu Maeshima returns from Season 1 to perform the new opening theme, "Foreshadow," previewed in a freshly released third trailer.
'Whisper of the Heart' Artist Opens Largest Show in Tokyo
Naohisa Inoue, the painter behind the dreamlike fantasy sequences in Studio Ghibli's Whisper of the Heart, opens his largest solo exhibition ever in Tokyo's Ariake district this Saturday. The nine-day show features roughly 100 works, from rare 1974 originals to brand-new prints, marking over three decades since his Ghibli collaboration and a career spanning half a century.
'The Fake Alchemist' Manga Gets TV Anime at Passione
Jiro Sugiura and Umemaru's isekai fantasy manga The Fake Alchemist is getting a TV anime adaptation. Studio Passione will handle animation production, and a teaser visual plus commemorative PV have been released, though broadcast details remain under wraps.
'Re:ZERO' Recapture Arc Premieres August 12 With New Visual
Re:ZERO's 4th season Recapture Arc will premiere on August 12, 2026, following the Loss Arc's 11-episode run, with a new key visual marking the transition. Voice actress Rie Takahashi also returned to the studio to sing "Stay Alive ~Regain~" as Emilia for the first time since the show's 1st season a decade ago, and a 12-member cast reunion event has been set for November 14.
'Apothecary Diaries' Author's Archaeology Mystery Gets Manga
Natsu Hyuga, the author behind The Apothecary Diaries, has a new manga adaptation on shelves. Volume 1 of Nazotoki Iseki Hakkutsu-bu, her archaeology-meets-mystery light novel drawn by Isuzu Shibata, went on sale June 18 through Shogakukan.
Nobara Closes Out MAPPA's 15th Anniversary Visual Series
MAPPA has released its third and final 15th anniversary key visual, featuring Jujutsu Kaisen's Nobara Kugisaki emerging from a Shibuya tunnel at night. The illustration completes a three-part series alongside Chainsaw Man's Reze and Attack on Titan's Mikasa, with MAPPA's full lineup reveal event streaming June 19 on YouTube.
'Slime' Season 4 Cour 2 Reveals the Primordial Demon Trio
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 has unveiled its second key visual and trailer for cour 2, spotlighting the Primordial Demons Testarossa, Ultima, and Carrera as they make their full anime debut. Cour 2 premieres July 3, with Daoko performing the new opening theme and Chloe's voice actress Azusa Tadokoro singing the ending.
'Kagurabachi' Manga Goes on Hiatus, Eyes August Return
Weekly Shonen Jump's breakout sword-action series Kagurabachi is taking a hiatus starting June 29, with author Takeru Hokazono expected to resume serialization in August. The break follows two earlier missed issues this spring due to the author's sudden illness, with Shueisha's editorial team stepping in to prioritize Hokazono's health ahead of the manga's April 2027 anime debut.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Marks 5 Years With Season 1 ED-Style Merch
The Jujutsu Kaisen anime is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a 22-piece apparel collaboration on ZOZOTOWN, Japan's largest fashion e-commerce platform. The line features newly drawn artwork inspired by the Season 1 ending sequence across 12 characters, including young Gojo Satoru and Yuta Okkotsu, with orders opening July 3, 2026.
'Apothecary Diaries,' 'COSMOS' Artists Trade Characters
The manga artists behind The Apothecary Diaries and COSMOS drew each other's characters for a set of limited collaboration art cards. The cards are available at participating Japanese bookstores starting June 18, 2026, to celebrate the simultaneous release of both series' latest volumes in Shogakukan's Sunday GX lineup.
Gakken's Hit 'Yuru Yuru Zukan' Encyclopedia Gets TV Anime
Gakken's Yuru Yuru Zukan, a children's encyclopedia series with 1.24 million copies in print, is becoming a TV anime this October. The short-format show will air Sundays at 7:00 AM on TV Tokyo's six-station Animori! block, produced through the Animation ID initiative using the cost-efficient Light Anime production method.
Four Isao Takahata Ghibli Films Screen in Kyoto This Summer
A Kyoto independent cinema will screen four of the late Isao Takahata's Studio Ghibli features across four consecutive weeks this summer. The "Isao Takahata Director Special 2026" runs from July 31 to August 27 at Demachiza, reviving a retrospective originally planned for spring 2020 before COVID shut it down.
Re:Zero Drops Recapture Arc Visual, 10th Anniversary Event
Re:Zero's 4th season wrapped its 11-episode Loss Arc on June 17 and revealed a Recapture Arc key visual the same night. An 8-episode Recapture Arc begins August 12, while a 10th anniversary event featuring 12 cast members is set for November 14, 2026 at Tokyo's Tachikawa Stage Garden.
'Apothecary Diaries' Vol. 22 Tops June 18 Manga Releases
The Apothecary Diaries reaches volume 22 in today's June 18 manga releases, joined by a JoJo creator crossover volume, new Choujin X, and over 90 other titles across Japan's major publishers. The full list, [published by Comic Natalie](https://natalie.mu/comic/news/673750), spans Shueisha, Shogakukan, KADOKAWA, and a dozen smaller imprints.
Japanese Fans Vote on Completed Manga They Want Animated
Japanese anime site Anime Anime polled 205 readers on which completed manga most deserve an anime adaptation, and spinoffs dominated the results. Jujutsu Kaisen ≡ (Modulo), the sci-fi sequel set 68 years after the original, and (Moto) Takagi-san, the married-life follow-up to Teasing Master Takagi-san, both drew strong reader support alongside Naoki Urasawa's historical thriller BILLY BAT.
ODDTAXI Team's 'The Last Blossom' Heads to Netflix Aug. 29
The Last Blossom, the anime film from ODDTAXI director Baku Kinoshita and writer Kazuya Konomoto, begins streaming exclusively on Netflix on August 29, 2026. The film's Blu-ray and DVD arrive three days earlier on August 26, packed with behind-the-scenes extras and original artwork.
Sunrise Unveils 50th Anniversary Key Visual, Short Films
Bandai Namco Filmworks has launched the Sunrise 50th anniversary project with a newly commissioned key visual uniting 50 of the studio's most popular anime, from Mobile Suit Gundam to Love Live! and The Witch from Mercury. The three-year celebration (2026-2028) also introduces a six-part 3DCG short film project and a new Armored Trooper Votoms theatrical film directed by Mamoru Oshii.
Magic Repo Man Reveals Main Cast, October 2026 Premiere
The fantasy anime Magic Repo Man has revealed its five main voice cast members and first promotional video ahead of its October 2026 premiere on TV Asahi. Reiji Kawashima leads as Lent, joined by Emiri Kato, Daiki Hamano, Akira Sekine, and Yu Kobayashi.
'Re:Zero' Season 4 Wraps Loss Arc, Returns in August
Re:Zero Season 4 airs its Loss Arc finale today with Episode 11, the 77th episode overall. Preview images show Subaru waking to find walls covered in "Natsuki Subaru Has Arrived" and Reid Astrea waiting behind him. The Recapture Arc picks up August 12 with eight more episodes.
Milim Faces the Chaos Dragon in 'TenSura' S4 Episode 11
The synopsis for That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 Episode 11 is out. Titled "Milim's Friend," the episode sees Demon Lord Milim confront the Chaos Dragon she once sealed, while Rimuru attempts to protect the soul still lingering inside it. Episode 83 airs Friday, June 19, 2026 on NTV.
'Black Clover' Season 2 Sets October 2026 Premiere
Black Clover is coming back. Studio Pierrot's anime adaptation of Yūki Tabata's magic-battle manga returns for a second TV season in October 2026 on TV Tokyo, with director Ayataka Tanemura reprising his role from the first season's later run and the 2023 film. A 10-minute recap of the original 170-episode series is now live on YouTube.
'My Hero Academia' Celebrates 10 Years With Deku Tribute
The My Hero Academia anime is marking its 10th anniversary with a special tribute video tracing Izuku Midoriya's entire journey from quirkless kid to the greatest hero. Released on June 16, the franchise's annual "Hero Day," the video features new animation cuts and is set to the series' beloved score "You Say Run."
MAPPA Marks 15th Anniversary With 'Chainsaw Man' Visual
MAPPA (Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man) kicked off its 15th anniversary celebration with a new commemorative key visual featuring Reze from last year's blockbuster Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc movie. The illustration is the first of three planned anniversary visuals, with a major lineup announcement livestream set for June 19 on the studio's YouTube channel.
'TenSura' S4 Episode 83: Milim Can't Defeat Her Friend
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 has released preview images and a synopsis for Episode 83, "Milim's Friend," airing June 19. The episode puts Demon Lord Milim face-to-face with the Chaos Dragon she once sealed, and she can't bring herself to strike down her oldest companion.
'Fushi Tantei' Again Tops Japan's Light Novel Anime Poll
Immortal-detective mystery Fushi Tantei Reidō Momiji (不死探偵・冷堂紅葉) has topped Japanese entertainment news site Anime Anime's reader poll for the second consecutive term, earning about 15% of the vote from 928 respondents. Dark fairy-tale thriller Grimm Connect climbed to second place, while cozy supernatural story Omawarisan to Maneki Neko debuted at third.
'One Piece' God's Knights Make Full Elbaf Debut
The God's Knights finally showed up in force in the latest One Piece Elbaf arc episode. Saint Shamrock, voiced by Kenjiro Tsuda, and Gunko, voiced by Sumire Uesaka, made their full speaking debut on June 14, sparking a wave of fan reactions praising the tense confrontation and Gunko's striking gap between cute looks and terrifying power.
'Apothecary Diaries' x 'Cosmos' Manga Collab Cards Debut
The Apothecary Diaries and Cosmos are celebrating their simultaneous manga releases with limited collaboration illustration cards at Japanese bookstores starting June 18. Each series' artist drew the other's characters: Beelzebub creator Ryuhei Tamura illustrated Maomao and Jinshi on a metallic card, while Apothecary Diaries manga artist Kurata Minoji drew Cosmos leads Rin and Mizumori on a washi-textured card.
'Rascal Does Not Dream' Finale Unveils High School Shoko Visual
The Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dear Friend film has revealed a special visual showing Shoko Makinohara as a high school student. The image, now displayed on a massive outdoor billboard in Fujisawa, will remain up through the October 16, 2026 theatrical premiere. Advance tickets featuring the new art go on sale alongside the visual's debut.
All 'Dragon Ball' TV Anime Now on Prime Video Japan
Amazon Prime Video Japan added Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT, and Dragon Ball Kai to its unlimited streaming library on June 15, 2026. With Dragon Ball Super and DAIMA already on the platform, every Dragon Ball TV series is now available in one place for Japanese subscribers.
Witch Hat Atelier Tops Global Anime Charts With Same-Day Dub
Witch Hat Atelier is dominating overseas anime rankings this spring, with English-language search traffic reportedly several times higher than Japan's domestic numbers. A feature on Japanese anime news site Anime Anime examines how the production committee's simultaneous English dub on Crunchyroll, paired with the manga's existing international acclaim, turned the fantasy series into the season's breakout global hit.
'Nue's Exorcist,' 'Tokyo Aliens' Lead Anime Wishlist Poll
Japanese entertainment site Anime!Anime! surveyed readers on which ongoing manga they most want to see adapted into anime, and battle titles Nue's Exorcist and Tokyo Aliens emerged as fan favorites. Animal-themed comedies about ghost dogs, fox schools, and talking cats also drew heavy support in the first-half 2026 edition of the poll.
'Sasaki and Peeps' Season 2 Premieres October 2026
Sasaki and Peeps will return for a second season in October 2026. KADOKAWA released a new teaser PV alongside updated staff and production details, with SILVER LINK. continuing as the animation studio for the isekai workplace comedy.
Demon Slayer Bakery Collab Launches July 1 Across Japan
Demon Slayer is teaming up with Japanese bakery chain Heart Bread Antique for a summer collaboration running July 1 through August 31, 2026. Nine character-themed breads, exclusive sweets, ufotable original art, and limited merch will be available at stores nationwide, with convenience store rollout starting July 14.
'Apothecary Diaries' Immersive Event Set for Roppongi Hills
The Apothecary Diaries is getting its first immersive exhibition at Tokyo City View, the observation deck on the 52nd floor of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. Running from August 1 to October 26, the event is themed around dance sequences from the anime, with the Tokyo night skyline as a backdrop.
Haikyu!! x COCOS Collab Transforms Tokyo Restaurant
The nationwide Haikyu!! collaboration at Japanese family restaurant chain COCOS has turned its Tokyo Heiwadai location into a full anime showcase, with original character art, iconic in-series banners, and scene photos covering every surface. The campaign runs at 504 COCOS stores across Japan through June 29, 2026, featuring exclusive menus, clear file giveaways, and limited merchandise.
'Apothecary Diaries' Takes Over Roppongi Hills This August
The Apothecary Diaries is heading 250 meters above Tokyo for a first-of-its-kind immersive event at Roppongi Hills' Tokyo City View observation deck. Running from August 1 through October 26, 2026, the exhibition centers on the anime's dance sequences and night-sky imagery, with never-before-seen displays and event-exclusive merchandise.
'TenSura' Season 4 Episode 10: Yuuki Blocks Rimuru
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 Episode 10, "Master of Greed," delivers the long-anticipated clash between awakened Demon Lord Rimuru and Mariabell Rosso. The power gap is obvious from the start, but the real twist comes when Yuuki places himself between Rimuru and his target.
'Grave of the Fireflies' Returns to Netflix Japan July 15
Studio Ghibli's Grave of the Fireflies is returning to Netflix Japan on July 15, 2026, one year after the Isao Takahata classic first landed on the platform domestically. Netflix is pairing the re-release with educational programs, including free screenings for middle schools nationwide and an essay-writing campaign for younger students.
'Shin-chan' Live-Action Casts Shiori Kubo as Grown-Up Ai
Nogizaka46 alumna Shiori Kubo has joined the cast of Crayon Shin-chan's live-action short film series as the grown-up version of Ai Suotome, the wealthy girl whose lifelong crush on Shinnosuke remains fully intact. The new episode, Season 2 Episode 3, dropped on June 15, 2026 and is streaming free on YouTube.
Anime Themes Sweep Top Prizes at Music Awards Japan 2026
Sakanaction's "Kaijuu," the Orb: On the Movements of the Earth theme, won Song of the Year and Best Anime Song at Music Awards Japan 2026, sweeping eight awards total. Anime-linked tracks dominated the ceremony, with Kenshi Yonezu, Mrs. GREEN APPLE, HANA, and the LAZARUS score also winning top prizes.
'Love Live Nijigasaki' Final Film Unveils Key Visual
The theatrical finale of Love Live! Nijigasaki High School Idol Club has revealed its key visual, showing all 12 school idols walking toward a rainbow while Yu Takasaki watches from behind. The Final Chapter opens in Japanese theaters this winter, closing out a trilogy that began in 2024.
'Tokyo Revengers' Three Titans Arc Premieres October 2
Tokyo Revengers: War of the Three Titans Arc will premiere on October 2, 2026, with Disney+ handling exclusive worldwide streaming. A third trailer dropped on June 14 spotlighting 12-years-later versions of Mikey and Sanzu Haruchiyo, complete with new character designs for both.
'Shimobe no Ouji-sama' BL Drama Unveils First Trailer
The live-action BL drama Shimobe no Ouji-sama has released its first 60-second trailer, a new main visual, and an opening theme by BUDDiiS. Veteran actor Satoshi Yamanaka also joins the cast ahead of the July 3 premiere on TOKYO MX.
New Haikyu!! 'Cool Down' Merch Drops at Animate This August
A new Haikyu!! merchandise line featuring original "cool down" illustrations of six fan-favorite characters goes on sale at Animate stores across Japan on August 22, 2026. A month-long fair running through September 23 offers bonus illustration sheets with qualifying purchases.
One Piece Earrings Inspired by Hancock, Law, Zoro Hit Bandai
Premium Bandai is now taking pre-orders for One Piece ear accessories modeled after the jewelry worn by Boa Hancock, Trafalgar Law, and Roronoa Zoro. Each piece comes in piercing and clip-on versions, ships in August 2026, and arrives in a character-themed box.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Hidden Inventory Yukata Lottery Returns
The popular Jujutsu Kaisen online lottery featuring Gojo, Geto, and their Hidden Inventory classmates in summer yukata is back. The "Summer memories YUKATA style" reprint is on sale now through June 28, 2026, with acrylic boards, dioramas, keychains, and badges at 770 yen per draw.
'Living in a World Without Magic' Film Goes Global
The theatrical anime adaptation of Living in a World Without Magic, illustrator Akiwashi's viral graduation-project MV with over 6.3 million YouTube views, is expanding internationally. The project will hold an industry panel at the 2026 Annecy International Animation Film Festival on June 24, with a booth at Anime Expo 2026 starting July 2.
'Demon Slayer' Stage Play Opens With Infinity Castle Arc
The sixth Demon Slayer stage play opened on June 13, 2026, at Tokyo's newly built MoN Takanawa theater, bringing the Hashira Training and Infinity Castle arcs to the stage. Death Note Musical veteran Kenji Urai joins the series as Upper Rank demon Doma, while the production reunites all nine Hashira on stage for the first time in roughly five years.
Kyoto Animation's 'Sparks of Tomorrow' Drops New PV, Cast
Kyoto Animation released a pre-premiere PV and third key visual for Sparks of Tomorrow, its original steampunk adventure anime. Four new cast members join ahead of the July 5, 2026 broadcast premiere and worldwide Netflix debut, and the ending theme by Ginger Root has been confirmed as "Soarin'."
Barrier Master Casts 'Demon Slayer,' 'Chainsaw Man' Stars
Bride of the Barrier Master, KADOKAWA's romance fantasy light novel, is getting a TV anime from studio TROYCA in January 2027. Demon Slayer's Akari Kitō and Chainsaw Man's Kikunosuke Toya star as leads Hana and Saku, with the anime's first teaser PV now live.
'Reincarnated as a Slime' Gets New Shironeko Project Collab
Colopl's mobile action RPG Shironeko Project NEW WORLD'S is crossing over with That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime for a second time. The collaboration event launches June 16, 2026, adding Rimuru, Benimaru, Shion, and Shizu as playable gacha characters, with a free daily pull available through in-game ads.
'Dara-san of Reiwa' Premieres July 2, Reveals New Cast
Kadokawa's horror comedy anime Dara-san of Reiwa premieres July 2, 2026, on TOKYO MX and other Japanese networks. Five new cast members join the show, including Aoi Koga, Tomokazu Sugita, and Saori Hayami, while the duo REIRIE will perform the ending theme "Hinatabokko."
'Grow Up Show' Anime Unveils Main Visual and Theme Songs
The original circus anime Grow Up Show: Sunflower Circus has revealed its main visual and announced its theme song artists ahead of the July 4, 2026 premiere. NOMELON NOLEMON performs the opening theme "Yurari Yureru," while Aooo handles the ending theme "DAYS!" Both tracks were written by Tsumiki, a shared member of both groups.
'Bookworm' and 'Witch Hat Atelier' Unveil Crossover Visual
Ascendance of a Bookworm and Witch Hat Atelier, two of Spring 2026's standout fantasy anime, have released a newly drawn crossover visual. Original creators Miya Kazuki and Kamome Shirahama also published a joint interview on both shows' official anime sites, with more collaborative projects on the way.
My Hero Academia Travel Merch Line Drops August 8
Animate is launching a new My Hero Academia merchandise line on August 8, featuring original travel-themed illustrations of Deku, Bakugo, Uraraka, Todoroki, All Might, and Aizawa. A nationwide fair running through August 30 offers bonus pennant-style stickers with qualifying purchases, plus themed drinks at select stores across Japan.
Time-Loop Murder Drama Casts Six More for July Premiere
TV Tokyo's time-loop revenge drama Otto wo Koroshita Hazu na no ni (夫を殺したはずなのに) reveals its key visual and six additional cast members, headlined by Yumena Yanai. The webtoon manga adaptation, starring Rio Uchida and Keisuke Watanabe, premieres July 6, 2026.
Haikyu!! 'Seen It' Rubber Stamps Come in 168 Combos
Haikyu!! fans can now stamp their approval with chibi versions of Hinata, Kenma, and 22 other character designs. The "Mimashita Hanko" line from Inkan Hanko SHOP Hankoz pairs each illustration with seven text options for 168 total combinations, all for ¥2,600 (roughly $17).
'Nura' Creator's New Anime Unveils Key Visual, 3rd PV
Iwamoto-senpai no Suisen, the supernatural anime adaptation of Hiroshi Shiibashi's Ultra Jump manga, has revealed its key visual, third promotional video, and full broadcast schedule. The series premieres July 4, 2026 on TOKYO MX, with same-day advance streaming on d Anime Store, Anime Times, and Lemino.
New Italy-Japan Travel Manga 'Vista da Gigantessa' Hits Superior
Writer Juntaro Aoki and Italian artist LAB have launched Vista da Gigantessa, a Japan travel essay manga where every character is drawn as a beautiful girl, sometimes at giant scale. The series debuted June 12, 2026 in the digital edition of Shogakukan's Big Comic Superior.
'Stepmother and Stepsisters' Anime Drops PV, Adds 3 Cast
My Stepmother and Stepsisters Aren't Wicked has added Yumi Uchiyama, M.A.O, and Miyari Nemoto to its anime cast as three new supporting characters. The main PV also dropped, confirming Lia on the opening theme and a July 8, 2026 premiere.
'Greatest Magicmaster's Retirement Plan' Gets 2027 Anime
The Greatest Magicmaster's Retirement Plan, a million-selling fantasy light novel from Hobby Japan's HJ Bunko label, is getting a TV anime in 2027. Yūto Uemura (Atsushi Nakajima in Bungo Stray Dogs, Hiro in Darling in the Franxx) voices protagonist Alus Reigin (アルス・レーギン), with studio HOTLINE handling production. A teaser PV and key visual are now live.
Jujutsu Kaisen 5th Anniversary Event Lands at Haneda Airport
The Jujutsu Kaisen anime's 5th anniversary celebration is taking over Haneda Airport Garden with a month-long collaboration event running July 3 through August 2, 2026. The pop-up features airport-themed original illustrations, exclusive merchandise, collab menus at six restaurants, and a hot spring package at the facility's onsite spa.
'TenSura' Film's Stage Greetings Brought Stars to Tokyo
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the Movie: Tears of the Azure Sea held stage greeting events across Tokyo on February 28, 2026, one day after the film's Japanese premiere. The cast appearances featured series lead Miho Okasaki alongside celebrity voice actors Koichi Domoto of KinKi Kids and Hinatazaka46 members Nao Kosaka and Kaho Fujishima.
'TenSura' Season 4 Raffles Signed Episode 82 Scripts
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 is giving away two signed Episode 82 voice recording scripts, autographed by Daisuke Ono (Granville) and Inori Minase (Maribel). The campaign runs through June 19 on X, but prize shipping is limited to Japan.
'Demon Slayer' Infinity Castle Blu-ray Gets Animate Fair
Animate, Japan's largest anime retail chain, will host a nationwide fair starting July 28, 2026 to celebrate the Blu-ray and DVD release of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - Infinity Castle Chapter 1. The two-phase promotion features exclusive ufotable-drawn collectibles, with lottery-based photo events running in seven cities through September.
'Wistoria' Season 2 Ep 22 Teases Will's Magic Sword
Wistoria: Wand and Sword Season 2 has released preview scene cuts and a synopsis for Episode 22, "Omoi, Hanasaki, Todoroku." The episode sees Will finally channel his own Wis, a magic sword born from childhood memories with Elfaria, as he faces a Wors Ooze in the Second Bloom. Episode 22 airs June 14 on TBS in Japan and streams on Crunchyroll internationally.
'Higurashi' Star Yukari Tamura Cast in 'Forsaken Saintess'
Yukari Tamura and Kanehira Yamamoto have joined the cast of The Forsaken Saintess and Her Foodie Roadtrip in Another World, the isekai cooking anime set to premiere July 6, 2026. Tamura plays Sheila, a fluffy kobold guild receptionist, while Yamamoto takes on the role of guild master Tori.
'Demon Slayer' Infinity Castle Bath Coming to Hakone Resort
Hakone's Yunessun hot spring theme park will host a Demon Slayer collaboration event from July 18 to October 4, 2026. The lineup includes themed baths inspired by the Wisteria Family Crest House and the Infinity Castle, a Hashira-themed sauna with daily steam sessions, exclusive ufotable merchandise, and the adjacent hotel's first-ever anime collaboration room.
'Mr. Osomatsu' Season 4 Unaired Finale Gets TV Debut
The previously unaired Season 4 finale of Mr. Osomatsu, titled "The Matsuno Ten," is finally getting its TV broadcast on June 13, 2026, after a limited theatrical run. Streaming kicked off June 12 in Japan, with Crunchyroll also making the episode available internationally.
'Apothecary Diaries' Launches First Browser Game June 15
The Apothecary Diaries is getting its first video game, and it arrives in days. Palace Chronicles, a free-to-play browser simulation game on CTW's G123 platform, launches June 15, 2026, letting players step into Maomao's shoes across the imperial palace and pleasure district with 35-plus playable characters.
New 'Frieren' Merch Immortalizes Season 2's Best Gags
A new line of Frieren: Beyond Journey's End merchandise featuring standout comedic moments from Season 2 is now available for pre-order through the Cospa Official Shop. The collection includes T-shirts, tote bags, a handmade wood mug, acrylic stands, and keychains, all shipping in early September 2026.
'Mr. Osomatsu' Season 4's Secret 13th Episode Now Streaming
Mr. Osomatsu Season 4 has a bonus episode that never aired on TV, and it's finally available to stream. Episode 13, "The Matsuno Ten," launched on streaming platforms on June 12 ahead of its TV Tokyo broadcast on June 13, following a limited six-day theatrical run celebrating the franchise's 10th anniversary.
'Fall in Love, You False Angels' Gets 2027 TV Anime
Coco Uzuki's rom-com manga Fall in Love, You False Angels has been greenlit for a TV anime airing in 2027. The Kodansha Manga Award winner, which has topped 2.25 million copies in print, follows two high schoolers whose picture-perfect public images hide very different private selves.
'Dr. STONE' Climax Visual Assembles All Four Astronauts
The climax visual for Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE's 3rd cour now features all four astronauts headed to the moon. Following Episode 35's June 11 broadcast, Ryusui joined Senku, Kohaku, and Stanley in the updated key art as the series races toward its final confrontation with Why-man.
'Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance' Blu-ray BOX Hits August 26
The Netflix original anime Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance is getting a deluxe physical release. Bandai Namco Filmworks will release a Blu-ray BOX special limited edition on August 26, 2026 for ¥22,000 (approx. $140), packed with a two-disc original soundtrack, making-of footage, and a collector's box illustrated by veteran Gundam mechanical designer Kimitoshi Yamane.
'Ghost in the Shell' Anime Unveils MILLENNIUM PARADE Ending
Science SARU's upcoming The Ghost in the Shell anime has revealed its ending theme: "Blue" by MILLENNIUM PARADE, featuring Grammy-winning singer Daniel Caesar and Canadian-Japanese artist Saya Gray. A fourth promotional video showcasing the track dropped alongside the announcement, and episodes 1 and 2 will receive a US premiere at Anime Expo 2026 before the series' July 7 Japanese broadcast.
Netflix's Live-Action 'Viral Hit' Drops Episode 1 Footage
Netflix's live-action adaptation of T.Jun's hit webtoon Viral Hit launched worldwide on June 11, with a four-minute Episode 1 opening clip and a full character relationship chart released to mark the occasion. The series stars Suzuka Ōji as a bullied high schooler who turns to fight live-streaming, directed by Hideki Takeuchi of Thermae Romae and Fly Me to the Saitama fame.
'Death Note' Star Miyano Voices Kaiser in 'Blue Lock' S3
Blue Lock Season 3 is officially titled Neo Egoist League, and Mamoru Miyano has been cast as Michael Kaiser, the German striker who made his anime debut in Season 2's closing moments. Studio Eight Bit returns for the new season, which is widely expected to premiere in October 2026.
'Kanojo no Tomodachi' Anime Reveals Cast, October Premiere
Kanojo no Tomodachi (彼女の友達), a Kodansha manga about a high schooler caught between his girlfriend and her seductive best friend, is getting a TV anime in October 2026. Studio Quad produces the series, with three newcomer voice actors leading the cast and a full production team now in place.
'Re:ZERO' Season 4 Episode 76 Deepens the Murder Mystery
Re:ZERO Season 4 episode 76, "Murder Becomes a Habit," pushed the Loss Arc's central mystery to a breaking point. Japanese fans watching the penultimate episode of the first half spotted a chilling link between Subaru's blackouts and the Gluttony Sin Archbishop. Spoilers ahead for a loaded episode that sets up next week's Loss Arc finale.
'Akane Banashi' Anime Spotlights Jump's Rakugo Drama
Shonen Jump's 3-million-copy rakugo manga Akane Banashi is currently airing as an anime on TV Asahi, directed by Ayumu Watanabe (Summer Time Rendering) at studio Zexcs. The series follows a high schooler who enters the competitive world of solo comic storytelling to reach rakugo's highest rank and uncover the truth behind her father's expulsion from the art.
'I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day' Adds New Cast, OP
I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day has added Ai Kayano and Yumi Uchiyama to its voice cast as two teachers at the series' grim military academy. The dark yuri anime also revealed its opening theme "Amore" by ReoNa and ending theme "Éternel" by sajou no hana in a newly released second PV, ahead of its July 7, 2026 premiere.
'Vinland Saga' Star Leads 'Greatest Magicmaster' Anime
Izushiro's light novel The Greatest Magicmaster's Retirement Plan is getting a TV anime in 2027 on the CBC/TBS Agaru Anime block. Yuto Uemura, the voice of Thorfinn in Vinland Saga, will play protagonist Ars Regan, the world's strongest mage posing as an ordinary student at a magic academy.
Netflix Debuts 'Viral Hit' Live-Action Series Worldwide
Netflix's live-action Viral Hit, based on the Korean webtoon with over 2 billion views, begins worldwide streaming today, June 11. Ōji Suzuka stars as a bullied high schooler who turns his fights into viral content, directed by Hideki Takeuchi with a screenplay by Yūichi Tokunaga.
Nanami Tops Kenjiro Tsuda Birthday Poll for Third Year
Jujutsu Kaisen's Nanami Kento has claimed the top spot in Japanese entertainment site Anime!Anime!'s annual birthday poll for voice actor Kenjiro Tsuda, winning for the third consecutive year with roughly 25% of the vote. Kaiba Seto from Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters and Ogata Hyakunosuke from Golden Kamuy rounded out a top three that hasn't budged since 2024.
Demon Slayer Leather Line Adds Rengoku, Shinobu Goods
Premium Bandai has opened pre-orders for the second wave of Demon Slayer leather accessories, this time themed around Flame Hashira Rengoku Kyojuro and Insect Hashira Kocho Shinobu. The five-piece cowhide collection, ranging from wallets to pass cases priced between ¥8,800 and ¥21,450, ships in July 2026 with pre-orders closing June 30.
'Bocchi the Rock' Lights Up Tokyo City Hall June 20
Bocchi the Rock! is getting a projection mapping show on Tokyo's Metropolitan Government Building starting June 20. The free nightly display, themed around the anime's opening song "Seishun Complex," transforms the Guinness World Record-holding venue into a giant canvas for Hitori Gotō and her Kessoku Band bandmates.
KLab Produces AI Anime Film 'The Celebrity Secret' for 2027
Mobile game developer KLab is making an AI-generated anime movie called The CELEBRITY SECRET, based on Sakurai Miho's bestselling KADOKAWA novel about wealth, self-worth, and reinvention. A teaser screened at an AI film awards event in Cannes, France in May 2026, with a full release planned for 2027.
'Fist of the North Star' Grunt Comedy Sets July 6 Return
The short anime Hokuto no Ken: Kenougun Zako-tachi no Banka, the Fist of the North Star workplace comedy about expendable henchmen, returns for a second cour on July 6 with a new PV and key visual. The new ending theme features guitar from Tsuyoshi Ujiki, whose band Kodomo Band performed the original Fist of the North Star anime's opening theme roughly 40 years ago.
'Detective Conan' Launches Adventure-Themed Merch Line
Detective Conan is getting a new "Adventure Collection" merchandise line featuring knapsacks, sacoche bags, and scarves with original adventure-themed character illustrations. The lineup pairs fan-favorite characters, including Police Academy favorites Kenji Hagiwara and Jinpei Matsuda, with pre-orders open now through June 28, 2026.
'One Piece' ED Band Vocalist Denies Affair Allegations
Shinnosuke Nakagawa, vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Jisoku 36km, has denied allegations of adultery in a public statement posted June 9. The four-piece band performs "Sono Mirai," the current ending theme for the One Piece anime's Elbaf arc. All four band members backed the denial and warned of potential legal action against continued false claims.
Re:Zero Season 4 Episode 10 Preview Reveals Meili's Past
Re:Zero Season 4 drops its synopsis and web preview for Episode 10, "Murder Becomes a Habit," airing today. Subaru reads Meili Portroute's Book of the Dead and relives her lonely past, but the deeper he goes, the more his own memories begin merging with hers.
Fired Sysadmin Light Novel Gets TV Anime Adaptation
Yuki Kashirome's light novel about a solo systems engineer who gets fired for being "unnecessary" is getting a TV anime adaptation. Commonly abbreviated as Wanope Kaiko, the series has five manga volumes in print, with the latest going on sale June 5, 2026.
'Attack on Titan' Star Joins 'Inept Villainess' Anime Cast
The anime adaptation of Though I Am an Inept Villainess has added five new voice cast members, headlined by Yui Ishikawa and Inori Minase, and revealed singer milet's "Sunny" as the opening theme alongside a new main trailer. The Chinese court body-swap fantasy premieres July 12, 2026 on TV Tokyo.
'Dengeki Daisy' Manga Gets Anime Adaptation at Studio DEEN
Kyousuke Motomi's shojo manga Dengeki Daisy is heading to TV in 2027. Studio DEEN is producing the adaptation, with a staff lineup that includes Your Lie in April composer Masaru Yokoyama, who recorded the score in Iceland.
Re:Zero Season 4 Previews 'Murder Becomes a Habit'
Re:Zero Starting Life in Another World 4th season has dropped the synopsis and preview images for Episode 10, ominously titled "Murder Becomes a Habit." The episode sees Subaru wake to find Meili's dead body in front of him and the words "Natsuki Subaru was here" scrawled on his own arm, with only one episode remaining before the season takes a mid-run break.
'Gintama' and 'Hunter x Hunter' Stars Join 'Clevatess II'
Tomokazu Sugita and Megumi Han have joined the cast of Clevatess II, the dark fantasy anime's second season premiering July 8, 2026 across 27 Japanese stations. A third PV featuring the new opening theme "Foreshadow" by returning vocalist Mayu Maeshima is now live.
'Haikyu!!' Custom Chibi Stamps Offer 168 Character Combos
Japanese stamp maker Okada Shokai has launched a line of customizable Haikyu!! stamps featuring 24 chibi character designs and seven text options, totaling 168 possible combinations. The "Mimashita Hanko" line was inspired by a customer request for stamps parents and teachers could use in school communication notebooks.
'TenSura' Ep 82: Rimuru Battles Mariabell, Yuuki Steps In
New preview images for That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 Episode 82, "The Master of Greed," show Rimuru squaring off against Mariabell Rozzo and her Unique Skill. Yuuki Kagurazaka enters the fight before Rimuru can finish, with the episode set for June 12 on NTV.
Kaito Kid Poses as Precure in Conan's Cross-Network Collab
Detective Conan and Star Detective Precure! broke TV network and studio barriers for a two-part crossover, with the Conan episode on June 6 revealing Kaito Kid as the one behind Cure Answer's mask. Both crossover episodes are streaming on Crunchyroll worldwide.
Jujutsu Kaisen Gets 'Work Cat' Artist Collab Merch
Japanese wound care brand Hakujuji is teaming up with Jujutsu Kaisen for a promotion running June 16 through September 15, 2026. The campaign features eight JJK characters redrawn by Kumamine, the internet-famous illustrator behind the viral Work Cat and Phone Cat memes, with exclusive stickers, T-shirts, pin badges, and acrylic stands up for grabs.
'Blue Lock' Season 3 Named 'Neo Egoist League,' Teaser Drops
Blue Lock Season 3 is officially titled Blue Lock: Neo Egoist League. The announcement arrived with a "super teaser visual" featuring Isagi Yoichi and Michael Kaiser, plus a special celebration video marking June 9 as "Blue Lock Day."
'Spy x Family' and 'Gintama' Stars Join 'Dara-san of Reiwa'
TV anime Dara-san of Reiwa has added five voice actors to its cast, including Tomokazu Sugita, Saori Hayami, and Hochu Otsuka, as revealed in the show's second full trailer. The occult comedy series premieres July 2, 2026 on TOKYO MX, with duo REIRIE confirmed for the ending theme "Hinatabokko."
'Frieren' Farm Resort Collab Launches Solo Glamping Plan
The Frieren: Beyond Journey's End glamping collaboration at THE FARM in Chiba, Japan now offers a solo traveler plan. Bookings opened June 8 for stays between July 17 and October 16, letting fans experience the collab's bonfire nights, stargazing, and themed rooms at their own pace.
'Oshi No Ko' COSPA Line Adds Akane Eye Mask, 'B's Revenge' Tee
COSPA is rolling out a new wave of [Oshi No Ko] merchandise headlined by a T-shirt featuring the manga's memorable "B's Revenge" scene and a Kurokawa Akane eye mask designed after her signature gaze. The lineup, which also includes character graphic tags for Ai, Aqua, and Ruby, is available for pre-order now with shipping in early September 2026.
Dazai Tops Mamoru Miyano Fan Poll for Fourth Straight Year
Osamu Dazai from Bungo Stray Dogs has claimed the No. 1 spot in Anime!Anime!'s annual Mamoru Miyano birthday poll for the fourth year running, pulling roughly 26% of the vote. Demon Slayer's Doma surged from tied 10th to 2nd after the Infinity Castle movie, while Uta no Prince-sama's Tokiya Ichinose rounded out the top 3 among 1,128 voters.
Frieren, TenSura Lead 11-Anime Merch Pop-Up in Yokohama
A limited-time CharaON! pop-up shop at the Volks Yokohama Showroom is selling exclusive merchandise from 11 anime series, including That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, and My Dress-Up Darling Season 2. The event runs through June 14, 2026, and features newly illustrated acrylic stands, tapestries, and character goods.
'A Returner's Magic' Season 2 Hits October, FLOW Returns
A Returner's Magic Should Be Special will return for its second season in October 2026, airing on Fuji TV's +Ultra programming block every Wednesday. Rock band FLOW, known for Naruto's iconic "GO!!!" and Code Geass's "Colors," will once again perform the opening theme with a new track titled "Sorrow."
'Villager of Level 999' Main Trailer Sets July 1 Premiere
The Villager of Level 999 has dropped its main trailer and locked in a July 1, 2026 premiere on TV Tokyo. The PV previews opening theme "Not a Hero" by Aitsuki Nakuru and Natsume Itsuki and ending theme "HP" by Yukimura., with Crunchyroll confirmed for international streaming.
Demon Slayer's Shinobu Tops Purple Character Poll Again
Shinobu Kocho from Demon Slayer has claimed the top spot in Anime Anime's annual "Best Purple Character" reader poll for the second year running, earning about 11% of the vote from 578 respondents. Gintama's Shinsuke Takasugi climbed to second place, while Blue Lock's Reo Mikage slipped from last year's runner-up to third.
'One Piece' Wobbly Ship Figures Return With Vol. 3 Set
MegaHouse's palm-sized "Yura Colle" wobbly figure line is back with a third One Piece set featuring five iconic ships, from Gol D. Roger's vessel to the Thousand Sunny. The Grand Line Collection Set Vol. 3 is priced at ¥9,900 (approx. $65) and ships in November 2026, with pre-orders open now at Premium Bandai and select retailers.
'Saga of Tanya the Evil' Season 2 Premieres July 8
Saga of Tanya the Evil II hits Japanese airwaves on July 8, 2026, with Crunchyroll handling international streaming. KADOKAWA also revealed a second key visual, confirmed MYTH & ROID's return for the opening theme, and announced a companion mini anime following the Salamander Kampfgruppe.
'Saiki K.' Drops All 4 Creditless EDs for 10th Anniversary
The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. is celebrating its anime's 10th anniversary by releasing all four creditless ending sequences from seasons 1 and 2 on YouTube. The videos, posted on ShoPro's official anime channel, follow last week's release of the show's four creditless openings.
FLOW Performs 'From Overshadowed to Overpowered' Anime OP
Rock band FLOW will perform the opening theme "+ENCOUNT" for the upcoming isekai anime From Overshadowed to Overpowered, with the newly released main PV previewing the track alongside TrySail's ending theme "Shōkei." The series premieres on TOKYO MX on July 1, 2026, with streaming platforms carrying episodes six days early starting June 25.
Edward Elric Voted Japan's Best Anime Big Brother for 2026
Edward Elric from Fullmetal Alchemist has claimed the top spot in Anime Anime's annual "Best Big Brother Character" poll for 2026, jumping from fifth place last year to dethrone Jujutsu Kaisen's Choso. The survey of 206 readers also saw Gintama's Kamui surge from seventh to third, boosted by the franchise's recent theatrical film.
MYTH & ROID Returns for 'Saga of Tanya the Evil II' OP
Saga of Tanya the Evil II has revealed its second key visual and confirmed MYTH & ROID for the opening theme, continuing the band's run across the franchise since 2017. The anime premieres July 8, 2026 on TOKYO MX and streams internationally on Crunchyroll, with a chibi mini anime sequel also on the way.
'Sound! Euphonium' Final Movie Part 2 Drops Full Trailer
Kyoto Animation has released the full trailer and final key visual for Sound! Euphonium, The Final Movie Part 2, the concluding chapter of the beloved concert band anime series. The film opens in approximately 200 theaters across Japan on September 11, 2026, alongside its original soundtrack release.
Takahata's 1968 Debut Flopped, Then Inspired Ghibli
Isao Takahata's first feature film, Horus: Prince of the Sun, was dismissed as too dark for children and bombed at the Japanese box office in 1968. Decades later, the Toei Animation production is widely recognized as the creative foundation of Studio Ghibli, with a 27-year-old Hayao Miyazaki among its key staff.
SAO, SPY x FAMILY Lead ABEMA's Proposal Day Anime Picks
Japanese streaming service ABEMA marked Proposal Day (June 7) by spotlighting three anime with standout proposal scenes: The Quintessential Quintuplets, Sword Art Online, and SPY x FAMILY. From grenade-pin rings to death-game confessions, each series puts its own spin on the big question.
Detective Conan Gets Stackable Ice Cream Figures With 6 Pairs
MegaHouse is releasing a set of stackable, ice cream-themed Detective Conan mascot figures called "Tsumichen," featuring six fan-favorite character pairs including Conan and Kaito Kid, Shinichi and Ran, and Amuro and Matsuda. The full set with an exclusive waffle cone cup is priced at ¥6,490 (approx. $42) and ships in December 2026, available for pre-order now at Premium Bandai and Animate.
33rd Crayon Shin-chan Film Unveils Trailer, Theme Song
The 33rd Crayon Shin-chan movie has released its full trailer and revealed singer-songwriter TOMOO as the theme song artist. Her new track "Otona ni Nattara" (When I Grow Up) accompanies a yokai-filled summer adventure hitting Japanese theaters on July 31, 2026.
MAPPA Sets June 19 Livestream for 15th Anniversary Lineup
MAPPA will stream a 15th anniversary lineup presentation on its YouTube channel on June 19, with updates on Chainsaw Man, Jujutsu Kaisen, Dorohedoro, Attack on Titan, and more. The event also promises new project reveals, cast appearances from across the studio's biggest franchises, and an original anniversary song by PEOPLE 1.
'Delicious in Dungeon' S2 Update Set for Anime Expo 2026
Trigger will reveal new Delicious in Dungeon Season 2 details during its panel at Anime Expo 2026 on July 4 in Los Angeles. The studio's panel kicks off at 2 p.m. local time (July 5, 6 a.m. JST), and a revival of the anime's companion radio show will stream the same day on YouTube.
Fans Pick Megumi Ogata's Best Roles for Her Birthday Poll
Voice actress Megumi Ogata turned a year older on June 6, and Japanese entertainment site Anime Anime marked the occasion with a reader poll asking fans to pick their favorite character she's played. Jujutsu Kaisen's Yuta Okkotsu and Yu Yu Hakusho's Kurama tied for first with about 19% of the vote each, while Toilet-bound Hanako-kun's title ghost came in third at 17%.
'FMA' Star Shinichiro Miki Joins 'Hell Mode' Season 2
Hell Mode Season 2 has added Shinichirō Miki and Taketora to its voice cast and locked in a July 3, 2026 premiere on TOKYO MX. The main PV, released alongside the casting news, previews Allen's arrival at the academy city and debuts the new opening theme by rock band Romanha Mashumaro.
'Apothecary Diaries' Novel Exhibition Opens in Yokohama
The Apothecary Diaries original novel exhibition has opened its second venue at Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, running from June 5 through June 21, 2026. The Yokohama stop adds new merchandise, a freshly written short story exhibit, and illustrator commentary not available at the Tokyo run last December.
'Kakegurui,' 'Vinland Saga' Stars Join 'Livid Lady' Anime
Yū Serizawa (Kakegurui) and Shizuka Ishigami (Vinland Saga) have joined the cast of A Livid Lady's Guide to Getting Even, a revenge fantasy anime premiering July 6, 2026. A main trailer also dropped, previewing the full voice cast and a first listen of Yui Ogura's opening theme "Q.E.D."
Detective Conan Takes Over Osaka's Abeno Harukas for 30th Anniversary
Osaka's Abeno Harukas will host a Detective Conan collaboration event at its Harukas 300 observatory from July 24 through November 29, 2026, celebrating the TV anime's 30th broadcast anniversary. The event will transform the 300-meter-high observation deck into a Conan-themed experience featuring episode retrospectives set in the Kansai region and a special exhibit on Heiji and Kazuha's love story.
My Hero Academia Light-Up IC Card Cases Get Restocked
Bandai is restocking its My Hero Academia PIICA+ Clear Pass Cases, which light up when tapped on IC card readers at train gates and convenience stores. The set of six features original-illustration designs of Deku, Bakugo, Uraraka, Monoma, Shinso, and Toga Himiko, priced at ¥1,980 each. Pre-orders on Premium Bandai close June 7, 2026, with shipping set for July.
Fuji TV Launches TOON8 Webtoon Label With Anime Ambitions
Fuji TV has entered the webtoon market with TOON8, a new label partnering with four production studios to release original series on LINE Manga. The label's debut title, revenge fantasy Fukushū no Assassin Doll, launched on June 5, and its producer says the team is already building toward an anime adaptation.
Heavily Armed High School Girls Anime Set for 2027
Illustrator neco's popular figure franchise Heavily Armed High School Girls is getting a TV anime in 2027. Masaki Tachibana (Princess Principal, Barakamon) directs at Good Smile Film, with Natsuko Takahashi on series composition. A teaser PV and new key visual were released alongside the announcement.
Mika Nakashima Sings 'Mushoku Tensei' Season 3 Ending Theme
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 released its main promotional video on June 4, built entirely from finished anime footage and featuring Rudeus with both wives Sylphiette and Roxy in family scenes and combat. The trailer also reveals singer Mika Nakashima performing the ending theme, with a song written by Hitorie's Shinoda.
'Apothecary Diaries' Ichiban Kuji Drops Dancer Maomao Figure
A new Ichiban Kuji prize lottery for The Apothecary Diaries launches June 5 across Japanese convenience stores and hobby shops. The eight-tier lineup is headlined by a 22cm Maomao MASTERLISE figure recreating her dancer costume from the Season 1 finale, with draws priced at 770 yen (roughly $5) each.
Hancock Returns to USJ for One Piece Premier Summer 2026
Universal Studios Japan's annual One Piece summer takeover returns July 30 through November 19, 2026, with three headline attractions. The live Premier Show brings back Boa Hancock and the Kuja Pirates for the first time in 12 years, while a new Elbaf-themed Story Ride and Sanji's Pirate Restaurant round out the lineup.
'Solo Leveling' Star Taito Ban Joins Doga Kobo's 'Mobius Dust'
Doga Kobo's original supernatural battle anime Mobius Dust has unveiled its key visual, first main PV, and six additional cast members ahead of its July 9 premiere. Solo Leveling star Taito Ban leads the new additions as team leader Shousei, joined by Attack on Titan's Shiori Mikami and four others.
'Magilumiere' Season 2 Adds Two Government Officials
Magilumiere Magical Girls Inc. Season 2 has added two government authority figures to its cast ahead of its July 4 premiere. Kōsuke Gotō (後藤光祐) joins as Director Koshigaya, head of the Magical Energy Agency, while Taketora (武虎) plays Director Manda of the Magical Technology Research Institute.
'Attack on Titan' Survey Corps Fashion Line Opens Pre-Orders
A new Attack on Titan collaboration with Japanese fashion brand earth music&ecology Japan Label launches 15 wearable items inspired by the Survey Corps, from a cloak-style hoodie to ODM gear jewelry. Pre-orders open June 5, 2026 on STRIPE CLUB and ZOZOTOWN, running through June 22.
'Demon Slayer' Infinity Castle T-Shirts Drop This September
Japanese apparel brand COSPA is releasing three full-color T-shirts featuring Demon Slayer's Infinity Castle battles, with designs depicting Tanjiro and Giyu vs. Akaza, Zenitsu vs. Kaigaku, and Shinobu vs. Doma. All three are available for pre-order now at ¥4,950 (approx. $32) each, shipping in early September 2026.
Ado Sings Live-Action 'Blue Lock' Movie Theme 'Monstro'
Ado will perform "Monstro," the theme song for the upcoming live-action Blue Lock movie, reuniting with producers Giga and TeddyLoid for a Latin-flavored track with lyrics by ryo of supercell. The announcement came alongside a second trailer and main poster for the film, which opens in Japan on August 7, 2026.
'NANA' Singer Mika Nakashima Sings 'Mushoku Tensei III' ED
Mika Nakashima, the singer behind "Yuki no Hana" and the NANA film's "Glamorous Sky," performs the ending theme for Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3. The track "Inori, Owareba" was written by Hitorie's Shinoda, who also composed the Season 2 Part 2 opening. A new main PV packed with first-look footage dropped alongside the announcement ahead of the July 5, 2026 premiere.
Demon Slayer's Genya, Kanao Get Gold Leaf Mechanical Watches
Japanese watchmaker GARRACK has revealed two new Demon Slayer mechanical watches featuring Shinazugawa Genya and Tsuyuri Kanao, each decorated with hand-applied Kanazawa gold leaf by traditional artisans. Priced at ¥74,800 (approximately $480) each, pre-orders open today with a July 3 release date.
Amazon Japan Kindle Sale Offers 50% Back on Manga
Amazon Japan is running a Kindle "Manga Weekend Festival" with 50% point back on over 20 manga series that have anime or live-action adaptations. The sale covers titles like Kaiju No. 8, Lycoris Recoil, Ouran High School Host Club, and Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway's Flash, and runs through June 7, 2026.
'Oshi no Ko' Nagano Collab Launches Carnation Gifts
Nagano Prefecture's JA Saku Asama agricultural cooperative is releasing Oshi no Ko collaboration flower gifts featuring rare locally grown carnations. The first wave, part of the anime's ongoing 47 Prefectures nationwide project, goes on sale July 19 at KARUIZAWA FLOWER MARKET 2026 with three character-themed arrangements starring Ai, B-Komachi, and Kurokawa Akane.
Chainsaw Man, Dandadan Both Hit Vol. 24 Today
Chainsaw Man and Dandadan both drop their 24th volumes on the same day as part of a stacked June 4, 2026 manga release slate. Boruto: Two Blue Vortex vol. 8, Witch Watch vol. 26, and over 50 other titles round out one of the month's biggest release days across Shueisha and KADOKAWA.
Haikyu!! x VNL 2026 Gets New Visual From Production I.G
Haikyu!! and the Volleyball Nations League are teaming up for a third straight year. Production I.G drew a new collaboration visual featuring Hinata and Hoshiumi mid-spike, with crossover videos matching anime plays to real Japanese national team moments rolling out from mid-June.
'Detective Conan' Creator Designs 24-Hour TV Charity Tee Again
Detective Conan creator Gosho Aoyama has designed the charity T-shirt for Nippon TV's 24-Hour Television for the second year running — a first in the telethon's 49-year history. The shirts go on sale July 1 at Aeon stores nationwide, priced at ¥2,200 across a record six colorways.
My Hero Academia Concert Draws 8,000 Fans in Yokohama
The My Hero Academia IN Concert event packed Pacifico Yokohama with roughly 8,000 fans across two performances on May 30, featuring composer Yuki Hayashi leading a live orchestra through the anime's entire eight-season run. Voice actors Daiki Yamashita (Deku), Nobuhiko Okamoto (Bakugo), and Yuki Kaji (Todoroki) performed live dubbing of iconic scenes alongside the orchestra, reducing much of the audience to tears — and an Osaka show plus a U.S. tour are next.
Manga About Firing Your Only Sysadmin Gets TV Anime
The workplace manga about a system engineer who gets fired despite being the only person running all of her company's IT systems is getting a TV anime adaptation. Based on a web novel by 下城米雪, the manga version illustrated by Io has been serialized on Comic PASH! neo, with volume 5 dropping June 5, 2026.
'Baki-Dou' Part 2 Drops Main Trailer, New Theme Songs
Baki-Dou: The Invincible Samurai just dropped the main trailer for Part 2, showcasing Miyamoto Musashi's brutal showdowns against the underground arena's greatest fighters. Hokkaido rock band Chevon performs the new opening theme "Roku no Wa," while Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS handle the ending with "KATANA." All 12 episodes of Part 2 hit Netflix worldwide on June 18, 2026.
'Smoking Behind the Supermarket' Launches Early on ABEMA
Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You began early streaming on ABEMA on June 3, featuring exclusive theme songs by ZUTOMAYO and imase — including the latter's viral mega-hit "NIGHT DANCER" as the ending theme. The full TV broadcast on TBS kicks off in July 2026 with an entirely different set of songs from the same two artists.
'Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26' Anime Sets September Blu-ray
The anime anthology Tatsuki Fujimoto 17-26, which adapts eight early short works by Chainsaw Man creator Tatsuki Fujimoto, will release on Blu-ray on September 30, 2026. Three editions are planned, topped by a made-to-order Limited Edition with an original Fujimoto illustration sticker set and a designer T-shirt, available for pre-order through July 23.
'Re:Zero' Season 4 Episode 75 Delivers Pure Horror
Re:Zero Season 4's Loss Arc crossed into full horror territory with Episode 75, "Zangai" (Remnants), airing June 3. An amnesiac Subaru found his companions slaughtered, was killed by someone who looked like the supposedly comatose Rem, and then discovered a bloody message on his own arm suggesting he might be the culprit. Only two episodes remain in the arc.
Frieren's Stark Tops Chiaki Kobayashi Birthday Fan Poll
Stark from Frieren: Beyond Journey's End claimed the top spot in the annual fan poll for voice actor Chiaki Kobayashi's best role, jumping from third to first with about 19 percent of the vote. Deuce Spade from Disney Twisted Wonderland held second, while last year's winner Mash Burnedead from Mashle: Magic and Muscles slipped to third out of 371 total votes.
USJ One Piece Show Brings Back Hancock After 12 Years
Universal Studios Japan's One Piece Premier Show 2026 welcomes Boa Hancock and the Kuja Pirates back to the Water World stage for the first time in 12 years. The summer event, running July 30 through November 19, also features Smoker and Rob Lucci in a park-exclusive original story, alongside the returning Sanji's Pirate Restaurant and a One Piece coaster overlay.
Good Smile Launches Yearly Mecha Franchise 'Dandivine'
Good Smile Company, best known for its Nendoroid and figma figure lines, is launching a yearly combining-robot anime franchise. The first entry, Dandivine (獣王武神ダンデヴァイン), premieres in October 2026 with Takuma Terashima leading the cast and Takanori Nishikawa performing the opening theme.
ABEMA Opens Free Dr. STONE Channel With Full Series Marathon
Streaming platform ABEMA will reopen a dedicated free Dr. STONE channel from June 10 to 26, broadcasting every episode from Season 1 through the Final Season's latest installment. The 16-day marathon covers the full series plus the Ryusui TV special, timed to the anime's approaching conclusion.
Re:Zero Leads Spring 2026 Search, but New Shows Own the Buzz
Bushiroad's Anime Data Insight Lab analyzed all 72 Spring 2026 anime across their first four broadcast weeks, tracking Google search volume and X post activity. Re:ZERO led search throughout, but fan conversation saw a complete reversal: sequels held 7 of the Top 10 spots in Week 1, then new shows claimed 7 of 10 by Week 4. Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk is the only new title growing in both metrics.
Kotobukiya's OSHI WORKS Pairs Maomao and Jinshi Figures
Kotobukiya's OSHI WORKS line is adding The Apothecary Diaries leads Maomao and Jinshi as a matched pair of figures with a faithful 5cm height difference. Maomao ships in November 2026 and Jinshi in December, priced at ¥8,800 each, with magnet-based stands that let collectors display them side by side.
'Frieren' Film Concert Key Visual Shows the Party in Concert Dress
The Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Film Concert 2026 has unveiled its key visual, depicting Frieren, Fern, and Stark in formal attire playing flute, violin, and French horn. The concert on August 1 at Pacifico Yokohama will feature the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra performing highlights from both seasons, with composer Evan Call and singer milet appearing as special guests.
'Delicious in Dungeon' Season 2 News Headed to Anime Expo
Delicious in Dungeon is gearing up for its second season, and Trigger is bringing fresh details to the Studio Trigger panel at Anime Expo 2026 on July 4. Meanwhile, the anime's radio show returns on July 5 with Laios and Marcille voice actors Kentaro Kumagai and Sayaka Senbongi hosting a special summer broadcast on YouTube.
'Kimi Ai' Romance Anime Unveils Main PV and Theme Artists
The TV anime adaptation of The Duke's Son Claims He Won't Love Me yet Showers Me with Adoration — known as Kimi Ai — has dropped its main promotional video and announced its theme song lineup. Singer-songwriter Riria. performs opening theme "Itsuka Chanto." while sorato handles the ending with "Saishūkai," ahead of the series' July 4, 2026 premiere on TV Asahi's NUMAnimation block.
'Haikyu!!' Nekoma Lottery Debuts Coach Nekomata Noodle Stopper Figure
A new Haikyu!! lottery focused entirely on Nekoma High School launches June 13 across Japanese convenience stores, featuring the first-ever figure of Coach Nekomata — designed to hold down your cup noodle lid. The FuRyu Kuji lineup also includes Kenma and Kuroo figures in their second uniforms, plush mascots, and connectable acrylic stands.
Netflix's 'Viral Hit' Drops Intense Boxing Scene Stills
Netflix has released four new stills from its live-action adaptation of the mega-hit webtoon Viral Hit, showcasing a climactic boxing ring confrontation between lead Ōji Suzuka and villain Yūsuke Iseya. The series streams worldwide on June 11, 2026.
Kenjiro Tsuda Returns in Chibi Maruko-chan Beer CM Sequel
Suntory's live-action Chibi Maruko-chan beer commercial series is back with a new installment. The 'Hide-jii Stargazing' CM, starring Kenjiro Tsuda as the Hanawa family butler alongside Suzu Hirose, Sairi Ito, and Joe Odagiri, begins airing across Japan on June 8, 2026.
'JoJo's' Dio Actor on Directing 'Steel Ball Run' Dub
Patrick Seitz, the longtime English voice of Dio Brando, sat down for a staff interview about his work directing the Steel Ball Run English dub on Netflix. Seitz breaks down the casting of Daman Mills as Johnny Joestar and Kaiji Tang as Gyro Zeppeli, and makes a case for watching the 1st STAGE with English audio and Japanese subtitles.
'Overgeared' Gets TV Anime This October at J.C.STAFF
REDICE STUDIO's hit webtoon Overgeared — from the same manhwa production house behind Solo Leveling — is getting a TV anime adaptation at J.C.STAFF this October. Director Ayako Kono, who helmed both Sword Art Online Progressive films, leads the production with Tatsumaru Tachibana and Asami Seto voicing protagonists Grid and Yura.
'Oshi no Ko' Exhibition Reveals Merch, Adds 2 Tour Cities
The Oshi no Ko manga exhibition has unveiled its full merchandise lineup — including replicas of Ai's iconic hair accessory and cap — and confirmed tour dates in Hyogo and Kagoshima after its Tokyo debut. Creators Aka Akasaka and Yokoyari Mengo are also releasing an 11-part behind-the-scenes interview series alongside the exhibition's rollout.
'Frieren' Gets Iconic Japanese Bathhouse Bucket Collab
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is launching a hot-spring-themed merch line called Onsen no Frieren, and its first product is a collaboration with Japan's most iconic bathhouse accessory — the Kerorin bucket. The yellow tub features a new illustration of Frieren soaking in a hot spring, priced at ¥2,530 (roughly $17).
Uta Tops Fan Poll for Best Anime Character Who Fights With Song
Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED claimed the top spot in Anime Anime's 2026 reader poll asking which anime character best represents fighting through song, earning roughly 19 percent of the vote from 805 respondents. Macross 7's Nekki Basara took second at 14 percent, with Symphogear's Hibiki Tachibana rounding out the top three.
Blue Lock's Kuon Tops Japan's Best Anime 'Traitor' Poll
Blue Lock's Wataru Kuon has claimed the No. 1 spot in Anime Anime's annual "traitor character" reader poll for 2026, edging out last year's winner Kurozumi Kanjuro from ONE PIECE. Attack on Titan's Reiner Braun held steady at third, while BLEACH landed two entries in the top five with Gin Ichimaru and Sosuke Aizen.
'Samurai Troopers' Cour 2 Premieres July 7 With New Cast
Yoroi-Shinden Samurai Troopers kicks off its second cour on July 7, 2026, expanding the celestial Tendōkai faction with three new cast members: Tomoaki Maeno, Aya Endo, and Hiroshi Shirokuma. The announcement comes alongside a new PV, an updated key visual, and confirmation that Dannie May and Karanoa will perform the new opening and ending themes.
Rakuten's Panda Joins 'Demon Slayer' for Blu-ray Collab
Rakuten Group has launched a cross-platform collaboration campaign celebrating the July 29 Blu-ray and DVD release of Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Chapter 1 — Akaza Returns, the ¥40.2 billion ($260 million) domestic box office hit. The campaign runs through August 31, offering 1,850 winners exclusive Demon Slayer x Okaimono Panda drawstring bags, plus Rakuten Books-exclusive merchandise including acrylic calendars, scene-photo karuta cards, and a mini Demon Slayer Corps greeting photo event.
Kodansha's Afternoon Magazine Unveils 40th Anniversary Expo Merch
Kodansha has revealed the first wave of merchandise and exhibition displays for the Afternoon 40th Anniversary Exhibition, running July 10-26 at Tokyo's Sunshine City. Highlights include Land of the Lustrous goods designed by creator Haruko Ichikawa, life-size standees from Oh My Goddess! and Genshiken, and a scene-recreation diorama from Knights of Sidonia.
Miyuki Sawashiro's Detective Conan Role Tops Birthday Poll
Voice actor Miyuki Sawashiro's newest role — Hagiwara Chihaya from Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway — has been voted her best character in Anime Anime's annual birthday poll, knocking Demon Slayer's Daki from the top spot. Oscar from The Rose of Versailles took second place, making Sawashiro's two most recent theatrical leads her most popular roles among 844 voters.
'My Hero Academia' Gets Tough Gummy Collab With Prizes
Kabaya Foods is launching a My Hero Academia collaboration with its Tough Gummy candy line, featuring four limited-edition package designs starring Deku, Bakugo, All Might, Todoroki, and more. The collab gummies hit stores across Japan on June 8, 2026, with a prize campaign offering exclusive keychains and bath towels running from June 23 through August 31.
'Dodge Danko' Anime Sets July 6 Premiere, Adds 6 Cast
The TV anime adaptation of Dodge Danko — the sequel to the classic 90s dodgeball series Dodge Danpei — premieres July 6 on TOKYO MX, MBS, and BS11. A main PV dropped alongside the reveal of six new cast members including Sumire Uesaka and Fairouz Ai, plus Momoiro Clover Z performing the opening theme.
'Apothecary Diaries' Game Hits 200K Pre-Registrations
The Apothecary Diaries: Palace Chronicles, the upcoming browser game on CTW's G123 platform, has crossed 200,000 pre-registrations. The milestone unlocks fan-favorite handmaiden Xiaolan as a free character for every player when the game launches. CTW also revealed a new festival-themed illustration of Maomao to mark the occasion.
'Samurai Troopers' Reboot Adds Three Cast for July Return
Sunrise's Ronin Warriors reboot Yoroi-Shinden Samurai Troopers returns for its second cour on July 7, adding Tomoaki Maeno, Aya Endo, and Hiroshi Shirokuma as divine-realm antagonists. A new key visual, full PV, and theme song details accompany the announcement.
'Marronnier Kingdom' Manga Goes Free Before October Anime
Shogakukan is offering free chapters of Nao Iwamoto's fantasy manga The Seven Knights of the Marronnier Kingdom on its Fura Comi Like! platform, along with her other works Gold Kingdom and Water Kingdom and Machi de Uwasa no Tengu no Ko. The campaign celebrates the manga's upcoming TV anime adaptation at J.C.Staff, set to premiere on NHK E-Tele in October 2026.
Haikyu's Hinata Tops Japan's Orange Character Poll for 7th Year
Shōyō Hinata from Haikyu!! has claimed the top spot in Anime Anime's annual "Which character has orange as their image color?" reader poll for the seventh consecutive year. Nami from One Piece held steady at second place for the fourth year running, while Code Geass's Jeremiah Gottwald surged from seventh to third amid the franchise's 20th anniversary celebrations.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Shibuya Yuji S.H.Figuarts Opens Pre-Orders
Bandai Spirits is releasing S.H.Figuarts Yuji Itadori -120% Potential-, a new action figure capturing Yuji's Shibuya Incident form complete with Black Flash effect parts, for ¥8,250 (approx. $55). Pre-orders open June 1, 2026, with the Yuji figure shipping in November and a reissue of the S.H.Figuarts Sukuna following in December.
'Paradox Live' Anime Film Revealed at Record Arena Show
Paradox Live THE ANIMATION is getting a film adaptation, announced at the franchise's largest-ever live event at Tokyo's Ariake Arena on May 31, 2026. The movie, produced by Studio GRAPH77, will feature all nine teams and 29 characters — including four teams that never appeared in the 2023 TV anime.
'Bocchi the Rock!' Kikuri Spinoff Hits Volume 7 Today
Bocchi the Rock! Gaiden: Hiroi Kikuri no Fukazake Nikki reaches volume 7 today, June 1, headlining a packed manga release day in Japan. The spinoff following SICKHACK's hard-drinking bassist is among over 40 new tankōbon across publishers including KADOKAWA, Houbunsha, Hobby Japan, and more.
'Paradox Live' Anime Film Brings All 9 Teams Together
Paradox Live THE ANIMATION is getting a theatrical film featuring all nine teams — 29 characters total — with production moving to the newly formed STUDIO GRAPH77. The announcement dropped alongside news that the multimedia franchise's 4th Season launches in September 2026, both revealed at the Dope Show 2026 live event at Tokyo's Ariake Arena.
Lotte's 'Pai no Mi' Snack Gets Its Own Anime on YouTube
Lotte is turning its 48-year-old Pai no Mi snack into an anime. Titled Pai no Mi: Oshi no Mori e Yokoso! (パイの実 おしの森へようこそ！), the eight-episode series begins streaming free on Lotte's official YouTube channel on June 4, 2026, with Crayon Shin-chan voice actor Yumiko Kobayashi leading the cast.
Demon Slayer Celebrates Mitsuri Kanroji's Birthday With New Art
The official Demon Slayer account marked Mitsuri Kanroji's June 1 birthday with a fresh ufotable-drawn chibi illustration, drawing an outpouring of fan love. The mini-character art showcases the Love Hashira in her signature look, with fans praising her "big round eyes" and calling the piece "too precious."
'Detective Conan' Film Launches Enhanced 4DX Screenings
Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway has upgraded its 4DX theatrical screenings to a rebuilt "Super Limit-Breaking" version, cranking seat motion speed to 1.5 times the original, amplifying vibration effects, and layering on wind and heat to turn the film's motorcycle chase sequences into a full-body experience. The enhanced format launched May 29 in Japanese theaters.
DanDaDan Ichiban Kuji Drops Okarun, Aira Figures in June
A new DanDaDan Ichiban Kuji lottery line themed around a "Music Room Dance Party" launches in Japan on June 27, 2026, headlined by MASTERLISE figures of transformed Okarun and Aira. The lineup also includes a Turbo Granny piggy bank, chibi figures, hologram stickers, and a squishy Last One plush — all priced at 820 yen per draw.
'Frieren' Stars Nearly Cry Previewing New USJ Collab
The Frieren: Beyond Journey's End collaboration at Universal Studios Japan officially opened on May 30, featuring a walk-through attraction, themed restaurant, and ride. Voice actors Atsumi Tanezaki and Nobuhiko Okamoto attended the opening ceremony, both admitting they nearly cried experiencing the anime's world brought to life at the Osaka theme park.
'KonoSuba' Star Sora Amamiya Joins 'Yowaki MAX' Anime
The TV anime adaptation of Yowaki MAX Reijou Nanoni, Ratsuwan Konyakusha-sama no Kake ni Notte Shimatta has dropped its first PV and revealed three new cast members: Rina Hidaka, Sora Amamiya, and Haruki Ishiya. The villainess isekai rom-com premieres in October 2026, produced at studio Jumondo.
Conan and Precure Stars Hype 'Historic' Anime Crossover
Detective Conan and Star Detective Precure! are swapping lead characters across two different TV networks in a crossover that kicks off today, May 31. Voice actors Minami Takayama (Conan) and Hikari Senga (Cure Answer) shared their reactions, with Takayama calling the cross-studio collaboration "a historic incident."
Demon Slayer Episode 9 Still Shocks Fans in 2026 Rebroadcast
Demon Slayer's ongoing full series rebroadcast reached Episode 9 on May 31, throwing fans back into the brutal Temari Demon and Arrow Demon battle. Voice actors Mikako Komatsu and Jun Fukuyama shared behind-the-scenes comments for the occasion, with Komatsu revealing she had no idea her character was meeting the Arrow Demon for the first time.
Touhou's Marisa Kirisame Tops Japan's Best Witch Poll Again
Touhou Project's Marisa Kirisame has claimed the top spot in Anime Anime's annual "Best Witch/Magic-User Character" reader poll for the second year running, edging out Frieren by just a handful of votes. Kiki from Kiki's Delivery Service rounds out an unchanged top three, while newer entries like Witch Watch's Niko Wakatsuki and Silent Witch's Monica Everett crack the top ten.
'Detective Conan' Drops Hotel Key Chains, Macaron Merch
Detective Conan is getting a fresh wave of themed merchandise, including a second volume of hotel room key-style acrylic ball chains and a new "Macaron Collection" featuring chibi characters popping out of pastel sweets. Pre-orders for both lines are open now through mid-to-late June 2026.
Detective Conan's Ai Haibara Tops 'Deserves Happiness' Poll Again
Ai Haibara from Detective Conan has claimed the top spot in Anime Anime's annual "Which character do you most want to be happy?" reader poll for the second straight year, beating out Jujutsu Kaisen's Satoru Gojo at #2 and fellow Conan cast member Ran Mouri at #3. The survey of 347 fans, timed to Japan's May 29 "Happiness Day," drew passionate responses about characters who've endured loss, loneliness, and impossible circumstances.
'K-On!' Star Yoko Hikasa Joins 'Frontier Lord' Anime Cast
The Frontier Lord Begins with Zero Subjects has added five new voice cast members — headlined by Yōko Hikasa and Nao Tōyama — along with its opening and ending theme songs and a second promotional video. The slow-life fantasy anime premieres July 10, 2026 on TOKYO MX.
'Frieren' Voice Stars 'Nearly Cried' at New USJ Attractions
Atsumi Tanezaki and Nobuhiko Okamoto — the voices of Frieren and Himmel — previewed Universal Studios Japan's new Frieren: Beyond Journey's End collaboration program at its opening ceremony on May 29, 2026. Both actors said they were moved to tears by the walkthrough attraction's life-sized recreations of the anime's most iconic scenes. The full collaboration, featuring a story walk, themed restaurant, and roller coaster overlay, opens to the public today.
'One Piece' Reveals Knights of God Cast in Elbaph Trailer
The One Piece anime has unveiled the voice cast for the Knights of God in a new Elbaph arc trailer. Sumire Uesaka, Hiroki Yasumoto, and Shinnosuke Tachibana join the previously announced Kenjirō Tsuda as the World Government's elite enforcers, who are set to make their animated debut as the Straw Hats' time on the island of giants heats up.
Kento Kaku's 'Never After Dark' Wows at Japan Premiere
The horror film Never After Dark, produced by Kento Kaku and directed by Dave Boyle, drew rapturous reactions at its Japan Premiere screening in Tokyo, with audiences calling it "a revolution in Japanese horror cinema." Starring Moeka Hoshi of Shogun fame, the film opens nationwide in Japan on June 5, 2026.
Gundam X Screenwriter Hiroyuki Kawasaki Dies at 60
Hiroyuki Kawasaki, the anime screenwriter best known for his series composition work on After War Gundam X and Sakura Wars, passed away on January 23, 2026 at the age of 60. His death went unreported for months until fellow screenwriter Takao Koyama shared the news on May 29, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the anime industry.
'Evangelion' Animator's 'Grotesqqque' Film Casts 14 Stars
Atsushi Nishigori, the character designer behind Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 and director of DARLING in the FRANXX, has unveiled the 14-person cast for his original anime film anthology GROTESQQQUE at CloverWorks. The roster spans elite voice actors like Saori Hayami and Rie Kugimiya, musician-actor Gen Hoshino, live-action star Sara Minami, and four members of idol group Nogizaka46 — but not a single role assignment has been revealed.
CloverWorks' 'Grotesqqque' Film Unveils 14-Member Cast
Director Atsushi Nishigori and CloverWorks have revealed all 14 cast members for Grotesqqque, an original three-part anime anthology film arriving in Japanese theaters in 2026. The genre-spanning lineup mixes seasoned voice actors like Rie Kugimiya and Saori Hayami with Nogizaka46 idols, singer-actor Gen Hoshino, and actress Sara Minami — though who plays whom remains under wraps.
'Detective Conan' Crosses Into 'Star Detective Precure'
Conan Edogawa crosses network lines to appear in Star Detective Precure! episode 18, "Star Detectives Assemble," airing May 31. The crossover goes both ways — Cure Answer will guest in the Detective Conan anime on June 6.
Lupin III Film, Dragon Ball Hit Prime Video Japan in June
Amazon Prime Video Japan's June 2026 lineup brings a stacked anime slate, headlined by the exclusive streaming debut of LUPIN THE IIIRD THE MOVIE: Fujimi no Ichizoku — the franchise's first new 2D theatrical film in roughly 30 years. Classic series including Dragon Ball, Gintama, and Kuroko's Basketball also join the catalog alongside the Academy Award-nominated live-action film Kokuho.
Snack Mascot Sakuyama Choco Jiro Gets Own Anime Series
Japan's beloved chocolate biscuit mascot Sakuyama Choco Jiro has officially entered the anime world. The short-form series from studio rhinokino launched today across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram with 10 episodes to celebrate the snack's 10th anniversary, with two new episodes dropping every Friday.
'MHA' Star Koki Uchiyama Leads 'Tank Chair' Anime Cast
The TV anime adaptation of Tank Chair has revealed its main cast ahead of its Fall 2026 premiere. Kōki Uchiyama (内山昂輝) leads as protagonist Taira Nagi, joined by Minori Fujidera (藤寺美徳), Gakuto Kajiwara (梶原岳人), and Saori Hayami (早見沙織) — with a character PV now live from Polygon Pictures' 3DCG production.
One Piece x NBA T-Shirt Collection Drops on Premium Bandai
A new One Piece x NBA collaboration T-shirt line featuring seven character designs is now up for pre-order on Premium Bandai. Each shirt runs ¥6,600 (approx. $43) in black or white, with sizes from S to XXL and a September 2026 ship date.
'Haikyu!!' Exhibition Reveals Full Interactive Lineup
The upcoming Haikyu!! On The Court interactive exhibition has revealed its complete content lineup, featuring three themed zones — Jump, Hit, and Connect — where visitors can challenge characters' vertical leaps, experience Hinata and Kageyama's quick attack evolution, and attempt to receive serves from the series' biggest servers. The event opens June 27 in Osaka before moving to Tokyo on August 7.
'Wistoria' Season 2 Episode 20 Preview Teases a Mysterious Witch
Wistoria: Wand and Sword Season 2 releases preview images and the synopsis for Episode 20, "The Witch's Teachings," airing May 31. The episode sees Will training to infuse his sword with magic ahead of the Second Bloom festival — until an assassin sent by Kroitz forces a mysterious witch into the spotlight.
'You and I Are Polar Opposites' Season 2 Drops New PV, OP
You and I Are Polar Opposites Season 2 unveiled its second PV set to the newly announced opening theme "Nekojarashi" by music project 7co. The romantic comedy adaptation of Agasawa Kōcha's manga premieres July 5, 2026 on MBS/TBS.
'ARIA' Season 2 and 3 Soundtracks Get Vinyl Releases
The beloved soundtracks of ARIA The NATURAL and ARIA The ORIGINATION are getting vinyl editions on September 2, 2026, completing a trilogy of analog releases that began with the first season's vinyl last December. The ORIGINATION set includes a limited-edition storage box with new artwork by manga creator Kozue Amano, designed to house all three vinyl releases together.
KADOKAWA's Da Vinci Magazine Ending Print Run After 32 Years
KADOKAWA's Da Vinci magazine, a staple of Japanese book and comics culture for 32 years, will publish its final print issue on October 6, 2026. The publisher cited dramatic shifts in the publishing market and changing reader habits, though the companion Da Vinci Web site will continue operating.
'TenSura' Season 4 Episode 8 Teases Mariabell's Scheme
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 has released the synopsis and scene stills for Episode 8, "Greed's Groundwork." Rimuru learns from Glenda that Yuuki is being controlled by Mariabell Rosso, pushing him to cut contact with the Free Guild — but a joint ruins investigation is already on the calendar, and the clock is ticking.
7co to Perform 'You and I Are Polar Opposites' S2 OP
Rising music duo 7co will perform "Nekojyarashi" as the Season 2 opening theme for You and I Are Polar Opposites, with a new trailer showcasing the track now online. The rom-com adaptation returns to MBS/TBS on July 5, 2026, with same-day streaming on ABEMA and Prime Video.
Ex-AKB48 Star Murayama Yuiri Leads 'Dandadan' Stage Play
The stage adaptation of Dandadan has unveiled its full cast, with former AKB48 member Murayama Yuiri (村山彩希) taking on the role of Momo in her first 2.5D stage production. Ninomiya Raimu (二宮礼夢), who starred as Hinata in the Haikyu!! stage play, will play Okarun opposite Hyakuna Hiroki (百名ヒロキ) as the character's transformed state, with performances running August through September 2026 in Tokyo and Osaka.
'Haikyu' Gets 34-Character Silver Ear Cuff Collection
U-TREASURE has opened pre-orders for a new Haikyu!! ear cuff line covering all nine rival schools from the anime, with 34 character-engraved varieties in sterling silver. The collection is priced at ¥17,600 (approx. $113) per piece and available through June 29, 2026.
'Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride' Prequel Spinoff Launches
A new spinoff manga for The Ayakashi Hunter's Tainted Bride launched in Monthly Shonen Sirius on May 26, 2026. Titled Koto Onmyo Gakko: Kizumono no Hanayome Gaiden, the series follows fan-favorite trio Benitsubaki Yako, Kikuoji Kazunari, and Kyogoku Reiji during their student days at an imperial onmyo academy — and it's already the franchise's second simultaneous spinoff.
'Grand Blue Dreaming' Season 3 Drops Stylish Palau Key Visual
Grand Blue Dreaming Season 3 unveiled a new key visual showing the cast strolling through Palau, alongside the announcement that FUNKY MONKEY BΛBY'S will perform the opening theme "Natsuko." The comedy anime premieres in July 2026 on TOKYO MX, BS11, and MBS, with advance screenings of the first two episodes on June 19.
Demon Slayer Sunday Rerun Reaches Tamayo's Gory Debut
Demon Slayer's ongoing full-series rebroadcast hit a fan-favorite milestone on May 24 with episode 8, introducing the demon doctor Tamayo and her loyal companion Yushiro. Voiced by Maaya Sakamoto, Tamayo's arrival had viewers cheering — while Muzan Kibutsuki's brutal Asakusa rampage left fans wondering if the Sunday 9:30 AM timeslot on Fuji TV was ready for the bloodshed.
'Attack on Titan' Nijigen no Mori Merch Now Ships Online
Exclusive Attack on Titan merchandise from the ongoing Nijigen no Mori collaboration event on Awaji Island is now available for online purchase. The goods — including Armin's themed salt and Levi's quote memo pad — went on sale May 16, 2026 through the park's official online shop.
'Apothecary Diaries' Bookstore Fair Offers Paper-Cut Cards
A bookstore fair tied to The Apothecary Diaries' first large-scale novel exhibition is now running at 47 stores across the Tokyo metro area. Fans who pick up any of the light novel's 16 volumes receive a collectible paper-cut-style card featuring Maomao or Jinshi, plus a ¥300 discount coupon for the exhibition's upcoming Yokohama run at Red Brick Warehouse.
'Bleach' Final Season Drops Main Trailer, June Screening
BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War - The Calamity has unveiled its main trailer, putting the long-awaited Ichigo vs. Yhwach showdown front and center. The fourth and final cour premieres in July 2026, with a one-day advance theatrical screening of episodes 1-3 set for June 21 in Japan — and a separate US Fathom screening running June 25-29.
'Grand Blue Dreaming' S3 Taps FUNKY MONKEY BABY'S for OP
Grand Blue Dreaming Season 3 has revealed its opening theme: "Natsuko" by reunited hip-hop duo FUNKY MONKEY BΛBY'S. The announcement arrived alongside a new key visual teasing the anime's Palau arc, with the season set to premiere in July 2026.
'Haikyu!!' x Hagi no Tsuki Pop-Up Lands at Tokyo Station
The beloved Haikyu!! collaboration with Sendai confectioner Kasho Sanzen is heading to JR Tokyo Station for the first time. From June 1 through 11, fans can grab limited-edition Hagi no Tsuki and Zunda Mochi in special Tsukishima and Oikawa packaging, along with 20 types of exclusive collab merchandise, at the Gransta Tokyo event space inside the station's ticket gates.
'DanMachi' Astrea Record Spinoff Gets Manga Serialization
The DanMachi spinoff light novel Astrea Record has launched as a manga in Square Enix's Monthly Big Gangan, with chapters 1 and 2 debuting together in the magazine's June 2026 issue. Artist Karu Yoneshiro adapts Fujino Omori's prequel story exploring fan-favorite character Ryu Lion's past.
'Parasyte' Exhibition Reveals Key Visual, 206-Page Art Book
The upcoming Parasyte Exhibition has unveiled its key visual and announced a 206-page book collecting original artwork displayed at the show, along with congratulatory illustrations from 21 manga artists. The exhibition opens June 6 at YOKOHAMA COAST and will also sell merchandise for the upcoming Historie TV anime ahead of its broadcast.
'My Hero Academia' Wins Crunchyroll's 2026 Anime of the Year
My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON took home Anime of the Year at the 10th Crunchyroll Anime Awards, held May 23 in Tokyo. Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle won Film of the Year, while The Apothecary Diaries swept four categories and Gachiakuta claimed three — all powered by a record 73 million fan votes worldwide.
'Hana-Kimi' Season 2 Premieres July 1 With Omoinotake Themes
The TV anime Hana-Kimi: For You in Full Blossom unveiled its Season 2 PV during a special broadcast on May 23, locking in a July 1, 2026 premiere. Three-piece band Omoinotake will perform both the opening theme "FLASHBULB" and the ending theme "Bouquet," with Prime Video streaming episodes one week ahead of the TV broadcast.
'Detective Conan' and Precure Cross Networks for Collab
Detective Conan and Star Detective Precure! are crossing over in two special episodes that bridge rival Japanese TV networks — a first for both franchises. Conan, Ran, and Kogoro appear in Precure Episode 18 on May 31, then Cure Answer shows up in a Detective Conan episode airing June 6.
'DanDaDan' Heroes Join 'KOF'98 UM OL' Mobile Game
The SNK-licensed mobile game KOF'98 UM OL has launched a limited-time collaboration with TV anime DanDaDan, bringing Okarun and Aira into the game as playable fighters. The crossover event, themed around a "cross-dimensional fighting adventure," is live now with exclusive characters and in-game events.
New 'Frieren' Mini-Anime Teases USJ Theme Park Event
The Frieren: Beyond Journey's End mini-anime series has dropped a special USJ edition ahead of the anime's first-ever Universal Studios Japan collaboration, which opens May 30. The new short reunites the original hero party for a comedy bit about a spell that lets the user "bask in admiration" — and Himmel's answer is exactly what you'd expect.
Attack on Titan Theme Park Merch Now Ships From Online Store
The exclusive Attack on Titan merchandise from Awaji Island's Nijigen no Mori theme park is now available through the park's official online shop, opening up the collaboration's original goods — including new illustration acrylic stands and novelty items like "Armin's Salt" — to fans who can't visit in person. The online store launched May 16, 2026, while the larger collaboration event runs through December 13.
'Gantz' Creator's 'GIGANT' Manga Lands Anime Film at Cannes
Hiroya Oku's sci-fi action manga GIGANT is getting a theatrical anime film. K2 Pictures — the film fund launched by former Toei producer Muneyuki Kii — announced the project at the Cannes Film Festival, marking the company's first-ever animated feature.
'One Piece' Ichiban Kuji Spotlights Red Hair Pirates
A new Ichiban Kuji lottery dedicated entirely to Shanks and the Red Hair Pirates launches June 6, 2026, at ¥790 per draw. The lineup includes four MASTERLISE EXPIECE figures — Shanks, Ben Beckman, Yasopp, and Lucky Roux — plus a Last One Prize that recreates the iconic Chapter 1 farewell between Shanks and Luffy.
'Would You Like to Be a Tanuki?' Manga Gets TV Anime
Tomo Nagawa's heartfelt manga about a tanuki who recruits burned-out humans into shapeshifting woodland life is getting a TV anime at Nippon Animation. Director Jun Kamiya (Hikaru no Go, Kingdom) leads the adaptation, with a teaser visual and first trailer now live — though no cast or air date has been announced yet.
'Demon Slayer' Immersive Event Tours Four Japanese Cities
A new Demon Slayer immersive event called 'Corridor of Memories' opens June 12, 2026 at Bandai Namco Cross Store in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, featuring new ufotable original illustrations of Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Giyu. The event tours Osaka, Hakata, and Yokohama through May 2027, with exclusive merchandise, themed food, and mini-games — plus an online store via Premium Bandai for fans who can't attend in person.
'Zom 100' Star Joins 'Isshiki-san' Anime for January 2027
The TV anime adaptation of Isshiki-san Wants to Know About Love. has revealed its main cast and a January 2027 premiere date. Umeda Shuichiro and Akechi Riko will lead the romantic comedy about an elite teenage police inspector who starts "dating" a bumbling detective to investigate her own mysterious heartbeat.
'Oshi no Ko' Star Otsuka Cast in 'Moon Flower Kingdom' Anime
KADOKAWA's court medical fantasy manga The Eccentric Doctor of the Moon Flower Kingdom is getting a TV anime adaptation. Takeo Otsuka (Oshi no Ko, The Apothecary Diaries) and Rina Hidaka (Sword Art Online) lead the cast, with a teaser PV now available from Studio Elle's production.
Mahjong Soul Opens Steam Store Page for Japanese Players
Mahjong Soul, the free-to-play online mahjong game known for its anime collaborations with Fate, Sword Art Online, and Blue Archive, has launched a Japanese-language Steam store page. The release date is listed as TBA, adding Steam to the game's existing lineup of iOS, Android, browser, and Windows launcher versions.
'TenSura' x Kotodaman Round 2 Adds Demon Lord Rimuru
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is crossing over with mobile word RPG Kotodaman for a second collaboration event starting May 25. The limited-time collab features Rimuru in his Octagram Demon Lord form alongside Veldora, Milim in Dragon Equipment, Luminous, and more — plus a revival of every Round 1 character with up to 100 free summon pulls.
Maaya Sakamoto's FGO Best Album 'Yoin' Arrives July 29
Maaya Sakamoto is releasing Yoin, a best album compiling all six of her Fate/Grand Order theme songs spanning a decade of the mobile RPG. The July 29 release also features a self-cover of Mamoru Miyano's 'Tomei,' unplugged sessions, and a limited-edition Blu-ray with concert footage and a new music video.
Zoro Tops Japan's Best Anime Sword Fighter Poll Again
Roronoa Zoro has claimed the top spot in Anime!Anime!'s 2026 reader poll for best sword-wielding anime character, beating out Rurouni Kenshin's Himura Kenshin and Demon Slayer's Tanjiro Kamado. The poll drew 901 votes and marks the first update to the ranking in roughly three and a half years.
'My Hero Academia' Ichiban Kuji Immortalizes Final Battle in Figures
A new Ichiban Kuji lottery line captures My Hero Academia's most emotional final-battle moments in figure form. The collection features MASTERLISE figures of Deku, Shigaraki, Bakugo, Stain, and Mineta alongside Class 1-A mini figures and Final Season collectibles, launching in-store June 20, 2026 and online June 22.
'Oshi no Ko' Fairy Tale Merch Drops at GiGO June 6
Oshi no Ko is getting a new arcade collaboration with GiGO, featuring Ai, Kana, and Akane in fairy-tale-inspired "Marchen" costumes across acrylic stands, keychains, fan uchiwa, and crane-game prizes. The campaign runs at seven GiGO locations across Japan starting June 6, 2026, with themed taiyaki treats available in Akihabara and Osaka.
'Hikaru no Go' Art Exhibition Opens at Nagoya PARCO
The Hikaru no Go Original Art Exhibition has opened its sixth venue at Nagoya PARCO, running from May 23 through June 14, 2026. The Aichi stop features rare original artwork by Takeshi Obata, character-themed drinks from a dedicated kitchen car, and a lineup of new exclusive merchandise.
'Parasyte' Exhibition Adds Tributes From Isayama, 24 More
The upcoming Parasyte Exhibition in Yokohama will feature hand-drawn shikishi tributes from 25 manga artists and anime/film alumni, including Attack on Titan creator Hajime Isayama, Vinland Saga's Makoto Yukimura, and Fairy Tail's Hiro Mashima. The event also unveiled its second wave of merchandise — headlined by Hirokawa's infamous election towel and a collection of Migi acrylic keychains.
'My Hero Academia' Voice Actor Takahiro Fujiwara Dies at 43
Voice actor Takahiro Fujiwara, best known for playing Kurogiri in My Hero Academia, has died at the age of 43. His agency Ken Production confirmed that Fujiwara passed away on May 14, with a private funeral held for close family only.
'Frieren' Official Account's Fish Pun Goes Viral
The official Frieren: Beyond Journey's End X account struck again with a food-based pun on the villain Aura's fearsome title, posting a photo of a Frieren plushie beside a plate of simmered kinmedai (golden eye snapper). Fans flooded the replies with comments like "looks delicious" and "is that really okay?" — proving, once again, that whoever runs this account deserves a raise.
'Attack on Titan' Gets Subtle Daily-Wear Merch Line
AMNIBUS has opened pre-orders for a new Attack on Titan merchandise collection under arma bianca's "ar-Unity" brand, designed to blend into everyday outfits and home decor rather than scream anime merch. The line features Eren, Erwin, and Levi across hoodies, mugs, pin badges, keychains, and illustration cards, with prices ranging from ¥495 to ¥7,678.
'Kingdom' Director Helms Heartwarming Tanuki Anime
Tomo Nagawa's manga Omae, Tanuki ni Naranee ka? (お前、タヌキにならねーか？) is getting a TV anime adaptation at Nippon Animation. Jun Kamiya, who directed the first season of Kingdom, leads the project alongside a staff that includes several Kingdom veterans.
'Apothecary Diaries' Drops Rainy May Visual With Jinshi
The Apothecary Diaries unveiled its May entry in the ongoing "Maomao and Jinshi's Journey Through the Four Seasons" visual campaign, spotlighting Jinshi and Gaoshun walking through the palace grounds as iris flowers bloom in the rain. The official site is also distributing PC and smartphone wallpapers of the new art, with a signed-card giveaway running on the show's X account.
'Oedo Fire Slayer' Drops All Episodes on Netflix Today
The Winter 2026 historical action anime Oedo Fire Slayer: The Legend of Phoenix (Hikuidori: Ushū Borotobigumi) is now streaming all episodes on Netflix as of May 22, 2026. Based on Naoki Prize-winning author Imamura Shōgo's debut novel, the series features a stacked voice cast including actors from Jujutsu Kaisen, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, and Goblin Slayer.
Gundam Gets Bold Camo Streetwear in New STRICT-G Drop
Bandai's Gundam apparel brand STRICT-G is launching three new street-casual T-shirts featuring camouflage-styled designs of the RX-78-2 Gundam, Char Aznable, and Char's Zaku II. The shirts hit STRICT-G stores on May 23, 2026, with online pre-orders now live on Premium Bandai.
'Ariyoshi no Kabe' Comedians Compete for Anime Deal
NTV's hit variety show Ariyoshi no Kabe is holding an "Anime Adaptation Battle" on May 27, where seven comedy acts create original characters and compete for the ultimate prize: having their winning character turned into a real anime short. The animated result airs the very next morning on NTV's ZIP! program.
'Detective Conan' Movie Airs First 12 Minutes on TV Tonight
The mega-hit Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway is giving TV audiences their first taste of the action tonight. Nippon TV's Friday Road Show will broadcast the film's opening 12 minutes uncut on May 22, following a screening of Minions: The Rise of Gru — marking the first time any footage from the record-breaking 29th Conan film has aired on television.
'Sekiro' Anime Gets 3-Week Limited Theatrical Run
FromSoftware's Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice anime adaptation, Sekiro: No Defeat, will screen in Japanese theaters for three weeks starting September 4, 2026. The fully hand-drawn 2D production features character designs by Kishida Takahiro (Haikyu!!, Madoka Magica) and a posthumous theme song by the late Ryūichi Sakamoto.
'Reincarnated as a Slime' Returns to Kotodaman for Round 2
MIXI's word-puzzle RPG Kotodaman is launching its second collaboration with the anime That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime on May 25, featuring Rimuru in his Octagram Demon Lord form alongside Veldora, Milim, and Luminous. The three-week event runs through June 15 and includes a revival of the first collab's summon pool with up to 100 free pulls.
Sanji Tops Japanese Poll of Best Kick-Fighting Characters
ONE PIECE's Sanji dominated an Anime Anime reader poll asking which anime and game characters are best known for fighting with kicks, pulling roughly 32 percent of the vote from over 1,000 respondents. Detective Conan's Ran Mouri and Street Fighter's Chun-Li rounded out the top three in a survey timed to the anniversary of FIFA's founding.
'Chainsaw Man' Gets Embroidered Sukajan Jackets, 5-Piece Line
Japanese apparel brand Nevermind has dropped a five-piece Chainsaw Man collection headlined by two reversible embroidered sukajan jackets priced at ¥46,200 (approx. $300) each. The lineup, available now on the NEVER LAND online store, also includes a full-zip hoodie and two tees featuring Pochita, Power, and the Fox Devil.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' Nagoya Food Collab Launches at JR Station
A new Jujutsu Kaisen food collaboration takes over JR Nagoya Station starting May 22, 2026, with original menu items inspired by Yuji Itadori's favorite foods — noodles and rice bowls — fused with Nagoya's signature cuisine. The "Juju Tanbo in Nagoya" event is the third installment of JR Central's Oshi Tabi tourism campaign and includes exclusive stickers for diners and Shinkansen riders.
'DanDaDan' Launches First CASETiFY Phone Case Collab
DanDaDan and global tech-accessory brand CASETiFY have teamed up for the first time, dropping a full lineup of phone cases, grip stands, and customizable sticker cases featuring Momo, Okarun, and Turbo Granny. The collection is available now on CASETiFY's online store and at 10 physical locations across Japan, with a Hong Kong Comic Con showcase set for May 29-31.
Demon Slayer Pop-Up Has a 'Set Your Heart Ablaze' Hot Dog
A free touring Demon Slayer event launches June 12 at Bandai Namco Cross Store in Tokyo's Ikebukuro, featuring new ufotable character art, themed food — including a "Set Your Heart Ablaze" Japanese-style hot dog — and exclusive merchandise. The event visits Osaka, Fukuoka, and Yokohama over the following year, running through May 2027.
'Frieren' USJ Collab Drops New Mini Anime May 22
Universal Studios Japan and Frieren: Beyond Journey's End are teaming up for a special mini anime dropping May 22, 2026. The short features the original hero's party — Himmel, Heiter, Eisen, and Frieren — discovering a mysterious magic book that somehow ties back to USJ itself.
'Jujutsu Kaisen' 5th Anniversary Merch Hits Animate Today
The Jujutsu Kaisen anime's 5th anniversary celebration has arrived at Animate with a nine-product Ani-Art merchandise campaign now open for pre-order. Running through June 7, the lineup covers both the TV series and the Jujutsu Kaisen 0 film, with each participating retailer — Animate, AMNIBUS, and AmiAmi — offering a different exclusive bonus badge set.
'Tsurikomachi' Fishing Manga Gets Live-Action Film
Natsuki Yamasaki's girls' fishing manga Tsurikomachi is getting a live-action film adaptation. The manga, which ran in Square Enix's Young Gangan magazine from 2021 to 2024, follows a former child fishing prodigy who rediscovers her competitive drive through a new friendship. No cast, staff, or release window has been announced.
'Ghost in the Shell' Exhibition Heads to Kansai July 17
The largest Ghost in the Shell exhibition ever assembled is heading west. "Ghost in the Shell: Ghost and the Shell" opens its Kansai tour at Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art on July 17, running through August 30, 2026 — this time with production art from the upcoming Science SARU anime added to its 1,600-piece archive. Tickets went on sale today, May 21.
KyoAni Taps 'Violet Evergarden' Director for 2027 Film
Kyoto Animation is adapting the award-winning manga Credits Roll Into the Sea (Umi ga Hashiru End Roll) into an anime film set for 2027. Director Taichi Ishidate, who helmed both the Violet Evergarden TV series and its 2020 theatrical film, leads the project, with Shochiku handling Japanese distribution.
'Spy x Family' Event Visual Puts Forgers in Matching Plaid
The key visual for Spy x Family's ANIME EXTRA MISSION 2 event has dropped, featuring the Forger family and friends dressed in coordinated plaid outfits. The event brings all eight principal voice actors to Tokyo's Bellesalle Takadanobaba on November 8, 2026, with priority ticket sales opening today for Season 3 Blu-ray buyers.
'Bleach' Thousand-Year Blood War Drops Final Arc Trailer
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War - The Calamity has unleashed its main trailer ahead of the July 2026 broadcast, showcasing explosive battles between Ichigo, Yhwach, and the full roster of Soul Reapers and Quincy. A one-day advance screening of the first three episodes — complete with a cast stage greeting — has also been announced for June 21 in Tokyo.
Mushoku Tensei Season 3 Drops Key Visual, Opens Fan Vote
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3 has unveiled its key visual ahead of the July 5, 2026 premiere, spotlighting Rudeus alongside both wives, the Armored Dragon King Perugius, and a mysterious new figure. A fan vote for the best episodes across Seasons 1 and 2 is also now open, with the top five set to stream free on YouTube.
Classic 'Rurouni Kenshin' Anime, OVAs Hit Prime Video Japan
The original 1996 Rurouni Kenshin TV anime and all three classic OVA series — Trust & Betrayal, Reflection, and New Kyoto Arc — are now streaming on Amazon Prime Video in Japan as of May 15, 2026. The live-action films starring Takeru Sato are also available on the platform.
'Demon Slayer' Takes Over Hakone Yunessun This Summer
Demon Slayer is heading to the hot springs. A new collaboration event at Hakone Kowakien Yunessun runs from July 18 through October 4, featuring themed baths, saunas, exclusive merchandise, and five newly drawn ufotable character illustrations that are already driving fans wild online.
'Reincarnated as a Slime' S4 Ep 79 Unmasks the Mastermind
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 has released the synopsis and scene stills for Episode 79, "The Mastermind's True Identity." Following last week's tense council proceedings, Rimuru returns home to interrogate assassination suspect Glenda — and the episode title promises some long-awaited answers.
'Daemons of the Shadow Realm' Is No FMA Reunion, Says Bones
Bones Film's producers say their adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa's Daemons of the Shadow Realm isn't about recapturing Fullmetal Alchemist — it's about proving what Bones and Aniplex can accomplish 20 years later. In a new Mantan Web interview, the team reveals how FMA veterans are mentoring a new generation of animators while grappling with Arakawa's deceptively simple art style.
'Biblia Bookstore' Mystery Gets TV Anime at CloverWorks
En Mikami's beloved mystery novel series Biblia Koshodō no Jiken Techō (The Case Files of Biblia Bookstore) is getting a TV anime adaptation in 2027. CloverWorks (Spy x Family, Bocchi the Rock!) handles production, with The Promised Neverland director Mamoru Kanbe at the helm and a teaser PV already out.
'Demon Slayer' Wins Japan's First Cinema Staff Awards
Japan's inaugural Cinema Awards — voted on by over 3,000 theater staff nationwide — named Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle the best anime film of the year. The Demon Slayer win is one of four category victories that will send the winners back to theaters across Japan this June and July, alongside Lee Sang-il's Kokuho, Ryan Coogler's Sinners, and Jon M. Chu's Wicked.
'Pompo' Director Unveils 'Wasted Chef' Anime at Cannes
Director Takayuki Hirao and the team behind Pompo the Cinéphile are reuniting for WASTED CHEF, an original anime that blends cooking and sci-fi. The project's title, concept, and teaser visual debuted at the 79th Cannes Film Festival's Annecy Animation Showcase, with character designer Shingo Adachi and composer Kenta Matsukuma returning alongside animation studio CLAP.
'Thermae Romae Redux' Resumes After 8-Month Hiatus
Mari Yamazaki's Thermae Romae Redux is back. The sequel manga returned to Shonen Jump+ on May 19 with Chapter 14 after roughly eight months on hiatus, and Shueisha is marking the occasion by making every chapter of the original Thermae Romae free to read.
'Evangelion' 30th Anniversary Exhibit Heads to Nagoya
The touring Evangelion 30th anniversary exhibition ALL OF EVANGELION will arrive at Nagoya PARCO this fall, running from September through October 2026. Television Aichi is also currently rebroadcasting the original 1995 Neon Genesis Evangelion TV series every Tuesday at 1:00 AM to build anticipation for the show's arrival.
Sato Shori's Anime Film Debut Gets timelesz Theme Song
Idol group timelesz will provide the theme song "Kienai Hanabi" for the anime film Kimi to Hanabi to Yakusoku to (君と花火と約束と), starring group member Satō Shori in his first anime voice-acting lead. The time-crossing love story set at Nagaoka's famous fireworks festival opens in Japanese theaters on July 17, 2026.
'Haikyu!!' Teams Up With COCOS for Six-Week Menu Collab
Haikyu!! is taking over 504 COCOS restaurant locations across Japan starting today, May 19, with a six-week collaboration featuring limited-edition menu items, exclusive merchandise, and original character voice content. The campaign splits into two phases — Karasuno High in the first half, Aoba Johsai in the second — running through June 29.
New 'Ghost in the Shell' Trailer Reveals the Puppet Master
Science SARU's new Ghost in the Shell TV anime has dropped its third trailer, confirming the Puppet Master as a central threat in the series' retelling of Shirow Masamune's original manga. The anime premieres July 7, 2026 on Fuji TV's Tuesday night block, with Amazon Prime Video handling international streaming.
Demon Slayer's Kanao Gets Birthday Art, Merch From ufotable
ufotable marked Kanao Tsuyuri's May 19 birthday with a new illustration showing the stoic Demon Slayer Corps member winking in a miniskirt amid a flower-stand backdrop — and fans are losing it. The studio's web shop also launched a four-piece birthday festival merchandise set for 2026.
Oshi no Ko Season 3 Reveals Ending Theme by Natori and First Trailer
The third season of Oshi no Ko will premiere on January 14, 2026, with music creator Natori performing the ending theme song "Serenade." The first promotional video, main visual featuring Aqua, Ruby, Akane, Kana, and MEM-cho, and individual character visuals have been released, along with announcements for a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and advance screening event.
Demon Slayer Infinity Castle Arc Chapter 1 Launches 8-Week Character CM Series
The theatrical film Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle Arc Chapter 1 has launched an 8-week character commercial campaign featuring footage from the movie. The first installment spotlights protagonist Tanjiro Kamado in his intense battle against Upper Rank Three demon Akaza, with new character-focused commercials releasing weekly through the campaign.
Macross Creator Shoji Kawamori Unveils First Original Film LABYRINTH
Legendary Macross franchise creator Shoji Kawamori debuts his first original theatrical anime film LABYRINTH on January 1, 2026. The highly anticipated 115-minute feature explores a surreal digital escape drama featuring debut voice performances from SUZUKA of Atarashii Gakko! and veteran actor Taizo Harada.
Studio Khara Reveals Original Script for The End of Evangelion
Studio Khara has released pages from the first draft script of The End of Evangelion's final episode "Sincerely Yours," revealing the original version of Asuka's iconic final line. The release coincides with the ongoing 30th anniversary revival screenings of the Evangelion film series in Japan.
Twisted-Wonderland Anime Debuts on Disney+ With Halloween Art
Disney's Twisted-Wonderland The Animation has released exclusive Halloween illustrations featuring Heartslabyul dorm characters Riddle, Trey, and Cater as the series begins its Disney+ exclusive premiere. The dark fantasy anime adaptation of the hit mobile game launched October 29 with enthusiastic social media support from its star-studded voice cast.
AnimeJapan 2026 Opens Voting for Most Wanted Anime Adaptations
AnimeJapan has launched the ninth edition of its popular "Manga We Want to See Animated Ranking," inviting fans to nominate manga titles they want adapted into anime. Past winners include hit series like SPY×FAMILY, The Apothecary Diaries, and Oshi no Ko, proving the ranking's influence in bringing beloved manga to the screen.
Kenshi Yonezu's Chainsaw Man Song Breaks All-Time Records
Kenshi Yonezu's "IRIS OUT," theme song for Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, secured its sixth consecutive week at number one on Billboard Japan's Hot 100, breaking his own record previously set by "Lemon" in 2019. The track has achieved seven concurrent chart-topping positions this week and reached number five on the U.S. Billboard Global 200, the highest position ever for a Japanese-language song.
Studio Ghibli Delays Singing Ghibli Vol. 2 Album to February 2026
Studio Ghibli's tribute album "Singing Ghibli Vol. 2" has been delayed from November 19, 2025 to February 25, 2026 to ensure higher production quality. The album features 13 acclaimed Japanese artists including Aina The End, Da-iCE, Hiroko Yakushimaru, Kalafina, and Nogizaka46 members, produced by music director Satoshi Takebe.
Dragon Ball 40th Anniversary Genkidama Matsuri Event Set for January 2026 with Masako Nozawa and Hiroshi Kitadani
Dragon Ball celebrates its 40th anniversary with the massive "Genkidama Matsuri" fan event on January 25, 2026 at Makuhari Messe. Masako Nozawa and Hiroshi Kitadani headline the free admission event featuring franchise announcements, gaming experiences, and exclusive merchandise.
One Piece TV Anime Enters Elbaf Arc in April 2026 with New One Manga Chapter Per Episode Format
The One Piece TV anime will begin the Elbaf Arc in April 2026, implementing a groundbreaking new production approach that adapts one manga chapter per anime episode. The series will also take a hiatus after the Egghead Arc concludes in December 2025, with the Netflix live-action Season 2 premiering March 10, 2026.
Nijisanji VTuber Mashiro Meme Gets Manga Adaptation in Weekly Shonen Champion
Popular Nijisanji VTuber Mashiro Meme will receive a manga adaptation based on his signature horror story streams, set to launch in Weekly Shonen Champion magazine in January 2026. The series, drawn by up-and-coming manga artist nyo-n, will feature original horror tales told from a viewer's perspective as they watch Mashiro's livestreams.
Gintama Dominates Best Anime Poll Across All Age Groups in Japan
Anime! Anime! has released its 2025 survey results for "Best Anime of Your Life," revealing Gintama's widespread appeal across multiple generations. The poll collected responses from readers of all ages, with each generation showcasing distinct preferences that reflect the iconic series of their respective eras.
Universal Studios Japan Announces 25th Anniversary Theme
Universal Studios Japan will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2026 with the theme "Discover U!!!" The year-long celebration launches March 4, 2026, promising special entertainment programs and featuring popular characters in a commemorative performance at Osaka's Midosuji Runway 2025 event on November 3.
Kyoto Animation Announces Sparks of Tomorrow for 2026
Kyoto Animation announced Sparks of Tomorrow will premiere in 2026 as director Minoru Ota's debut work. The anime adaptation features Yuma Uchida and Sora Amamiya as lead voice actors, with a first promotional video and key visual revealing the studio's new visual direction set in alternate early 20th century Kyoto.
SPY×FAMILY Wireless Earbuds Feature Anya Voice Guidance
Onkyo has launched SPY×FAMILY themed wireless earbuds featuring newly recorded voice guidance from the Forger family. The ANIMA AOW01 MARKII comes in two models - "Forger Family" with switchable voice modes and "Anya" - priced at 20,000 yen with pre-orders starting October 24, 2025.
Sound! Euphonium Final Chapter Part 1 Premieres April 24, 2026
Sound! Euphonium Final Chapter Part 1 will premiere on April 24, 2026, in approximately 200 theaters across Japan. The "Part 1" designation confirms the series finale will span multiple theatrical installments, with Kyoto Animation revealing the first key visual and a new trailer featuring footage not shown in the TV series.
Cruel Angel's Thesis Lyricist Admits She Still Hasn't Watched Evangelion After 30 Years
Lyricist Neko Oikawa shocked fans by revealing on X that she has never watched Neon Genesis Evangelion, despite writing the iconic opening theme "A Cruel Angel's Thesis" 30 years ago. The song, released on October 25, 1995, remains a cultural phenomenon in Japan, consistently ranking in top karaoke charts and amassing over 15 million views on social media when Oikawa made her confession.
SPY x FAMILY Season 3 Ending Theme Gets Music Video Starring Mirai Moriyama
Singer-songwriter Ikura Lilas, known as YOASOBI's vocalist, releases the music video for "Actor," the ending theme of SPY x FAMILY Season 3, featuring acclaimed actor and dancer Mirai Moriyama. The MV premieres October 29, 2025 on YouTube, showcasing Moriyama's powerful dance performance directed by Tomoyuki Shimura.
Back to the Future 40th Anniversary Time Circuit Clock Set
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future, Gakken has announced a special collector's box set featuring a functioning Time Circuit clock and a Sports Almanac-style book cover. The set launches February 19, 2026, priced at 5,390 yen.
Hatsune Miku Returns to North America for 15-City Tour in 2026
Virtual singer Hatsune Miku will embark on a 15-city North American tour starting April 2026, marking her first return to the continent in two years. The "HATSUNE MIKU EXPO 2026 North America" tour begins April 13 in Chicago and continues through May 19 in Mexico City, with tickets going on sale October 31, 2025.
Princess Mononoke Returns to IMAX Theaters in 4K Digital Remaster
Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke is returning to theaters in a 4K digital remaster supervised by the studio, screening in IMAX starting October 24, 2025. The remastered version follows a successful North American IMAX release in March 2025 that grossed nearly 1 billion yen, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Hayao Miyazaki's 1997 masterpiece.
Fullmetal Alchemist Creator Hiromu Arakawa's Yomi no Tsugai Gets 2026 TV Anime
Tsugai no Yomi, the latest manga by Fullmetal Alchemist creator Hiromu Arakawa currently serializing in Monthly Shonen Gangan, will receive a TV anime adaptation in 2026. Voice actors Kensho Ono, Yume Miyamoto, Yuichi Nakamura, and Misaki Kuno have been cast in lead roles, with a character voice preview now available.
Ghost in the Shell Returns with New TV Series on Fuji TV in January 2026
The iconic Ghost in the Shell franchise returns with a new TV anime series titled "Ghost in the Shell: THE GHOST IN THE SHELL," set to premiere in January 2026 on Fuji TV's new Tuesday night anime block "Ka-Anibaru!!" The series marks the directorial debut of Mokochan from Science SARU, with character design by Shuhei Handa and series composition by SF novelist Enjoe Toh.
Jujutsu Kaisen Culling Game Film Unveils Naoya Zenin Character Visual
The theatrical release Jujutsu Kaisen Shibuya Incident Special Edition × Culling Game Advance Screening has revealed the character visual for Naoya Zenin, confirming him as the final secret movie ticket design. Two new TV commercials featuring fresh footage from the Culling Game arc, including intense battle scenes between Yuji Itadori and Yuta Okkotsu, were also released ahead of the November 7, 2025 premiere.
The Apothecary Diaries Anime Gets Season 3 and First-Ever Film
The hit anime adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries (薬屋のひとりごと) has announced both a third season and the series' first theatrical film. Season 3 will air in split-cours format starting October 2026, while the film featuring an original story by author Natsu Hyuuga will premiere in December 2026.
STUDIO4℃'s All You Need Is Kill Anime Gets January 2026 Theatrical Release
STUDIO4℃'s anime adaptation of Hiroshi Sakurazaka's sci-fi light novel "All You Need Is Kill" (オール・ユー・ニード・イズ・キル) is set for theatrical release on January 9, 2026, across 10 theaters in Japan. The anime takes a fresh perspective by focusing on Rita, a volunteer staff member, rather than the original protagonist.
100 Meters Film Surpasses 500 Million Yen at Japanese Box Office
The theatrical anime 100 Meters has surpassed 500 million yen (approximately $3.3 million) in box office revenue within its first 31 days, drawing over 362,000 viewers. To celebrate this milestone, original character illustrations by chief animation director Keisuke Kojima have been revealed, and a sixth theatrical bonus gift featuring visuals of Komiya and Zaitsu will be distributed starting October 24, 2025.
SPY×FAMILY x Mid-Century MODERN Pop-Up Store Opens in Shibuya
A collaboration between the hit anime series SPY×FAMILY and furniture shop Mid-Century MODERN opens at Shibuya PARCO from October 31 to November 9. The pop-up features an exclusive Anya-themed Side Shell chair designed by series creator Tatsuya Endo, limited-edition furniture, and special merchandise inspired by the mid-century modern aesthetic featured throughout the manga.
High School! Kimengumi Anime Reboot Set for 2026 Broadcast
The legendary 1980s comedy manga High School! Kimengumi is getting a brand-new anime adaptation premiering in January 2026 on Fuji TV's Noitamina block. The reboot features an entirely new cast and staff, with Tomokazu Seki voicing protagonist Rei Ichido. Director Kazuaki Seki, known for films like Kakukaku Shikajika, takes on his first TV anime project.
Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc Movie Surpasses 6.5 Billion Yen at Box Office
The theatrical film Chainsaw Man: Reze Arc has crossed 6.5 billion yen (approximately $43 million USD) in box office revenue within 31 days of release, maintaining the #1 spot for five consecutive weekends. SCREENX, ULTRA 4DX, and English subtitle screenings are set to begin on October 24, with new battle scene images unveiled.
Japan's Most Popular Anime Karaoke Songs: 2025 Edition
Anime news site AnimeAnime.jp surveyed 411 readers about the most exciting anime songs to sing at karaoke. "A Cruel Angel's Thesis" from Neon Genesis Evangelion claimed the top spot for the sixth consecutive year, followed by YOASOBI's "Idol" from Oshi no Ko in second place and "Lilac" from Oblivion Battery in third.
Kingdom Season 6 Ending Theme Song Hoko by Tomonari Sora Releases October 19
The ending theme song for Kingdom Season 6, titled Hoko by Tomonari Sora, will be digitally released on October 19, 2025. A preview of the track was featured in the anime's second main trailer. Tomonari Sora composed, wrote lyrics, and arranged the song, which also features artwork created by the artist himself.