The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Tomoko Yamashita’s manga series Ikoku Nikki (also known as Diary of a Strange Land or Journal with Witch) is set to premiere in January 2026. While fans eagerly await more details, the production has officially unveiled its two lead voice cast members. It’s important to note that recent announcements regarding four additional cast members and specific theme song artists pertain to the previously released live-action film adaptation, not the upcoming anime series.
The anime will bring to life the poignant story of a socially awkward novelist and her teenage niece, with its broadcast scheduled across ABC TV, Tokyo MX, and BS Asahi in Japan.
Main Voice Cast for the “Ikoku Nikki” Anime Series
The core duo of the Ikoku Nikki anime has been confirmed, with two prominent voice actresses taking on the leading roles:
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Makio Kōdai
- Fuko Mori as Asa Takumi
Miyuki Sawashiro is a veteran voice actress known for numerous iconic roles, bringing her depth and experience to the character of Makio Kōdai, a 35-year-old novelist who suddenly finds herself the guardian of her 15-year-old niece. Fuko Mori will portray Asa Takumi, Makio’s niece, in what is noted as her first major anime role, promising a fresh portrayal of the friendly yet complex teenager.
Clarifying Cast and Theme Song Details: Anime vs. Live-Action Film
Recent reports of additional cast members and theme song artists circulating in some circles are, in fact, related to the live-action film adaptation of Ikoku Nikki, which premiered in June 2024. The anime series, while having its main cast announced, has not yet revealed its full supporting cast or specific theme song performers, beyond Kensuke Ushio composing the music.
Live-Action Film: Additional Cast and Musical Artists
The live-action Ikoku Nikki film, which debuted earlier this year, saw a separate ensemble of talent. Four additional cast members were revealed for the film:
- Kōji Seto as Shingo Kasamachi
- Ikoi Hayase as Asa Takumi (different from the anime’s voice actress)
- Kaho as Nana Daigo
- Rina Komiyama as Emiri Nara
For the live-action film, singer-songwriter Toaka performed the main theme song “Yoake no Anata e” (To You at Daybreak), with Eriko Hashimoto writing and composing another in-story song titled “Asa no Uta” (Asa’s Song), performed by Asa’s high school light music club within the movie’s narrative.
The Story of “Ikoku Nikki”
Ikoku Nikki (違国日記) tells the story of Makio Kōdai, a 35-year-old novelist described as shy and socially awkward, who leads a solitary life. Her world is upended when her older sister and brother-in-law die in a traffic accident. This tragic event leads Makio to take in her 15-year-old niece, Asa Takumi. Asa, possessing a friendly and straightforward personality, initially struggles to connect with her reserved aunt. The manga, written and illustrated by Tomoko Yamashita, explores their evolving relationship as they learn to navigate life together, despite their contrasting personalities.
The manga was serialized in Shodensha’s Feel Young magazine from June 2017 to June 2023, concluding with 11 collected volumes.
Anime Production Team
The anime series is being produced by Studio Shuka. The key staff members behind the anime adaptation include:
- Director: Miyuki Ooshiro
- Series Composition and Script: Kohei Kiyasu
- Character Designs: Kenji Hayama
- Music: Kensuke Ushio
Fans eagerly await further announcements regarding the full voice cast and specific theme song artists for the Ikoku Nikki anime as its January 2026 premiere draws closer.
