Netflix has announced the upcoming anime film Cosmic Princess Kaguya! (Chō Kaguya-hime!), set to stream worldwide on January 22, 2026. The film marks the feature-length directorial debut of acclaimed animator Shingo Yamashita, known for his distinctive work on iconic anime opening sequences.
A Modern Musical Reimagining of a Classic Tale
Cosmic Princess Kaguya! draws inspiration from Japan’s oldest folktale, “The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter” (Kaguya-hime), reimagining it as a “new-generation music animation project.” The story centers on two girls who form a bond through song within the fantastical virtual world of Tsukuyomi. Netflix describes the narrative as “the tale of two girls who bond through song. In the dream-filled virtual realm of Tsukuyomi, their destined moment takes center stage in dazzling visual splendor.”
The film’s musical landscape is a significant highlight, featuring contributions from renowned Vocaloid producers. The roster of artists includes 40mP, HoneyWorks, ryo (supercell), yuigot/Aqu3ra, and kz(livetune), promising a unique auditory experience that blends traditional storytelling with contemporary music culture.
Shingo Yamashita’s Feature Directorial Debut
Shingo Yamashita steps into the director’s chair for his first full-length feature, bringing his celebrated visual style to Cosmic Princess Kaguya! Yamashita is highly regarded in the anime industry for his dynamic and impactful opening animations, having worked on popular series such as Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1, Chainsaw Man, and Urusei Yatsura. He also served as chief director for Pokémon: Twilight Wings.
According to Netflix, Yamashita has “poured into it everything I’ve learned about visual expression, my love for unique characters, and my deep affection for the internet culture that’s continued since the 1990s,” indicating a deeply personal and visually rich project.
Key Production Details and Voice Cast
The animation production for Cosmic Princess Kaguya! is a collaborative effort between Studio Colorido and Studio Chromato. Studio Chromato is notably Yamashita’s own studio, which was established in 2024. Studio Colorido is known for its high-quality animation work on films like Penguin Highway and A Whisker Away.
Character designs are handled by illustrator hechima and Akihiro Nagae, who previously contributed to Drifting Home.
The main voice cast includes:
- Kaguya: Yuko Natsuyoshi
- Iroha Sakayori: Anna Nagase
- Yachiyo Tsukimi: Saori Hayami
The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, alongside the unveiling of a trailer and a visual for the film. This release further solidifies Netflix’s commitment to expanding its anime catalog with diverse and ambitious projects.
