The wildly popular Chiikawa manga, created by Nagano, is officially receiving its first anime film adaptation, titled Eiga Chiikawa: Ningyo no Shima no Himitsu (Chiikawa the Movie: The Secret of Mermaid Island), set to premiere next summer. The announcement, accompanied by a teaser visual, has excited fans of the “something small and cute” franchise.
“The Secret of Mermaid Island” Arrives in Summer 2026
The upcoming film, Eiga Chiikawa: Ningyo no Shima no Himitsu, is slated for a Summer 2026 release, bringing the beloved characters to the big screen for the first time. A dedicated website launched on Monday, November 24, 2025, to reveal the film’s title, teaser visual, and key production staff. Original creator Nagano is deeply involved, credited with the original story and penning the film’s script.
Creative Team and Production Details
Directing the Chiikawa anime film is Kei Oikawa, known for his work on Uma Musume Pretty Derby 3 seasons, Hinamatsuri, and My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU TOO! and Climax. The animation will be handled by Cygames Pictures, with QTORY inc. managing the production and TOHO distributing the film. The film’s narrative will adapt the manga’s “Siren Arc,” also known as the “Island Arc,” which was originally serialized on X (formerly Twitter) from March to November 2023. This arc begins with Chiikawa and Hachiware encountering a flyer inviting them to a special island, promising rewards and delicious food, prompting their journey along with Rakko, who is suspicious of the offer.
The Phenomenal Rise of Chiikawa
Chiikawa, officially titled Nanka Chiisakute Kawaii Yatsu (Something Small and Cute), began its journey as a web manga serialized on X (then Twitter) by artist Nagano in January 2020. Its rapid ascent to popularity can be attributed to its “kawaii” (cute) characters, simple yet expressive art style, and relatable stories that resonate with a wide audience, addressing everyday challenges and moments of joy and stress.
From Web Manga to Cultural Icon
The series quickly garnered a massive following, leading to an anime television series adaptation produced by Doga Kobo, which premiered in April 2022. The anime initially aired within Fuji TV’s Mezamashi TV morning news program and has since expanded its broadcast. By November 2024, the Chiikawa manga had over 3.6 million copies in circulation, including digital versions, underscoring its significant reach.
The franchise has transcended its origins, becoming a cultural phenomenon in Japan and expanding globally, particularly in China and Hong Kong. Its characters are ubiquitous, appearing in a vast array of merchandise, from plush toys and stationery to themed cafes and collaborations with major brands. The series’ themes of friendship, teamwork, perseverance, and kindness contribute to its widespread appeal, offering uplifting and heartwarming content to its diverse fanbase. The announcement of a feature film marks a significant milestone in the franchise’s remarkable growth, promising an exciting new chapter for Chiikawa and its friends.
