The upcoming anime adaptation of Keiichi Arawi’s CITY, titled CITY THE ANIMATION, has released its second promotional video, and fans are buzzing! The trailer offers a sneak peek at the opening theme song, “Hello,” performed by Riho Furui. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest updates on this highly anticipated series.
A Long-Awaited Adaptation
CITY THE ANIMATION is adapted from the manga series CITY by Keiichi Arawi, the creator of Nichijou – My Ordinary Life. The manga was serialized in Kodansha’s Morning magazine from September 2016 to February 2021, with a brief return in December 2024, and has been collected into 13 volumes. Vertical has licensed the series for English publication in North America.
The anime adaptation is being produced by Kyoto Animation, marking their first non-sequel anime in six years since the studio experienced an arson attack in 2019. This makes CITY THE ANIMATION a significant project for the studio and a cause for celebration among fans.
Premiere Date and Streaming
CITY THE ANIMATION is scheduled to premiere on July 7, 2025, on Tokyo MX and other networks. The series will also be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video in Japan starting July 8, 2025, at 12:30 a.m. JST.
The Story
The story follows the lives of the Mont Blanc Trio – Midori Nagumo, Wako Izumi, and Ayumu Niikura – as they navigate their daily lives in the city. The series promises a blend of laughter, love, and emotional moments, capturing the unpredictable nature of ordinary life.
Kodansha USA describes the premise as revolving around Midori Nagumo, a penniless college student living in a city filled with quirky characters. As she navigates her debts and daily challenges, she sets the city in motion with her antics.
Key Staff and Production
The anime is directed by Taichi Ishidate, known for his work on Violet Evergarden and Beyond the Boundary. The key staff includes:
- Director: Taichi Ishidate
- Character Designer & Chief Animation Director: Tamami Tokuyama
- Color Designer: Kana Miyata
- Art Director: Shiori Yamazaki
- 3D Director: Tatsunori Kase
- Sound Director: Yota Tsuruoka
- Music: Piranhans
- Animation Production: Kyoto Animation
Voice Cast
The main voice cast includes:
- Midori Nagumo: Mikako Komatsu
- Ayumu Niikura: Aki Toyosaki
- Wako Izumi: Yui Ishikawa
- Tsurubishi Makabe: Yoshihisa Kawahara
- Tatewaku Makabe: Miyu Irino
- Matsuri Makabe: Ayaka Nanase
- Eri Amakazari: Azusa Tadokoro
- Riko Izumi: Yu Wakui
Additional cast members for the Adatara family include:
- Professor Adatara/Father: Takehito Koyasu
- Mother: Mayumi Asano
- Tatsuta: KENN
- Ryota: Satoshi Inomata
- Kamome: Coco Hayashi
- Umi: Haruna Fukushima
- Sora: Yuki Tenma
Theme Songs
The opening theme song, “Hello,” is performed by Furui Riho, while the ending theme song is “Lucky” by TOMOO. Furui Riho expressed her honor in being part of Kyoto Animation’s new anime and created “Hello” with a feeling of reunion.
A Spiritual Successor to Nichijou
Many fans and news sites have noted the similarities between CITY THE ANIMATION and Nichijou, considering it a spiritual successor. The art style and humor are reminiscent of Arawi’s previous work, leading to high expectations among fans.
Reception
The announcement of CITY THE ANIMATION and the release of the first trailer were met with positive reactions. The first trailer garnered significant attention on social media, with thousands of likes and reposts. Fans praised the faithfulness to Arawi’s art style and expressed excitement for the upcoming series.
Where to Follow
Stay updated with the latest news and information about CITY THE ANIMATION through the official social media accounts:
- Official Website: city-the-animation.com
- Twitter: @city_anime_info
- Instagram: city.anime.info
- TikTok: @city_anime_info
CITY THE ANIMATION promises to be a delightful addition to the anime landscape in July 2025. With Kyoto Animation at the helm and a talented cast and crew, fans can look forward to a hilarious and heartwarming series. Be sure to check out the second trailer to hear Furui Riho’s “Hello” and get a glimpse of what’s in store!