Get ready for a unique blend of kindergarten cuteness and supernatural horror! The anime adaptation of Tarō Yuri’s manga, Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary (Kaya-chan wa Kowakunai), has just dropped its first promotional video, revealing the main cast and staff behind this intriguing series. Here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming anime.
What’s the Story About?
Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary centers around Kaya, a notorious “problem child” in her kindergarten. However, Kaya isn’t just mischievous; she possesses a hidden ability to see and vanquish evil spirits. When Chie-sensei is assigned to supervise Kaya, she discovers the truth behind Kaya’s seemingly troublesome behavior.
Seven Seas Entertainment, which licensed the manga for English publication, describes the story as: “Are you braver than a kindergartner? Find out with this horror manga that takes place in the most unlikely of places–and don’t miss the upcoming anime! Kaya-chan is a notorious problem child in her kindergarten, but none of the adults know her secret–till Chie-sensei is put in charge and learns of Kaya-chan’s hidden ability to see evil spirits and vanquish them with a punch! What will happen to this five-year-old who gets in trouble when she’s only trying to help?”
The Team Behind the Spooks
The anime adaptation is being brought to life by a talented team:
- Director: Hiroshi Ikehata (known for Dark Gathering)
- Series Composition: Shigeru Murakoshi (Ninja Kamui)
- Character Design: Taro Yamada and Hiroyuki Moriguchi
- Sound Director: Yukio Nagasaki
- Music: KOHTA YAMAMOTO and Shun Narita (Dark Gathering)
- Animation Studio: EAST FISH STUDIO
Meet the Main Cast
The first promotional video introduces the main voice cast:
- Azusa Tachibana as Kaya-chan
- Maaya Uchida as Chie-sensei
These voice actors will bring the characters to life, adding another layer to the horror-comedy dynamic.
Manga Origins
Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary began as a manga series written and illustrated by Tarō Yuri. It started serialization on Shinchosha’s Kurage Bunch manga website on April 1, 2022. As of November 2024, the series has been compiled into six tankōbon volumes. Volume 7 is slated for release on June 9, 2025.
Seven Seas Entertainment has licensed the manga for English release, with Volume 1 released on April 29, 2025.
A Blend of Horror and Humor
Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary distinguishes itself with its unique blend of horror and humor, set against the backdrop of a kindergarten. The manga utilizes creepy imagery juxtaposed with cute characters, creating a macabre yet amusing effect. The series balances these contrasting styles effectively, offering moments of genuine humor amidst the supernatural elements.
One reviewer noted the manga’s ability to maintain “an edge of suspense as it slowly revealed more about its sweet, spunky heroine.” The reviewer also highlighted that, like Mieruko-chan, Kaya can see ghosts and ghouls, but unlike Miko, Kaya proactively confronts them to protect others.
What to Expect
The anime promises to capture the essence of the manga, with its mix of heartwarming character interactions and spooky encounters. Viewers can anticipate a story where a seemingly ordinary kindergarten becomes a stage for supernatural battles, as Kaya and Chie-sensei navigate the challenges of childcare and ghost-busting.
Release Date
As of now, a specific release date for the Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary anime has not been announced.
Where to Watch
Details on where the anime will be available for streaming are yet to be announced. Keep an eye on Crunchyroll and other major anime streaming platforms for updates.
Final Thoughts
With its unique premise, talented cast and staff, and blend of horror and humor, Kaya-chan Isn’t Scary is shaping up to be a noteworthy addition to the anime landscape. Fans of both horror and comedy genres should keep an eye on this series as more information becomes available.
