The highly anticipated TV anime adaptation of Megumi Hatakenaka’s popular “Shabake” novel series has unveiled new details regarding its cast, broadcast schedule, and opening theme song. While the second promotional video has showcased more of the Edo-period mystery, specifics for the ending song remain unannounced. The series is set to premiere in October 2025 on Fuji TV’s prestigious Noitamina programming block.
Expanding the Voice Cast: New Additions to “Shabake”
The latest announcements introduce two key voice actors joining the “Shabake” ensemble. Koji Okino will lend his voice to Nikichi, while Taku Yashiro has been cast as Sasuke. These characters serve as spirit assistants to the protagonist, Ichitaro, who is voiced by the previously announced Daiki Yamashita. Okino and Yashiro’s roles are crucial as Nikichi and Sasuke, described as a hakutaku and an inugami respectively, are constant companions and protectors of the sickly young master, Ichitaro.
Musical Journey: “Inochi no Parade” Kicks Off the Series
The new promotional material for the Shabake TV anime also confirmed its opening theme song. Titled “Inochi no Parade” (Parade of Life), the track will be performed by the artist Kujira, also known as whaledontsleep. Kujira expressed that the song was crafted to evoke the “air and scent” of the story, aiming for a tune that “flows by in the silence of the night, and that breathes in sync with the story.” As of this announcement, details regarding the anime’s ending theme song have not yet been revealed.
An Autumn Debut: October 2025 Premiere Confirmed
Fans can mark their calendars for October 2025, as the Shabake TV anime is officially slated for a fall premiere. The series will air as part of Fuji TV’s nationwide “Noitamina” programming block, known for its selection of unique and high-quality anime. Adding to the anticipation, two advance screenings of the first four episodes were held in Tokyo on August 23rd.
Delving into the Edo-Period Mystery of “Shabake”
The Shabake anime adapts Megumi Hatakenaka’s best-selling historical fantasy novel series, which boasts over 10 million copies in circulation and has received accolades such as the Yoshikawa Eiji Bunko Award. The story is set in the vibrant Edo period and centers on Ichitaro, the frail young master of the prominent Nagasakiya shop in Nihonbashi. Despite his delicate health preventing him from venturing outdoors, Ichitaro is surrounded and protected by benevolent spirits. His life takes a dramatic turn when he secretly witnesses a murder, leading him and his yokai companions on a quest to unravel a series of bizarre killings plaguing Edo.
Key Production Staff
The anime is being produced by BN Pictures (Bandai Namco Pictures), a studio known for its diverse animation works. Takahiro Okawa is directing the series, with Toko Machida handling the series composition and Akari Minagawa responsible for character designs. Rei Ishizuka is composing the music for the series.
