"KAGURABACHI" Set for TV Anime Adaptation by Cypic in April 2027!

Teaser Visual and Trailer Unveiled; World Tour Confirmed, Culminating in Japan with the First Full Screening of Episode 1

Special Illustration and Comments Released from Original Author Takeru Hokazono, Director Tetsuya Takeuchi, Character Designer Keigo Sasaki, and Taihi Kimura (Voice of Chihiro Rokuhira)

TOKYO, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- CyberAgent, Inc., as a co-chief production partner with Shochiku Co., Ltd., is pleased to announce that anime adaptation of Takeru Hokazono's Kagurabachi will begin broadcasting and streaming in April 2027.

A next-generation flagship title from Weekly Shonen Jump, Kagurabachi (Original Author: Takeru Hokazono) has officially been confirmed for a TV anime adaptation. The original manga is currently serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump and will surpass a cumulative circulation of 4 million copies (including digital editions) with the release of Volume 11 in Japan on Friday, May 1.
Produced by Cypic  (Umamusume: Cinderella Gray, The Summer Hikaru Died), the anime series is scheduled to begin broadcasting and streaming in April 2027.

To mark the announcement, a teaser visual and trailer have been released alongside a special commemorative illustration and comment from the original author, Takeru Hokazono, as well as comments from Director Tetsuya Takeuchi, Character Designer Keigo Sasaki, and lead voice actor Taihi Kimura, who voices the protagonist, Chihiro Rokuhira.

Furthermore, the Kagurabachi World Tour has officially been confirmed. It will feature a screening of the first 20 minutes of Episode 1 and culminate in Japan with the world's first full-length screening of Episode 1.

Kagurabachi is set to begin broadcasting and streaming globally in April 2027, in partnership with MUSE, and SMG HOLDINGS, among others.

Introduction
A single stroke opens a new era, cutting a path from Japan to the world—
Weekly Shonen Jump's Neo-Japanese Sword Action series begins here!

From day one, the Kagurabachi manga has captivated fans, weaving a blood-soaked tale of revenge through breathtaking sword-fight sequences.

And now, known for its uncompromising quality, animation studio Cypic brings the story to life with jaw-dropping visuals!

Story
Flames of resolve, kindled by hatred.

Chihiro Rokuhira is a boy who aspires to become a swordsmith, and took daily training under his father Kunishige, a renowned swordsmith. Their days, once filled with laughter, are brutally torn apart by an attack from the mysterious sorcerer organization, the Hishaku.

What is stolen from them are the six Enchanted Blades—swords of immense power capable of shaping the fate of the nation—and the gentle, warm life they once shared.

From that day on, everything changed. In a world engulfed in darkness, Chihiro takes up Enten, the seventh Enchanted Blade left behind by his father, and sets out on a blood-soaked path of revenge.

Teaser Visual & Trailer
The newly released teaser visual captures Chihiro Rokuhira poised with his Enchanted Blade, fixing his gaze forward with fierce determination. In the background, three goldfish—Aka, Kuro, and Nishiki—dance through the air. The composition masterfully blends stillness and motion, signaling the beginning of an epic saga.
The teaser trailer opens with the forge where swords are made, highlighting one of the series' central themes: katana. Set in a Japan where modern landscapes and timeless Japanese aesthetics converge, the trailer vividly brings to life the opening of Chihiro's revenge story. Its weighty atmosphere and palpable tension draw viewers into the singular world of Kagurabachi.

View Teaser Trailer: https://youtu.be/pC39732i1bA

 

 

Cast & World Tour Information
Rising star Taihi Kimura, winner of the 2025 Seiyu Awards for Best New Actor, has been cast as the story's protagonist, Chihiro Rokuhira.

The Kagurabachi World Tour is set to begin in summer 2026. As part of the tour, exclusive 20-minute preview screenings of Episode 1 will be held at venues across the world.
The tour will culminate in Japan in spring 2027 with the first full-length screening of Episode 1 ahead of its official broadcast.  Further details regarding dates and venues will be announced at a later date.

Comments from Takeru Hokazono, Tetsuya Takeuchi, Keigo Sasaki, and Taihi Kimura

Takeru Hokazono (Original Author)
Profile:
His first manga was the one-shot Enten, which won the 100th Tezuka Award in 2020 and was published in Jump GIGA's Spring 2021 issue. He is currently serializing Kagurabachi in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump.

Comment from Takeru Hokazono:
"You know the Rock Lee vs. Gaara fight in Naruto? The manga version is great of course, but isn't the anime's version just incredibly cool? Well, the very person who brought that scene to life is our director! Woo!

The staff is full of amazing people who really know the manga inside and out. I can't wait to see how the animation turns out! Definitely a must-watch!"

Tetsuya Takeuchi (Director)
Profile:
His recent works include Sword Art Online II (Action Animation Director), Lycoris Recoil (Storyboards, Episode Director, Animation Director, Key Animation) and Heavenly Delusion (Battle Scene Storyboards, Episode Director, Animation Director), among others.

Comment from Tetsuya Takeuchi:
"Who would've thought that I'd be directing a popular Shonen Jump anime after working as a key animator on Naruto back when I was just a newbie... you really never know what life has in store.

When you think of Kagurabachi, you think of swords! And more swords! Plus cool characters and intense drama!

I'll work hard to capture all those elements and aim to make a show that both long-time fans of the manga and first-time viewers alike can enjoy!

There's a lot of pressure!"

Keigo Sasaki (Character Design)
Profile:
His recent works include Blue Exorcist and The Seven Deadly Sins, among others.

Comment from Keigo Sasaki:
"Hokazono-sensei's art style is really cool, and I couldn't wait to see his drawings come to life! I jumped into the design process with nothing but that feeling in mind, but it's been an uphill battle.

It's hard... but when I manage to draw something well, it makes me that much happier! The staff and I are working hard every day, and I feel so lucky to be able to participate in this project.

I'll do my absolute best so that everyone can enjoy the anime."

Taihi Kimura (Voice of Chihiro Rokuhira)
Profile:
Affiliated with KEN PRODUCTION. Major roles include Takeshi Narihira in Yin-Yang Kaiten Re:Birth, Adam Krensh in The Beginning After the End, and Leo in TO BE HERO X, among others. 

Character Introduction of Chihiro Rokuhira
A quiet boy who sets out on a journey to avenge his father, who was killed by the Hishaku, and to recover the six stolen Enchanted Blades. With the remaining seventh Enchanted Blade in hand, he walks a blood-soaked path. 

Comment from Taihi Kimura:
"I'm Taihi Kimura, and I'll be voicing Chihiro Rokuhira!

I'm truly grateful for this opportunity to voice the protagonist of Kagurabachi—an incredible series loved by fans all over the world.

A katana is forged and refined through the art of "tanren," gaining its ultimate strength through the repeated folding of steel.

Chihiro is a quiet young man, but deep in his heart he carries a conviction as unyielding as a sword.

I'm going to give this role my absolute all and pour my heart and soul into it so that Chihiro's unwavering resolve truly resonates with everyone.

Thank you for your support!"

Follow & Repost Campaign Now Underway!
To celebrate the announcement of the anime adaptation, a Follow & Repost campaign is currently running on the official X. Ten lucky winners will be selected by lottery to receive an exclusive teaser visual poster (not for sale). Be sure to check it out!

About KAGURABACHI
Broadcasting and Streaming Information
April 2027
MUSE, and SMG HOLDINGS, among others

Staff
Original Work: "Kagurabachi" by Takeru Hokazono (Serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump)
Director: Tetsuya Takeuchi
Character Design: Keigo Sasaki
Production: Cypic
Production Committee Leads: Shochiku & CyberAgent

Cast
Chihiro Rokuhira: Taihi Kimura

Official Links

• Official Website: https://anime.kagurabachi.jp/
• Official TikTok: @kb_anime_en (https://www.tiktok.com/@kb_anime_en)
• Official Instagram: @kb_anime_en (https://www.instagram.com/kb_anime_en/)
• Official X: ＠kb_anime_en (https://x.com/kb_anime_en) 

Original Work
Title: Kagurabachi
Author: Takeru Hokazono
Previously Published: Available online on MANGA Plus by SHUEISHA (Chapters 1-17 are currently available for free until May 25 for a limited time) and published in print and digital by Viz Media (English Version).

Copyright Notices

*When featuring the cover art for Kagurabachi Volume 1 or the original illustration by Takeru Hokazono, please ensure the following copyright notice is included.
©Takeru

*When featuring anime image assets, please ensure the following copyright notice is included.
©Takeru,Project Kagurabachi

*Copyrights must be indicated when posting or using the images/materials
*Single space is needed between "Takeru" and "Hokazono," and between "Project" and "Kagurabachi."
*No space needed after "/(slash)" and ",(comma)."

** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **

"KAGURABACHI" Set for TV Anime Adaptation by Cypic in April 2027!

"KAGURABACHI" Set for TV Anime Adaptation by Cypic in April 2027!

"KAGURABACHI" Set for TV Anime Adaptation by Cypic in April 2027!

Pickleball Boom Continues to Drive Multi-Million Dollar Opportunities

HONG KONG, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Sources Sports & Outdoor officially opened today at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong, running from 27 to 30 April. Guided by the theme "Selecting Great Products, and Even Better Factories," the show brings together leading exhibitors from across Asia with more than 400 booths, covering a full range of categories including camping, hiking, watersports, urban fitness and trend-forward outdoor lifestyles. The show showcases Asia's supply chain agility in responding swiftly to market demands, along with its potential for sustainable growth. A series of innovative displays and professional activities offer global buyers in-depth insights into the latest trends and product applications in the sports sector. The show is projected to attract nearly 10,000 professional B2B buyer visits.

John Kao, Vice President of Hong Kong Shows & Overseas Shows at Global Sources, said: "Global Sources Sports & Outdoor presents a complete pickleball industry chain. Categories that buyers previously had to visit multiple countries to source can now be found in Hong Kong over four days — from pickleballs, paddles and shoes to accessories, everything is available. The show features not only brand owners but also manufacturers offering ODM customisation, allowing buyers to procure according to their needs. This year, many exhibitors have invested heavily in lightweight, portable and foldable designs. Far more than a static product display, the entire show serves as a rigorous test of how supply chains transform innovative designs into reliable performance."

Rapid Pickleball Market Growth Highlights Asian Supply Chain Advantages

As pickleball rapidly gains global popularity, this emerging sport is creating unprecedented commercial value. According to market research firm QYResearch, the global pickleball equipment market was valued at approximately USD 221 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 387 million by 2031, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2%. With participation rapidly expanding across North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific, procurement demand continues to climb. Asia — particularly China — has become the world's largest pickleball paddle manufacturing base, accounting for over 70% of global production capacity.

The show presents a comprehensive pickleball industry ecosystem, bringing together a full lineup of equipment spanning the entire supply chain: paddles crafted from carbon fibre, fibreglass and other composite materials; specialised balls meeting both recreational and tournament standards; and an extensive range of accessories including high-performance athletic shoes, racket grips and paddle bags — covering everything from upstream materials to finished accessories. Exhibitors demonstrate technical breakthroughs in weight control, durability and stroke performance, while offering OEM/ODM customisation services to meet the increasingly diverse procurement needs of global B2B buyers.

Training Camp and Po Leung Kuk Pickleball Expo Cup Put Products to the Test

A newly upgraded Pickleball Training Camp runs concurrently with the show, featuring live demonstrations by Hong Kong's top-ranked pickleball players, allowing buyers to experience first-hand the feel, performance and fit of different paddles under the guidance of champion coaches. On opening day, the show once again partners with Po Leung Kuk to host the "Pickleball Expo Cup 2026," validating products' professional performance and market appeal in an authentic competitive setting, and further promoting this emerging sport.

Urban Sports and Outdoor Demand in Focus with Lightweight Portability as Key Innovation Theme

Another highlight of the show is urban sports and outdoor equipment. City dwellers commonly face the challenge of limited living space yet desire the freedom to head outdoors at any time, driving sustained demand growth for lightweight camping equipment, foldable watersports gear and compact urban fitness accessories.

Exhibitors are driving innovation in lightweight, portable and foldable designs, presenting camping carts made from aerospace-grade aluminium with folding structures, outdoor backpacks equipped with ergonomic carrying systems, as well as portable outdoor refrigerators, camping tents and more. Multi-scenario innovative products command significantly higher price premiums than single-function alternatives, and manufacturers that genuinely address the needs of urban users are well-positioned to enter multiple overseas markets simultaneously.

Global Sources Summit Focuses on Sports Innovation and Sustainable Sourcing

The Global Sources Summit, held concurrently with the show, centres on the theme "Athletic Performance Meets Innovation," covering forward-looking topics including fitness technology, sports fashion fusion, virtual sportswear and ESG sourcing. Opening day features an "Experts Sharing" session with professional wilderness explorer and wildlife photographer Chris Michael Owen, who draws on first-hand experience from filming in diverse environments to share insights on the real-world performance of high-performance outdoor gear and apparel. On 28 April, under the theme "Global Sports & Outdoor 2026," the summit explores how sportswear integrates functionality with fashion aesthetics, future outdoor market trends and the application prospects of sustainable materials. On 29 April, the "Next-Level Sourcing" session interprets EU and US sportswear regulations, analyses how shifts in the global trade environment impact sourcing decisions, and helps buyers understand international market requirements whilst optimising supply chain strategies. The summit aims to provide attendees with a comprehensive perspective — from product innovation to sourcing execution — empowering global buyers and suppliers to capture the next wave of growth opportunities in the sports and outdoor industry.

Comprehensive Buyer Service Upgrades Drive Precise Matching and Trade Collaboration

To further enhance the buyer sourcing experience, this edition of the show introduces a number of new services. The upgraded Business Matching service is expected to arrange over 3,000 buyer-supplier matching sessions across all three phases, facilitating collaboration between global buyers with clear sourcing intent and quality suppliers. A Sourcing Connection Desk has been established on-site for the first time, providing comprehensive support to help buyers locate target exhibitors and arrange on-the-spot matching — offering real-time assistance for buyers who were unable to book appointments in advance. In addition, the Hong Kong Show website has launched a new Meet the Exhibitors page, allowing buyers to search by show, product, country or region, with features to contact exhibitors and add events to their calendars for more effective sourcing trip planning. The Global Sources Buyer App has also been fully optimised to deliver a simpler, more personalised user experience that puts information at buyers' fingertips. The show expects to welcome close to 900 new overseas buyers to participate in on-site matching and networking activities, including high-quality buyers from Western Europe, the United States, Japan and ASEAN.

About Global Sources

Based in Hong Kong, Global Sources is a globally recognised B2B sourcing platform. With 55 years of dedicated service in facilitating international trade, it has earned the trust and recognition of the global business community through its proven track record of connecting quality buyers worldwide with verified top-tier Asian manufacturers. As a sourcing hub for market-ready innovative consumer products, Global Sources provides efficient and convenient trade services to over 14 million registered buyers and users worldwide.

** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **

Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Officially Opens