Manga and anime producer VIZ Media, collaborating with Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions Co., Ltd. (ShoPro), has revealed the key visual, initial footage, and lead voice cast for the anime adaptation of Keigo Shinzo’s acclaimed manga Hirayasumi.
The series is set to premiere on NHK General TV in Japan in January 2027, with international streaming details forthcoming. Production is overseen by Production +h., the studio known for The Orbital Children and Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction.
Synopsis: At 29 years old, laid-back Hiroto Ikuta finds himself without a girlfriend, a steady job, or a future plan — and he couldn’t be happier. Hiroto’s relaxed demeanor isn’t always understood by others, however. In a world filled with anxiety, confusion, and sorrow, he and those around him are simply trying their best to navigate life’s challenges.
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The key visual portrays daily life central to Hirayasumi, featuring Hiroto and his cousin Natsumi outside the single-story Asagaya home he inherited from Granny. They are accompanied by Hiroto’s close friend Hideki, Natsumi’s university classmate Akari, and local real estate agent Yomogi, giving a first look at the ensemble of characters whose lives intertwine around the house.
The new teaser provides a glimpse of Hirayasumi in motion, introducing Yuma Uchida (Megumi Fushiguro in Jujutsu Kaisen, Ash Lynx in Banana Fish, and Reo Mikage in Blue Lock) voicing Hiroto Ikuta, Mayu Takahashi (The Legendary Hero Is Dead!) as Natsumi Kobayashi, and Rikako Aikawa as Hanae Wada (Squirtle in the Pokémon series, Ishishi in Kaiketsu Zorori, and Oxnard in Hamtaro).
Hiroto, 29, is a relaxed part-time worker residing in Asagaya. A free spirit without a girlfriend or significant worries about the future, he generally avoids pondering life’s larger dilemmas — except for the crucial decision of what to prepare for dinner. He resides in the single-story house inherited from Granny.
“Hirayasumi is a beautiful narrative where human drama unfolds amid the simple moments of daily life,” stated Uchida. “I look forward to enjoying the role of Hiroto while remaining true to his genuine character and laid-back nature. Please anticipate the Hirayasumi anime!”
Hiroto’s cousin Natsumi relocates from Yamagata to Tokyo to pursue art school. Introverted and somewhat self-conscious, she aspires to be a manga artist but keeps this aspiration to herself. Her more serious demeanor often clashes with the perpetually upbeat Hiroto.
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“Upon reading the original manga, I thought, ‘I’ve never connected with a character this intensely … I absolutely have to play Nat!’” expressed Takahashi. “I’m genuinely thrilled to be part of this wonderful project that I cherish. Hiro embraces the small joys we often forget, our concerns, and even emotions we wish to hide from others, gently reassuring us that ‘It’s all okay.’ After watching, I believe everyday life will feel a little more meaningful. I’ll put my heart into portraying her, so please look forward to it!”
Hanae Wada, 83, is a retired school lunch worker living on a pension. After an unexpected event leads her to meet Hiroto, they start sharing dinner twice a week. While she may come off as blunt and stubborn, she grows attached to Hiroto and begins to worry about his future.
“All the characters are incredibly kind. Yet, beneath the surface, they carry their own pains and concerns. Hirayasumi evokes not just a flutter in the heart but also a catch in the chest, followed by a gentle, swelling emotion,” added Aikawa. “A beloved work has transformed into an anime, and I portray Hanae Wada, whom Hiroto refers to as ‘Granny.’ So, here I am: a catch in my chest followed by that gentle swell of emotion.”
The Hirayasumi anime is directed by Kei Suezawa, who also handles series composition and scriptwriting (Fate/Grand Order: Camelot – Wandering; Agateram, FLCL Progressive). The creative team includes character designer Naoyuki Asano (Urusei Yatsura, Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!, Mr. Osomatsu), art director Mika Nishimura (Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction, Typhoon Noruda), and composer Kaori Sawada (What Did You Eat Yesterday?, When Spring Comes).
