Hit Revenge Manga ‘Kagurabachi’ Set for Anime Adaptation in 2027

©Takeru Hokazono / Shueisha

CyberAgent, Inc., in collaboration with Shochiku Co., Ltd., has revealed an anime adaptation of Takeru Hokazono’s Kagurabachi. The fresh series is anticipated to commence broadcasting and streaming worldwide in April 2027, partnering with Muse and SMG Holdings, among others.

The original manga is presently serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump and is set to exceed a cumulative circulation of 4 million copies (including digital editions) with the launch of Volume 11 in Japan on Friday, May 1. Kagurabachi is accessible online on Shueisha’s Manga Plus (Chapters 1-17 are currently offered for free for a limited time until May 25) and is published in print and digital by Viz Media (English version).

Production will be managed by CyberAgent’s animation studio, Cypic (Umamusume: Cinderella Gray, The Summer Hikaru Died). Tetsuya Takeuchi, recognized for his contributions on 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), will helm the series. Keigo Sasaki (Blue Exorcist, The Seven Deadly Sins) will take on character design responsibilities.

“Who would’ve anticipated directing a popular Shonen Jump anime after working as a key animator on Naruto as a newcomer … life truly has its surprises,” Takeuchi remarked. “When you consider Kagurabachi, you envision swords! And more swords! Along with captivating characters and intense drama! I’ll strive to incorporate all these elements to create a show enjoyable for both long-time manga fans and newcomers!”

Sasaki stated, “Hokazono-sensei’s art style is incredibly appealing, and I couldn’t wait to visualize his drawings! I dove into the design process fueled by that excitement, but it has been a challenging journey. It’s difficult … yet when I successfully create something, it fills me with joy! The staff and I are committed daily, and I feel fortunate to be part of this project. I’ll give it my utmost to ensure everyone enjoys the anime.”

Taihi Kimura

Taihi Kimura, recipient of the 2025 Seiyu Awards for Best New Actor, has been cast as the main character, Chihiro Rokuhira — a reserved young boy embarked on a path of bloody vengeance after his father, an esteemed swordsmith, is killed by a group of dark magicians. With the last Enchanted Blade left from his father, Chihiro embarks on a journey to reclaim the six stolen swords and seek revenge for his grave loss.

“I’m genuinely thankful for this chance to voice the main character of Kagurabachi — a remarkable series cherished by fans globally,” expressed Kimura. “A katana is shaped and refined through ‘tanren,’ attaining its ultimate strength from the repetitive folding of steel. Chihiro is a soft-spoken young man, yet deep within, he possesses a conviction as steadfast as a sword.

“I will dedicate myself entirely to this role and infuse my heart and soul so that Chihiro’s unyielding determination resonates with all. Thank you for your support!”

To commemorate this announcement, a teaser visual and trailer have been disclosed, accompanied by a special commemorative illustration and remarks from the original author, Takeru Hokazono (also creator of the Tezuka Award-winning one-shot Enten), along with comments from Takeuchi, Character Sasaki, and Kimura.

The teaser visual (displayed at the beginning of this article) showcases Chihiro Rokuhira, poised with his Enchanted Blade, gazing forward with fierce resolve. In the backdrop, three goldfish — Aka, Kuro, and Nishiki — gracefully navigate the air.

“Do you remember the Rock Lee vs. Gaara battle in Naruto? The manga version is fantastic, but the anime’s rendition is simply incredible! Well, the very person responsible for animating that scene is our director! Wow!” Hokazono shared during the announcement. “The team is filled with talented individuals who truly understand the manga. I can hardly wait to see how the animation turns out! It’s going to be a must-see!”

Commemorative illustration ©Takeru Hokazono / Shueisha

Synopsis: Flames of resolve, ignited by vengeance. Chihiro Rokuhira is a boy aspiring to become a swordsmith who trained daily under his father, Kunishige, a famed swordsmith. Their peaceful days are violently shattered by an assault from the enigmatic sorcerer organization, the Hishaku.

What they lose are the six Enchanted Blades — swords with extraordinary power that can determine the nation’s destiny — and the warm, gentle life they previously enjoyed. From that moment onward, everything changed.

In a world shrouded in darkness, Chihiro wields Enten, the seventh Enchanted Blade left by his father, embarking on a blood-soaked journey of vengeance.

The teaser trailer begins with the forge where swords are created, emphasizing one of the series’ core themes: katana. Set in a Japan where contemporary landscapes intersect with traditional aesthetics, the trailer vividly depicts the start of Chihiro’s quest for revenge.

To celebrate the announcement of the anime adaptation, a Follow & Repost campaign is currently active on the official X. Ten fortunate winners will be drawn to receive an exclusive teaser visual poster (not for sale). Don’t miss out!

Additionally, the Kagurabachi World Tour has been officially confirmed. It will feature a screening of the initial 20 minutes of Episode 1, culminating in Japan with the world’s first full-length Episode 1 screening.

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