All the Anime Releasing in April 2026

The spring anime season of 2026 is set to be one of the busiest in recent history, featuring a massive influx of both returning hits and brand-new adaptations. Major franchises are expanding with new theatrical films and multi-part television seasons across every imaginable genre. Fans can expect a mix of high-stakes action, psychological drama, and lighthearted slice-of-life stories throughout the month. This comprehensive guide details every production scheduled to debut this April, including studio information and directorial credits.

‘Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway’ (2026)

The legendary detective franchise returns to the big screen with the film ‘Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway’, which officially premieres on April 10. Produced by TMS Entertainment and directed by Takahiro Hasui, the story involves a high-stakes mystery set against the backdrop of Japan’s highway systems. Conan Edogawa must once again use his brilliant deduction skills to stop a dangerous culprit before more lives are lost. This theatrical release continues the long-standing tradition of annual films for the series.

‘Girls und Panzer: Motto Love Love Sakusen Desu! Act 4’ (2026)

The tactical tank-warfare series continues with ‘Girls und Panzer: Motto Love Love Sakusen Desu! – Act 4’, scheduled for a theatrical debut on April 10. This installment is a collaborative production between P.A. Works and Actas, featuring Masami Shimoda as the director. The narrative focuses on the lighthearted daily lives of the Oarai Girls Academy students between their intense sensha-do matches. It provides fans with a deeper look at the personalities and camaraderie of the beloved tank crews.

‘Sound! Euphonium: The Final Movie, Part 1’ (2026)

Kyoto Animation presents ‘Sound! Euphonium: The Final Movie – Part 1’, which is slated to arrive in theaters on April 24. This film serves as the beginning of the end for the series, with Tatsuya Ishihara acting as chief director and Taichi Ogawa directing. The story focuses on Kumiko Oumae and the Kitauji High School concert band as they navigate the emotional complexities of their final year. The students face their toughest musical challenges yet while striving for the elusive national gold medal.

‘Classroom of the Elite’ (2017–)

The fourth season of ‘Classroom of the Elite’ is scheduled to begin its broadcast on April 1. Animation studio Lerche returns to produce the series with Noriyuki Nomata serving as the director for this installment. Kiyotaka Ayanokoji remains a central figure as he navigates the cutthroat environment of the Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing School. The new season will cover the next set of rigorous special exams that test the students’ intelligence and social standing.

‘Dorohedoro’ (2020–)

After a long hiatus, ‘Dorohedoro’ returns for its highly anticipated second season on April 1. MAPPA handles the animation production once again, with Yuichiro Hayashi returning to direct the bizarre and gritty series. Caiman and Nikaido continue their search for the sorcerer responsible for Caiman’s lizard head and lost memories. The dark fantasy world of the Hole promises more chaotic action and culinary diversions involving gyoza.

‘Go for It, Nakamura-kun!!’ (2026)

‘Go for It, Nakamura!’ makes its television debut on April 1 as a charming new addition to the romantic comedy genre. Studio Drive is responsible for the animation, and the series is directed by Aoi Umeki. The plot follows the shy high schooler Nakamura as he attempts to navigate his overwhelming crush on his classmate, Hirose. This adaptation aims to capture the distinct retro aesthetic and heartwarming awkwardness of the original manga.

‘Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon’ (2023–)

The third season of ‘Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon’ is set to premiere on April 1. This unique isekai series is a co-production between Studio Gokumi and AXsiZ, directed by Takashi Yamamoto. Boxxo continues to support his party of adventurers by dispensing modern snacks and various utility items in a dangerous fantasy world. The new episodes will delve deeper into the dungeon’s mysteries while Boxxo unlocks even more versatile vending forms.

‘The Beginning After the End’ (2025–)

‘The Beginning After the End’ returns for its second season on April 1, continuing the journey of Arthur Leywin. Produced by Studio A-Cat and directed by Keitaro Motonaga, the story follows a former king reincarnated into a world of magic. Arthur must continue to hone his skills and prepare for the looming conflicts between the continent’s major powers. This season focuses on his growth as a student at Xyrus Academy and the deepening geopolitical tensions.

‘Always a Catch!’ (2026)

The original anime ‘Always a Catch!’ is scheduled to launch on April 2, bringing a focus on the hobby of fishing. Animation studio Troyca is behind the production, with Akira Oguro serving as the director for the series. The narrative explores the bond between a group of characters who find solace and friendship through competitive and recreational fishing. It blends technical details of the sport with character-driven drama and scenic coastal environments.

‘Dr. Stone’ (2019–)

‘Dr. Stone: Science Future’ continues its final narrative arc with part three, which begins airing on April 2. Produced by TMS Entertainment and directed by Shuhei Matsushita, the series follows Senku Ishigami’s mission to rebuild civilization with science. The Kingdom of Science is currently focused on the global project to reach the moon and solve the mystery of petrification. This installment promises high-stakes technological development and international exploration.

‘Kirio Fan Club’ (2026)

‘Kirio Fan Club’ is a new comedic series scheduled for release on April 2, focusing on a group of obsessive schoolgirls. Satelight is the studio producing the project, with So Toyama acting as the director for the 12-episode run. The story revolves around the daily lives of students who have formed a dedicated fan club for a peculiar boy named Kirio. Their antics and misunderstandings lead to a variety of humorous situations within their school environment.

‘The Ramparts of Ice’ (2026)

The romantic drama ‘The Ramparts of Ice’ premieres on April 2, adapted from the popular web manga. Studio Kai is handling the animation production under the direction of the filmmaker Mankyu. The series follows Koyuki, a girl who keeps others at a distance, and the persistent classmates who try to break through her emotional barriers. It explores themes of social anxiety, friendship, and the slow process of opening up to others.

‘Haibara’s Teenage New Game+’ (2026)

The time-travel romance ‘Haibara’s Teenage New Game+’ is set to begin its 12-episode broadcast on April 3. Studio Comet is animating the series, with Misuzu Hoshino serving as the director for the project. The plot follows a 30-year-old man who is suddenly sent back to his high school days, allowing him to relive his youth. He uses his future knowledge to fix his past mistakes and pursue a more fulfilling teenage life.

‘Killed Again, Mr. Detective.’ (2026)

Liden Films presents ‘Killed Again, Mr. Detective?’, a supernatural mystery series launching on April 3. Directed by Takashi Naoya, the story centers on a detective who has the unfortunate ability to be murdered and subsequently revived. This cycle of death and resurrection becomes a unique tool used to identify killers and solve impossible crimes. The series blends dark humor with traditional detective tropes and a supernatural twist.

‘Monster Eater’ (2026)

‘Monster Eater’ premieres on April 3, bringing a gourmet twist to the fantasy adventure genre. This production by Imagica Infos and Imageworks Studio is directed by Hikaru Sato. The story follows an adventurer who survives in dangerous dungeons by cooking and eating the monsters he defeats. It explores the culinary possibilities of a fantasy world while detailing the protagonist’s survival strategies in hostile environments.

‘Petals of Reincarnation’ (2026)

The action-heavy ‘Petals of Reincarnation’ is scheduled to debut on April 3. Produced by Benten Film and directed by Shun Kudo, the series focuses on individuals who can awaken the talents of their past lives. These “Reincarnators” utilize the skills of historical geniuses and criminals to engage in a modern-day secret war. The narrative follows a young man who enters this dangerous world to find his own hidden potential.

‘Snowball Earth’ (2026)

Studio Kai presents the sci-fi action series ‘Snowball Earth’, which begins its 13-episode run on April 3. Munehisa Sakai directs this story about a mecha pilot returning to a frozen, post-apocalyptic Earth. The protagonist must navigate the snowy wasteland in his giant robot, “Yukimitsu,” while battling mysterious kaiju-like creatures. The series focuses on survival, loneliness, and the struggle to protect the remnants of humanity.

‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime’ (2018–)

The fourth season of ‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime’ begins with part one on April 3. Eight Bit returns as the animation studio, with Naokatsu Tsuda stepping in as the director for this new chapter. Rimuru Tempest continues to lead the Jura Tempest Federation through complex international negotiations and rising threats from rival powers. This season covers the aftermath of the previous conflicts and the expansion of Rimuru’s diplomatic influence.

‘The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten’ (2023–)

‘The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten’ returns for a 12-episode second season on April 3. Project No.9 is animating the sequel, with Chihiro Kumano taking over directorial duties for the series. The story continues to follow the slow-burn romance between Amane Fujimiya and Mahiru Shiina as they spend more time together. This season explores their deepening bond and the challenges of high school life as their relationship becomes more public.

‘Akane-banashi’ (2026)

The rakugo-themed drama ‘Akane-banashi’ is set to premiere on April 4, produced by studio Zexcs. Ayumu Watanabe directs this adaptation of the acclaimed manga about a girl entering the world of professional storytelling. Akane Osaki seeks to reach the highest rank of rakugo to prove her father’s talent and clear his name. The series focuses on the technical mastery of the art form and the competitive nature of the traditional performance world.

‘Ascendance of a Bookworm’ (2019–)

The next chapter of ‘Ascendance of a Bookworm’, titled ‘Adopted Daughter of an Archduke’, premieres on April 4. Wit Studio takes over the animation for this portion of the story, with Yoshiaki Iwasaki serving as the director. Rozemyne must adjust to her new life as a noble while continuing her ambitious goal of spreading literacy and making books. The series explores the intricate politics of noble society and the further development of printing technology.

‘Daemons of the Shadow Realm’ (2026)

From the creator of ‘Fullmetal Alchemist’ comes ‘Daemons of the Shadow Realm’, beginning its 24-episode run on April 4. Bones Film is producing the series under the direction of Masahiro Ando. The plot follows Yuru, a boy living in a remote village, who discovers his twin sister is part of a dark ritual involving powerful supernatural beings. He must master the use of his own daemons to survive an attack by modern-day forces and uncover his family’s secrets.

‘Mao’ (2026)

Sunrise presents ‘Mao’, a supernatural mystery series debuting on April 4. Directed by Teruo Sato, the anime adapts the manga by Rumiko Takahashi about a girl who travels back to the Taisho era. She meets the mysterious exorcist Mao and becomes embroiled in a centuries-old curse involving a powerful cat demon. The story blends historical fiction with traditional Japanese folklore and dark fantasy elements.

‘The Strongest Job Is Apparently Not a Hero or a Sage, but an Appraiser (Provisional)!’ (2026)

The fantasy series ‘The Strongest Job Is Apparently Not a Hero or a Sage, but an Appraiser (Provisional)!’ launches on April 4. Produced by Studio Flad and directed by Makoto Hoshino, the story features a protagonist with a seemingly mundane job. However, his appraisal skills prove to be world-breaking, allowing him to see the hidden potential in items and people alike. He uses this power to navigate a dangerous world where traditional hero classes are not always what they seem.

‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ (2019–)

‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ returns for its 24-episode fourth season on April 4. Bandai Namco Pictures animates the series, with Makoto Moriwaki as chief director and Ayaka Tsujihashi directing. Iruma Suzuki and his classmates in the Abnormal Class face new challenges during their second year at Babyls Academy. The season is expected to cover the intense “Music Festival” arc, where Iruma must lead his class to success through performance.

‘Ace of the Diamond’ (2013–)

The sports drama ‘Ace of Diamond Act II’ returns for its second season on April 5. OLM is the studio in charge of production, with Hideaki Oba serving as the director. Eijun Sawamura and the Seidou High School baseball team continue their journey toward the national Koshien tournament. This season focuses on the fierce competition within the roster and the high-stakes games against powerful rival schools in the regional qualifiers.

‘Kusunoki’s Garden of Gods’ (2026)

‘Kusunoki’s Garden of Gods’ is a 12-episode slice-of-life fantasy scheduled to premiere on April 5. Produced by Juvenage and directed by Sekijuu Sekino, the story follows a young man who inherits a mysterious house. He discovers the property includes a garden that serves as a resting place for various minor deities and spirits. The series focuses on his daily interactions with these divine beings and the peaceful atmosphere of his new home.

‘Magical Sisters LuluttoLilly’ (2026)

Studio Pierrot presents ‘Magical Sisters LuluttoLilly’, an original magical girl series beginning on April 5. The project is directed by Shintaro Doge and follows the whimsical adventures of two sisters with distinct magical abilities. They use their powers to solve problems in their community while learning the responsibilities of being magic users. The series aims to blend colorful action with themes of sisterly bonds and personal growth.

‘Mistress Kanan Is Devilishly Easy’ (2026)

The romantic comedy ‘Mistress Kanan Is Devilishly Easy’ is a 12-episode series premiering on April 5. Studio Kai handles the animation with Yasushi Muroya serving as the director for the project. Kanan, a powerful high-ranking demon, comes to the human world to collect souls but finds herself easily flustered by a kind human boy. The story centers on her failed attempts to be intimidating and her growing, awkward affection for her supposed target.

‘Needy Girl Overdose’ (2026)

‘Needy Girl Overdose’, a 13-episode adaptation of the popular visual novel, is scheduled for an April 5 release. Yostar Pictures is producing the anime with Masaoki Nakashima acting as the director. The narrative follows an aspiring internet streamer named Ame as she tries to achieve viral fame under her persona, Pame-chan. The series explores the dark side of internet culture, mental health struggles, and the pressure of maintaining an online idol image.

‘One Piece’ (1999–)

The long-running ‘One Piece’ series begins the highly anticipated ‘One Piece: Elbaph’ arc on April 5. Toei Animation continues its production with Wataru Matsumi directing this new chapter of the Straw Hat Pirates’ journey. Luffy and his crew finally arrive at the land of the giants, Elbaph, a location teased since the early days of the series. This arc is expected to reveal major lore regarding the giants and the history of the world.

‘The Food Diary of Miss Maid’ (2026)

The gourmet series ‘The Food Diary of Miss Maid’ is a 12-episode production debuting on April 5. A collaboration between EMT Squared and Magic Bus, the anime is directed by Ryousuke Senbo. The story follows a dedicated maid who finds immense joy in exploring and eating various types of food during her time off. It is a relaxing, episodic series that focuses on the appreciation of culinary delights and the simple pleasures of a good meal.

‘An Observation Log of My Fiancée Who Calls Herself a Villainess’ (2026)

‘An Observation Log of My Fiancée Who Calls Herself a Villainess’ is a 12-episode fantasy romance premiering on April 6. Ashi Productions is animating the series with Junichi Yamamoto serving as the director. Crown Prince Cecil is bored with his perfect life until his fiancée, Bertia, suddenly claims she is a reincarnated villainess destined to ruin him. Cecil finds her attempts to be “evil” fascinating and chooses to observe her antics as she accidentally helps everyone around her.

‘Do You Like Big Girls?’ (2026)

The ecchi comedy ‘Do You Like Big Girls?’ premieres on April 6, produced by Studio Hokiboshi. Directed by Sota Warai, the story follows a young man who becomes the manager of a dormitory for tall female athletes. He must navigate the daily challenges of living with a group of volleyball players who are much larger and more athletic than him. The series focuses on physical comedy and the romantic tensions that arise in the shared living space.

‘Farming Life in Another World’ (2023–)

‘Farming Life in Another World’ returns for its 12-episode second season on April 6. Studio Zero-G is responsible for the animation, with Ryoichi Kuraya returning as the director. Hiraku Machio continues to manage his growing community of diverse fantasy residents in the Great Tree Village. The new season focuses on the expansion of the village’s infrastructure and the arrival of new mythical beings seeking to join his peaceful agricultural society.

‘Ghost Concert: Missing Songs’ (2026)

The musical supernatural series ‘Ghost Concert: Missing Songs’ is a 12-episode production launching on April 6. Studio ENGI is handling the animation with Masato Jinbo serving as the director. The plot involves musical spirits and idols who perform to resolve the regrets of the deceased. It combines idol performance elements with a mystery-driven plot as the characters search for lost compositions that hold the power to save souls.

‘Ingoku Danchi: Deviant’s Apartment Complex’ (2026)

The psychological horror series ‘Ingoku Danchi: Deviant’s Apartment Complex’ is a 12-episode anime premiering on April 6. Produced by Elias and directed by Toshikatsu Tokoro, the story centers on a normal family that moves into a public housing complex. They soon discover that the other residents are involved in increasingly disturbing and deviant behaviors. The series focuses on the tension and terror that build as the family realizes they cannot easily escape their new home.

‘Marika’s LoveMeter Malfunction’ (2026)

‘Marika’s Love Meter Malfunction’ is an 8-episode short-form romantic comedy debuting on April 6. Studio Leo is animating the series with Sumito Sasaki acting as the director for the project. The story follows a girl named Marika whose “affection meter” for her crush has glitched, causing her to act with extreme and unpredictable levels of love. Her erratic behavior leads to constant chaos and confusion for the object of her affection.

‘The Klutzy Class Monitor and the Girl with the Short Skirt’ (2026)

Zero-G presents ‘The Klutzy Class Monitor and the Girl with the Short Skirt’, launching on April 6. Directed by Daiji Iwanaga, the comedy follows a strict disciplinary committee member who is secretly very clumsy. She spends her days trying to correct a rebellious student who refuses to follow the school’s dress code. Their interactions lead to a series of comedic mishaps and an unlikely bond between the two contrasting personalities.

‘Witch Hat Atelier’ (2026)

The highly anticipated 13-episode adaptation of ‘Witch Hat Atelier’ is set to premiere on April 6. Produced by Bug Films and directed by Ayumu Watanabe, the series follows Coco, a girl who dreams of becoming a witch. After accidentally discovering how magic is cast, she is taken in as an apprentice by a traveling sorcerer named Qifrey. The story is renowned for its intricate world-building and explores the wonder and danger of the magical arts.

‘Beyond Twilight’ (2026)

The supernatural mystery ‘Beyond Twilight’ premieres on April 7, based on a classic horror manga. This production by Imagica Infos and Imageworks Studio is directed by Saya Fukase. The narrative follows a man who has inherited the ability to see supernatural entities and the various cases he encounters involving the spirit world. It focuses on atmospheric storytelling and the traditional folklore of Japanese ghosts and yokai.

‘Even a Replica Can Fall in Love’ (2026)

‘Even a Replica Can Fall in Love’ is a 13-episode sci-fi romance debuting on April 7. Animation studio Voil is producing the series with Ryuichi Kimura serving as the director. The plot centers on “Replicas,” artificial beings created to stand in for humans in their daily lives. The story follows a Replica who begins to develop genuine human emotions and falls in love, challenging the laws of her society.

‘I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class’ (2026)

The slice-of-life romance ‘I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class’ is a 12-episode series launching on April 7. Produced by Connect and directed by Hideki Tachibana, the anime focuses on the relationship between a quiet boy and a popular girl. Unlike the “prettiest” girl in school who is unapproachable, the “second prettiest” girl forms a secret, genuine bond with the protagonist. The series explores their quiet interactions and the development of their teenage romance.

‘Liar Game’ (2026)

Madhouse presents the psychological thriller ‘Liar Game’, which is set to begin its broadcast on April 7. The project features Yuzo Sato as chief director and Asami Kawano as director. The story follows Nao Kanzaki, an incredibly honest student who is drawn into a high-stakes tournament based on deception and debt. She teams up with a genius con man to navigate the manipulative games and eventually bring down the Liar Game organization.

‘Marriage Toxin’ (2026)

‘Marriagetoxin’ is an action-comedy series premiering on April 7, produced by Bones Film. Directed by Motonobu Hori, the plot follows Gero, a legendary assassin from a clan of poison users. Because his clan will die out if he doesn’t marry, he enlists a marriage swindler he was supposed to kill to help him find a wife. The story involves Gero going on dangerous missions while simultaneously trying to improve his social skills for his “marriage hunting.”

‘Nippon Sangoku: The Three Nations of the Crimson Sun’ (2026)

The political war drama ‘Nippon Sangoku: The Three Nations of the Crimson Sun’ launches on April 7. Produced by Studio Kafka and directed by Kazuaki Terasawa, the series is set in a future Japan that has collapsed and split into three warring nations. A young man with extraordinary strategic intellect rises through the ranks to unify the country. The narrative focuses on large-scale military tactics and the brutal realities of civil war.

‘The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen: From Villainess to Savior’ (2023–)

The second season of ‘The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen: From Villainess to Savior’ premieres on April 7. OLM Team Yoshioka returns for the production with Norio Nitta serving as the director. Princess Pride continues to use her knowledge of her past life to prevent the tragedies she was destined to cause as a villainess. The new episodes focus on her efforts to protect her kingdom from internal corruption and external threats.

‘Eren the Southpaw’ (2026)

‘Eren the Southpaw’ is a creative-industry drama launching on April 8. This collaboration between Signal.MD and Production I.G is directed by Toshimasa Suzuki. The story follows a talented but struggling designer and a genius painter named Eren. It explores the rivalry and mutual inspiration between those with natural talent and those who must work relentlessly to succeed in the competitive world of advertising and art.

‘Gals Can’t Be Kind to Otaku!?’ (2026)

The romantic comedy ‘Gals Can’t Be Kind to Otaku!?’ premieres on April 8, produced by TMS Entertainment. Directed by Shin Mita, the story follows a socially awkward otaku who finds himself being treated kindly by a popular “gal” in his class. He initially suspects her kindness is a prank, but they slowly develop a genuine friendship based on shared interests. The series explores the breaking of social stereotypes and the development of an unlikely romance.

‘My Ribdiculous Reincarnation’ (2026)

The absurd comedy ‘My Ribdiculous Reincarnation’ is set to debut on April 8. Produced by Qzil.la and S.o.K, the series is directed by Yasufumi Soejima. The story features a protagonist who asks a goddess to be reincarnated as a “hero’s rib” instead of a person. He then experiences the fantasy world as a sentient piece of bone inside the body of a legendary warrior. This parody of the isekai genre focuses on the bizarre situations resulting from his unique perspective.

‘Pardon the Intrusion, I’m Home!’ (2026)

Tatsunoko Production presents ‘Pardon the Intrusion, I’m Home!’, beginning its broadcast on April 8. Directed by Itsuki Imazaki, the slice-of-life comedy centers on the chaotic daily lives of an unconventional family. Unexpected visitors and strange neighborhood occurrences are a constant theme in their household. The series focuses on physical comedy and the humorous interactions between the various family members and their intruders.

‘Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World-‘ (2016–2026)

‘Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World’ returns for its 19-episode fourth season on April 8. White Fox remains the animation studio, with Masahiro Shinohara serving as the director for this installment. Subaru Natsuki continues his battle against the Witch’s Cult while trying to navigate the increasingly dangerous political struggle for the throne of Lugunica. This season is expected to cover the high-stakes events in the “Water Gate City” of Pristella.

‘Kujima: Why Sing, When You Can Warble?’ (2026)

Studio Hibari presents ‘Kujima: Why Sing, When You Can Warble?’, premiering on April 9. Directed by Noriyuki Nomata, the series is a surreal slice-of-life comedy about a strange bird-like creature that begins living with a middle school student. The creature, Kujima, has a human-like personality and a massive appetite, leading to many strange domestic situations. The story focuses on the bond between the boy and his bizarre new housemate.

‘The Warrior Princess and the Barbaric King’ (2026)

The fantasy romance ‘The Warrior Princess and the Barbaric King’ launches on April 9. Produced by Jumondou and directed by Takayuki Tanaka, the story follows a captured female knight and the king of the “barbarians” who took her prisoner. Instead of being executed, she is forced to become his wife and navigate the customs of his tribe. The plot explores the cultural clashes and the eventual development of feelings between the two strong-willed leaders.

‘The Drops of God’ (2026)

The 24-episode wine-themed drama ‘Drops of God’ is scheduled to premiere on April 10. Produced by Satelight and directed by Kenji Itoso, the anime adapts the famous manga about a quest to find thirteen legendary wines. The protagonist must compete against a world-renowned wine critic to inherit his father’s vast and valuable collection. The series is known for its detailed descriptions of wine tasting and the intense psychological battles between the competitors.

‘Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk’ (2026)

‘Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk’ is a comedic series launching on April 11. Produced by studio Soigne and directed by Takashi Sakuma, the story centers on a young woman who is very reserved when sober but becomes incredibly outgoing after drinking. Her personality shifts lead to many humorous situations as her friends and coworkers try to keep up with her drunken energy. The series explores social drinking culture in Japan through a comedic lens.

‘Fist of the North Star: HOKUTO NO KEN’ (2026)

TMS Entertainment presents a new adaptation of ‘Fist of the North Star’, premiering on April 11. Directed by Hiroshi Maeda, this series aims to bring the classic post-apocalyptic martial arts story to a new generation with modern animation techniques. Kenshiro, the successor of the deadly Hokuto Shinken style, wanders a wasteland to protect the weak and seek revenge against his rivals. The production focuses on the brutal action and dramatic themes of the original 1980s manga.

‘Kill Blue’ (2026)

The action-comedy ‘Kill Blue’ is scheduled for an April 11 release, produced by studio Cue. The project is co-directed by Hiro Kaburagi and Yasunori Ide. The story follows a legendary middle-aged hitman who is accidentally transformed into a middle school student by a mysterious chemical. He must navigate his new life in a classroom while still dealing with various threats from the professional assassin world.

‘Rent-A-Girlfriend’ (2020–)

‘Rent-A-Girlfriend’ returns for its fifth season on April 11, continuing the romantic entanglements of Kazuya Kinoshita. TMS Entertainment remains the production studio with Kazuomi Koga directing. Kazuya continues to manage his relationships with Chizuru, Mami, Ruka, and Sumi as he gets closer to his professional and personal goals. This season focuses on the deepening bond between Kazuya and Chizuru as they deal with the fallout of their previous decisions.

‘Yowayowa Sensei’ (2026)

The romantic comedy ‘Yowayowa Sensei’ premieres on April 11, produced by Brain’s Base. Directed by Hiroshi Ishiodori, the story centers on a female high school teacher who is extremely timid and lacks self-confidence. One of her students, who looks like a delinquent but is actually very kind, decides to support and protect her. Their relationship grows as they help each other navigate the social pressures of the school environment.

‘Ichijyoma Mankitsu Gurashi!’ (2026)

Studio PRA presents ‘Ichijōma Mankitsu Gurashi!’, premiering on April 12. Directed by Toshinori Watanabe, the story follows a young man who decides to live permanently inside an internet cafe booth. The series explores the subculture of “cafe refugees” and the various people he meets who are also living in the facility. It balances the humor of his cramped living situation with the more serious aspects of his search for a better life.

‘Mission: Yozakura Family’ (2024–)

The second season of ‘Mission: Yozakura Family’ begins on April 12, produced by Silver Link. Mirai Minato acts as chief director, with Takahiro Nakatsugawa directing the action-comedy series. Taiyo Asano continues his life as a member of the world’s most powerful spy family after marrying his childhood friend, Mutsumi. The new season focuses on Taiyo’s growth as a spy and the family’s battles against rival intelligence organizations.

‘Odekake Kozame’ (2023–)

The second season of the short-form series ‘Odekake Kozame’ is scheduled to premiere on April 12. Produced by ENGI and directed by Chihiro Kumano, the series follows the small, daily adventures of a little shark named Kozame-chan. Each episode features Kozame-chan interacting with people and objects in a town, providing a relaxing and wholesome viewing experience. The show is known for its simple art style and cute, episodic storytelling.

‘The Classroom of the Black Cat and a Witch’ (2026)

Liden Films presents ‘The Classroom of a Black Cat and a Witch’, debuting on April 12. Directed by Naoyuki Tatsuwa, the story follows a girl who cannot use magic normally despite being a witch. She encounters a mysterious black cat that claims it can teach her, but only through unconventional and often dangerous methods. The series explores her progress at a magical academy and the secrets surrounding her feline mentor.

‘Wistoria: Wand and Sword’ (2024–)

‘Wistoria: Wand and Sword’ returns for its second season on April 12. This co-production between Actas and Bandai Namco Pictures features Tatsuya Yoshihara as chief director and Hideaki Nakano as director. Will Serfort continues his quest to become a Magia Vende despite his inability to cast even the simplest spells. The story focuses on his intense physical combat training and the mystery of his unique origins in a world that values magic above all else.

‘I Want to End This Love Game’ (2026)

The romantic comedy ‘I Want to End This Love Game’ premieres on April 14, produced by Felix Film. Directed by Azuma Tani, the series follows two childhood friends who have been playing a “game” to see who can make the other confess their love first. As they enter high school, the stakes of their game increase as they both try to hide their genuine feelings while teasing the other. The series focuses on the competitive yet wholesome nature of their relationship.

‘Dandelion’ (2026)

‘Dandelion’ is a 7-episode series launching on April 16, produced by animation studio NAZ. Directed by Daisuke Mataga, the project is a psychological drama that explores the complex connections between its main characters. The narrative focuses on how small, seemingly insignificant choices can lead to major changes in the lives of individuals. With a shorter episode count, the series aims for a tight, high-impact storytelling experience that delves into themes of fate and human nature.

Please feel free to share which of these upcoming April 2026 anime series or movies you are most looking forward to in the comments.