The anime
film based on the novel The Keeper of the Camphor Tree (Kusunoki
no Bannin) by Keigo Higashino has officially confirmed its
release date in Japanese theaters: January 30, 2026, local time in
Japan, which corresponds to the early morning of January 30 at 02:00
(UTC+2) in Spain.
The
announcement was made through the film's official website, where a teaser trailer in X and a promotional
poster with the enigmatic phrase "This tree keeps a
secret" were also presented.
An
emotionally charged main cast
The main
cast features Fumiya Takahashi, best known for his role as Aruto
Hiden in Kamen Rider Zero-One, who will play Reito Naoi, a man who
has lost his job unjustly and is sent by his aunt to guard an ancient and
enigmatic camphor tree at Tsukisato Shrine. This will be Takahashi's
first starring role in an anime film.
Takahashi
commented on the project: "This story offers moments to stop and
reflect on life, something that is often overlooked in the daily routine. I
hope this encounter with 'The Keeper of the Camphor Tree' leaves an imprint on
every viewer."
Joining him
will be renowned actress and former Takarazuka star Yuki Amami, who
will play Chifune Yanagisawa, Reito's aunt and former tree
guardian. Amami is remembered for her role as Gran Mamare in Hayao Miyazaki's
Ponyo (2008). About his participation, he declared: "Each voice
role is a new challenge. This time, I put all my heart into bringing Chifune to
life, imagining his story and conveying with every word a real emotional
charge."
A
top-notch production team
The
direction is in charge of Tomohiko Ito (Sword Art Online),
while the script is by Taku Kishimoto (Haikyuu!). Character
design will be in the hands of Tsubasa Yamaguchi (BLUE LOCK)
and Akiko Itagaki (Lonely Castle in the Mirror). The art
direction will be by Hiroshi Takiguchi (Weathering With You),
and the A-1 Pictures studio will be in charge of the
animation, with distribution by Aniplex.
A story
with deep roots
The Keeper
of the Camphor Tree was originally published in March 2020 by
Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha and has surpassed one million copies in print in Japan
as of March 2025. Although many of Higashino's works have been
adapted to live-action format, this is the first time that one of his
novels has been made into an anime film.
The English
version of the book will be released by Abacus in June 2026. The
plot introduces us to Reito Naoi, a man unjustly fired who, in a
desperate attempt, commits an impulsive act and ends up arrested.
In prison,
he receives an unexpected proposal: to be released if he accepts a condition
imposed by a mysterious client... his own aunt. Thus, Reito assumes the unusual
role of guardian of a sacred tree, in a sanctuary where an ancient
legend dwells.
A
feature film that promises to touch the soul
With an
introspective premise, an up-and-coming cast, and an outstanding creative team,
The Keeper of the Camphor Tree is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated
films of 2026. A story where nature, family ties and mystery are intertwined to
offer a unique cinematic experience.
