The
corridors of the imperial palace are ready to open their doors on the small
screen. Production company Kadokawa has updated the status of
the animated adaptation of the Matsurika Kanriden light novels
(known in English as The Tale of the Scholar-Official Matsurika)
with the release of a new trailer and promotional poster. This revelation
served to formally introduce the production staff, the protagonists
and confirm its premiere for January 2027.
Matsurika
Kanriden Details
The
animation work is carried out by the Maho Film studio. The
main direction falls to Yuichi Nakazawa, who will work under the
general supervision of veteran Takeshi Mori (recognized for
classics such as Vandread and Gunsmith Cats). The
composition of the series and the scripts are in the experienced hands of Toko
Machida (Lucky Star, The IDOLM@STER). The character
design is adapted by Manami Inose (Blue Miburo), while
the original soundtrack is being composed by Takuro Iga.
What is
the story about?
Heavily
inspired by Chinese history, this romance and fantasy plot follows Matsurika, a
court lady who serves in the inner palace and is widely known for her
exceptional memory. One day, her monotonous life is turned upside down when she
receives the unusual request to serve as a practice partner for the marriage
reunion of the son of a prestigious noble house.
However,
upon arriving at the encounter, he discovers that the supposed nobleman is
actually Emperor Hakuyo himself. To her surprise, the ruler falls in love with
her at first sight, but far from forcing the situation, he imposes an enormous
challenge on her: if she wants to be by his side, she must first pass the
demanding state civil service exam to become an imperial scholarly official.
About
the original work
Writer Rinne
Ishida began publishing this bestselling light novel series in July
2017, featuring the beautiful illustrations of artist Izumi. After
years of great popularity, the work published its eighteenth volume in October
2025. At the same time, mangaka Takase illustrates
a manga adaptation that is serialized in the Monthly Princess magazine
of the Akita Shoten publishing house, which has just concluded
its first part after the release of its twelfth compilation volume.
