The popular anime series Kaiju No. 8 is starting the new year with a special “scenery” visual, showcasing beloved characters in a traditional New Year’s setting. This latest visual is part of a series released on the 8th of each month, and this time it features characters Kikoru Shinomiya, Kafka Hibino, and Reno Ichikawa during their first shrine visit of the year. The anime, produced by Production I.G, is gearing up for its highly anticipated second season, set to premiere in July 2025.
New Year, New Visuals
The new visual depicts the trio, voiced by Fairouz Ai, Masaya Fukunishi, and Wataru Kato respectively, against the backdrop of a serene shrine, a common cultural tradition in Japan during the New Year. This scene offers a glimpse into the characters’ personal lives, contrasting their usual battle-ready personas. The artwork is a departure from the intense action sequences the series is known for, showcasing the lighter, more reflective side of the narrative.
This “scenery” series is a treat for fans, providing unique, character-focused visuals that explore the world of Kaiju No. 8 beyond the battles. It is a way to see these characters in a relaxed and peaceful setting, something viewers rarely get to experience within the show.
Season 2 and More
Alongside the new visual, the franchise is building excitement for the second season of the anime, which will premiere in July 2025. A trailer for the upcoming season was unveiled at the recent Jump Festa ’25, further fueling anticipation among fans. Additionally, a compilation movie for the first season, featuring a special episode titled “Hoshina’s Day Off,” is scheduled for release on March 28, 2025. This movie will allow fans to relive the first season and provide new content before the premiere of Season 2.
Kaiju No. 8: A Phenomenon
Kaiju No. 8 has quickly become a global sensation, captivating audiences with its unique blend of action, comedy, and adventure. The manga, written and illustrated by Naoya Matsumoto, was first serialized in July 2020 on Shueisha’s Shonen Jump+ and quickly garnered a large fanbase. The series follows the journey of Kafka Hibino, who, after a series of unfortunate events, gains the ability to transform into a powerful Kaiju, dubbed “Kaiju No. 8.”
Plot Overview
The story is set in a world where monsters called Kaiju regularly attack Japan. The Japan Anti-Kaiju Defense Force (JAKDF) is tasked with eliminating these threats. Kafka Hibino and his childhood friend, Mina Ashiro, vow to join the Defense Force. While Mina has become a celebrated captain in the Defense Force’s Third Division, Kafka has failed the entrance exams multiple times. He works at a Kaiju disposal company, cleaning up the remains of defeated monsters. His life takes a drastic turn when a small Kaiju enters his body, granting him the power to transform into a monster.
With his newfound powers, Kafka decides to join the Defense Force while keeping his Kaiju abilities a secret, determined to fight alongside Mina. This sets the stage for a thrilling narrative of battles, friendships, and the internal struggles of a man who is also a monster.
Key Characters
- Kafka Hibino / Kaiju No. 8: The main protagonist, a 32-year-old who gains the ability to transform into a Kaiju. He possesses superhuman strength, speed, and regeneration. Despite his monstrous form, he retains his human consciousness and strives to protect humanity.
- Mina Ashiro: Kafka’s childhood friend, now a celebrated captain in the Defense Force’s Third Division, known for her destructive shooting ability. She is a skilled and dedicated Kaiju fighter and an important figure in Kafka’s life.
- Reno Ichikawa: A younger coworker of Kafka at the monster disposal company, who inspires Kafka to try again to join the defense force. He is a driven individual with a dream to join the Defense Force.
- Kikoru Shinomiya: A highly skilled member of the Defense Force. She is a powerful and determined fighter who plays a crucial role in the battles against the Kaiju.
- Soshiro Hoshina: The Vice-Captain of the Third Division of the Defense Force. He is depicted wielding a katana in the new year’s illustration rather than his usual two swords.
- Gen Narumi: The Captain of the First Division of the Defense Force, and a powerful Kaiju fighter. He is featured in a previous visual for the upcoming season 2.
Anime Production and Impact
The anime adaptation of Kaiju No. 8 is produced by Production I.G, a studio renowned for its work on series like Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex and Psycho-Pass. Studio Khara, which is known for monster design, supervises the Kaiju artwork. The first season premiered in April 2024, and was an instant hit, praised for its animation, music, character development, and transitions.
The first season of the anime aired from April to June 2024, with a total of 12 episodes. The series’ success has led to a variety of additional projects, including the upcoming second season, a compilation movie and a video game. The animation has brought the intense battles and emotional depth of the manga to life, captivating both long-time fans and new viewers.
Themes and Influences
The series is influenced by Japanese tokusatsu media, notably Ultraman, while the main character’s backstory draws from the author’s personal struggles in the manga industry. The series also explores themes of friendship, determination, and the challenges of fitting in. The narrative blends action-packed sequences with character-driven drama, making it a compelling watch for a wide audience.
Looking Forward
The New Year “scenery” visual marks a new step for Kaiju No. 8, as it looks forward to the upcoming season. Fans are eagerly anticipating the continuation of the story, and the new visual and trailer have only heightened the excitement. With new projects on the horizon, the series continues to build on its success.
The blend of unique characters, action-packed battles and an overarching story with depth, has cemented Kaiju No. 8 as one of the most popular anime series in recent years. As the wait for the new season continues, the franchise is keeping fans engaged with new content and exciting visuals.
