As the new year begins, Kaiju No. 8 is back with a new visual, continuing its series of monthly scenery releases. This time, the focus is on the first shrine visit of the year, a traditional Japanese custom, featuring three of the main characters: Kikoru Shinomiya, Kafka Hibino, and Reno Ichikawa. This visual is part of a series of monthly releases on the 8th of each month, highlighting different aspects of the show’s world.
A New Year’s Shrine Visit
The latest visual depicts the trio of Kikoru, Kafka, and Reno in a peaceful scene as they visit a shrine. This contrasts with the usual high-stakes action that Kaiju No. 8 is known for. The characters are voiced by Fairouz Ai, Masaya Fukunishi, and Wataru Kato, respectively. This new visual not only celebrates the new year but also provides a glimpse of the characters outside of their usual combat roles, offering a moment of calm before the storm as the anime’s second season approaches.
What is Kaiju No. 8 About?
Kaiju No. 8 is a manga series written and illustrated by Naoya Matsumoto. It is set in a world plagued by giant monsters known as Kaiju. The story follows Kafka Hibino, a 32-year-old man who dreams of joining the Japan Defense Force to fight alongside his childhood friend, Mina Ashiro. However, after failing the Defense Force exam multiple times, he works for Monster Sweeper, Inc., a company that cleans up after Kaiju attacks.
The Twist
Kafka’s life takes a dramatic turn when a small, parasitic Kaiju enters his body, granting him the ability to transform into a powerful Kaiju. Dubbed “Kaiju No. 8” by the Defense Force, he must navigate his new powers while trying to fulfill his dream of joining the Defense Force.
Key Themes
Kaiju No. 8 explores themes of:
- Redemption: Kafka’s journey is one of overcoming constant rejection and striving towards his goals.
- Perseverance: Despite setbacks, Kafka continues to pursue his dream of protecting humanity.
- Friendship: The bond between Kafka and his childhood friend Mina, and the camaraderie he finds with his colleagues, are central to the story.
- Balancing Act: The series showcases the challenges Kafka faces as he juggles his mundane job with his newfound Kaiju powers.
Main Characters of Kaiju No. 8
The series has a diverse cast of characters that are critical to the unfolding narrative:
- Kafka Hibino / Kaiju No. 8: The protagonist of the series, he is a man who gains the ability to transform into a Kaiju, possesses superhuman strength, speed, durability, regeneration, and the ability to detect other kaiju.
- Mina Ashiro: Kafka’s childhood friend and the captain of the Defense Force’s Third Unit. She is a skilled and respected leader, having achieved her dream of fighting Kaiju.
- Reno Ichikawa: A new coworker of Kafka’s at Monster Sweeper, Inc., whose determination to join the Defense Force inspires Kafka to pursue his dream again. Reno is an underdog who has to prove his worth.
- Kikoru Shinomiya: A prodigious member of the Defense Force, she is a strong fighter who has trained her whole life to be the best.
- Soshiro Hoshina: The vice-captain of the Defense Force’s Third Unit, he is a composed and skilled fighter.
- Iharu Furuhashi: A member of the Defense Force, he is often seen with Soshiro Hoshina and Reno Ichikawa.
While Kafka is the main character, the other characters like Kikoru, Ichikawa, and Hoshina also have significant character arcs that progress throughout the story.
Anime Adaptation and its Success
The Kaiju No. 8 manga quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of action, comedy, and adventure. The anime adaptation, produced by Production I.G, premiered in April 2024 and quickly gained a large fan base.
Season 1
Season 1 of the anime adaptation aired from April to June 2024, with 12 episodes. The first season was praised for its excellent animation, engaging storyline, and strong character development, making the series a global sensation.
Season 2
A second season of Kaiju No. 8 has been confirmed to premiere in July 2025. The new season is highly anticipated by fans and is expected to continue the storyline with more action and character development.
Season 1 Compilation Movie and Hoshina’s Day Off Special
In addition to the second season, a compilation movie of the first season will be released in Japanese theaters on March 28, 2025. This movie will also include a special episode titled “Hoshina’s Day Off,” which will feature a rare look at the life of Soshiro Hoshina. The special episode is described as “a day off… a rare day of peace for the Defense Force” where Reno and Iharu decide to follow Hoshina to see what he does on his day off.
Other Kaiju No. 8 Media
The popularity of Kaiju No. 8 has led to the creation of other media, including:
- Light Novel: A light novel, Kaiju No. 8: Exclusive on the Third Division, was released in 2022, focusing on the characters in the Third Division of the Defense Force.
- Spin-off Manga: Two spin-off manga series have been produced, expanding the universe of Kaiju No. 8.
- Video Game: A free-to-play video game, tentatively titled Kaiju No. 8: The Game, is currently in development by Akatsuki Games, with a scheduled release for PC, iOS, and Android in spring 2025.
Kaiju No. 8: The Game
The upcoming game will allow players to experience the world of Kaiju No. 8 firsthand, featuring the main characters and showcasing the battles against the Kaiju. The game is expected to be available on PC via Steam, iOS, and Android.
Where to Watch
Kaiju No. 8 is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The first season can be streamed on the platform, and Season 2 is also expected to be available on Crunchyroll in July 2025.
Conclusion
Kaiju No. 8 has quickly become a beloved anime and manga series, captivating audiences with its unique premise, compelling characters, and thrilling action. The new scenery visual is a welcome treat for fans, as they eagerly await the premiere of the second season and other upcoming media. As the franchise continues to grow, Kaiju No. 8 is set to remain a significant part of the anime and manga landscape for years to come.
