The upcoming original anime series, Maebashi Witches, has released a new teaser visual and its third promotional video, heightening anticipation for its premiere in April 2025. Produced by Sunrise (now Bandai Namco Filmworks), the anime is set in the city of Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture, and follows the coming-of-age journey of five high school girls who become apprentice witches.
A Magical Coming-of-Age Story
The anime centers on Yuina Akagi, a first-year high school student leading a mundane life until a mysterious frog named Keroppe recruits her and four other girls to become the “Maebashi Witches”. Their ordinary lives take an extraordinary turn when a closet in their room connects to a magical flower shop. Here, they sing, dance, and help make other people’s wishes come true. The story explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the challenges of growing up amidst a backdrop of magic and wonder.
The Main Characters
The five girls, each with their unique personality and aspirations, include:
- Yuina Akagi, voiced by Sakura Kasuga, is a cheerful high school freshman who loves photography, particularly capturing “emotional” moments.
- Azu Niisato, voiced by Hinano Sakikawa, is a fashion and cosmetics enthusiast.
- Kyoka Kitahara, voiced by Rena Motomura, is a wealthy student attending the prefecture’s top high school.
- Choco Mitsumata, voiced by Haruka Minami, is a cheerful mood-maker, known for her positive energy.
- Mai Kamiizumi, voiced by Honami Momose, is a realist who is also conscious of what others think of her.
The mysterious frog Keroppe, who serves as the girls’ scout and familiar spirit, is voiced by Tomokazu Sugita.
Production Team and Music
The anime is being brought to life by a talented team:
- Junichi Yamamoto (Why Raeliana Ended Up at the Duke’s Mansion) is directing the series.
- Erika Yoshida (Bocchi the Rock!, Tower of God) is in charge of series scripts.
- Nozomi Tachibana (Kemono Jihen) is designing the characters based on Yū Inami’s original designs.
- Yoshiki Imazu is handling the “witchverse designs”.
- Yuri Habuka is composing the music.
The five main characters, collectively known as the Maebashi Witches, are also performing the opening theme song “Sugosugi Maebashi Witches!” (Super Amazing Maebashi Witches!), with lyrics by producer Tsunku and music by TORIENA. They will also perform the ending theme song “Sorezore no Door” (Each Door), written and composed by Haruka Kumoi, and arranged by Yūki Kishida.
Visuals and Promotion
The new teaser visual and promotional video offer a glimpse into the enchanting world of Maebashi Witches. The visuals highlight the unique art style and the character designs, while the promotional video provides a sneak peek into the animation quality and the magical premise of the story. This is the third promotional video, following the release of the first in September 2024 and the second in November 2024. The anime is set to premiere in Japan in April 2025.
“City of Water, Greenery and Poets”
Maebashi, known as the “City of Water, Greenery and Poets,” serves as the primary inspiration for the anime’s visuals, creating a charming and magical setting that enhances the story. This slogan was used as inspiration for the visuals.
Release and Events
Maebashi Witches is scheduled to debut in April 2025, marking a highly anticipated addition to the anime lineup. In the lead-up to its premiere, various events have been held to engage with fans, including an unveiling event on September 29 at Keyaki Walk Maebashi in Japan, featuring a series introduction, talk show, live performance, and meet-and-greet. Additional screenings and events were also held on September 28, October 26, and 27 at different locations in Gunma. These events showcase the excitement and community that has developed around the series before its official launch.
The release of the third promotional video and teaser visual comes as another exciting development for the series, as fans eagerly await the premiere of the Maebashi Witches in April of 2025.
