Every Anime Releasing in April 2026

The anime industry prepares for an exceptionally busy spring season in 2026, featuring a mix of highly anticipated sequels and promising new adaptations. Major production houses like MAPPA, Kyoto Animation, and Wit Studio are slated to release projects ranging from theatrical films to expansive television series. This release window covers various genres, including dark fantasy, high-stakes psychological drama, and lighthearted slice-of-life comedies. Fans can look forward to the return of long-running franchises alongside the debut of several popular manga titles making their first animated appearance.

‘Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway’ (2026)

The newest theatrical entry in the long-running mystery franchise is scheduled to premiere in Japanese theaters on April 10, 2026. This film is produced by TMS Entertainment and directed by Takahiro Hasui, featuring a total runtime of 109 minutes. The plot focuses on an investigation led by the titular detective following a series of events occurring on a major highway. Fans can expect the signature blend of high-stakes tension and deductive reasoning that the series has maintained for decades.

‘Girls und Panzer: Motto Love Love Sakusen Desu! Act 4’ (2026)

This theatrical project is set for release on April 10, 2026, and is produced through a collaboration between P.A. Works and Actas. Directed by Masami Shimoda, the film has a confirmed runtime of 72 minutes. The story continues the specialized sensha-do activities of the main cast while focusing on their everyday interactions and school life. This installment serves as ‘Act 4’ in the ongoing ‘Motto Love Love Sakusen Desu!’ series of spin-off stories.

‘Sound! Euphonium: The Final Movie, Part 1’ (2026)

Kyoto Animation returns to the big screen on April 24, 2026, with the first part of the definitive finale for this beloved musical franchise. Tatsuya Ishihara serves as the chief director with Taichi Ogawa handling the primary direction for this feature film. The narrative follows the members of the Kitauji High School concert band as they face their final challenges and competitions. This project aims to bring the long-running story of Kumiko Omae and her fellow musicians to a climactic conclusion.

‘Classroom of the Elite’ (2017–2026)

The fourth season of ‘Classroom of the Elite’ is scheduled to begin its broadcast on April 1, 2026. This 16-episode season is animated by studio Lerche and directed by Noriyuki Nomata. The story continues to adapt the ‘Yōkoso Jitsuryoku Shijō Shugi no Kyōshitsu e’ light novels, focusing on the tactical maneuvers of Kiyotaka Ayanokoji within the Advanced Nurturing High School. These episodes will explore the increasingly complex social warfare and academic trials of the D-Class students.

‘Dorohedoro’ (2020–2026)

The highly anticipated second season of ‘Dorohedoro’ officially premieres on April 1, 2026. MAPPA handles the animation production with Yuichiro Hayashi returning as the director for this dark fantasy continuation. The plot follows Caiman and Nikaido as they delve deeper into the mysteries of the Hole and the world of the Sorcerers. This new season promises to maintain the unique aesthetic and violent humor that defined the original manga and the first season.

‘Go for It, Nakamura-kun!!’ (2026)

Based on the manga ‘Ganbare! Nakamura-kun!!’, this new television series debuts on April 1, 2026. Studio Drive produces the 13-episode series under the creative direction of Aoi Umeki. The narrative centers on a shy high school student named Nakamura who develops a profound crush on one of his classmates. The show captures the awkwardness of teenage affection and the protagonist’s internal struggle to make a simple social connection.

‘Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon’ (2023–2026)

The third season of ‘Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon’ arrives on April 1, 2026. This isekai fantasy is a co-production between Studio Gokumi and AXsiZ, with Takashi Yamamoto serving as the director. The protagonist continues his journey through a dangerous labyrinth while utilizing his unique abilities as a sentient vending machine named Boxxo. The story expands on the technical mechanics of his transformations and the growing party of adventurers he supports.

‘The Beginning After the End’ (2025–2026)

Returning for its second season on April 1, 2026, this series continues the journey of Arthur Leywin. Studio A-Cat manages the animation production while Keitaro Motonaga directs the adaptation of ‘Saikyō no Ōsama, Nidome no Jinsei wa Nani o Suru?’. The plot follows a former king who has been reincarnated into a world of magic and monsters, striving to protect his new family. Arthur must navigate political intrigue and master new forms of combat to survive the looming threats to his continent.

‘Always a Catch!’ (2026)

This new sports-focused series premieres on April 2, 2026, under the Japanese title ‘Nigashita Sakana wa Ōkikatta ga Tsuriageta Sakana ga Ōkisugita Ken’. Troyca is the animation studio responsible for the project, with Akira Oguro leading as director. The storyline focuses on the technical and emotional aspects of competitive fishing. It explores the lives of enthusiasts who find themselves pursuing extraordinary aquatic challenges in various natural environments.

‘Dr. Stone’ (2019–2026)

The third part of the ‘Science Future’ arc of ‘Dr. Stone’ is set to begin its broadcast on April 2, 2026. TMS Entertainment continues as the production studio, with Shūhei Matsushita directing the scientific survival adventure. Senku Ishigami and the Kingdom of Science push toward new technological frontiers as they attempt to revitalize human civilization. This chapter deals with the global-scale challenges and the final mysteries regarding the petrification of humanity.

‘Kirio Fan Club’ (2026)

‘Kirio Fan Club’ is a 12-episode comedy series scheduled to premiere on April 2, 2026. Satelight produces the animation with Sō Toyama serving as the director for the series. The plot follows the activities of a group of dedicated students who form a club centered around their admiration for a specific individual. The show focuses on the humorous social dynamics and the extreme dedication found within fan-culture environments.

‘The Ramparts of Ice’ (2026)

Based on the manga ‘Koori no Jyōheki’, this series officially debuts on April 2, 2026. Studio Kai handles the animation production under the direction of Mankyū. The narrative follows four high school students as they navigate the complexities of interpersonal relationships and emotional distance. The story emphasizes the internal barriers characters build around themselves and their gradual attempts to connect with others.

‘Haibara’s Teenage New Game+’ (2026)

Premiering on April 3, 2026, ‘Haibara’s Teenage New Game+’ is a 12-episode series produced by Studio Comet. Misuzu Hoshino directs the adaptation of ‘Haibara-kun no Tsuyokute Seishun New Game’. The plot centers on a protagonist who gets a chance to relive his youth and correct the mistakes of his past. The series explores themes of regret and personal growth through a lens of high school social dynamics and second chances.

‘Killed Again, Mr. Detective.’ (2026)

This comedic mystery series, titled ‘Mata Korosarete Shimatta no desu ne, Tantei-sama’ in Japan, premieres on April 3, 2026. Liden Films manages the production with Takashi Naoya serving as the director. The story revolves around a detective who possesses the unusual ability to be revived every time he is murdered. He uses the circumstances of his own deaths to solve the crimes and identify his killers.

‘Monster Eater’ (2026)

‘Monster Eater’ makes its debut on April 3, 2026, produced by Imagica Infos and Imageworks Studio. Hikaru Satō directs the series, which is known in Japan as ‘Mamonogurai no Bōkensha’. The plot follows an adventurer who survives by consuming the monsters he defeats, gaining their powers in the process. The narrative focuses on the physical and psychological changes he undergoes while navigating a dangerous fantasy world.

‘Petals of Reincarnation’ (2026)

The action-supernatural series ‘Petals of Reincarnation’ is scheduled to premiere on April 3, 2026. Benten Film is the animation studio for the project, with Shun Kudō serving as director. Known as ‘Reincarnation no Kaben’, the story features individuals who can draw upon the talents of historical figures by awakening their past lives. This leads to intense battles between “Returners” who use the skills of geniuses and criminals from throughout history.

‘Snowball Earth’ (2026)

A 13-episode sci-fi epic, ‘Snowball Earth’ is set to premiere on April 3, 2026. Studio Kai produces the animation with Munehisa Sakai directing the story of ‘Sunoubōru Āsu’. The plot follows a young boy and his giant robot who return to Earth after a long space mission, only to find the planet entirely frozen and infested with monsters. They must fight to reclaim the frozen wasteland and discover what happened to human civilization.

‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime’ (2018–2026)

The first part of the fourth season of ‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime’ premieres on April 3, 2026. Eight Bit continues as the production studio, with Naokatsu Tsuda directing this new chapter of Rimuru Tempest’s journey. The plot follows the evolution of the Jura Tempest Federation and the escalating tensions between the world’s major powers. This season continues the adaptation of the popular light novels by Fuse.

‘The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten’ (2023–2026)

The second season of ‘The Angel Next Door Spoils Me Rotten’ debuts on April 3, 2026, consisting of 12 episodes. Project No.9 handles the animation production with Chihiro Kumano directing the continuation of the romance. The story focuses on the deepening relationship between neighbors Amane Fujimiya and Mahiru Shiina as they spend more time together. This installment follows their transition from casual acquaintances to a more intimate and supportive bond.

‘Akane-banashi’ (2026)

‘Akane-banashi’ makes its highly anticipated debut on April 4, 2026, produced by studio Zexcs. Ayumu Watanabe directs this adaptation of the popular ‘Weekly Shonen Jump’ manga series. The story follows Akane Osaki as she strives to reach the highest rank in the traditional Japanese art of rakugo storytelling. Her journey is fueled by a desire to vindicate her father and prove the legitimacy of his artistic style.

‘Ascendance of a Bookworm’ (2019–2026)

The new installment of ‘Ascendance of a Bookworm’, covering the ‘Adopted Daughter of an Archduke’ arc, premieres on April 4, 2026. Wit Studio takes over the production for this chapter, with Yoshiaki Iwasaki serving as the director. The narrative follows Myne as she enters the world of the nobility to continue her quest for bookmaking. She must navigate complex social etiquette and political power struggles while maintaining her library ambitions.

‘Daemons of the Shadow Realm’ (2026)

‘Daemons of the Shadow Realm’ is a 24-episode series scheduled for release on April 4, 2026. Bones Film produces the animation with Masahiro Andō directing the adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s latest manga. The story, known as ‘Yomi no Tsugai’, follows Yuru, a boy living in a remote mountain village who discovers the existence of supernatural beings called Daemons. He must protect his sister and uncover the dark truths behind their family’s heritage.

‘Mao’ (2026)

Based on the manga by Rumiko Takahashi, ‘Mao’ premieres on April 4, 2026. Sunrise manages the animation production with Teruo Sato serving as the director for the series. The plot follows Nanoka Kiba, a girl who enters a mysterious world and meets Mao, a powerful exorcist seeking to break a curse. Together, they investigate various supernatural incidents while searching for the person responsible for their shared misfortune.

‘The Strongest Job Is Apparently Not a Hero or a Sage, but an Appraiser (Provisional)!’ (2026)

This fantasy series debuts on April 4, 2026, under the production of Studio Flad. Makoto Hoshino directs the adaptation of ‘Saikyō no Shokugyō wa Yūsha demo Kenja demo naku Kanteishi (Kari) Rashii Desu yo?’. The story centers on a protagonist who is granted a seemingly weak appraisal skill in a world of adventurers. He eventually discovers that his ability is far more versatile and powerful than any traditional hero’s talent.

‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ (2019–2026)

The fourth season of ‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ premieres on April 4, 2026, with a 24-episode run. Bandai Namco Pictures produces the series, with Makoto Moriwaki as chief director and Ayaka Tsujihashi directing. Iruma Suzuki and his classmates in the Misfit Class face new trials and vibrant festivals at the Babyls Demon School. This season is expected to cover significant character development and larger-scale supernatural events.

‘Ace of the Diamond (2013–2026)

The second season of ‘Ace of Diamond Act II’ is scheduled to begin its broadcast on April 5, 2026. OLM produces the animation with Hideaki Ōba serving as the director for this intense baseball drama. The story continues to follow Eijun Sawamura and the Seidou High School baseball team as they compete for a spot in the national tournament. The narrative focuses on the rigorous training, internal rivalries, and high-pressure games inherent to competitive high school sports.

‘Kusunoki’s Garden of Gods’ (2026)

‘Kusunoki’s Garden of Gods’ is a 12-episode slice-of-life series debuting on April 5, 2026. Studio Juvenage produces the animation with Sekijuu Sekino directing the story of ‘Kami no Niwatsuki Kusunoki-tei’. The plot revolves around a peaceful residence inhabited by various gods and the human who lives among them. The show emphasizes the quiet, everyday moments and the seasonal beauty of the garden they maintain together.

‘Magical Sisters LuluttoLilly’ (2026)

The new magical girl series ‘Magical Sisters LuluttoLilly’ premieres on April 5, 2026. Studio Pierrot handles the animation production with Shintarō Dōge serving as the director. The narrative follows two sisters who possess unique magical abilities and their battles against supernatural entities. The show explores the bond between the siblings as they balance their secret lives with their normal school responsibilities.

‘Mistress Kanan Is Devilishly Easy’ (2026)

‘Mistress Kanan Is Devilishly Easy’ is a 12-episode romantic comedy arriving on April 5, 2026. Studio Kai produces the animation with Yasushi Muroya directing the adaptation of ‘Kanan-sama wa Akumade Choroi’. The story centers on a high-ranking demon who comes to Earth to collect souls but is easily flustered by a human high school boy. Their relationship evolves into a series of comedic misunderstandings and domestic situations.

‘Needy Girl Overdose’ (2026)

Based on the popular psychological horror video game, ‘Needy Girl Overdose’ premieres on April 5, 2026. Yostar Pictures produces the 13-episode series under the direction of Masaoki Nakashima. The plot follows a girl named Ame who strives to become the top internet personality under the alias OMGkawaiiAngel. The series delves into the darker side of social media fame and the mental health struggles of its protagonist.

‘One Piece’ (1999–2026)

The ‘Elbaph’ arc of ‘One Piece’ is scheduled to begin on April 5, 2026. Toei Animation continues its long-running production with Wataru Matsumi directing this particular segment of the journey. Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates finally reach the legendary land of the giants, Elbaph. This arc is set to reveal long-awaited secrets about the world’s history and the culture of the warrior giants.

‘The Food Diary of Miss Maid’ (2026)

‘The Food Diary of Miss Maid’ debuts on April 5, 2026, as a 12-episode culinary series. EMT Squared and Magic Bus co-produce the project with Ryousuke Senbo directing ‘Maid-san wa Taberu dake’. The story follows a maid who finds great pleasure in visiting various restaurants and trying different types of food. Each episode focuses on her gastronomic experiences and the simple joy found in a good meal.

‘An Observation Log of My Fiancée Who Calls Herself a Villainess’ (2026)

This unique isekai story premieres on April 6, 2026, and consists of 12 episodes. Ashi Productions manages the animation with Junichi Yamamoto directing the adaptation of ‘Jishō Akuyaku Reijō na Konyakusha no Kansatsu Kiroku’. The plot is told from the perspective of a crown prince who observes his fiancée as she tries to act like a stereotypical villainess. He finds her attempts to be wicked both amusing and endearing, leading to a subversion of common genre tropes.

‘Do You Like Big Girls?’ (2026)

The comedy series ‘Do You Like Big Girls?’ premieres on April 6, 2026, produced by Studio Hōkiboshi. Sōta Warai directs the adaptation of ‘Ōkī Onnanoko wa Suki desu ka?’. The narrative centers on a male protagonist who finds himself surrounded by exceptionally tall and athletic women. The show focuses on the comedic interactions and romantic tension resulting from their significant height differences.

‘Farming Life in Another World’ (2023–2026)

The second season of ‘Farming Life in Another World’ arrives on April 6, 2026, with a 12-episode run. Studio Zero-G continues the production with Ryōichi Kuraya returning as director. The story follows Hiraku Machio as he continues to expand his farm and village in a fantasy world. The narrative maintains its relaxing pace, focusing on agricultural development and the growing community of diverse residents.

‘Ghost Concert: Missing Songs’ (2026)

‘Ghost Concert: Missing Songs’ debuts on April 6, 2026, as a 12-episode musical series. ENGI produces the animation with Masato Jinbo serving as the director for the project. The plot revolves around a group of characters who interact with the spirits of musicians through their performances. The show features a variety of musical styles and explores the emotional weight of unfinished songs from the past.

‘Ingoku Danchi: Deviant’s Apartment Complex’ (2026)

The 12-episode series ‘Ingoku Danchi: Deviant’s Apartment Complex’ is scheduled to premiere on April 6, 2026. Elias manages the animation production with Toshikatsu Tokoro serving as the director. The storyline follows a group of residents living in a mysterious apartment complex where strange incidents occur. The show blends elements of suspense and psychological drama as the characters’ secrets are slowly revealed.

‘Marika’s LoveMeter Malfunction’ (2026)

‘Marika’s Love Meter Malfunction’ is an 8-episode series premiering on April 6, 2026. Studio Leo produces the animation with Sumito Sasaki directing the adaptation of ‘Marika-chan no Kōkando wa Bukkowarete Iru’. The plot involves a girl whose internal affection for a classmate is displayed through a malfunction in a supernatural measurement system. This leads to various comedic and awkward situations as she tries to hide her true feelings.

‘The Klutzy Class Monitor and the Girl with the Short Skirt’ (2026)

Produced by Zero-G, this comedy series officially premieres on April 6, 2026. Daiji Iwanaga directs the adaptation of ‘Ponkotsu Fūkiin to Skirt Take ga Futekisetsu na JK no Hanashi’. The story follows the daily interactions between a rigid but clumsy school disciplinarian and a rebellious student. Their contrasting personalities lead to a series of humorous encounters and an evolving social dynamic.

‘Witch Hat Atelier’ (2026)

The highly anticipated 13-episode series ‘Witch Hat Atelier’ debuts on April 6, 2026. Bug Films produces the animation with Ayumu Watanabe directing the adaptation of Kamome Shirahama’s award-winning manga. The story follows Coco, a young girl who dreams of becoming a witch and accidentally discovers the secret to drawing magical seals. She becomes an apprentice to a sorcerer named Qifrey and begins her journey into a beautifully realized world of magic.

‘Beyond Twilight’ (2026)

Based on the manga ‘Hyakki Yakōshō’, ‘Beyond Twilight’ premieres on April 7, 2026. Imagica Infos and Imageworks Studio co-produce the series with Saya Fukase directing. The narrative focuses on a young man who has inherited the ability to see supernatural creatures from his grandfather. He navigates the delicate balance between the human world and the spirits that dwell just beyond the reach of normal sight.

‘Even a Replica Can Fall in Love’ (2026)

‘Even a Replica Can Fall in Love’ is a 13-episode sci-fi romance premiering on April 7, 2026. Voil handles the animation production with Ryuichi Kimura directing ‘Replica Datte, Koi o Suru’. The plot explores the relationship between humans and advanced lifelike replicas designed for companionship. It raises questions about artificial intelligence, consciousness, and the legitimacy of manufactured emotions.

‘I Made Friends with the Second Prettiest Girl in My Class’ (2026)

This slice-of-life romance premieres on April 7, 2026, and consists of 12 episodes. Connect produces the animation with Hideki Tachibana directing ‘Class de 2-ban Me ni Kawaii Onna no Ko to Tomodachi ni Natta’. The story follows a male student who forms a close bond with a girl who is often overshadowed by the most popular girl in class. Their relationship develops through shared interests and quiet moments away from the school’s social spotlight.

‘Liar Game’ (2026)

The psychological thriller ‘Liar Game’ arrives as a new anime adaptation on April 7, 2026. Madhouse manages the production, with Yūzō Satō as chief director and Asami Kawano directing. The plot follows Nao Kanzaki, an exceptionally honest student who is drawn into a high-stakes tournament where participants must deceive others to win. She teams up with a genius swindler named Shinichi Akiyama to navigate the ruthless games of manipulation.

‘Marriage Toxin’ (2026)

‘Marriagetoxin’ premieres on April 7, 2026, produced by Bones Film. Motonobu Hori directs this action-comedy adaptation of the ‘Marijjitokishin’ manga. The story follows Gero, an assassin specializing in poisons, who teams up with a marriage swindler to find a bride. Their journey involves high-octane battles against other assassins while Gero simultaneously tries to navigate the world of dating.

‘Nippon Sangoku: The Three Nations of the Crimson Sun’ (2026)

This geopolitical drama premieres on April 7, 2026, produced by Studio Kafka. Kazuaki Terasawa directs the adaptation of ‘Nippon Sangoku’, which is set in a future where Japan has fractured into three separate nations. The story follows a brilliant young man who seeks to unify the country through strategy and diplomacy. The narrative explores the complex political landscape and the various factions vying for control over the territories.

‘The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen: From Villainess to Savior’ (2023–2026)

The second season of ‘The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen’ debuts on April 7, 2026. OLM Team Yoshioka produces the animation with Norio Nitta directing the continuation. Princess Pride continues her efforts to rewrite her tragic fate and protect the people of her kingdom from the dark future she remembers. This season focuses on her growing alliances and the introduction of new characters from the original game world.

‘Eren the Southpaw’ (2026)

‘Eren the Southpaw’ premieres on April 8, 2026, produced by Signal.MD and Production I.G. Toshimasa Suzuki directs the adaptation of ‘Hidarikiki no Eren’, a drama centered on the creative industry. The story follows Koichi, a struggling designer at an advertising agency, and Eren, a brilliant but troubled artist. Their paths cross as they navigate the pressures of artistic talent and the harsh realities of professional competition.

‘Gals Can’t Be Kind to Otaku!?’ (2026)

‘Gals Can’t Be Kind to Otaku!?’ debuts on April 8, 2026, under the production of TMS Entertainment. Shin Mita directs the adaptation of ‘Otaku ni Yasashii Gal wa Inai!?’. The plot centers on a socially awkward student who discovers that two of the most popular “gals” in his school are actually massive geeks themselves. They form a secret friendship based on their shared hobbies, leading to a series of heartwarming and comedic school-life scenarios.

‘My Ribdiculous Reincarnation’ (2026)

This unconventional isekai comedy premieres on April 8, 2026, produced by Qzil.la and S.o.K. Yasufumi Soejima directs the adaptation of ‘Megami “Isekai Tensei Nani ni Naritai desu ka” Ore “Yūsha no Rokkotsu de”‘. The story features a man who is reincarnated into a fantasy world as the physical rib bone of a legendary hero. The narrative focuses on the absurd situations he encounters while being part of the hero’s skeletal structure.

‘Pardon the Intrusion, I’m Home!’ (2026)

‘Pardon the Intrusion, I’m Home!’ debuts on April 8, 2026, produced by Tatsunoko Production. Itsuki Imazaki directs the comedy series based on ‘Tadaima, Ojamasaremasu!’. The story follows a man whose quiet life is interrupted when several supernatural girls suddenly move into his home. He must deal with their chaotic habits and unique powers while trying to maintain some semblance of order in his daily routine.

‘Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World-‘ (2016–2026)

The 19-episode fourth season of ‘Re:Zero − Starting Life in Another World’ arrives on April 8, 2026. White Fox continues the animation production with Masahiro Shinohara serving as the director. Subaru Natsuki faces new challenges and psychological trials as he continues to use his “Return by Death” ability to protect his friends. This season delves deeper into the lore of the world and the motivations of the remaining Witches of Sin.

‘Kujima: Why Sing, When You Can Warble?’ (2026)

‘Kujima: Why Sing, When You Can Warble?’ premieres on April 9, 2026, produced by Studio Hibari. Noriyuki Nomata directs the adaptation of ‘Kujima Utaeba Ie Hororo’. The plot centers on a mysterious, bird-like creature named Kujima who moves in with a human family. The show features a blend of surreal humor and domestic slice-of-life moments as the family adjusts to their strange new housemate.

‘The Warrior Princess and the Barbaric King’ (2026)

‘The Warrior Princess and the Barbaric King’ debuts on April 9, 2026, produced by Jumondou. Takayuki Tanaka directs the adaptation of ‘Himekishi wa Barbaroi no Yome’. The story follows a captive knight-princess who is married off to a king from a nomadic tribe she once considered barbaric. Over time, she discovers the rich culture of his people and begins to develop a genuine relationship with her new husband.

‘The Drops of God’ (2026)

‘Drops of God’ is a 24-episode series premiering on April 10, 2026, produced by Satelight. Kenji Itoso directs the adaptation of the world-famous wine-tasting manga ‘Kami no Shizuku’. The plot follows Shizuku Kanzaki, who must identify thirteen specific wines to inherit his father’s legendary wine collection. He competes against a brilliant young wine critic in a series of sensory and philosophical challenges.

‘Botan Kamiina Fully Blossoms When Drunk’ (2026)

This series debuts on April 11, 2026, produced by Soigne. Takashi Sakuma directs the adaptation of ‘Kamiina Botan, Yoeru Sugata wa Yuri no Hana’. The story revolves around a character named Botan who undergoes a personality shift after consuming alcohol. The show features comedic and romantic interactions among a group of friends who enjoy visiting different bars and drinking establishments together.

‘Fist of the North Star: HOKUTO NO KEN’ (2026)

A new adaptation of ‘Fist of the North Star’ premieres on April 11, 2026, produced by TMS Entertainment. Hiroshi Maeda directs this modern take on the legendary post-apocalyptic martial arts series. Kenshiro, the successor to the Hokuto Shinken style, wanders a wasteland infested with criminals to protect the weak. This production aims to deliver updated animation quality while remaining faithful to the original manga’s brutal action and themes of justice.

‘Kill Blue’ (2026)

‘Kill Blue’ premieres on April 11, 2026, produced by Cue. Hiro Kaburagi acts as chief director with Yasunori Ide directing the adaptation of the ‘Kill Ao’ manga. The plot follows a middle-aged professional hitman who is transformed into a middle schooler by a experimental drug. He must navigate school life while using his elite assassination skills to protect his classmates and find a way to return to his original form.

‘Rent-A-Girlfriend’ (2020–2026)

The fifth season of ‘Rent-A-Girlfriend’ arrives on April 11, 2026. TMS Entertainment remains the production studio with Kazuomi Koga directing the continuation of the series. The plot follows Kazuya Kinoshita and Chizuru Mizuhara as their relationship becomes increasingly complicated by their professional arrangement and growing genuine feelings. This season covers further developments in the theatrical production arc and the evolving dynamics among the main cast.

‘Yowayowa Sensei’ (2026)

‘Yowayowa Sensei’ premieres on April 11, 2026, produced by Brain’s Base. Hiroshi Ishiodori directs the adaptation of the comedy manga about a physically and mentally weak female teacher. The story follows her daily struggles in the classroom and the supportive, if often awkward, interactions she has with her students. The show focuses on her attempts to become a stronger person while being pampered by those around her.

‘Ichijyoma Mankitsu Gurashi!’ (2026)

This slice-of-life comedy premieres on April 12, 2026, produced by PRA. Toshinori Watanabe directs the story about living in an internet cafe. The plot follows a protagonist who decides to live permanently in a manga cafe and the various interesting characters they meet there. The narrative highlights the unique lifestyle and the sense of community found in such an unconventional living environment.

‘Mission: Yozakura Family’ (2024–2026)

The second season of ‘Mission: Yozakura Family’ debuts on April 12, 2026. Silver Link produces the animation with Mirai Minato as chief director and Takahiro Nakatsugawa as director. Taiyo Asano continues his life as part of the world’s most powerful family of spies to protect Mutsumi Yozakura. The new episodes will introduce more members of the family and focus on the escalating threats from rival intelligence organizations.

‘Odekake Kozame’ (2023–2026)

The second season of ‘Odekake Kozame’ premieres on April 12, 2026. ENGI manages the production with Chihiro Kumano returning as the director. This series consists of short episodes following the gentle adventures of a small shark who wanders through a human town. The show maintains its peaceful, heartwarming tone as Kozame interacts with different people and experiences new things.

‘The Classroom of the Black Cat and a Witch’ (2026)

This magical school series premieres on April 12, 2026, produced by Liden Films. Naoyuki Tatsuwa directs the adaptation of ‘Kuroneko to Majo no Kyōshitsu’. The story follows Spica, a student who struggles with magic until she meets a talking black cat that claims to be a powerful sorcerer. Together, they work to overcome her academic failures and uncover the secrets of the prestigious academy.

‘Wistoria: Wand and Sword’ (2024–2026)

The second season of ‘Wistoria: Wand and Sword’ arrives on April 12, 2026. Actas and Bandai Namco Pictures co-produce the series with Tatsuya Yoshihara as chief director and Hideaki Nakano directing. Will Serfort continues his journey through the magical academy using his superior swordsmanship skills in a world that values magic above all else. This season focuses on the deeper levels of the dungeon and the growing mysteries regarding Will’s heritage.

‘I Want to End This Love Game’ (2026)

‘I Want to End This Love Game’ premieres on April 14, 2026, produced by Felix Film. Azuma Tani directs the adaptation of ‘Aishiteru Game o Owarasetai’. The story follows two childhood friends who have been playing a “love game” since they were young, where they try to make the other confess their love first. The series captures their high school years as the game becomes more intense and their feelings become harder to hide.

‘Dandelion’ (2026)

‘Dandelion’ is a 7-episode series scheduled for release on April 16, 2026. NAZ produces the animation with Daisuke Mataga serving as the director for the project. While the episode count is shorter than average, the series is expected to deliver a focused narrative experience. The production emphasizes a unique visual style and specific thematic storytelling for its limited broadcast run.

Which of these upcoming April 2026 anime series or movies are you most excited to watch when they premiere? Please share your thoughts in the comments.