Shabake Anime: Debut Date, Expanded Cast and More Details Revealed

Published on September 11, 2025 By Catwithbadmanners

A Fantastic Journey in the Edo Era

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The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Shabake, based on Megumi Hatakenaka’s popular historical fantasy novel series, is rapidly approaching. Aniplex has revealed exciting new details about this adaptation, including an extended cast, a sample of the ending theme, and the official premiere date in October 2024. The story, set in the Edo period, follows Ichitaro, a young heir with poor health but a generous heart, who relies on the help of guardian spirits like Sasuke and Nikichi to navigate a world full of mysteries and dangers after witnessing a murder.

Meeting the Characters of Shabake

The anime boasts an impressive voice cast that brings the characters of Shabake to life. Daiki Yamashita takes on the lead role as Ichitaro, while Kōji Okino and Taku Yashiro portray Nikichi and Sasuke, respectively. Recently, new members have been announced, including: Daisuke Namikawa as Nozoki Byōbu, Seiichirō Yamashita as Matsunosuke, Simba Tsuchiya as Eikichi, Shion Wakayama as Oharu, Akira Sekine as Suzuhiko-hime, Shinya Takahashi as Noderabō, Misako Tomioka as Kawauso, Akane Matsunaga and Aika Wakuno (both playing Yanari), and Takako Tanaka also as Yanari.

Key Details about Premiere and Distribution

The Shabake anime will premiere in Japan on October 3, 2024, within the Noitamina block on Fuji TV at 11:30 p.m. JST. The series will also be available exclusively on Prime Video from October 4th at midnight JST. Subsequently, it will air on AT-X on October 7th at 8:00 p.m. JST. This strategic distribution ensures that fans can enjoy this adaptation on both television and streaming, expanding its reach and allowing for easier access for Japanese viewers. Unfortunately, there is no confirmed date for international distribution outside of Japan.

Music and Creative Influences Behind the Anime

The soundtrack of Shabake features Kujira with the opening theme, “Inochi no Parade” (Parade of Life), and KAFUNÉ with the ending theme, "Myaku-Myaku" (Continuous). The direction is led by Takahiro Okawa at BN Pictures, with scripts supervised by Toko Machida. Character designs are by Akari Minagawa, who also serves as animation director alongside Yuka Shiga. The music is composed by Rei Ishizuka.

Shabake’s Journey: From Novels to Diverse Adaptations

The Shabake novel series, which debuted in 2001, has sold over 10 million copies and inspired a wide range of adaptations. In addition to the current anime, the franchise includes two live-action television series, manga, radio dramas, stage plays, musical theater productions, and even picture books. Previously, a net anime was also produced in 2021 with an entirely different cast and crew.