July 2026 Bento News
Itadakimasu
Konnichiwa, AnimeFanatiks! Our July 2026 Bento News is packed with a delicious mix of updates from the world of Anime, Manga, and Japan!
Looking for the best anime and manga news from June? We’ve done the digging for you! Use the menu on the right to easily jump between sections.
This July Bento News is loaded with the latest anime releases, manga highlights, must-know game updates, and standout stories from Japan and beyond.
Just for you. Itadakimasu!
Anime News
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War Part 4 Confirms July 2026 Release Date
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Calamity has officially confirmed its premiere for 25 July 2026, bringing the beloved anime adaptation to its long-awaited conclusion. Following an early Episode 1 screening in Japan, Studio Pierrot also unveiled a new key visual, preview footage and confirmed the opening theme “I-BULL” by jo0ji and ending theme “Rasen” by 9Lana.
Creator Tite Kubo personally selected the music to spotlight emerging artists. The final season of Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War will stream exclusively on Hulu and Disney+ in the United States, concluding the acclaimed four-part adaptation.
Pokémon Gold and Silver Lead Nostalgic 30th Anniversary Merchandise Collection
The Pokémon Company is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a nostalgic Pokémon Game Package Collection, launching exclusively through the Pokémon Center Japan online store on 18 June. Among the standout releases are Pokémon Gold and Pokémon Silver, featuring retro-inspired T-shirts, matching pouches, collectible pins, keychains and magnets based on the original game box art.
Widely regarded as two of the franchise’s greatest titles, the Generation II classics introduced iconic features such as Shiny Pokémon, day-and-night cycles and Pokémon breeding. While a global release has yet to be announced, the collection is already generating excitement among longtime fans.
Ninja Scroll Returns to Cinemas With Stunning 4K Restoration This October
The legendary anime film Ninja Scroll is making a triumphant return to cinemas across the United States and Canada with a brand-new 4K restoration. Screening on 4, 5 and 7 October 2026, the restored classic has been supervised by director Yoshiaki Kawajiri, preserving its original vision while enhancing its visual quality.
First released in 1993, Ninja Scroll became a landmark title that introduced countless Western fans to mature anime storytelling. Featuring breathtaking action, unforgettable characters and dark fantasy themes, the iconic MADHOUSE production remains one of anime’s most influential films more than three decades later.
Hello Kitty Meets Horror Again in New Junji Ito Tomie Collectible
Sanrio and legendary horror manga creator Junji Ito have reunited for another unforgettable collaboration, unveiling a striking new Hello Kitty x Tomie figure at Good Smile Fest 2026. Inspired by Ito’s iconic horror character, the collectible transforms Tomie Kawakami with Hello Kitty-themed accessories, including the mascot’s signature red bows and charming fashion details.
The mostly monochrome design creates a dramatic contrast, blending kawaii aesthetics with psychological horror. Following the success of their previous collaboration, this unique collectible is already generating excitement among anime, manga and figure collectors eager to own one of the year’s most unusual crossover releases.
Ascendant Animation Makes History With Nine Wins at the 2026 Telly Awards
US anime licensor Ascendant Animation achieved a historic milestone at the 47th Annual Telly Awards, earning a record-breaking nine awards for its 2025 lineup. The studio received seven Bronze and two Silver Telly Awards, with Nukitashi the Animation winning four honours and Makina-San Is a Love Bot taking home three, including Best Comedy.
BL titles Unexpectedly Naughty Fukami and the Junichi Yamakawa Collection also received recognition. The achievement highlights growing mainstream appreciation for mature anime and marks a major step forward for Ascendant Animation’s expanding presence in the industry.
Upcoming Anime Announcements
A host of new anime series is in the works. Here are anime that were announced in February.
Manga Adaptations
Beat & Motion
The anime will stream worldwide exclusively on Netflix in 2027.
Sudachi no Maoujou (The Fledgling Demon Lord's Starter Shop)
The anime is scheduled to premiere in January 2027.
Jimoto Saikou!
The anime will premiere worldwide on Netflix.
Nisemono no Renkinjutsushi (The Fake Alchemist)
Nisemono no Renkinjutsushi has a cumulative of over 1 million copies of its volumes in circulation.
Light Novel Adaptations
Saikyou Mahoushi no Inton Keikaku (The Greatest Magicmaster's Retirement Plan)
The anime is scheduled to premiere on the CBC and TBS network nationwide under the “Agaru Anime” programming block in 2027.
Returning Anime based on Anime Franchise
Shuumatsu no Walküre (Record of Ragnarok)
The manga has a cumulative 18 million copies of its volumes in print.
'Akane-banashi' Second Season
Scheduled to air on the IMAnimation programming block on TV Asahi’s 24 affiliate stations and BS Asahi in January 2027.
In Memoriam
We bid farewell to the greats in the Anime, Manga and Voice Actors who made an impact on this industry.
Jun Hashimoto
Renowned lyricist Jun Hashimoto passed away on May 21 at the age of 86 due to liver cirrhosis. Best known to anime fans for writing the opening and ending themes of Galaxy Express 999 and the iconic “Honoo no Takaramono” from Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro, Hashimoto also penned numerous hit songs.
His family held a private funeral attended by close relatives. He is survived by his son, music producer Haruo Yoda.
Akihiro Miwa
Legendary Japanese actor, singer, and voice actor Akihiro Miwa passed away on June 20 at the age of 91. Best known to anime fans as the Witch of the Waste in Howl’s Moving Castle and Moro in Princess Mononoke, Miwa enjoyed a celebrated career spanning music, theatre, film, and literature.
His family held a private funeral decorated with his beloved yellow roses in tribute to his remarkable legacy.
Daveigh Chase
Actress and voice actress Daveigh Chase has reportedly died at the age of 35. According to TMZ, she passed away from complications related to meningitis and a blood infection that led to sepsis.
Anime fans will remember Chase as the English voice of Chihiro in Spirited Away, while Disney audiences knew her as Lilo in Lilo & Stitch. She also portrayed Samara Morgan in The Ring and appeared in several television series and films.
Oliver Tree
American musician and internet personality Oliver Tree has died at the age of 32 following a helicopter collision over Rio de Janeiro. The crash claimed six lives and remains under investigation.
Known for hits including Life Goes On and Miss You, Tree was on his world tour at the time. Tributes have poured in from fellow artists, including KSI, Steve-O, Diplo, and Bebe Rexha.
Claude Guillemot
Claude Guillemot, co-founder of Ubisoft and chairman of Guillemot Corporation, has died at the age of 69 following a plane crash in La Baule on June 19. Ubisoft confirmed the tragic news, expressing condolences to Guillemot’s family and loved ones.
In addition to helping build Ubisoft into a global gaming giant, Guillemot also chaired Guillemot Corp., the parent company of gaming accessory brand Thrustmaster.
Sources: Wikipedia
More Anime News
Celebrate 45th Birthday of Macross With Biggest Transforming SDF-1 Macross Toy
Bandai Spirits unveils a transformable DX Chogokin SDF-1 Macross toy celebrating the franchise’s 45th anniversary, launching in November 2026.
Good Smile Company Announces Jyuо̄ Mujin Dandivine Mecha Anime
Good Smile Company’s 25th anniversary anime, Jyuō Mujin Dandivine, premieres in October, launching the new God of Combined Series mecha franchise.
Naruto Officially Unveils Hinata’s Stunning New Kung Fu Design
Good Smile Company’s 25th anniversary anime, Jyuō Mujin Dandivine, premieres in October, launching the new God of Combined Series mecha franchise.
Naruto Officially Unveils Hinata’s Stunning New Kung Fu Design
Hinata Hyuga debuts a striking new design and intense martial arts training in Naruto Mobile’s latest Kung Fu Season trailer.
Bandai Namco Officially Reveals Naruto Card Game Launching in 2027
Bandai Namco’s new Naruto Card Game launches in 2027, with Gen Con 2026 attendees receiving an early hands-on preview.
Manga News
Hunter x Hunter Manga Return Confirmed as Yoshihiro Togashi Prepares Major Comeback
The long wait for Hunter x Hunter is finally nearing its end, as creator Yoshihiro Togashi prepares to resume the manga’s serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump Issue #31 on 28 June 2026, with Chapter 411. Togashi has shared steady progress updates on social media, revealing that more than 20 chapters are completed, with a significant backlog already inked.
The story returns to the escalating Succession War arc aboard the Black Whale, where political tension, assassination plots and the Phantom Troupe’s pursuit of Hisoka continue to intensify, marking one of the series’ most chaotic and anticipated comebacks yet.
Berserk Chapter 384 Reveals Guts’ True Nature in a Game-Changing Twist After 40 Years
Warning: This insert contains spoilers for Berserk chapter #384.
Berserk has delivered one of its most significant revelations in decades with Chapter #384, fundamentally reshaping Guts’ role in the story. The manga reveals that Guts, born after his mother’s death, exists within the interstice between the physical and astral worlds, placing him in a similar existential state to Griffith and the God Hand.
This discovery suggests Guts may finally possess the ability to harm these godlike beings, overturning long-held assumptions about their invincibility. The chapter deepens the Succession War of fate and causality, recontextualising Guts’ suffering as part of a larger struggle against destiny itself and setting up a pivotal turning point in the series.
New Manhwa ‘Got Dropped Into a Ghost Story’ Breaks Solo Leveling: Ragnarok View Record
The Solo Leveling franchise may have set the standard for modern manhwa, but its successor Solo Leveling: Ragnarok has now been overtaken by a rising competitor. The new adaptation of the popular KakaoPage webnovel Got Dropped Into a Ghost Story, Still Gotta Work launched on 6 June, immediately reaching #1 on KakaoPage and amassing nearly 7 million views within 24 hours, surpassing Ragnarok’s previous debut record.
Written by Carrotoon Studio, the series follows Kim Soleum navigating haunted urban legends in a corporate paranormal division. With strong storytelling, horror elements, and explosive popularity, it is already shaping up to be a major rival in the manhwa space.
Solo Leveling Finally Expands Liu Zhigang’s Origin in New Hunter Story
Solo Leveling has finally shed light on one of its most mysterious figures, Liu Zhigang, in a brand-new one-shot manhwa released on 3 June as part of the Hunter Origin series tied to Solo Leveling: Arise. Once known only as China’s legendary National Level Hunter, Zhigang now receives a full origin story exploring his rise from a privileged heir suffering a debilitating illness to a world-class fire-wielding Hunter.
The chapter reveals the emotional and physical struggles behind his transformation, while also showcasing his devastating abilities on a city-level scale, enriching the Solo Leveling universe with long-awaited depth and character development.
Black Clover Ends After 11 Years With Upcoming Epilogue Chapter Set for August Release
Black Clover has officially concluded after an 11-year run, wrapping up its final arc in May 2026. While the ending arrived slightly rushed, the series still delivers a strong conclusion for a modern shonen title. However, fans still have more to look forward to, as a new guidebook releasing in August 2026 will include an exclusive epilogue chapter expanding the finale.
The additional content is expected to address unresolved plot threads, including Lucius’ backstory, Astaroth’s role, and Asta’s relationships. With the anime also returning, Black Clover is set to continue its momentum even after its manga conclusion.
Nippon News
Japan Unveils ¥34 Trillion Plan to Expand Anime, Manga and Gaming Worldwide by 2033
The Japanese government is preparing a ¥34 trillion investment strategy to accelerate the global growth of its content industry, with anime, manga, video games and music at the heart of the initiative. A new central support organisation, inspired by South Korea’s KOCCA, will coordinate overseas expansion, strengthen distribution networks, support creators and develop large-scale productions.
The ambitious plan aims to increase international sales of Japanese content from ¥6.1 trillion in 2024 to ¥20 trillion by 2033. Officials believe the strategy will cement Japan’s creative industries as a major economic driver and boost their global competitiveness.
Japan to Ban CBN Products Amid Health Concerns and Hallucination Risks
Japan’s Ministry of Health will officially ban the production, sale, possession and use of cannabinol (CBN) from June, following evidence linking the cannabis-derived substance to hallucinations and other serious health risks. The decision follows animal studies and several reported hospitalisations involving CBN-infused products, including cookies, gummies and e-cigarettes.
Violators could face penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment. While CBN was previously sold for its purported relaxation and sleep benefits, authorities now consider it a public health risk. Limited medical use for treatment-resistant epilepsy will remain permitted under strict government oversight. Japan’s stance on Cannabis remains on high alert.
Japan Removes ‘Alcohol Is the Best Medicine’ Claim as Health Advice Shifts
Japan’s National Tax Agency (NTA) has removed the long-standing phrase “alcohol is the best medicine” from its website following growing scientific evidence that no level of alcohol consumption is considered risk-free. The change came after recommendations from the Cabinet Office’s Food Safety Commission, reflecting evolving public health guidance.
Historically, Japan’s government promoted the alcohol industry because sake taxes once generated a significant share of national revenue, leading the NTA to support brewers for more than a century. As attitudes toward drinking continue to change, Japan is increasingly aligning its public messaging with modern medical research.
Japanese Schools Experiment With Tea Instead of Milk in School Lunches
Schools in Fukuoka, Japan, are testing tea as an alternative to the traditional milk served with school lunches, aiming to better complement Japanese dishes such as grilled fish and rice. The pilot programme introduced a monthly “No Milk Day”, replacing milk with green tea, but many students left the tea untouched.
In response, the Fukuoka Board of Education plans to offer hojicha and barley tea from autumn. While the initiative promotes traditional flavours, officials must also address concerns over replacing milk’s essential nutrients, including calcium and vitamin B12, with suitable dietary alternatives.
Japanese Study Suggests Exhaling May Improve Memory and Learning
A new study by researchers at Hyogo Medical University Hospital suggests that exhaling while learning may improve memory retention and speed up recall. In the experiment, 30 participants memorised images while researchers monitored their breathing patterns. Those who learned information near the end of an exhale identified the images more quickly during later tests than participants who memorised them while inhaling.
Although overall accuracy remained similar, the findings indicate that breathing patterns may influence how efficiently memories are formed. The research could pave the way for new learning techniques, benefiting language learners, students and anyone looking to improve memorisation. There may be truth in it, since some martial art experts have said that breathing helps the body remembers certain postures and moves better in martial arts. What is good for the body may also be good for the brain.
More News From Nippon
Japan mulling youth SNS regulations
Japan is debating age-based social media restrictions as concerns grow over online safety, bullying, and protecting children from digital harms.tant place for them.
VTuber News
VTuber Deme Faces Online Backlash After Social Media Feud Sparks New Allegations
Popular VTuber Deme has become the centre of online controversy following a public dispute with YouTuber Chibi Reviews on social media. After exchanging heated comments over fan art, critics resurfaced a 2025 livestream and made unverified allegations about Deme’s behaviour during the broadcast.
Deme has firmly denied the claims, calling them false, while later apologising for personal remarks directed at Chibi Reviews. The controversy has divided the online community, with supporters and critics debating the evidence as speculation continues to spread across social media platforms.
Ironmouse Reveals Full-Body 3D VTuber Model and Dedicated Streaming Studio
Popular VTuber Ironmouse has announced that she is preparing to debut a full-body 3D model, marking a major milestone in her streaming career. The content creator has transformed a room in her home into a dedicated 3D studio and confirmed that all the required motion-capture equipment is now in place.
While no debut date has been announced, fans can expect more immersive performances soon. Ironmouse, who continues to raise awareness for Immune Deficiency Foundation through her charity work, is also scheduled to appear at Otakuthon 2026 in Montreal this August.
Holostars Announces Multiple VTuber Departures Following Operational Changes
COVER Corp. has announced that six Holostars VTubers, Hanasaki Miyabi, Kishido Temma, Rikka, Arurandeisu, Minase Rio, and Kageyama Shien will conclude their streaming activities between June and July 2026. Meanwhile, Kanade Isuru, Astel Leda, Yukoku Roberu, Aragami Oga, Yatogami Fuma, and Utsugi Uyu will continue as Holostars members.
The agency also confirmed that Rikka and Kageyama Shien will remain active in the PolaPoriPosuPo music project. The announcement follows Holostars’ recent operational restructuring, marking another significant change for the popular VTuber agency and its talent roster.
Gaming News
Grand Theft Auto VI Price Revealed as Rockstar Confirms Single-Player Launch
Grand Theft Auto VI developer Rockstar Games has confirmed that the standard edition of Grand Theft Auto VI will retail for $79.99, while the Ultimate Edition costs $99.99. Launching on 19 November for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, the highly anticipated game will debut as a single-player experience, with no multiplayer mode announced at launch.
Players who pre-order will receive the Vintage Vice City Pack, while digital purchases also include one month of GTA+. Physical editions will contain a download code rather than a game disc.
Disclaimer: The following trailer contains depictions of violence, smoking, alcohol consumption, abuse, nudity, and other adult-oriented content. It is intended for mature audiences. Viewer discretion is strongly advised.
Persona 30th Anniversary Celebrated with New Cardfight!! Vanguard Crossover Deck
Fans of Persona can celebrate the franchise’s 30th anniversary with a special Cardfight!! Vanguard crossover deck launching on 12 September 2026. The premium booster features protagonists from every mainline Persona game, including Persona 5, Persona 4, Persona 3, and the classic original trilogy.
The collaboration highlights the evolution of Atlus’ iconic RPG series, which has grown into a global phenomenon spanning games, anime, manga, and collectibles. The anniversary release offers longtime fans a nostalgic tribute while introducing the beloved franchise to a new generation of trading card players.
Stop Killing Games Vows to Continue Fight After California Bill Stalls
The Stop Killing Games campaign has pledged to continue its fight for digital game ownership after California’s Protect Our Games Act (AB 1921) narrowly stalled in the State Senate committee despite passing the Assembly 43-16. The movement, sparked by The Crew being shut down by Ubisoft, argues that players should retain access to purchased games after online support ends.
Campaigners criticised opposition from the Entertainment Software Association but remain committed to introducing similar legislation across the United States while continuing consumer rights efforts in Europe following their 1.3 million-signature petition.
Destiny 2 Defies Expectations with Strong Steam Revenue Performance
Despite ongoing speculation about the future of Destiny 2, the long-running looter shooter has posted an impressive performance on Steam. According to Valve’s revenue rankings for 9–16 June 2026, the free-to-play title secured third place, while its latest expansion, Destiny 2: Renegades, claimed tenth.
The expansion outperformed major releases, including Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade and Apex Legends. Although questions remain about the franchise’s long-term future, the latest figures suggest Destiny 2 continues to attract players and generate significant revenue for developer Bungie.
Jujutsu Kaisen Rumble: Survivaton Brings the Culling Game to Life in 2026
Fans of Jujutsu Kaisen have a new adventure to look forward to with Jujutsu Kaisen Rumble: Survivaton, a multiplayer survival game inspired by the manga’s intense Culling Game arc. Revealed during a Nintendo Direct, the game launches in 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
Developed by Shueisha Games and Poncle, it features eight-player battles, over 20 playable characters, Domain Expansions, Black Flash attacks, and dynamic Rule Addition mechanics, giving anime fans an exciting way to experience the Culling Game before Season 4 arrives.
Only in Japan
Japan Seizes $7 Million in Smuggled Gold Hidden Inside Imported Sex Dolls
Japanese authorities have uncovered an unusual gold smuggling operation after customs officials intercepted imported sex dolls concealing nearly 49 kilograms of gold bullion worth approximately ¥1.075 billion (US$7 million). According to police, the shipment arrived from Shenzhen, China, falsely declared as mannequins to evade an estimated ¥110 million in import fees.
Investigators believe the suspects planned to remove, recast and sell the gold after delivery in Tokyo, and suspect the group used the same method multiple times. Six people have been arrested as authorities continue investigating the sophisticated international smuggling scheme.
Alice in Borderland Death Game Comes to Japan's Huis Ten Bosch Theme Park
Fans of Alice in Borderland will soon be able to experience the hit survival thriller firsthand as Huis Ten Bosch launches its immersive Alice in Borderland Death Game on August 27. Inspired by the popular Netflix adaptation, the 30-minute attraction challenges participants to survive psychological games while wearing replica “bomb collars” that simulate elimination with smoke effects.
Due to its intense themes, guests under 15 are prohibited from participating. Included with standard park admission, the new attraction highlights Huis Ten Bosch’s growing focus on immersive anime experiences alongside recent additions inspired by Evangelion.
Japan's 'Hentai Plant Club' Showcases Nature's Strangest Botanical Wonders in Osaka
Despite its eye-catching name, Japan’s Hentai Plant Club celebrates extraordinary plant metamorphosis rather than anything risqué. Running July 4–5 at Osaka Nanko ATC Hall, the exhibition features rare species including Platycerium, Anthurium, and Dyckia, highlighting their remarkable evolutionary adaptations.
Curated by celebrity plant expert Keisuke Hase and influencer Botanical Gorilla, the event forms part of Reptiles Fever 2026, western Japan’s largest reptile expo. Visitors can also enjoy reptile displays, petting experiences, and specialty vendors, making it a unique destination for plant enthusiasts, collectors, and families exploring Japan’s fascinating natural world.
Japan's Koka Ninja Certification Test Challenges Modern-Day Shadow Warriors
Dozens of aspiring ninjas gathered in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, to take the annual Koka-ryu Ninja Certification exam, celebrating Japan’s rich ninja heritage. The three-level test features written examinations, while beginner candidates also earn points for wearing authentic ninja attire and demonstrating their shuriken-throwing skills.
Participants aged 9 to 76 travelled from across Japan and overseas to prove their knowledge of Koka’s legendary ninja traditions. With pass rates ranging from 55% to 90%, the certification helps preserve the legacy of the historic Koga clan, ensuring Japan’s famous shadow warrior culture continues to inspire new generations of enthusiasts.
Why Ghibli Park's No-Photography Rule Creates a More Magical Visitor Experience
Ghibli Park stands apart from many modern theme parks by banning photography inside most attractions, encouraging visitors to fully immerse themselves in the worlds of Studio Ghibli. Without smartphones competing for attention, guests can appreciate intricate details, interact with select exhibits, and enjoy iconic locations without crowds blocking the view.
The policy also preserves surprises, allowing each room to feel like a genuine discovery. By prioritising presence over social media sharing, Ghibli Park delivers a richer, more memorable experience that captures the wonder and imagination at the heart of Studio Ghibli’s beloved films.
MORE NEWS from Japan
Japan’s Pikachu and Eevee Pokémon mailboxes to be removed at end of month
Yokohama’s beloved Pokémon mailboxes, featuring Pikachu, Eevee, and Piplup, will be removed, ending a popular attraction for fans and tourists.
Tokyo has a cafe that prohibits talking inside, and here’s why it’s awesome
Tokyo’s R Zadokushokan café offers a peaceful reading atmosphere, encouraging quiet reflection by asking guests to avoid lengthy conversations.
100-meter tall Hello Kitty artwork appearing on Japanese Ferris wheel, jumbo Pompompurin nearby
Hello Kitty lights up Yokohama’s 100-metre Cosmo Clock Ferris wheel, celebrating Sanrio Fes with an unforgettable giant display of cuteness.
In Other News
Dutch Tourist Arrested in Japan After Illegal Drifting at Tochigi Museum
A 32-year-old Dutch tourist has been arrested after allegedly performing illegal drifting in the car park of Oya History Museum. Police say the man used a rented Nissan Skyline R34 to spin tyres and leave skid marks, causing damage that will require costly repairs.
While Japan is famous for its drifting culture, the practice is only accepted in appropriate settings, not public spaces. The incident has sparked criticism online, with many calling for tourists to respect Japanese laws, property, and local etiquette while visiting the country.
Korea's Viral Fruit-Shaped Mousse Cakes Are Winning Fans with Their Satisfying Crunch
South Korea’s latest dessert craze is the “agjak” fruit-shaped mousse cake, a realistic pastry coated in a thin chocolate shell that delivers a crisp crack before revealing a creamy mousse centre. Popularised by bakery chain Tous Les Jours, the eye-catching treats have drawn long queues and millions of social media views thanks to their ASMR appeal.
Artisan bakeries are also seeing soaring demand as handcrafted fruit-inspired cakes quickly sell out. Experts say the trend reflects growing interest in immersive food experiences, where visual presentation, texture, and shareable moments are just as important as flavour.
Hatsune Miku Captivates 100,000 Fans During Miku Expo 2026 North America Tour
Hatsune Miku Wikipedia has once again proven her global appeal after completing the Miku Expo 2026 North America tour. Joined by fellow Vocaloid performers Kagamine Rin, Kagamine Len, Megurine Luka, Meiko, and Kaito, Miku performed 19 concerts across 15 cities, entertaining more than 100,000 fans.
The colourful “Candy Shop” theme featured vibrant visuals and sweet-inspired songs, while audiences enthusiastically sang along despite the predominantly Japanese lyrics. Following the tour’s success, Miku Expo 2026 Europe will begin in London this November, highlighting the enduring worldwide popularity of the iconic virtual singer.
One Piece Straw Hat Crew Makes History at Paris' Grevin Wax Museum
Fans of One Piece can now see the Straw Hat Crew immortalised in wax at Grevin Museum. The museum has unveiled 10 lifelike wax figures of Luffy and his crewmates, marking the first time Japanese anime characters have joined its world-famous collection.
The launch featured a video message from Mayumi Tanaka, the voice of Luffy, and a live appearance by singer Hiroshi Kitadani. The historic exhibit celebrates One Piece’s global popularity while introducing anime to millions of museum visitors each year.
Reckless Ben Arrest Sparks $200,000 Star Wars LEGO Ownership Dispute
YouTuber Reckless Ben has been arrested in Utah amid an ongoing legal dispute over a rare $200,000 Star Wars LEGO collection. The controversy began after collector Bryan Mansell claimed his consigned sets disappeared following an ownership change at a Bricks & Minifigs franchise.
Schneider investigated the case through a series of viral videos, alleging mishandling of the collection and raising questions about its whereabouts. Multiple lawsuits remain ongoing, while the case has fuelled widespread debate over consignment agreements, business accountability, and consumer rights within the collectibles market.
Updates on previous stories
Tokyo Plans to Lift 20-Year Ban on Black Bear Hunting After Rise in Encounters
Over the past months we have reported about bear attacks happening in Japan. A lot of areas in Japan are taking measures in the ‘battle against the bears’. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is preparing to lift its nearly 20-year ban on hunting Asian black bears as sightings and human encounters continue to increase. Officials plan to introduce a long-term bear management strategy focused on public safety while maintaining coexistence with wildlife.
Proposed measures include limited hunting permits, hunter training, habitat management and collaboration with neighbouring prefectures to reduce bear activity near residential areas. The move follows the sharp rise in bear sightings across western Tokyo, including several attacks and fatalities, prompting authorities to shift from strict conservation toward a more balanced wildlife management approach.
Japan Raises Visa Fees for the First Time in Nearly 50 Years
Japan has approved its first visa fee increase in 48 years, with the new charges taking effect for applications submitted from 1 July. A single-entry visa will rise from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000, while a multiple-entry visa will increase from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000. The government says the higher fees will help fund immigration services, Japanese-language programmes and measures to tackle illegal overstayers as the foreign resident population continues to grow.
Additional increases for residency status changes and permanent residency applications are also planned as Japan strengthens its long-term immigration system.
Japan's Birth Rate Falls to Record Low Despite Rising Marriages in 2025
Japan’s demographic challenges continue as the number of babies born to Japanese nationals dropped to a record-low 671,236 in 2025, while the fertility rate declined to 1.14. Although officials noted the pace of decline has slowed, births remain well below government expectations. Financial pressures, changing attitudes toward marriage, and work-life balance continue to discourage family growth.
Encouragingly, marriages increased for a second consecutive year, raising hopes for a modest future rebound in births. The Japanese government is expected to strengthen childcare support and family-friendly policies as it confronts the country’s accelerating population decline and labour shortages.
Japan's 'Shiru-Katsu' Sticker Craze Sparks Shortages, Resale Boom and Parent Hunt
Japan’s nostalgic sticker-swapping trend has returned as the “shiru-katsu” craze, captivating children and adults alike. Popular 3D stickers such as Bonbon Drop Seal and Uruchuru Pop Seal are selling out nationwide, prompting parents to visit multiple stores in search of new stock. The renewed collecting and trading culture has driven shipments past 21 million stickers, while counterfeit products and inflated resale prices continue to grow.
Manufacturers are increasing production and introducing anti-scalping measures, but demand remains exceptionally high as the playground phenomenon evolves into one of Japan’s biggest collectible trends of 2026.
Cosplay News
LONDON COMIC CON MCM EXPO 2026
We end off this bento with a fun music video of the adventure and fun that happened in May 2026 at the London Comic Con MCM Expo 2026!
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