April 2025 Bento News
Itadakimasu
Konnichiwa, AnimeFanatiks! Our April 2025 Bento News is packed with a delicious mix of updates from the world of Anime, Manga, and Japan!
This month’s menu has it all, from the latest Anime and Manga releases to game news that’ll make you drool, plus stories from Japan and beyond that capture the world’s eyes. Ready to dig in? Itadakimasu!
Anime News
Hello Kitty Expands Fashion Empire with Puma and New Era
Sanrio’s beloved Hello Kitty is back in the fashion spotlight with two major collaborations. On March 6, 2025, Puma launched a ‘90s-inspired collection featuring Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Kuromi across sneakers, t-shirts, hoodies, and activewear. Prices range from $55 to $100, available online and in stores.
Meanwhile, New Era Japan introduced a Hello Kitty collection with caps, hats, and apparel featuring her iconic red bow and apples. Prices start at 4,180 yen (~$28), though international buyers need proxy services. These latest drops follow collaborations with Adidas, Crocs, and even Fender, solidifying Hello Kitty’s global fashion presence.
Japan’s Anime Industry Faces a Growing Crisis
Despite anime’s global success, Japan’s animation industry is struggling with low wages, poor working conditions, and a talent exodus. Many animators, working under freelance contracts, earn meager pay while enduring long hours. Some leave the industry, while studios increasingly outsource example: Toei Animation now sends 70% of its work to the Philippines.
AI threatens to replace entry-level jobs, further discouraging new artists. Rigid hierarchies and uncompensated overtime add to the strain. While the industry continues to grow, experts suggest studio consolidation could improve wages and working conditions, ensuring anime’s future remains as bright as its global reputation.
One Piece Finally Confirms the Name of Its World
One Piece is filled with mysteries, and Eiichiro Oda loves keeping fans guessing. With over 1,000 chapters, the series has introduced countless enigmas, but SBS volume #111 has finally confirmed one long-standing question – the world’s official name is Bluestar.
While first hinted at in Chapter 472 during Enel’s moon expedition, fans overlooked the significance. Now, Oda has clarified that One Piece takes place on a different planet, explaining its unique seas and possible differences in gravity. This revelation proves once again that Oda has masterfully hidden major details in plain sight, only to surprise fans later.
Solo Leveling Season 2 Faces Backlash Over Emotional Episode
Solo Leveling Season 2 has been an action-packed continuation of Jinwoo’s journey, but Episode 9 has sparked controversy. Centered around his heartfelt reunion with his mother, it became the first episode of the season to surpass 1,000 dislikes on Crunchyroll. While some praised its emotional depth, others felt it disrupted the pacing.
This debate reflects a common divide in the anime community: Should emotional moments be as vital as high-intensity action? While Solo Leveling thrives on breathtaking battles, Jinwoo’s story loses impact without meaningful character moments. The backlash raises questions about how anime balances action and storytelling.
Upcoming Anime 2025 Releases
A host of new anime series is in the works, most of which are set to premiere next year. Here’s a look at what’s coming:
New Series Premiering
Black Torch
A television anime adaptation of Tsuyoshi Takaki’s Black Torch manga was announced at the Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle, Washington.
Toujima Tanzaburou wa Kamen Rider ni Naritai
An anime adaptation of Yokusaru Shibata’s Toujima Tanzaburou wa Kamen Rider ni Naritai (Tojima Tanzaburo Wants to Be a Masked Rider) manga
Tensei shita Daiseijo wa, Seijo de Aru Koto wo Hitakakusu
A television anime adaptation of Touya’s Tensei shita Daiseijo wa, Seijo de Aru Koto wo Hitakakusu (A Tale of the Secret Saint) light novel
Onmyou Kaiten: Re:Birth
An original television anime titled Onmyou Kaiten: Re:Birth. Produced by David Production, the anime series will air in July 2025.
Yuusha Party wo Oidasareta Kiyoubinbou: Party Jijou de Fuyo Jutsushi wo Yatteita Kenshi, Bannou e to Itaru
A television anime adaptation of Itsuki Togami’s Yuusha Party wo Oidasareta Kiyoubinbou: Party Jijou de Fuyo Jutsushi wo Yatteita Kenshi, Bannou e to Itaru light novel
Kimi ga Shinu made Koi wo Shitai
A television anime adaptation of Nachi Aono’s Kimi ga Shinu made Koi wo Shitai (I Want to Love You Till Your Dying Day) manga
Returning Series
Second 'Haikyuu!!' Sequel Movie in Production
The Haikyuu!! 10th Event: Next Step announced that the second part of the two-part sequel movie, titled Haikyuu!! Movie: vs. Chiisana Kyojin, is currently in production.
Interesting Anime News
Disney Wants In On the Anime Boom, And Twisted Wonderland's First Trailer Makes As Much Clear
Disney’s Twisted-Wonderland reimagines classic villains as role models, portraying Night Raven College students following their infamous predecessors’ teachings in a new light.
Ayano Takeda's Aisarenakute mo Betsu ni Novel Gets Live-Action Film on July 4
Hiiro Miyata, burdened by her gacha-addicted mother, bonds with Miyabi Enaga, reflecting on love, obligation, and life’s quiet disappointments.
Figure Skater Yuzuru Hanyu Appears in Medalist Anime's Opening Music Video
Kenshi Yonezu announced that two-time Olympic men’s figure skating gold medalist Yuzuru Hanyu appeared in the music video for the Medalist‘s opening theme song “Bow and Arrow.”
Kakao Entertainment Report States It Blocked 240 Million Cases of Piracy in 2nd Half of 2024
Kakao Entertainment expands its piracy monitoring system to include web novels
New Dragon Ball Interview Shares Rare Peek at Akira Toriyama's Life Before Fame
Kyoto NP interviewed a former colleague of Toriyama, revealing his pre-fame life and a surviving store sign he once designed.
Japan Ranks Its Top 10 Favorite Maid Anime Characters in Official Survey
Maid characters are beloved in anime, often supporting protagonists. Japan recently held a nationwide survey to crown fans’ favourite anime maid.
Manga News
Jingle Bells and Jellybeans: SANDA Brings Christmas Cheer to Manga Fans
Christmas in Japan isn’t just about KFC and romantic dates, it’s also about SANDA, a Manga reimagining Santa Claus! Created by BEASTARS’ Paru Itagaki, SANDA unfolds in a future where Christmas is a forgotten myth. Middle schooler Kazushige Sanda discovers he’s Santa’s descendant and can transform by eating jellybeans or wearing red.
With an anime adaptation arriving in Fall 2025, SANDA is ready to sleigh international readers. Titan Comics releases Volume 1 on September 2. With holiday magic and action-packed storytelling, this manga jingles all the way to becoming a festive favourite!
Love at First Boot: The Uncanny Tani Debuts
The April issue of Young Ace revealed that Ui Kashima (I Belong to the Baddest Girl at School) will launch a new manga, Bukimi no Tani-kun (The Uncanny Tani), on Young Ace Up this Wednesday. Set in a near-future where humanoid robots are common, the story follows Komiyama, a teen without one, until she mysteriously receives Tani, a robot who instantly falls in love with her.
Inspired by the uncanny valley concept, the series explores human-robot relationships. Kashima’s previous manga ran from 2017 to 2021, with One Peace Books publishing it in English.
Manga Mirai: A New Chapter for Global Manga Fans
NTT Docomo, in partnership with Akatsuki Group, Media Do, and MyAnimeList, has launched Manga Mirai, a digital manga platform debuting March 4, 2025. Featuring over 780 titles and 11,000 volumes, the service offers English-translated manga from major publishers like Kodansha USA and Square Enix. Fans can enjoy popular series like Blue Lock and Wind Breaker via web or mobile app.
With industry leaders collaborating, Manga Mirai aims to bring Japan’s beloved manga culture to the world, expanding access to both classics and exclusive new works. Special launch discounts will be announced soon.
New Godzilla Manga Roars to Life in May
Akita Publishing announced that Jyu Ishiguchi will launch a brand-new Godzilla manga in Young Champion magazine on May 27. The series’ official X account, first opened on November 3, teased the debut with a trailer, which is down below. Legendary Godzilla designer Shinji Nishikawa will design the King of Monsters, while Hiroshi Maruyama will create the space monster designs.
Ishiguchi, known for work on Gun Gale Online and Fairy gone, is also credited with mecha designs. He previously contributed to Knights of Sidonia. Fans can expect an exciting fusion of kaiju action and mechanical mayhem in this highly anticipated series.
More Manga News
Emi Ishikawa Draws Manga Adaptation of Urban Myth Dissolution Center Paranormal Game
Ishikawa previously illustrated manga adaptation of Poppy’s Playtime game
Ibarakino's 'Madogiwa Henshū to Baka ni Sareta Ore ga, Futago JK to Dōkyo Suru Koto ni Natta' Light Novels Get Manga Adaptation
Usa Otome’s manga adaptation launches in late March
Nippon News
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows Sparks Controversy in Japan
The release of Assassin’s Creed: Shadows has stirred controversy in Japan, prompting Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to condemn cultural disrespect.
The game, set in the Sengoku period, drew backlash for its portrayal of Itatehyozu Shrine, where players destroy sacred objects and attack priests. Lawmaker Hiroyuki Kada criticized Ubisoft for using the shrine’s name without permission, raising concerns over potential copycat crimes.
The government vowed to address public concerns, while Ubisoft apologized, calling the game “historical fiction.” A day-one patch may alter shrine interactions. The Assassin’s Creed franchise, launched in 2007, has sold over 200 million copies worldwide.
Japan's Population Crisis Deepens as Births Plummet
In 2024, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare released grim population statistics: a record 1,618,684 deaths, coupled with a continued decline in births. The country saw only 720,988 births in 2024, marking the ninth consecutive year of decline. This rapid demographic shift is exacerbated by Japan’s aging population.
Despite a slight increase in marriages, the nation faces a steep fertility crisis. Overwork, low wages, and financial insecurity are driving many away from starting families. Critics argue that expanding childcare benefits isn’t enough without addressing the root causes of this population decline.
Spring’s Shadow: Japan’s Suicide Crisis in Early Spring
While spring in Japan is often seen as a season of renewal, it also marks the highest suicide rates of the year. March consistently records the most suicides, with April and May following closely. Experts link this to seasonal changes, fiscal year stress, and feelings of isolation.
Japan has the highest suicide rate among G7 nations, influenced by cultural perceptions of responsibility. Mental health professionals stress the importance of awareness, social support, and seeking help. With no single solution, vigilance and compassion are key to prevention. Looking out for one another can save lives.
Telephone hotline: 03-5774-0992 (Daily)
Counselling inquiries: 03-4550-1146 (Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.)
A selection of emergency numbers with multilingual support is also provided at the bottom of their home page.
Suicide prevention hotline in Japan with English support:
Suicide Crisis Line (South Africa)
Languages: All 11 official languages of South Africa are supported
Hours: Available 24 hours
Call 0800 567 567
Tokyo’s Magical Girl PSA Warns of Contract Dangers
Magical girl anime is making a comeback, but Tokyo’s latest entry isn’t about fighting evil, it’s about contracts. The Tokyo Metropolitan Consumer Affairs Center produced a short anime warning young viewers to “Be careful with contracts.” While kids aren’t making magical pacts, they do face real-world contracts for phone plans, mobile games, and subscriptions.
The video’s dark twist reminds fans of Madoka Magica’s Kyubey, making its message even more impactful. Featuring voices by Ayumu Kotomiya and Kisho Taniyama, this PSA blends comedy and caution, though no sequels are planned, for now.
More Nippon News
Anime Producer Kouichirou Itou Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison
Anime producer, Kouichirou Itou has been sentenced to 4 years in prison for sexual misconduct
Some 44% of Japanese lawmakers back selective dual surname system
A Jiji Press survey found 44% of Japan’s 705 lawmakers support a selective dual surname system, surpassing other proposed surname policy changes.
International News
Japan May Allow South Koreans to Renew Working Holiday Visas
Japan is considering adding South Korea to its list of countries eligible for working holiday visa renewals, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties, sources say.
Currently, young people from eight countries can renew this visa, which is usually limited to one year. Japan aims to address labour shortages in the winter sports industry as foreign visitors surge.
Since December, Canada, Britain, New Zealand, Denmark, and Austria have had renewal rights, with Germany, Ireland, and Slovakia joining in January. The system, introduced in 1980, now includes 30 countries and regions.
The Vtuber scene and its antics
Project Verses Shuts Down, Talent Saya Kenbishi to Stream Independently
Singapore-based VTuber agency Project Verses ceased operations on Tuesday, March 11, citing insufficient resources. Remaining talent and partner affiliate Saya Kenbishi will continue streaming independently, retaining full ownership of her social media.
The agency had planned a second-generation debut but instead allocated resources to finalizing models for two successful applicants. Their identities remain undisclosed.
Merchandise orders will be fulfilled as scheduled. Inquiries can be sent to contact [at] projectverses.com temporarily. Former talents Fionna fon Engels and Riyu the Lamb departed on January 4 after mutual discussions.
From The World of Gaming
Ao Oni: The Horror of Blueberry Onsen Brings Terror to Switch & PC
Game Studio and UUUM have announced Ao Oni: The Horror of Blueberry Onsen for Nintendo Switch and PC via Steam, launching in spring 2025. The game introduces co-op play, chat, character interactions, new blue demon species, and a 16x speed mode. Available in multiple languages, it follows Hiroshi and friends as they explore a haunted hot spring inn.
The Ao Oni franchise, which began in 2004, has inspired anime, films, and novels. Fans can also unlock special skins in Ao Oni Online. A chilling new chapter awaits. Can you escape the horrors of Blueberry Onsen?
Press Start: Japanese Classics Nominated for Video Game Hall of Fame
The Strong National Museum of Play has announced its 2025 Video Game Hall of Fame nominees, featuring Frogger (1981), Harvest Moon (1996), and Tamagotchi! (1996). Other contenders include GoldenEye 007 (1997), Quake (1996), and Call of Duty 4 (2004).
Since 2015, the Hall of Fame has inducted legendary titles like Super Mario Bros., Pokémon Red and Green, Final Fantasy VII, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The 2025 inductees will be revealed on May 8. Fans can vote, but final decisions rest with industry experts. Gaming history’s next legends await their turn!
Palworld Now Available on Mac with Optimized Performance
Pocketpair has officially launched the Mac version of Palworld, now available on the Mac App Store for 3,400 yen (US$29.99). The game requires 22.8GB of space and runs on Apple M1 or later chips with macOS 14.0 (Sonoma) or higher. Supporting multiple languages, it has been optimized for Apple silicon, with a dedicated server feature arriving in mid-March.
Originally set for November 26, the release faced delays for quality improvements. Palworld, a survival multiplayer game, debuted in January 2024 and quickly reached 25 million users. Meanwhile, legal battles loom as Nintendo and The Pokémon Company pursue patent infringement claims.
The Ancient Magus' Bride Visual Novel Enchants the Nintendo Switch
Bushiroad Games is conjuring up the first-ever visual novel based on Kore Yamazaki’s The Ancient Magus’ Bride. Titled Mahō Tsukai no Yome: Seika no Maboroshi to Yumemiru Tabiji (The Phantom Midsummer and the Dreaming Journey), the game will enchant Nintendo Switch players later this year.
Meanwhile, the manga continues evolving, recently resuming with the Beast Hunting arc. Bushiroad is also publishing Volume 22 in April, while Seven Seas brings Volume 20 to English readers in July. With anime adaptations spanning OVAs and two TV seasons, The Ancient Magus’ Bride continues to weave its magical legacy.
Interesting Gaming News
Mashle: Magic and Muscles Gets Smartphone Puzzle Game
“3-match puzzle game” lets players create teams with their favorite characters
Baki Hanma: Blood Arena Game Announced for Consoles/PC in September
The game features arcade-style fighting gameplay with 12 opponents, five arenas, and special attacks.
Disney Step Augmented Reality Mobile Game Launches in Japan
Location-based game lets players go on a treasure hunt with Disney characters
Only in Japan
Demon Dial-Up: Scare Your Kids into Behaving!
Parenting is tough, and in Japan, they call mischievous toddlers ma no nisai – literally, “devil two-year-olds.” Enter Oni kara Denwa (Phone Call from a Demon), an app where a monster calls to scold your misbehaving kid. Now with an update featuring comedian Kintalo’s terrifying expressions, it covers classic offenses like not listening, bedtime rebellion, and sibling battles.
Is it discipline or psychological warfare? You decide! But hey, since Japanese folklore says demons can be defeated with beans, maybe your kid won’t be too traumatized. Oni kara Denwa is available on Android and iOS. We can see parents going wild about this because, sometimes, parenting needs backup!
How Japanese Handle Conflict at Work
In Japan, workplace conflict is often managed indirectly, reflecting cultural values that prioritize harmony (wa). Open disagreements are rare, as many employees avoid confrontation to preserve relationships. A 2024 survey found that 58.1% of employees engage in sontaku (anticipating unspoken wishes), aligning with supervisors’ opinions instead of voicing dissatisfaction.
Supervisors often handle complaints by arranging talks, offering gentle critiques, or enduring issues rather than confronting them directly. This indirect approach leads to workplace stress and poor communication. With only 5% of workers engaged, unresolved tensions persist. Understanding Japan’s subtle communication styles and seeking mediation can help navigate conflict effectively.
How to Play Japan’s Lotto: Takarakuji 101
If you’re dreaming of striking it rich in Japan, playing Takarakuji (Japan’s lottery) could make that dream come true. But beyond the potential jackpot, it also supports local communities, with proceeds funding public welfare, education, and disaster relief. Japan’s lotteries, including LOTO7 and LOTO6, offer better odds than Western lotteries due to smaller number pools.
LOTO7, for example, gives you a chance to win up to ¥1.2 billion with odds of 1 in 10 million, while LOTO6 offers jackpots up to ¥600 million with twice-weekly draws. Tickets are available nationwide, online, or at ATMs for convenience.
Meet the Dads of Kawara: The Ojisan Trading Card Game
Looking for a way to combine your love for trading cards and the everyday magic of middle-aged men? Japan’s got you covered! Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh! may rule the card game world, but in the town of Kawara, Fukuoka Prefecture, the hot new game is Saido Otoko Card aka The Ojisan Trading Card Game.
So, what’s an “ojisan”? A middle-aged man, of course! Instead of building teams of monsters, your deck is filled with local legends—like retired fire chief Honda-san (who unleashes Perfect Fire) and noodle guru Takeshita-san.
With its quirky, real-world twist, the game has not only united the community but also encouraged kids to get involved in local volunteer efforts. Who knew battling with old dudes could be so impactful?
Come for the cards, stay for the community spirit (and maybe a soba lesson or two)!
More interesting Only In Japan articles
'Uketsu': The internet phantom haunting Japan's bestseller lists
The creepy Author Uketsu is not a person but a persona, the pen name for a writer and YouTuber who’s entirely anonymous.
McDonald's Finally 'Shakes It Up' With Hatsune Miku in Official Reveal After Month-Long Collaboration
Hatsune Miku Comes to McDonald’s With New Shaka Shaka Fries Collaboration
Pokémon Fans Did It: A Charizard Cheeto Just Sold For Nearly $90k at Auction
Charizard is not just on fire, his fan-base are a blazing! Charizard Cheeto we choose you!
Major Japanese restaurant chain gives its OK to dip sushi toppings in miso soup
This may shock some people but it seems pulling the fish off your sushi and swirling it around in your miso soup is now legit at this conveyor belt sushi chain.
Gundam Jet takes flight in Japan, comes with opportunities for Japan Airline-exclusive Gunpla
A Gundam Jet AND there is a exclusive Gunpla!! Sugoi!
Cosplay News
Cosplay News from Us, Canada
Enjoy with us two videos of cosplay events. The first is of the Toronto Comicon, which they describe as the ultimate playground for Comics, Sci-Fi, Horror, Anime, and Gaming. From March 14 – 16 there were citywide events and attractions as well as celebrities celebrating the geeky side of life.
Our second video is a montage of cosplayers at the Indiana Comic Convention. There are some great cosplay in the video from anime such as Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Cardcaptor Sakura!
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