August 2026 Bento News
Konnichiwa, AnimeFanatiks! Our August 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 July? We’ve done the digging for you! Use the menu on the right to easily jump between sections.
This months 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
Crunchyroll Says Its Anime Community Gives It the Edge Over Netflix
Crunchyroll believes its community-first approach gives it a competitive edge over Netflix in the anime streaming market. Despite Netflix recently leading anime viewership across several regions, Crunchyroll says its focus extends beyond streaming. Chief Content Officer Asa Suehira highlighted the platform’s investment in anime conventions, theatrical releases, live events, e-commerce, music and its Crunchyroll Manga service to deepen fan engagement.
The company also supports studios through revenue-sharing agreements and detailed audience analytics via Crunchyroll Compass. Meanwhile, Netflix continues expanding its anime catalogue through exclusive productions, including The One Piece, while Crunchyroll prepares to release a new Solo Leveling anime film. The rivalry between these two streaming powerhouses will only benefit us, as in their rivalry we get a lot more sugoi anime to watch.
My Neighbor Totoro LEGO Ideas Set Reaches Major Milestone for Official Review
A stunning My Neighbor Totoro LEGO Ideas project has reached the crucial 10,000-supporter milestone, earning a place in LEGO’s official Review phase. Created by designer Jazlecraz, the display recreates Studio Ghibli’s iconic 1988 theatrical poster with impressive three-dimensional detail, featuring Totoro, Satsuki and authentic Japanese text.
While several Ghibli-inspired LEGO Ideas projects have reached this stage, none have yet been approved as official sets. Fans remain hopeful this unique design will finally break the trend. Meanwhile, My Neighbor Totoro continues delighting audiences worldwide and returns to selected U.S. cinemas during Studio Ghibli Fest 2026 before streaming on Max and Netflix.
Evangelion ANIMA Returns as Audiobook, Reviving the Classic Anime’s Alternate Sequel
Neon Genesis Evangelion fans can revisit one of the franchise’s most overlooked stories as Evangelion ANIMA returns in a new audiobook format. Published by Kadokawa, the alternate sequel imagines a world where the Third Impact never occurred, following an older Shinji Ikari with redesigned Evangelion units by Ikuto Yamashita.
Narrated by Saki Aiya, the Japanese audiobook series is releasing throughout 2026 via Audible Japan, with all five volumes arriving by October. While often overshadowed by the Rebuild of Evangelion films, Evangelion ANIMA offers fans a compelling alternate timeline that expands the iconic anime universe in an exciting new way.
Studio Pierrot Revives Naruto Shippuden in Stunning New Animation for PUBG Mobile Collaboration
Studio Pierrot has reunited some of Naruto Shippuden’s most iconic characters in a spectacular new animated short celebrating PUBG Mobile’s upcoming collaboration with the legendary ninja franchise. Launching alongside Update 4.5 on 9 July, the trailer features Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, Kakashi and the Legendary Sannin in beautifully enhanced animation that recalls the series’ most memorable moments.
Fans are also treated to familiar locations, including the Hidden Leaf Village and the Final Valley. With vibrant visuals and dynamic action, the collaboration showcases Studio Pierrot’s enduring talent while proving that Naruto remains one of anime’s most beloved and influential franchises.
Darkroom Brings Rare Classic Anime Back to Streaming With Affordable New Service
Finding classic anime legally has become increasingly difficult (agonizing), but Darkroom aims to preserve anime history with a growing library of rare films and OVAs. Unlike Crunchyroll or Netflix, the platform focuses on hard-to-find titles, including Crusher Joe, Haré + Guu DELUXE, Haré + Guu FINAL, and Simoun.
Viewers can watch for free with ads or subscribe from just $1.99 per month for an ad-free experience. Available across web, mobile and streaming devices, Darkroom adds new anime every Friday while welcoming fan requests, making it an exciting destination for discovering overlooked classics and forgotten gems.
Upcoming Anime Announcements
A host of new anime series is in the works. Here are anime that were announced in July
Manga Adaptations
Kusunoki-san wa Koukou Debut ni Shippaishiteiru (Kusunoki's Flunking Her High School Glow-Up)
DMM Pictures has announced the Kusunoki’s Flunking Her High School Glow-Up anime, revealing its main cast, staff, teaser visual, and trailer.
Murciélago
NBCUniversal Entertainment Japan has announced a Murciélago TV anime for 2027, revealing its staff, teaser visual, and promotional trailer.
Sensou Kyoushitsu (The Bugle Call: Song of War)
CyberAgent has announced The Bugle Call: Song of War anime, unveiling its staff, teaser visual, trailer, and 2027 premiere window.
Soara to Mamono no Ie (Soara and the House of Monsters)
Kadokawa has announced the Soara and the House of Monsters anime, revealing its cast, staff, teaser visual, trailer, and 2027 debut.
Light Novel Adaptations
Majo to Ryouken (Witch and Hound)
Pony Canyon has announced the Witch and Hound anime, unveiling its staff, teaser visual, and promotional trailer for fans.
Returning Anime based on Anime Franchise
Mononoke
Twin Engine has confirmed a new Mononoke anime project, introducing a new Medicine Seller alongside returning original character designer Kitsuneko Nagata.
Lv2 kara Cheat datta Motoyuusha Kouho no Mattari Isekai Life (Chillin' in Another World with Level 2 Super Cheat Powers)
Chillin’ in Another World with Level 2 Super Cheat Powers is returning for Season 2, with a new visual and announcement trailer.
Ore dake Level Up na Ken (Solo Leveling)
Crunchyroll has announced Solo Leveling: Beyond the System, a sequel anime movie revealed with a teaser visual and trailer at Anime Expo 2026.
Marriagetoxin
Marriagetoxin Season 2 is officially in production and will premiere in January 2027, following the anime’s first-season finale.
In Memoriam
We bid farewell to the greats in the Anime, Manga and Voice Actors who made an impact on this industry.
Akiko Hayashi
Renowned Japanese children’s author and illustrator Akiko Hayashi has died at the age of 81 after battling pneumonia. Best known internationally for illustrating the original Kiki’s Delivery Service novel by Eiko Kadono, Hayashi helped shape one of Japan’s most beloved literary classics before its famous Studio Ghibli adaptation.
Across a career spanning more than 50 years, she wrote and illustrated bestselling picture books that sold over 20 million copies worldwide. Her heartfelt artwork captured the wonder of childhood and earned numerous literary awards. Hayashi’s enduring legacy will continue inspiring readers as the Kiki’s Delivery Service franchise enters a new generation.
More Anime News
Furby is now a sexy anime girl figure
Kotobukiya transforms Hasbro’s iconic Furby into an officially licensed Bishoujo anime figure, blending nostalgic charm with stylish collectible design.
Spring 2026 Anime of the Season Rankings
Re:ZERO Season 4 tops the Spring 2026 anime rankings, followed by Witch Hat Atelier and Wistoria Season 2, after 56,857 fan votes.
Crunchyroll Removes Even More Classic Anime You Can’t Find Anywhere Else & Fans Aren’t Happy
Crunchyroll has removed more classic anime from its US streaming library, leaving fans frustrated as many titles remain unavailable elsewhere.
Manga News
RWBY Volume 10 Officially Greenlit as VIZ Media Revives Beloved Anime-Inspired Series
After more than three years of uncertainty, RWBY has officially been renewed for Volume 10, with VIZ Media confirming active development during Anime Expo 2026. The announcement marks the franchise’s long-awaited return following Rooster Teeth’s closure in 2024 and VIZ Media’s acquisition of the IP.
While no release date has been revealed, original production staff remain involved. The continuation promises to resolve Volume 9’s dramatic cliffhanger and further expand the world of Remnant. Since its 2013 debut, RWBY has become a global phenomenon, and Volume 10 represents an exciting new chapter for its dedicated fanbase.
Akira Toriyama Inducted into Eisner Hall of Fame at the 2026 Eisner Awards
The 2026 Eisner Awards celebrated manga’s greatest creators by inducting the late Akira Toriyama, creator of Dragon Ball, into the prestigious Hall of Fame alongside Go Nagai. The awards also honoured Shintaro Kago, whose Blood Harvest won Best Short Story, while Sanho’s Purgatory Funeral Cakes claimed Best U.S. Edition of International Material—Asia.
Katsuhiro Otomo’s AKIRA earned Best Archival Collection, and Andrea Horbinski’s Manga’s First Century received Best Academic/Scholarly Work. The winners highlight manga’s lasting influence on global comics, scholarship and popular culture, celebrating both legendary creators and groundbreaking contemporary works.
Mushoku Tensei: Redundant Reincarnation to End the Legendary Isekai Saga in 2026
After nearly 15 years, Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation is preparing to conclude its story. MF Books has confirmed that Mushoku Tensei: Redundant Reincarnation Volume 4, the official epilogue, will launch on 25 November 2026 as the series’ final instalment.
The volume will wrap up lingering character storylines and introduce the new tale, Lucy’s Melancholy, while a special edition includes an exclusive acrylic stand illustrated by Shirotaka. As one of the most influential isekai franchises ever created, Mushoku Tensei leaves behind a lasting legacy, with fans now awaiting an English release date for the concluding volume.
Bleach Finally Gets an Official Sequel as Mirrors High Continues the Story After Thousand-Year Blood War
After a decade of waiting, Bleach is finally receiving an official sequel. Announced at Anime Expo 2026, Bleach: Mirrors High is a new mobile game featuring an original story set after the Thousand-Year Blood War arc.
Overseen by creator Tite Kubo, the game introduces new characters while reuniting fan favourites, with Kubo hinting that its story is partially connected to the manga’s main timeline. Following the success of the Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War anime, the sequel marks a major milestone for the franchise, giving fans an exciting new chapter in the beloved supernatural series.
Murciélago Anime Announced for 2027, HIDIVE Secures Exclusive Streaming Rights
Yoshimura Kana’s acclaimed manga Murciélago is officially receiving a TV anime adaptation in 2027, with HIDIVE securing exclusive streaming rights across North America, the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. Announced at Anime Expo 2026, the crime-action series follows former death-row inmate Kuroko Koumori and her partner Hinako Tozakura as they eliminate dangerous threats hidden within society.
Directed by Naoya Takashi and Asami Matsuo, with animation by Satelight and Staple Entertainment, the adaptation promises stylish action while faithfully capturing the manga’s dark, erotic and grotesque atmosphere for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Nippon News
Japan Expands eVISA Programme in 2026, Making Travel Easier for South African Tourists
Japan’s eVISA system is making short-term travel more convenient, with South Africa now among the eligible countries able to apply online for a tourist visa. The electronic visa allows travellers to visit Japan for up to 90 days for tourism, eliminating the need for a traditional visa sticker for eligible applicants.
Available to ordinary passport holders travelling by air or approved sea routes, the system aims to simplify entry while reducing paperwork. However, applicants must carefully submit accurate information, as incomplete forms or incorrect documents can delay processing or lead to cancellation, potentially disrupting travel plans.
Japan Tightens Permanent Residency Rules as Survey Reveals Declining Long-Term Appeal for Foreign Workers.
Japan’s appeal as a long-term destination for foreign workers is showing signs of weakening. A 2026 Mynavi Global survey found that only 63.3% of foreign residents plan to work in Japan for more than five years, citing the weak yen, rising living costs and lower overseas purchasing power.
At the same time, the Japanese government is proposing stricter permanent residency requirements, including a mandatory Japanese Language and Lifestyle Learning Programme covering language skills, community etiquette and daily life. With foreign residents surpassing 4.1 million in 2025, the reforms aim to strengthen integration while standardising residency screening.
Although many professionals still view Japan as an attractive destination, the survey suggests economic pressures and tougher residency requirements are reshaping how foreign workers view their long-term future in the country.
Japanese Tea Receives Nationwide GI Protection as Matcha Demand Soars
Japan has officially granted Japanese tea nationwide Geographical Indication (GI) protection, strengthening efforts to combat counterfeit products amid the global matcha boom. Announced by the Ministry of Agriculture, the designation safeguards the reputation of Japanese-grown tea regardless of its region of origin, making it only the second nationwide GI product after Japanese sake.
The move comes as green tea exports reached ¥72.1 billion in 2025, highlighting surging international demand. The ministry also awarded GI status to Hamanako unagi and Kaga renkon, bringing Japan’s total protected agricultural, forestry, fishery and food products to 170, further boosting the country’s premium food exports.
Japan Passes New Law Making Flag Desecration Punishable by Up to Two Years in Prison
Japan has passed a new law making the public desecration of the national flag a criminal offence, with penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment or a ¥200,000 fine. Backed by the ruling coalition and several other parties, the legislation targets acts deemed to cause “extreme unpleasantness or disgust.”
Supporters argue the law aligns protections for Japan’s flag with existing safeguards for foreign national emblems. Critics, however, warn the measure could undermine freedom of expression due to its broad wording. The legislation marks a significant shift in Japan’s legal approach to protecting national symbols and public order.
Police Investigate Theft of 11 Buddhist Statues from Historic Gifu Temple
Police in Gifu Prefecture are investigating the theft of 11 Buddhist statues and other sacred items from Dosenji Temple in Yamagata as a suspected burglary. The missing artefacts include a Jizo Bodhisattva statue, ten Ten Kings statues and a wooden mirror, all taken from the temple’s main hall.
The theft was discovered on 6 July when the chief priest arrived to replace the morning offerings. Authorities believe the items were stolen overnight after the hall was locked. The investigation remains ongoing as police work to recover the culturally significant religious artefacts and identify those responsible.
More News From Nippon
Tokyo revises accommodation tax amidst tourism boom, Airbnb rentals now included
Tokyo will replace its flat-rate accommodation tax with a percentage-based system from April 2027, increasing hotel costs for many travellers.
Over 70% of accommodations in Japan say they are understaffed amid tourism influx
Over 70% of Japan’s accommodations report staff shortages, raising concerns about sustaining tourism growth as international visitor numbers continue rising.
AI-related copyright losses cost celebrities up to ¥4.5 billion, study says
Over 43,000 AI deepfakes targeted Japanese celebrities, causing an estimated ¥4.5 billion in copyright losses, according to JAPRO research.
Raw chicken dishes to be regulated by Japanese government
Japan will introduce new raw chicken safety guidelines as more restaurants serve tataki-style chicken, aiming to reduce food poisoning and serious illnesses linked to improperly prepared poultry.
VTuber News
Essie World Cup Curse: How a VTuber Became the 2026 FIFA World Cup's Biggest Meme
Independent VTuber Essie became an unlikely viral sensation during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after every national team she publicly supported was eliminated from the tournament. What began as harmless predictions quickly evolved into the fan-made “Essie World Cup Curse,” with social media users joking that her endorsements guaranteed defeat.
The meme spread across X, Reddit, and other platforms as Essie embraced the running gag, though some fans later crossed the line with harassment. Despite the negativity, the “curse” continued through the tournament’s final, cementing Essie as one of the World Cup’s most memorable and unexpected viral personalities.
Suisei Hoshimachi and Hatsune Miku Deliver Virtual First Pitch at Chiba Lotte Marines Game
Hololive VTuber Suisei Hoshimachi and virtual idol Hatsune Miku made a special appearance at the Chiba Lotte Marines game against the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, delivering a virtual ceremonial first pitch as part of Lotte’s “Coolish & Sō Day” ice cream campaign. Hoshimachi later shared a video on X showing her digital avatar throwing a perfect pitch to Marines player Shingo Ishikawa.
The collaboration also featured a series of promotional commercials released on YouTube. Although the Marines built an early lead, the Hawks completed a dramatic comeback to secure a 5-4 victory in the final game of the three-game series.
Developer Creates PlayStation 2 VTuber Software with Native 3D Avatar Rendering
An indie developer known as Serenity Theater has created experimental VTuber software that renders a live 3D avatar natively on the PlayStation 2. Built using the open-source PS2SDK, the prototype receives motion-tracking data from a PC while the PS2 handles all avatar rendering on original hardware.
Future plans include DIY full-body tracking, possible EyeToy-based facial tracking, and support for animation projects beyond VTubing. Designed with portability in mind, the software could eventually be adapted to other retro consoles. While no release date has been announced, Serenity says making the tool user-friendly remains a top priority.
Top Gaming News
PlayStation’s Digital-Only Future Sparks Backlash as Gamers Fight to Save Physical Games
PlayStation’s decision to stop producing physical game discs for new releases from January 2028 has ignited fierce debate across the gaming community. Sony says the move reflects growing demand for digital gaming, but many players fear losing ownership, game preservation, and the thriving second-hand market. Recent PlayStation Network outages, which temporarily prevented access to some digitally owned games, intensified those concerns.
A Change.org petition opposing the decision has already surpassed 125,000 signatures, while campaigns like Stop Killing Games continue gaining momentum. Many gamers argue physical discs remain vital for collectors, retailers, affordability, and long-term game preservation, warning Sony’s digital-only future could influence future console purchasing decisions. With the gaming community being hit by so much controversy lately, we can’t help but wonder: what on earth comes next?
Xbox Tests Free Ad-Supported Cloud Gaming for Xbox Insiders
Microsoft has launched a limited test allowing Xbox Insiders to stream select games they already own for free through an ad-supported cloud gaming service. During the trial, players receive one-hour streaming sessions, with advertisements shown before gameplay begins rather than during play.
The feature is optional and aims to make Xbox cloud gaming more accessible, especially for Xbox One owners and players without newer hardware. Microsoft says ads will never interrupt gameplay and will meet the same quality standards as its content. Feedback from Xbox Insiders will help shape the future of affordable, ad-supported game streaming.
Dark Souls: Redemption Vol. 3 Brings the Legendary Franchise Back in 2026
After years without a new Dark Souls game, the franchise is returning with Dark Souls: Redemption Vol. 3, launching on 22 September 2026 via Yen Press. Written by Julien Blondel with artwork by Shonen, the manga continues the journey of a guardian, keeper, and hunter through the series’ haunting, dying world.
Staying true to the games’ signature dark fantasy, the story embraces despair, monsters, and relentless danger rather than comedy. While fans still await Dark Souls 4, this latest manga serves as the franchise’s biggest official release of 2026, expanding one of gaming’s most influential universes.
Dead Space Creator Glen Schofield Retires After 35 Years in Gaming
Dead Space creator Glen Schofield has announced his retirement from the day-to-day gaming industry after an influential 35-year career. In an emotional LinkedIn video, Schofield thanked fans and colleagues while expressing confidence in the industry’s future despite ongoing challenges.
Throughout his career, he helped create iconic franchises including Dead Space and Call of Duty, co-founding Sledgehammer Games and later leading development on The Callisto Protocol. Renowned for championing creativity and innovation, Schofield leaves behind a legacy that has shaped survival horror and blockbuster shooters alike.
His departure marks the end of an era, but his impact on gaming will continue to inspire developers and players for years to come.
Bethesda Confirms Fallout 5 and The Elder Scrolls 6 Development Plans
Bethesda Game Studios has officially confirmed that Fallout 5 is in preproduction, while The Elder Scrolls 6 remains the studio’s top development priority. In a message to fans, studio director Todd Howard revealed both games are being built using the new Creation Engine 3, allowing multiple projects to progress simultaneously.
Bethesda also announced several Fallout projects, including remasters of Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas, plus a new collaboration with Obsidian Entertainment. Despite recent Xbox layoffs, the studio reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Starfield, Fallout, and The Elder Scrolls, promising continued support, technological innovation, and exciting new adventures for RPG fans.
Only in Japan
Forge Your Own Katana: Exclusive Japanese Sword-Making Experience Launches in Gifu
JapanTicket PRESTIGE and Asano Kajiya have unveiled an exclusive cultural experience that lets travellers help forge an authentic Japanese katana alongside master swordsmith Fusataro in Gifu Prefecture. Limited to just 10 participants annually, the month-long programme offers hands-on access to traditional sword-making techniques, with progress updates documenting each blade’s creation.
A shorter wakizashi experience is also available for those seeking a week-long immersion. Beyond the forge, guests can enjoy customised itineraries featuring luxury accommodation and cultural activities. Designed for travellers seeking authentic experiences, the programme showcases the artistry, heritage and enduring traditions behind one of Japan’s most iconic crafts.
Japan Launches Online Maid School to Train Elite Household and Hospitality Professionals
Japan’s Butler Association Japan has launched Maid School Japan, an online academy dedicated to training professional household staff and luxury hospitality specialists. Rather than preparing students for maid cafés, the programme focuses on practical skills such as VIP service, luxury home management, etiquette, communication, confidentiality and household organisation.
Open to applicants aged 20 and older, the courses are taught by experienced butlers and professional maids via Zoom. Students can complete the full 12-module curriculum or enrol in individual classes. The initiative also aims to benefit careers in hospitality, tourism, executive support and customer service through world-class professional training.
99-Year-Old Hiker Rescued After Mt. Fuji Climb Highlights Mountain Safety Risks
A 99-year-old hiker, yes you are reading correctly 99 years young, was rescued from Mt. Fuji after suffering injuries during a three-day ascent via the Fujinomiya Trail. The experienced climber, who had previously summited Japan’s highest mountain several times, fell early in the hike before attempting to continue after resting overnight in a mountain hut. Severe back pain eventually left her unable to walk, prompting an emergency rescue by Shizuoka Prefectural Police.
She was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The incident serves as another reminder that even well-prepared, experienced hikers face serious risks on Mt. Fuji and should prioritise safety over reaching the summit, even seasoned well-aged individuals.
Fukuoka Offers Hotel Discounts to Foreign Tourists with Go! Fukuoka Campaign
Japan’s Go! Fukuoka campaign is making travel more affordable by offering foreign visitors 3,000 yen per person, per night on eligible hotel stays outside Fukuoka City and Kitakyushu. The initiative encourages travellers to explore the prefecture’s lesser-known destinations while easing overtourism in major urban centres.
Available through participating booking platforms such as Agoda, Trip.com, and Expedia, the programme runs through February 2027 or until funds are exhausted. While welcomed by international visitors, the scheme has sparked debate among locals concerned about rising accommodation costs and the continued impact of Japan’s booming tourism industry.
MORE NEWS from Japan
Japan’s Mocchurin donuts declared too popular to exist by creator Mister Donut, will disappear soon
Mister Donut has postponed new Mocchurin donuts after overwhelming demand, with the pillowy-soft treats proving too popular to keep stocked.
Shinkansen 500 Series Set for Retirement
Japan’s legendary 500 Series Shinkansen, the first to reach 300 km/h in regular service, is retiring after decades of high-speed innovation.
Japan’s Pokémon hot spring reinstalls all damaged statues, adds no-touching rule
Damaged Pokémon footbath statues in Ishikawa have been restored, allowing fans to once again enjoy Japan’s unique Pokémon hot spring attraction.
In Other News
FBI Charges Suspect Over Steam Malware Games That Stole Crypto Wallets
The FBI has charged a 21-year-old Florida man for allegedly helping distribute malware through fake indie games on Steam, compromising around 8,000 PCs between 2024 and 2026. The infected titles, including PirateFi, BlockBlasters, and Dashverse, reportedly stole passwords, session tokens, and cryptocurrency wallet data after receiving malicious post-launch updates.
Authorities claim more than $150,000 in crypto was stolen from hundreds of victims. Steam users who downloaded the affected games are urged to run a full malware scan, reset passwords, and secure their accounts. The case highlights the growing cybersecurity risks facing PC gamers and the importance of staying vigilant when installing games.
LG Criticised Over Auto-Installed Monitor App on Windows 11
LG is facing criticism after users discovered its Monitor App Installer is automatically installed when certain LG UltraGear monitors are connected to Windows 11 PCs. The app, delivered through Microsoft’s device metadata system, can appear without notifying users and has drawn complaints for displaying advertisements and requesting broad system permissions.
Critics argue the process lacks transparency, while LG clarified that the app itself is installed automatically through Microsoft’s official distribution method, but McAfee software is never installed without explicit user consent. The controversy has reignited concerns about automatic software installations, user privacy, and unwanted applications on Windows devices.
Updates on previous stories
Japan's Leave-of-Absence Proxy Services See Growing Demand from Stressed Workers
Japan’s unique workplace support industry is expanding beyond resignation services, with leave-of-absence proxy agencies seeing rising demand from employees needing extended time away from work. Instead of quitting, workers hire legal representatives to negotiate leave for health, mental wellbeing or family responsibilities, helping them avoid stressful confrontations with employers.
Unlike resignation services, these requests often require ongoing negotiations over company policies and return-to-work arrangements. One Saitama-based legal office now assists around 40 clients each month, charging approximately ¥55,000 per case. The trend highlights growing awareness of workplace stress in Japan while offering employees a path to recovery without sacrificing their careers.
Mt. Fuji Hiker Rescued Twice in Two Days Highlights Importance of Mountain Safety
A 54-year-old hiker was rescued twice on Mt. Fuji over consecutive days after suffering severe exhaustion during his climb via the Fujinomiya Trail. Unlike recent incidents involving unprepared climbers, authorities said the experienced hiker wore appropriate gear and followed rescue instructions after recognising he could no longer continue safely.
After resting overnight in a mountain hut, he required further assistance while descending but ultimately walked back under his own power with rescue personnel. Shizuoka Prefectural Police say the incident serves as a reminder that conditions can change rapidly on Japan’s highest peak, urging climbers to prioritise safety and seek help before exhaustion becomes dangerous.
Japanese Crowdfunding Platform Accused of Withholding Over ¥65 Million from Successful Campaigns
A major controversy has emerged after Japanese crowdfunding platform Ubugoe Inc. allegedly failed to transfer more than ¥65 million raised through successful campaigns. Over 5,000 supporters backed projects ranging from regional railway preservation to video game development, yet many organisers claim they have received little or none of the promised funds.
Four local railway companies, which collectively raised over ¥20 million, say they are covering supporter rewards from their own budgets while demanding payment. The dispute has also led to legal action, with a Tokyo court ordering Ubugoe to pay outstanding funds in one case, raising concerns about trust in Japan’s crowdfunding industry.
AniGo Shut Down as Global Crackdown on Anime Piracy Intensifies
Another major anime piracy platform has fallen as AniGo has officially been taken offline following legal action by copyright holders. Once claiming technical issues caused by a data centre fire, the site has now been suspended after its .to domain received a clientHold status linked to a Delhi High Court order.
The shutdown follows a wider crackdown that has already targeted HiAnime, Animekai, 9anime mirrors and several manga piracy sites. Despite attracting around 1.5 million visitors in June 2026, AniGo’s closure highlights the entertainment industry’s growing success in combating illegal anime and manga streaming worldwide.
South Korea's Birth Rate Rises to 0.80, but Experts Say the Population Crisis Is Far From Over
South Korea’s fertility rate has risen to 0.80 in 2025, marking its first sustained increase in years after falling to a record-low 0.72 in 2023. While the rebound has sparked optimism, experts argue it is not the result of the government’s 280 trillion won investment in pro-birth policies. Instead, rising marriage rates and post-pandemic demographic trends are seen as the main drivers.
Analysts say soaring housing costs, expensive childcare, private education and persistent workplace gender inequalities remain the biggest barriers to parenthood. Despite the improvement, South Korea still has the world’s lowest fertility rate, highlighting the need for deeper structural reforms beyond financial incentives.
Cosplay News
Anime and Cosplay Expo 2026 Celebrates Filipino Fandom with Cosplay, Community, and Creativity
Anime and Cosplay Expo (ACX) 2026 once again delivered a vibrant celebration of Filipino anime culture, bringing together passionate fans for a weekend of cosplay, collectibles, artist alleys, and unforgettable stage performances. Visitors explored packed exhibitor halls, discovered unique merchandise, and admired impressive costumes inspired by beloved anime and gaming characters.
The event featured exciting highlights, including the GICOF Philippine Qualifiers, cosplay competitions, live entertainment, and interactive games that kept the crowd engaged throughout the weekend. Now in its tenth year, ACX remains one of the Philippines’ most welcoming anime conventions, offering fans a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere where creativity, friendship, and a shared love for anime continue to thrive.
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