Bento News
November 2026
Konnichiwa, AnimeFanatiks! Our November 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 October? 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
Naruto News: Konohamaru’s Hokage Shot, a Naruto vs Sasuke Basketball Short, and Eminem’s Madara Track
Naruto news is coming in from three directions this week: a big story turn in Boruto: Two Blue Vortex, a very slick piece of animation, and a rap track about one of the series’ nastiest villains. Yes, really.
Konohamaru Might Be Next in Line as Hokage
Konohamaru Sarutobi seems to be heading toward the Ninth Hokage seat in Two Blue Vortex, though it’s probably not the dream promotion he imagined. Lord Kobu reportedly wants Shikamaru Nara out and Konohamaru in, as a friendly face up front while Kobu quietly gets on with his own plans. Those plans appear to involve taking apart the shinobi system altogether.
It’s a cruel twist when you think about it. Konohamaru is Hiruzen Sarutobi’s grandson, and he’s wanted to lead Konoha since he was a kid. He’s a solid jonin, and leading Team 7 has shown how seriously he takes looking after the next generation. But getting the hat on Kobu’s terms could make him a pawn in the collapse of the ninja world, and he may not even realise it until it’s too late. Add the Divine Trees and whatever else is still hanging over the village, and this appointment, if it happens, is likely to have consequences well beyond one man’s career.
Naruto vs Sasuke, Now With Basketball
Naruto Mobile, the free-to-play action game, has put out a CGI short that drops Naruto and Sasuke onto a basketball court. Naruto goes for Shadow Clones; Sasuke answers with the Sharingan and a dunk that’s clearly a nod to Chidori. The short never really says who wins, which is a bit of a tease, but honestly the animation is what you’ll remember. The movement is smooth, the camera work feels properly cinematic, and the effects are big, all for a rivalry that suddenly feels fresh in such a silly setting. It’s only a promo, so I wouldn’t read too much into it, but it does hint at what newer animation tech could do for future Naruto projects.
Eminem Takes On Madara
The least expected item: Eminem has dropped MADARA (feat. Neil Kaplan & Hideyoshi), a track inspired by Naruto Shippuden’s Madara Uchiha. Filipino rapper EZ Mil is on it too, along with Neil Kaplan, Madara’s English voice actor, and Japanese rapper Hideyoshi. Eminem teased a preview on social media, and fans were quick to get excited about hip-hop and anime colliding like this. Madara has always been a fan favourite, so the track feels like one more sign that Naruto’s reach goes well past manga, anime and games.
Black Clover Season 2 Promises Stunning Animation and Epic Battles
After more than five years away, Black Clover Season 2 returns with improved animation, spectacular battles and renewed ambition. Japanese voice actors Gakuto Kajiwara (Asta) and Nobuhiko Okamoto (Liebe) praised the production team’s efforts, highlighting stronger visuals and impressive performances.
Unlike the original 170-episode weekly run, the seasonal format allows animators more time to refine each episode. Director Ayaka Tanemura also confirmed the team’s commitment to delivering exciting fight sequences. Adapting Yuki Tabata’s Spade Kingdom Raid arc, the sequel aims to surpass its predecessor and deliver the high-quality action fans have eagerly awaited.
Sailor Moon Shining Theater Season 2 Promises Bigger Performances
Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: Shining Theater Shinagawa Tokyo Season 2 returns with spectacular live performances, new music and greater audience participation. Premiering in August 2026, the production features returning Gold Moon and Silver Moon casts, with Rina Koyama and Yuna Yamaguchi portraying Sailor Moon.
The revamped show expands its live segment from three songs to four, including two brand-new tracks. Fans can also enjoy Kids Theater Day, cast meet-and-greets and interactive experiences. Featuring an original story involving AI technology and Queen Valusia, the theatrical spectacle is scheduled to run until 30 November 2026.
Rent-a-Girlfriend Season 5 to Release Uncensored Episode on Blu-ray
Rent-a-Girlfriend Season 5 is responding to fan complaints about censorship by promising an uncensored version of its controversial second episode. The episode adapts Chapter 218 of Reiji Miyajima’s manga, featuring a divisive fantasy sequence that was heavily censored in the anime.
According to the official website, the uncensored episode will feature on Blu-ray Volume 1, scheduled for release in Japan on 25 November 2026. However, international availability and uncensored streaming options remain unconfirmed. With Season 6 already announced, future episodes could spark further debates over anime censorship and broadcast restrictions.
Initial D Creator Praises Shonen Jump’s New Racing Manga HAL FORMULA
HAL FORMULA, Kento Terasaka’s Formula racing manga, has received praise from Initial D and MF Ghost creator Shuichi Shigeno. Released in Japan on 2 October, Volume 1 follows Miharu Suzukaze, a struggling young racer competing in WF4 while caring for his younger brother, Haruka. Unlike typical sports protagonists, Miharu must overcome fear and develop his driving skills to reach the fictional WF1 championship.
Featuring realistic motorsport details and references to legends such as Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher, the series has racing authenticity. However, weak Manga Plus rankings mean strong sales are crucial for survival.
Upcoming Anime Announcements
A host of new anime series is in the works. Here are anime that were announced in July
Manga Adaptations
Kouta Kawae's Nue no Onmyouji (Nue's Exorcist)
The anime is scheduled to premiere on TV Asahi in Summer 2027.
Shiawase Kanako no Koroshiya Seikatsu (Happy Kanako's Killer Life)
The anime series will premiere in April 2027.
Vampire Juujikai (The Record of a Fallen Vampire)
The anime is scheduled to premiere in 2027.
Light Novel Adaptations
Delta to Gamma no Rigakubu Note (The Science Notes by δ and γ)
The Dengeki Bunko Autumn Festival Online 2026 announced an anime adaptation of Takuma Sakai’s Delta to Gamma no Rigakubu Note (The Science Notes by δ and γ) light novel
Kochira, Shuumatsu Teitai Iinkai (This Is the End Stagnation Committee.)
The Dengeki Bunko Autumn Festival Online 2026 announced a television anime adaptation of Kien Aien’s Kochira, Shuumatsu Teitai Iinkai (This Is the End Stagnation Committee.) light novel
Maid nara Touzen desu. Nureginu wo Kiserareta Bannou Maid-san wa Tabi ni Deru Koto ni shimashita (Looks Like a Job for a Maid! The Tales of a Dismissed Supermaid)
Publishing company Earth Star Entertainment announced a television anime adaptation of Yasuaki Mikami’s Maid nara Touzen desu. Nureginu wo Kiserareta Bannou Maid-san wa Tabi ni Deru Koto ni shimashita (Looks Like a Job for a Maid! The Tales of a Dismissed Supermaid) light novel
Soshiki no Shukuteki to Kekkon shitara Mecha Amai (My Sweet Marriage to My Ex-Nemesis)
The Dengeki Bunko Autumn Festival Online 2026 announced a television anime adaptation of Toshimichi Uzou’s Soshiki no Shukuteki to Kekkon shitara Mecha Amai (My Sweet Marriage to My Ex-Nemesis) light novel
Returning Anime based on Anime Franchise
'Naruto x Ninkuu'
The “Naruto: What’s Next?” panel at New York Comic Con 2026 announced a brand new four-episode crossover anime based on Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto manga and Kouji Kiriyama’s Ninkuu manga
Dr. Stone: Terraforming
The Stone Fes.2026 event at Yokohama Buntai announced on Saturday that a sequel anime subtitled Dr. Stone: Terraforming is in production.
Mushoku Tensei III: Isekai Ittara Honki Dasu
Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 3
Its second part is scheduled for 2027
Thunder 3
Its second season is scheduled for 2027
In Memoriam
We bid farewell to the greats in the Anime, Manga and Voice Actors who made an impact on this industry.
Masako Watanabe
Legendary manga creator Masako Watanabe has died aged 97. Born in Tokyo in 1929, she debuted in 1952 with Suama-chan and enjoyed a remarkable career spanning decades. Her acclaimed works included Glass no Shiro, which won the 1971 Shogakukan Manga Award.
In 2006, she became the first female manga artist to receive the Order of the Rising Sun. Watanabe also served as director of the Japan Cartoonists Association and launched a new manga, Himegoto, at the age of 91.
Michael Forest
Veteran actor and voice actor Michael Forest has died aged 97 on October 14. Known for playing Apollo in Star Trek, his television credits included The Twilight Zone, Bonanza and Power Rangers Lightspeed Rescue.
His extensive anime voice work included Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, The Big O, Eureka Seven, Paprika and Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team.
Hiroshi Tsuchida
Japanese actor and voice actor Hiroshi Tsuchida has died aged 54 from heart failure. Best known as Ninja Blue in Ninja Sentai Kakuranger, his anime credits included Initial D, Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt, Black Clover and Paprika. He also voiced Lightning McQueen in the Japanese version of Cars.
Sir Patrick Stewart
Veteran British actor Sir Patrick Stewart has died aged 86. Best known as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor X in X-Men, his voice acting included Lord Yupa in Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Lloyd Steam in Steamboy. He enjoyed a six-decade career and was knighted in 2010.
More Anime News
Bandai Launches Brand-New Model Kit Series With 6 Unique Strike Gundam Designs
Bandai introduces Gundam XMX, its first official Gunpla blind box collection, featuring six model kits unveiled at Wonder Festival Shanghai 2026.
Dragon Ball Confirms New Official Lego Set With Epic First Look
LEGO teams up with Toei Animation to bring Dragon Ball to life with its first set, featuring Shenron and Goku on Flying Nimbus.
It's Official: The Goku vs. Saitama Debate Is Finally Over
Death Battle settles anime’s biggest power debate… Dragon Ball’s Goku vs One-Punch Man’s Saitama
36 Years Later, Cult Classic '90s Cyberpunk Series Finally Sets Its Return Date
Classic cyberpunk anime AD Police Files returns with a 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray release, arriving on January 12, 2027.
Manga News
MANGA Plus and Digital Apps Are Changing Manga’s Global Future
Manga’s global popularity is growing, with digital platforms helping international fans read Japanese series faster. At New York Comic Con, representatives from MANGA Plus, Manga UP!, and K manga discussed how these apps connect creators with worldwide audiences. Real-time comments provide valuable feedback, helping publishers identify popular titles and encouraging artists.
While tastes remain broadly similar across countries, some genres appeal differently to international readers. The platforms also support emerging talent through initiatives such as Kodansha’s Manga Academy. With global readership expanding, industry leaders hope to discover more creators worldwide and bring manga to even larger audiences.
Marvel and Kadokawa Launch Five New Manga Series in Japan
Marvel and Kadokawa have launched five new manga series through a partnership announced at New York Comic Con. Available on Japan’s KadoComi website, the titles feature popular superheroes in fresh Japanese stories.
Iron Man: I Am Iron Man The Manga, Spider-Man: Shibuya Cross Line, Deadpool: Millionaire With a Mouth The Manga, Spider-Gwen: Her Big Debut The Manga, and Venom: Lethal Protector The Manga introduce new adventures by Japanese creators. The launch follows the end of previous Marvel manga publishing agreements, marking a fresh chapter for Marvel’s expanding manga presence in Japan.
Naruto Project Rasengan Reveals New Manga, Anime and Games
The Naruto franchise is preparing for its anime’s 25th anniversary in 2027 with Project Rasengan, an ambitious three-year roadmap unveiled at New York Comic Con 2026. The biggest surprise is Naruto: Shadow Rising, a new manga written and illustrated by creator Masashi Kishimoto. Further details will be revealed at Jump Festa 2027 on 19–20 December 2026.
Fans can also look forward to Naruto × Ninku, a four-episode anime crossover bringing Team 7 together with characters from the classic Ninku series. Meanwhile, Naruto Mobile, previously exclusive to China for a decade, is preparing for a global English-language release.
The franchise is also launching its official Naruto Card Game worldwide in June 2027. Three starter decks featuring Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha and Gaara will introduce players to strategic battles, alongside booster packs featuring characters and techniques from Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden.
With new manga, anime, gaming experiences and collectibles planned through 2029, Project Rasengan promises an exciting new chapter for Naruto fans worldwide.
Dark Horse Announces Gou Tanabe’s Lovecraft Manga Collection
Dark Horse Comics has announced The Outsider and Other Early Adaptations, a new manga collection by Gou Tanabe, at New York Comic Con 2026. Translated by Zack Davisson, the collection features H.P. Lovecraft’s The Outsider, alongside Tanabe’s adaptations of Anton Chekhov’s The House with a Mezzanine, Maxim Gorky’s 26 Men and a Girl, and Ju-Ga.
Known for acclaimed Lovecraft manga adaptations, including At the Mountains of Madness and The Shadow Over Innsmouth, Tanabe brings atmospheric horror and literary classics to life. Dark Horse also announced Blue Eye Samurai: Cry of the Yurei and martial arts graphic novel Martial War.
Go, Go, Loser Ranger! Manga Goes on Hiatus Due to Creator’s Health
Negi Haruba’s Go, Go, Loser Ranger! manga is taking another hiatus due to the creator’s health, according to an announcement in Kodansha’s Weekly Shōnen Magazine. No return date has been confirmed. The series previously paused in July before resuming on 24 September. It entered its final arc in March 2026, following another month-long break.
Launched in February 2021, the action manga follows a monster who rebels against the seemingly heroic Dragon Rangers. The popular series inspired two anime seasons, which premiered in April 2024 and April 2025, respectively, and are available internationally on Disney+.
Nippon News
Nintendo Legend Shigeru Miyamoto Receives Japan’s Order of Culture
Nintendo legend Shigeru Miyamoto has become the first video game creator to receive Japan’s prestigious Order of Culture. Announced by Japan’s education ministry, the honour recognises his extraordinary contributions to entertainment and technology. Since joining Nintendo in 1977, Miyamoto has helped create iconic franchises, including Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda and Donkey Kong.
His influence extends beyond gaming, with production credits on The Super Mario Bros. Movie and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Miyamoto will officially receive the award from Emperor Naruhito on 3 November, Japan’s Culture Day, marking a historic milestone for the gaming industry.
Japan Actors Union Introduces Guidelines to Protect Voice Actors From AI
The Japan Actors Union (JAU) has unveiled new guidelines addressing the use of generative AI in voice acting. The 21-page document outlines rules covering consent, compensation, crediting and the removal of unauthorised AI-generated voice recordings. Dragon Ball voice actors Masako Nozawa and Bin Shimada expressed concern over voices being copied without permission for online content and profit.
The guidelines also address data oversight, disclosure requirements and legal action against violations. The initiative follows growing industry concerns, including lawsuits and campaigns to protect performers’ voices, as Japan’s entertainment industry confronts the challenges of artificial intelligence.
Japan Raises Income Requirements for Foreigners Seeking Permanent Residency
Japan has tightened its permanent residency guidelines, requiring foreign applicants to earn above the national average income. Announced on 1 October, the changes apply retroactively to applications submitted as far back as April.
Previously, an annual income of approximately ¥3 million was generally considered sufficient. The new threshold could significantly increase financial requirements. From April, foreign spouses of Japanese citizens will also face longer marriage and residency requirements. Applicants’ projected pension benefits will be assessed, with expectations equivalent to 30 years of contributions. Critics warn stricter rules could discourage skilled foreign workers from settling in Japan.
Tomoka Nishiyama Makes Shogi History with Fifth Hakurei Title Win
Japanese shogi player Tomoka Nishiyama has made history by earning the right to become the country’s first female professional kishi. The 31-year-old secured her fifth Hakurei title on Saturday, defeating challenger Kana Fukuma 4-1 in their best-of-seven series in Kanazawa.
Under rules introduced by the Japan Shogi Association in June 2025, winning the Hakurei title five times grants a woman the right to enter the open professional system at fourth dan rank or higher. Nishiyama has two weeks to decide whether to accept. She says she will consult others before making her decision, calling the achievement a renewed source of resolve.
Toys R Us Japan to Exit Market After Years of Operating Losses
Toys R Us Japan is reportedly preparing to leave the Japanese market after nearly a decade of surviving the collapse of its American counterpart. The retailer, which entered Japan in 1991, operates approximately 150 stores and employs around 6,000 full-time and part-time workers.
Declining birth rates, growing online shopping and competition from electronics retailers have contributed to its financial struggles. However, the business may avoid liquidation, with Pan Pacific International Holdings, parent company of discount chain Don Quijote, expected to acquire its operations, assets and staff. The future of the Toys R Us brand remains uncertain.
More News From Nippon
Newspaper subscription rate in Japan falls below 50% for first time
Japan’s newspaper subscription rate has fallen below 50% for the first time, dropping to 49.8% in the 2026 national survey.
Man in Suzuka offered 9 million yen for his semen, conned out of 38 million yen
A Japanese man in his 70s lost money after online fraudsters promised ¥9 million for his sperm, then demanded prepaid card payments.
Japan police arrest pet shop firm execs over suspected unlicensed injections
Osaka police arrested four pet shop officials over alleged illegal injections given to nine dogs and cats, seven of which died.
VTuber News
The Detective Is Already Dead Season 2 Welcomes Hololive VTuber
The Detective Is Already Dead Season 2 is brought hololive VTuber Kazama Iroha into the anime, with a special guest appearance in its third episode, that aired in Japan on October 21. Iroha appeared as herself, thanks to a creative connection with the series’ illustrator, Umibouzu, who also designed her VTuber visuals.
The second season is currently airing in Japan, with Crunchyroll streaming it as part of its Fall 2026 anime lineup. The mystery series follows Kimihiko as he investigates new cases while confronting the loss of his former partner, the legendary detective Siesta.
What Happened to the VTubers Who Rose During the 2020 Boom?
The 2020 VTuber boom created several breakout stars, but not everyone stayed in the spotlight. A new retrospective explores the unusual careers of independent creators Amatsuka Uto and Yaki Latte, alongside Crunchyroll’s virtual mascot, Hime.
From sudden popularity and online controversies to rebrands, lengthy hiatuses and corporate decisions, their journeys took unexpected turns. The video examines how these creators rose to prominence, why they faded from mainstream attention and where their careers went next. Their stories offer a fascinating look at the changing VTuber industry and the challenges of building a lasting online identity.
Kizuna AI Wins VTuber Award at Japan Oshikatsu Awards 2026
VTuber pioneer Kizuna AI won the VTuber Category at the inaugural Japan Oshikatsu Awards 2026, held in Tokyo on October 7. Her trophy presentation celebrated her virtual identity, with a physical trophy placed inside a real transfer box appearing in a virtual version on her monitor.
Kizuna AI said she was honoured that VTuber culture had received its own award category. She also praised the entire community, explaining that she supports all VTubers and hopes creators will continue uplifting one another. The awards recognise people, groups and characters helping spread oshikatsu culture across Japan.
Critical Role Teams Up With Hololive VTubers for Shattered Legends
Critical Role is joining forces with Hololive Production for Shattered Legends, a new Daggerheart actual play miniseries set in Exandria. Launching in mid-November 2026, the series will be part of the established world of Vox Machina, The Mighty Nein and Bells Hells.
Matthew Mercer will serve as Game Master, with Marisha Ray joined by Hololive VTubers Nerissa Ravencroft, Mori Calliope, Shiori Novella and Gigi Murin. Episodes will stream on Beacon and YouTube, alongside exclusive bonus content. The collaboration will also include convention appearances, merchandise and further projects, with details to follow.
STAR Collection Secures Funding to Expand VTuber Music Business
Japanese VTuber music company STAR Collection has secured early-stage investment from the Hyogo Regional Revitalisation Fund Investment Limited Partnership. The funding brings its cumulative investment to approximately US $223,100.
The Tokyo-based startup manages virtual artists VIKKii and Riruwo, while developing music, metaverse spaces and live events. Its new funding will support music production, promotion and further development of STAR LIVE, its 3D streaming platform launched in October 2025. CEO Makoto Osawa aims to bring Japanese music and intellectual property to global audiences while building regional partnerships that connect virtual entertainment with local communities.
Top Gaming News
BioWare Shuts Down After 30 Years of Gaming
Legendary game developer BioWare is reportedly shutting down after 30 years, marking a major loss for the gaming industry. The studio created beloved franchises including Mass Effect, Dragon Age and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. Electronic Arts (EA), which acquired BioWare in 2007, is also cutting approximately 400 jobs amid project cancellations and restructuring.
Around 50 BioWare employees are reportedly affected, while the next Mass Effect game has been cancelled. Founded in 1995, BioWare helped shape modern role-playing games, leaving behind a lasting legacy of memorable characters and immersive storytelling.
Sony’s New PS5 Update Fuels Jailbreak Battle Ahead of GTA 6
Sony and PlayStation hackers are locked in a digital arms race, and the latest PS5 firmware update could reset the homebrew community’s progress. Version 26.07-14.20.00 promises improved usability, but jailbreakers suspect hidden security fixes.
Recent breakthroughs have brought hackers closer to unlocking the console’s deeper systems, intensifying the race ahead of Grand Theft Auto 6. Jailbreaking can enable unofficial software, although it may also facilitate piracy. Meanwhile, growing controversy over digital game ownership has fuelled interest in homebrew. As Sony strengthens its defences, hackers are already looking for their next breakthrough.
Steam Personal Calendar Helps Gamers Discover New Releases
Steam has introduced Personal Calendar, a feature that recommends upcoming games based on each user’s gaming habits. Valve’s system analyses recently played titles, hours spent playing and wishlist activity, comparing this information with players who have similar tastes.
The calendar refreshes daily as its algorithm incorporates new data, although recommendations may change gradually over several weeks or when developers confirm release dates. Briefly trying a game has little influence, as Steam prioritises titles users play extensively. Tested through Steam Labs, Personal Calendar aims to simplify game discovery and help players find upcoming releases suited to their interests.
Capcom Data Breach Exposes 11.7 Million Customer Email Addresses
Japanese gaming giant Capcom has confirmed a cyberattack exposing more than 11.7 million customer email addresses and associated account information through its CAPCOM ID service. Leaked data includes login activity, account creation dates and IP addresses. Information such as birth dates, gender and nicknames was exposed for 43 accounts, while passwords were changed on another 196 accounts.
Capcom says it reset affected passwords and confirmed that credit card details and other members’ passwords remain safe. Its online services continue operating, but users are urged to beware of suspicious emails, unexpected links and requests for personal information.
Corpus Et Spiritus: An Alchemy Roguelike for Fullmetal Alchemist Fans
Fans of Fullmetal Alchemist can explore the dangerous world of alchemy in Corpus Et Spiritus, an upcoming PC roguelike deckbuilder from Firesquid Games and Arpentor Studio. Launching on Steam on 3 November 2026, the game challenges players to gather rare metals, craft powerful cards and forge a pact with a demon.
Every move sacrifices life force, making strategic decisions essential. Players combine seven card categories, talismans and alchemical recipes while pursuing the legendary Philosopher’s Stone. With permanent progression between runs, this combat-free adventure promises a fascinating blend of medieval alchemy, risk and deckbuilding strategy.
More Gaming News
The 20 most-played Steam Next Fest demos feature troublemaking students, farting hippos
Valve has revealed Steam Next Fest’s 20 most-played demos, with multiplayer titles and shopkeeping simulators dominating October 2026’s event.
Gundam: Rogue Orbit Game's Walkthrough Trailer Previews Combat, Customization
Bandai Namco has released a new Gundam Rogue Orbit gameplay trailer, highlighting the upcoming game’s combat mechanics and customisation options.
Gundam Blitz Order Mobile Game Announced
Bandai Namco has announced Gundam Blitz Order, an RPG-style idle simulation mobile game, with network testing scheduled for November 18–24.
Only in Japan
Evangelion Unit-01 Statue Returns to Yamaguchi Airport for 2026 Event
An impressive Evangelion Unit-01 statue has returned to Yamaguchi Ube Airport in Japan ahead of the 2026 Ube Machijuu Evangelion event, launching on 29 October. Standing three metres tall and weighing approximately 500 kilograms, the statue welcomes anime fans to Ube, hometown of series creator Hideaki Anno.
The display will remain until 14 March 2027, encouraging visitors to explore the city’s Evangelion attractions. Special merchandise and a new promotional illustration will celebrate the event. Meanwhile, singer Yoko Takahashi, famous for performing “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis”, will appear at Ube Matsuri on 1 November.
Authors Board Luxury Japanese Train to Write Novel in 24 Hours
Sixteen French and Japanese writers have boarded Japan’s luxury Twilight Express Mizukaze train for an ambitious literary challenge: collectively writing a 200-page novel in under 24 hours. Organised by French association Writing in Motion, the project brings together acclaimed authors, including Muriel Barbery, Toh EnJoe and Hitomi Kanehara.
The story unfolds aboard the train itself, with each writer developing a character whose life connects to the others. Interpreters help bridge language barriers as the landscape inspires their work. The project follows a similar 2015 initiative in Canada, blending literary experimentation with collaborative storytelling.
Fun Facts: Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie (1934) Christie travelled on the Orient Express herself, and her experiences helped inspire the novel.
Strangers on a Train by Patricia Highsmith (1950) Highsmith developed the premise after observing strangers interacting during a railway journey; the train encounter became the novel’s defining idea.
Osaka Pet Shop Owner Arrested After Crocodile and Snapping Turtles Found
Police in Osaka, Japan, have arrested a 34-year-old pet shop owner after discovering illegally kept exotic animals, including 21 snapping turtles and a 1.5-metre saltwater crocodile. The investigation concerns alleged violations of animal welfare laws and other regulations.
The snapping turtles are classified as invasive alien species, while saltwater crocodiles pose a potential danger to humans and can exceed four metres in length. The crocodile was reportedly kept in a cramped, makeshift tank, with the owner claiming it was his personal pet. The discovery has reignited concerns about Japan’s regulation of exotic animal ownership and pet shops.
Japan Gives Taxi and Bus Drivers Power to Remove Abusive Passengers
Japan is updating its taxi and bus regulations to allow drivers to remove passengers who behave abusively or disruptively. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is revising industry rules to cover verbal abuse, unreasonable demands and other inappropriate behaviour.
Previously, drivers could order passengers out only under specific circumstances, including violence or serious safety concerns. The changes follow new requirements for transport operators to introduce measures protecting staff from customer harassment.
The revised rules are expected to take effect before the end of 2026, encouraging safer journeys and reminding passengers that good manners matter.
Chilean Tourists Arrested After ¥7.9 Million Tokyo Burglary
Two Chilean men have been rearrested in Japan after allegedly breaking into a Tokyo home just one day after arriving in the country. Pinya Guzman, 24, and Mansano Quesad, 33, reportedly stole three luxury watches and seven other valuable items worth approximately ¥7.9 million (US$50,000) from a house in Ota Ward on August 22.
The pair allegedly entered the property after seeing its occupants leave. Guzman acted as lookout while Quesad entered through a broken window. They were arrested in Osaka on August 27 following a luxury watch shop robbery in Tokyo. Investigators say they planned to sell stolen goods in Italy before returning to Chile. Theft in Japan can carry up to ten years in prison.
MORE NEWS from Japan
McDonald’s Japan officially changes its mascot’s name…to Ronald McDonald
McDonald’s Japan surprised fans by announcing that its famous clown mascot will now be known as Ronald McDonald, ending its previous name.
In Other News
Apple Ordered to Allow Third-Party App Stores in Australia
Apple must open its devices to alternative app stores and payment methods in Australia by March 2027, following a Federal Court ruling on competition law. The decision could affect approximately 15 million Australian Apple users, giving them more options for downloading apps and making purchases.
The ruling follows a six-year legal battle involving Fortnite developer Epic Games. Justice Jonathan Beach found Apple had used technical measures and contractual terms that breached competition law. Apple disagrees with the findings and plans to appeal. The changes could increase competition, while Fortnite is set to return to Apple’s Australian App Store.
Pikachu Joins ESA Mission to the International Space Station
Pikachu has blasted off into space, joining French astronaut Sophie Adenot aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the European Space Agency’s Epsilon mission. However, the iconic Pokémon is not a crew member or scientific experiment. Instead, the plushie serves as a zero-gravity indicator, floating freely to demonstrate weightlessness aboard the station.
Wearing a custom-made ESA astronaut uniform, Pikachu also stars in a video tour of the ISS, exploring its laboratories and crew quarters. Beyond the mission, Pikachu is helping promote the ESA’s partnership with Pokémon, including astronaut-themed merchandise available through Pokémon Center Online.
Gundam Base Minneapolis Grand Opening Postponed Indefinitely
Gundam fans hoping to visit the new Gundam Base Minneapolis store will have to wait. Bandai Namco has postponed the store’s September 30 grand opening at the Mall of America due to “unforeseen circumstances”.
The delay is indefinite, with no replacement opening date announced. The adjacent Bandai Namco Cross Store, specialising in anime and character merchandise, has also been affected.
Bandai Namco apologised to fans for the inconvenience and promised to share updated opening details once confirmed. While the reason for the postponement remains unclear, Gunpla enthusiasts will have to keep waiting for their new shopping destination.
Umamusume Los Angeles Concerts Cancelled Over Visa Issues
Umamusume: Pretty Derby fans have been left disappointed after the franchise’s first-ever US concerts were cancelled just days before the scheduled performances. The October 22 and 23 shows at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater were called off because the cast could not obtain the necessary US visas.
Organisers said they had worked with lawyers and promoters for more than six months but could not secure approval in time. Ticket and livestream purchases will be refunded, although fans may struggle to recover travel and accommodation costs. The Umamusume world tour is still scheduled to continue in London, Seoul and Japan.
Updates on previous stories
Okinawa Residents Demand Action After US Marine Arrested in Woman’s Murder
Residents in Okinawa, Japan, are expressing anger following the arrest of a US Marine on suspicion of murdering a 39-year-old woman in Naha. The case has reignited long-standing opposition to the heavy American military presence on the island.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi condemned the alleged crime, while locals questioned how many more incidents must occur. Some residents called for US troops to leave, although others acknowledged their economic contributions and Japan’s security reliance on American forces. Meanwhile, concerns are growing about community tensions as investigations continue and the Marine denies the allegations.
Japan Survey Reveals Rising Number of Young People Without Dating Experience
A 2025 Japanese government survey has revealed that more young people are growing up without romantic or sexual experience. Conducted by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, the National Fertility Survey found that over half of respondents aged 18 to 19 had never dated.
Among adults aged 20 to 34, around 30% of women and nearly 40% of men had no dating experience. Meanwhile, 65.4% of women and 74% of men reported having no relationship with the opposite sex. Approximately one-third also expressed little interest in pursuing relationships.
Shibuya Tightens Halloween Security as Tokyo Expects Huge Crowds
Tokyo’s Shibuya district is increasing Halloween security measures this year, as the celebration falls on a Saturday for the first time since 2020. Officials estimate up to 18,000 revellers could gather in Shibuya Center Gai during peak hours.
The “GOODBYE BAD HALLOWEEN” campaign targets street drinking, smoking, littering, excessive noise and obstructive photography. Authorities are increasing patrols, enforcing littering fines and asking 62 nearby retailers to stop selling alcohol overnight. Police, security guards and ward employees will help maintain order. Shibuya’s mayor encourages visitors to celebrate at organised venues rather than on crowded streets.
Cosplay News
Umamusume Cosplayer Clara Tan Detained by ICE After California Event
Cosplayer Clara Tan says she was arrested by four U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents after returning home to Rochester, New York, on October 26. Tan had attended events and cosplayed as Super Creek after the cancellation of a California Umamusume: Pretty Derby event. She alleges agents tackled her, fracturing her foot, before taking her to Batavia Detention Center. Tan also claims she was denied medical assistance, legal access and appropriate accommodation as a transgender woman. After approximately 14 hours, authorities released her with an ankle monitor. Tan has publicly criticised the immigration crackdown.
Editorial note: The allegations are attributed to Tan rather than presented as independently established facts.
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