Bento News September 2024
Itadakimasu
Konnichiwa fellow fanatiks. We bring you a fresh new Bento News filled with yummy content. We have a lot of Anime and Manga news, salivating game news as well as news from Japan as well as the world’s view on happenings in Japan. Itadakimasu!!
Anime News
In Memoriam
Two beloved voices in the anime community passed away in August. Rachel Lillis, the English voice of both Misty and Jessie from the popular Pokémon series, died on August 10th after a battle with breast cancer.
Veronica Taylor, a long-time colleague and friend who voiced Ash Ketchum, posted: “We all know Rachael Lillis from the many wonderful roles she played. She filled our Saturday mornings and before/after school hours with her beautiful voice, her terrific comic timing, and her remarkable acting skills. Rachael was an extraordinary talent, a bright light that shone through her voice whether speaking or singing. She will be forever remembered for the many animated roles she played, with her iconic performances as Pokémon’s Misty and Jessie being the most beloved. Rachael was so thankful for all the generous love and support that was given to her as she battled cancer. It truly made a positive difference. Her family also wishes to thank you as they take this time to grieve privately. A memorial is being planned for a future date.”
Rachel began her professional voice acting career in 1997 after studying in New York and Boston. She worked on stage, did audiobooks and of course, did voice acting in video games and anime. Some of the anime series she lend her talented voice to include Revolutionary Girl Utena (Utena Tenjō), Slayers Next (Martina), Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (Micott Bartsch), Boogiepop Phantom (Nagi Kirima), The Irresponsible Captain Tylor (Yuriko Star), Genshiken (Kanaka Ohno), and Ami Kurimoto in DNA².
The second voice actress that passed away is Atsuko Tanaka, known for her beloved voice acting in anime series such as Naruto and Jujutsu Kaisen, It is not clear why she passed away and her family only announced in their letter that she was diagnosed with an unnamed illness. Tanaka started working in entertainment in 1985 and is best known for the voice of Motoko Kusanagi in Ghost In The Shell. Other characters she voiced are from anime such as JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure (Lisa Lisa), Naruto (Konan), Jujutsu Kaisen (Hanami) Bayonetta (Bayonetta), Black Butler (Francis Midford), Fate/Stay Night (Caster) and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (Flamme).
Both Rachel Lillis and Atsuko Tanaka were amazing voice talents that some of us will always remember as voices that were part of our childhood, our lives. We mourn both actresses and extend our deepest condolences to their family, colleagues, friends and fellow fandom. Rest in peace, Rachel and Atsuko—you will always be remembered.
Massive Crackdown on Anime Piracy: Popular Streaming Sites Shut Down
A sweeping crackdown on anime piracy has led to the sudden shutdown of several major websites, including AnimeSuge, Aniwave, and Anix. According to Torrent Freak, over 10 pirated anime streaming sites have gone offline, likely due to legal or governmental action. Some sites are now completely inaccessible, while others display a farewell message, suggesting a shared leadership.
Notably, these sites, which include zorox.to and aniwave.to, collectively attracted millions of monthly visitors. The crackdown also extends to manga, with publishers like Shueisha intensifying efforts to curb illegal distribution through initiatives like surveys and subpoenas.
Spice and Wolf Reboot Set to Diverge: New Arc Promises Fresh Direction
Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf has faced criticism for closely mirroring the original 2008 anime, despite updated visuals. However, the upcoming adaptation of the “Legend of the Pagan Gods” arc from volume #4 of the light novels promises a fresh direction. This arc, skipped in the original anime, delves deeper into Holo’s history and the village of Tereo, offering fans a new experience.
Hints suggest that this reboot could be a complete adaptation of the entire series, making it an exciting development for both old and new fans.
Anime News Links
Bleach Thousand-Year Blood War Fans Can Get An Early Look At Part 3, But There’s One Big Catch
We all can’t wait for the epic series to continue.
Naruto’s Creator Comment on Sarada Shakes the Anime Community, But It Was Mistranslated
Mistranslation can lead to funny moments 🙂
Anime film director Miyazaki Hayao wins prestigious Magsaysay Award
Miyazaki-sama deserves all the rewards, his movies changed our lives and childhoods.
Manga News
New Isekai Anime Adaptation Set for 2025: A Middle-Aged Shopper's Journey
Kadokawa announced that Umiharu’s manga The Daily Life of a Middle-Aged Online Shopper in Another World will receive a television anime adaptation debuting in 2025. The series, based on Hifumi Asakura’s light novel, stars Junichi Suwabe as Ken’ichi, a nearly 40-year-old man transported to another world.
Discovering he can access a massive online shopping site, Ken’ichi uses this “cheat” ability to navigate the new world. The manga, serialized in Square Enix’s Monthly G Fantasy, concluded its main story in May 2023, with the final volume set for release on December 27.
Shiokawa Shoten: Sendai’s Beloved Bookstore Closes After 40 Years
By the end of August, Sendai bid farewell to Shiokawa Shoten’s Itsutsubashi branch, a treasured bookstore run by Yuichi Shiokawa for over four decades. Established 62 years ago by his father, the 66-square-meter shop was a sanctuary for children amidst the city’s struggles. Following the devastating March 11, 2011 earthquake, Shiokawa reopened the store on March 14 to help traumatized children find comfort in picture books and manga.
Manga became a vital source of solace, aiding residents in coping with fear and loss. A rare Shonen Jump issue sparked nationwide support, highlighting the store’s role in the community’s healing. Despite efforts to sustain the business through part-time work, the rise of digital sales and increased competition led to its closure. Shiokawa cherished the deep community bonds formed at his bookstore, recognizing its significant impact in Sendai’s recovery and the enduring power of manga.
Witch Watch Anime Set for April 2025 Debut
Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump announced that Kenta Shinohara’s Witch Watch manga will receive a television anime adaptation premiering in April 2025. The cast includes Ryōta Suzuki as Morihito Otogi and Rina Kawaguchi as Nico Wakatsuki. Directed by Hiroshi Ikehata (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood), with character designs by Haruko Iizuka (Ensemble Stars!), the series promises a magical comedy adventure.
The story follows Morihito, a boy with ogre strength, and his witch-in-training friend Niko, as they navigate the unpredictable chaos of living together. Witch Watch has been serialized since 2021 and continues to gain popularity.
Manga News Links
10 Manga That Will Never Get An Anime Adaptation (And Why)
Some manga might never make it into an anime because of questionable themes or popularity. Here are a ew examples.
The Irregular at Magic High School: Shizoku Kaigi-hen Manga Adaptation Ends on September 18
We witness the end of another era, but look forward to new manga in its place.
Kо̄hei Horikoshi Releases Comments Following Conclusion of My Hero Academia Manga
Horikoshi-sama gives us honest answers to some burning questions MHA fanatiks had
Nippon News
Japan Faces Rice Crisis: The 'Reiwa Rice Riots
Rice, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, is so integral that most can’t imagine a meal without it. So when rice began vanishing from store shelves this summer, panic ensued. Media reports revealed that suppliers across Japan were facing shortages, with one wholesaler in Niigata Prefecture, a top-producing region, down to just 10 tonnes of rice—far below their usual 240 tonnes.
As national stock levels hit a 25-year low in June, stores imposed purchase limits, and by July, many retailers had no rice at all. The situation was dire enough to earn the nickname “Reiwa no Kome Soudou” (“Reiwa Rice Riots”), reflecting the chaos sparked by panic buying, though there were no physical riots.
The shortage stems from several factors: last summer’s intense heat led to poor autumn harvests, exacerbated by record-high tourist numbers consuming more Japanese rice. Experts also point to the government’s encouragement for farmers to grow livestock feed instead of rice, further straining supply.
Though the government promises normal stock levels by September, the crisis has highlighted the need for better support for rice farmers amid rising demand from tourists and locals alike.
Japan Tightens Tax-Free Shopping for Tourists Amid Billions Lost
The Japanese government is planning to tighten its tax exemption system for foreign tourists after discovering billions of yen were improperly waived. Currently, international travelers can avoid paying Japan’s 10% consumption tax by simply showing their passports at the time of purchase. However, recent investigations revealed that many purchases were made by foreign residents, who aren’t eligible for this exemption.
Major retailers like Takashimaya and Matsumoto Kiyoshi have been ordered to pay millions in back taxes. The proposed reforms, expected in 2025, may require tourists to claim refunds at the airport instead.
Shinkansen Passenger Frustrated by Misuse of Luggage Space
Japan’s trains are renowned for their strict etiquette, but a recent Shinkansen incident has sparked online outrage. A local passenger, who had reserved a space for their oversized luggage, found the area already filled with three large suitcases, one belonging to a foreign tourist. This misuse not only blocked their own luggage space but also prevented them from reclining their seat.
Despite clear signs and announcements stating that the oversized luggage area requires a reservation, the problem persists. With growing incidents of rule-breaking, railway operators might need to revise the system to ensure a smoother travel experience for everyone.
Nippon News Links
Japan’s two-month Shut-in Pilgrimage – A 1,200-year-old way to deal with a modern issue
Finding ways to combat the hikikomori problem in Japan and the world is important.
Japan wants its hardworking citizens to try a 4-day workweek
In a country where working to death is commonplace, will this be a solution for Japan’s working force to get more much needed rest.
Flights cancelled in Japan after scissors go missing
You’re probably thinking ‘Am I reading this right?’
International News
Rock Bands BAND-MAID and The Warning Collaborate on New Single
Japan’s BAND-MAID and Mexico’s The Warning, two all-women rock bands, have teamed up to release a collaborative single titled “SHOW THEM” on August 7. The bands first connected at a U.S. music festival in 2022 and quickly bonded over their mutual respect for each other’s music.
The single blends their distinct styles, with BAND-MAID’s KANAMI crafting the song’s foundation, and The Warning adding their unique flair. The collaboration resulted in a powerful anthem about strong female figures, reflecting the bands’ shared vision. Both bands hope to perform together again, possibly in Mexico.
Vtuber scene has gone crazy
The vtuber scene has been like a stirred hornet’s nest these past few weeks. Bullying, vtubers being photographed without their consent, face and body shaming and the list goes on.
Here are a few videos to shed light on the craziness that happened in the vtuber scene.
From The World of Gaming
Black Myth: Wukong - A Hit Game Mired in Controversy
Black Myth: Wukong has quickly become a summer sensation, breaking records on Steam and selling over 10 million copies across all platforms. However, the buzz surrounding the game has been marred by controversy. Social media discourse has been dominated by debates on valid criticism, with some reviewers facing harassment.
The game, a retelling of Journey to the West, boasts stunning visuals but is criticized for its simplistic combat. Additionally, Game Science, the developer, has faced backlash for sexist comments and restrictive guidelines for influencers, fueling further debate in gaming communities.
Nintendo Museum to Open in Kyoto on October 2
Nintendo has announced that the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto will open on October 2. In a video tour, Shigeru Miyamoto guides viewers through the museum’s facilities. The first floor features an interactive game screen and attractions accessible with coins loaded on admission passes.
The second floor showcases an exhibit of Nintendo’s historic products. The museum also includes a cafeteria for custom hamburgers, a merchandise shop, and various workshops. Originally announced as the “Nintendo Gallery” in 2021, the museum is built on the former Uji Ogura Plant site, sharing the company’s development history with the public.
Gaming News Links
Capcom x Tokiwaso Collide For Unique Exhibition
Modern manga and modern fighting cames come together for an epic exhibition!
Only in Japan
Hatsune Miku to Star in Kabuki Play at Expo 2025
Hatsune Miku, the world’s first virtual idol, is set to perform in a kabuki play titled Hanakurabe Zenbonzakura Expo 2025 Version at the upcoming Osaka Expo.
This play merges the classic kabuki tale Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura with Miku’s iconic song “Senbonzakura.” Sharing the stage with renowned kabuki actor Shido Nakamura, Miku’s performance will feature real-time interactions thanks to advanced technology.
This special collaboration, part of the Cho-Kabuki series, will take place on May 24 and 25, 2025. Details on ticket reservations are yet to be announced.
Kabuki and Ninja Unite for Unforgettable Shinjuku Show
Experience a unique fusion of tradition and modernity at the Shinjuku Ninja Live Show in Tokyo. This 90-minute spectacle, a collaboration between TryHard Japan and the Japan Ninja Council, is directed by renowned kabuki musician Denjiro Tanaka, known for his work at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
The show blends ninja lore, oiran courtesans, and taiko drums with kabuki production techniques from the Edo period. With immersive performances, a samurai DJ, and audience participation, this event offers an unforgettable night. Tickets, including a bento and drink, are 8,000 yen—reserve early for the best experience.
Only in Japan Links
What is “Hiroshima skipping” and why does it have many music and idol fans in Hiroshima upset?
Maybe we should try Hiroshima skipping in the Western World!
Nuisance foreigner climbs onto Family Mart roof in Shibuya, yells “I did it!” before police step in
Mindfulness is surely lacking…
Cosplay News
COMIC-CON SDCC 2024 SAN DIEGO COMIC CON 2024
We share with you a Cosplay Music video featuring cosplayers that showcased their costumes at COMIC-CON SDCC 2024 SAN DIEGO COMIC CON 2024.
Cosplay News Links
Delicious In Dungeon Marcille Cosplay Brings The Elf Mage To Life With Incredible Results
Some stunning cosplay! She looks like Marcille jumped through the screen and being a flesh and blood El!
The best booths and cosplayers from Summer Comiket 2024
Watching these photos will make you wish you were there…
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