Shogo Sakata Joins 'Kusunoki's Garden of Gods' Cast, First Character Trailer Unveiled for 2026 Anime

Fans of the enchanting series Kusunoki’s Garden of Gods are abuzz with excitement following a significant casting announcement and the release of a captivating new character trailer for its highly anticipated anime adaptation. Renowned voice actor Shogo Sakata, celebrated for his powerful portrayal of Aki Hayakawa in Chainsaw Man, has officially been confirmed to lend his voice to the series' central protagonist, Minato Kusunoki.

This pivotal revelation, coupled with the first visual glimpse of Minato in action, significantly heightens anticipation for the anime's grand premiere in Japan, slated for 2026.

A World Where Gods and Humans Coexist

The Kusunoki’s Garden of Gods saga, known in Japan as Kami no Niwatsuki Kusunoki-tei, invites viewers into a unique slice-of-life fantasy world. It chronicles the extraordinary journey of young Minato Kusunoki, who inherits a house once plagued by malevolent spirits. Through his remarkable innate abilities, Minato not only purifies the dwelling but transforms it into a sanctuary, attracting an eclectic assembly of distinct and whimsical deities. This newfound coexistence between humans and gods forms the heartwarming, tranquil core of the narrative, promising a refreshing blend of supernatural elements with the comforts of everyday living.

From Web Novel to Anime Sensation

Originating as a beloved web novel penned by Enju and illustrated by ox on Shōsetsuka ni Narō in April 2021, the series rapidly garnered a devoted following. Its success led to a light novel adaptation, published by ASCII Media Works under their prestigious Dengeki no Shinbungei imprint, with an impressive ten volumes released by July 2025. Further expanding its reach, a manga adaptation, brought to life by Akira Anzai, commenced serialization in November 2021 via Kadokawa's ComicWalker platform.

For English-speaking audiences, Yen Press holds the official license for the light novels, promising a "heartwarming tale of a young man living peacefully surrounded by gods in the countryside."

The newly unveiled character trailer serves as a tantalizing precursor, offering a vibrant taste of the folklore-infused narrative and the serene, yet mystical, world that awaits. As 2026 approaches, the anime is poised to deliver an engaging and immersive experience, weaving together themes of myth, community, and the quiet magic found in unexpected friendships.