Studio Shuka's 'Ikoku Nikki' Unveils Full Voice Cast Roster and Confirms Musical Lineup Ahead of 2026 Premiere

The highly anticipated TV anime adaptation of Tomoko Yamashita’s critically acclaimed manga, Ikoku Nikki (Diary of a Strange Land), is confirmed for broadcast starting in January 2026. This emotional drama, recognized for its nuanced portrayal of familial connection and personal growth, has recently unveiled four key additions to its stellar voice cast, further solidifying the talent driving this adaptation.

Joining the established leads are veteran performers Junichi Suwabe, cast as Shingo Kasamachi; Sumire Morohoshi, portraying Emiri Nara; Eriko Matsui, taking on the role of Nana Daigo; and Takashi Kondō, who voices Kazunari Tanno.

These new ensemble members will support the central narrative driven by Miyuki Sawashiro, who lends her voice to Makio Kōdai, a 35-year-old novelist, and Fūko Mori, who plays her 15-year-old niece, Asa. The series begins when Makio unexpectedly assumes guardianship of Asa following the sudden and tragic passing of the girl’s parents. The story promises a deeply introspective journey as both women navigate the complexities of forging a new family unit, confronting deep-seated feelings of loneliness, and adapting to a shared life under extraordinary circumstances.

Musical and Production Staff Details

Beyond the vocal talent, the production is setting a high standard musically. The opening theme, "Sonare," will be delivered by the talented singer-songwriter TOMOO, whose distinctive melodic style is expected to perfectly capture the series' delicate emotional texture. Complementing the opening is the ending theme, "Kotozute" (Hearsay), performed by the renowned pop duo Bialystocks, ensuring the series concludes each episode with an introspective and resonant soundscape. The entire soundtrack is being helmed by Kensuke Ushio, celebrated for his atmospheric and impactful scoring work on major titles such as Chainsaw Man and A Silent Voice.

The animation is being handled by Studio Shuka, with Miyuki Oshiro directing the series. The visuals are finalized by Kenji Hayama (Character Designs), while Kohei Kiyasu is responsible for series composition and scriptwriting.

Fans eager for an early viewing will be treated to an advance screening of the first two episodes on December 2, 2025, held at Grand Cinema Sunshine Ikebukuro in Tokyo. This theatrical preview underscores the confidence the production team holds in the material. Given the manga’s established emotional pull, which previously spawned a well-received live-action film in June 2024, Ikoku Nikki is poised to become one of the most compelling and highly anticipated titles of the Winter 2026 anime season.