The Elusive Samurai Season 2 Reunites With Season 1 Ending Artist for Surprise Idol Collaboration

The Elusive Samurai has revealed the ending theme artist for Season 2 ahead of its July 17 premiere. Botchi Boromaru returns after performing the first season’s ending song, this time teaming up with three yet-to-be-announced members of idol group Hinatazaka46 for a new collaboration.

A Familiar Voice Returns for Season 2

Botchi Boromaru is returning to perform the ending theme for The Elusive Samurai Season 2, marking the second consecutive season the singer-songwriter has closed out the anime. The new ending song is titled “Romantic ga Hoshii Nara” (“If You Want Something Romantic”) and was written specifically for the upcoming season.

Hojo Tokiyuki reflects on his journey in The Elusive Samurai Season 2. (Image via CloverWorks)

The artist previously performed “Kamakura STYLE,” the ending theme for the anime’s first season in 2024. Botchi Boromaru has also shared a long-standing appreciation for Yusei Matsui’s manga, making the return a natural fit for the historical action series. Bringing back the same ending artist gives the new season a sense of continuity while introducing a fresh song for Tokiyuki’s next chapter. It also marks one of the final major announcements before the anime returns this summer.

Hinatazaka46 Members Join the New Ending Theme

Season 2’s ending theme will feature guest vocals from three members of the popular idol group Hinatazaka46. However, their identities will remain a secret until the anime’s premiere on July 17. According to Japanese entertainment outlet KAI-YOU, the collaboration began after Botchi Boromaru attended a Hinatazaka46 concert and was impressed by the group’s live performance. The singer later invited three members to participate in the new song.

The full version of “Romantic ga Hoshii Nara” is scheduled to arrive on Japanese music streaming platforms on July 18, allowing fans to hear the complete collaboration shortly after the anime debuts. The ending theme announcement follows the recent reveal of the anime’s opening theme. “Japanese singer and actor Kento Nakajima will perform onigoto” (“Demon Occurrences”).

With both the opening and ending themes now confirmed, The Elusive Samurai Season 2 has completed its music lineup ahead of its July 17 premiere. The announcements continue the promotional campaign that began with the series’ first teaser at Jump Festa 2026. Music has been an important part of the anime’s identity since its first season. The combination of returning and new artists aims to give Season 2 a familiar feel while introducing fresh songs for viewers.

Based on Yusei Matsui’s manga, The Elusive Samurai follows Hojo Tokiyuki, the last surviving heir of the Hojo clan, as he fights to reclaim his family’s legacy. The manga concluded its serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in February 2026 after a five-year run. During its publication, the series earned praise for blending historical events with action and humor.

The franchise also received major industry recognition, winning the 69th Shogakukan Manga Award in 2024. That success helped pave the way for the anime adaptation and its highly anticipated second season.

Returning Staff, Cast, and Release Details

Season 2 brings back much of the creative team behind the first season. Yuta Yamazaki returns as director at CloverWorks, while Yasushi Nishiya once again serves as character designer and chief animation director