Hunter x Hunter is set to make a notable appearance at this year’s Anime Expo in Los Angeles, United States, accompanied by one of Japan’s top girl groups, Sakurazaka46.
While details about the collaboration remain under wraps, the announcement has sparked excitement among fans of both the series and the musical group. The connection between Hunter x Hunter and Sakurazaka46 runs deep, adding a sentimental touch to this highly anticipated event.
Hunter x Hunter to feature at Anime Expo 2025 with Sakurazaka46
The official website of Sakurazaka46 recently confirmed that the group will be performing at Anime Expo 2025, marking their first-ever live performance in the United States.
Their participation will be part of the J-POP SOUND CAPSULE @AX2025 Anisong World Matsuri Returns! music festival, where top Japanese artists like FLOW, GRANRODEO, TOGENASHI TOGEARI, Hiroshi Kitadani, and ASTERISM will also perform. The event will take place from July 4 to July 7, 2025, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
🚨 Togashi fez uma ilustração para presentear a idol Yumiko Seki, integrante do grupo Sakurazaka46! pic.twitter.com/EDiw6bmrIc
— Portal Hunter x Hunter (@portalhxh) November 14, 2023
The collaboration between Sakurazaka46 and Hunter x Hunter remains a mystery, but it is expected to be a special highlight of the festival. While it’s unlikely to be an announcement about the return of the Hunter x Hunter anime, fans are hopeful for exciting news related to the manga or a special project tied to the series.
Long-standing bond between Sakurazaka46 and Hunter x Hunter
Sakurazaka46 has a deep connection with Hunter x Hunter, especially through former member Yumiko Seki, a devoted fan of the series. Seki’s admiration for Hunter x Hunter was recognized by series creator Yoshihiro Togashi, who personally signed a Killua illustration for her and answered 11 of her questions during a talk show. Togashi shared insights about the series’ potential endings and the inspiration behind pivotal moments such as Meruem and Komugi’s final scene.
Sakurazaka46 will be collaborating with Hunter x Hunter at Anime Expo 2025 for the welcoming ceremony. pic.twitter.com/bYfyxEitlc
— Hunter x Hunter (@TheHxHSource) March 24, 2025
Moreover, Sakurazaka46’s song Start over! was featured in a Hunter x Hunter manga animation on Shonen Jump’s official YouTube channel, further cementing the connection between the group and the franchise. Togashi’s admiration for the group was also reflected in Hunter x Hunter chapter 393, where he recreated a scene from one of their shows.
Given this mutual appreciation, the upcoming collaboration at Anime Expo is rooted in genuine respect and creative synergy between Sakurazaka46 and Togashi. Whether the collaboration involves a new theme song, a tribute performance, or a special manga-related announcement, fans have every reason to anticipate something remarkable.
