A new anime adaptation is on the way, and fans of classic manga have a big reason to celebrate. Rumiko Takahashi, one of the most respected and beloved manga creators in Japan, is bringing her latest work, MAO, to the television screen. The announcement was officially made on July 13, 2025, and the anime will premiere on NHK General TV in Japan in spring 2026. This new project is being developed by Sunrise, the same studio that previously adapted Takahashi’s famous series Inuyasha, which makes the return even more exciting.
MAO is a supernatural adventure series that has captured the attention of readers since it began serialization in Weekly Shōnen Sunday back in May 2019. The story takes place across two time periods. It follows a modern-day schoolgirl named Nanoka Kiba who, after surviving a strange and mysterious accident, finds herself transported to Japan’s Taishō era.
There, she meets a mysterious man named Mao. Mao is not an ordinary person—he is an onmyoji, a kind of Japanese spiritual exorcist, and he’s been alive for nearly 900 years. Together, the two become partners in solving spiritual mysteries and facing off against powerful curses, including the one that has kept Mao alive for centuries.
Rumiko Takahashi’s MAO Manga Gets TV Anime Adaptation by Sunrise in Spring 2026
The manga has been a steady success for several years, and as of May 2025, it has reached 24 volumes in Japan. In North America, the manga is being published by Viz Media. The English translation has helped the story gain a worldwide audience, and the announcement of the anime has only increased its popularity.
The new anime marks an important milestone in Rumiko Takahashi’s long career. With MAO now being animated, every major series she published in Weekly Shōnen Sunday has received an anime adaptation. This includes earlier hits like Urusei Yatsura, Ranma ½, Inuyasha, and RIN-NE. Many fans see this as a crowning achievement in her creative journey, and it shows how her stories continue to resonate with both old and new audiences.
Sunrise, the studio behind the Inuyasha anime, is handling the animation of MAO. This has generated excitement, as the studio is known for its high-quality production and strong storytelling. The animation team is led by director Teruo Sato, who previously worked on Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon, the sequel to Inuyasha. Other key members of the production staff include Yūko Kakihara, who is in charge of series composition, and Yoshihito Hishinuma, who is handling both character design and chief animation direction. The art direction is being handled by Hiroshi Katō and Izumi Hoki, while the music is being composed by Shū Kanematsu. This talented group promises to deliver an anime that will stay true to the spirit of the original manga.
All of Rumiko Takahashi’s Major Works Now Animated as MAO Joins the Lineup
In addition to the announcement, the main voice cast for the anime has also been revealed. Yūki Kaji will voice the lead character Mao. Kaji is well-known for his work in popular anime such as Attack on Titan, and fans are excited to hear his take on the powerful and mysterious exorcist. Natsumi Kawaida has been cast as Nanoka, the girl from the modern era who becomes Mao’s companion. The cast also includes Hiro Shimono as Hyakka, Mao’s former senior apprentice who has the ability to control fire, and Toshiyuki Toyonaga as Kamon, a wealthy onmyoji who uses wood-based powers.
With such a talented cast and production team, expectations are high for this anime adaptation. The story of MAO blends mystery, fantasy, and emotional depth. It explores the bond between Mao and Nanoka as they face dangers from both the past and the spirit world. The setting of early 20th-century Japan adds a unique atmosphere, and the supernatural elements keep the tension high. Fans of Takahashi’s earlier works will likely enjoy the mix of action and heartfelt storytelling that has become her signature style.
Rumiko Takahashi herself expressed her excitement for the anime. In a short message shared during the announcement, she thanked the staff and said the anime turned out exactly as she had hoped. She praised the cast and encouraged everyone to watch it when it airs. Her involvement and support give fans even more confidence that the adaptation will stay true to the heart of the original manga.
Supernatural Time-Travel Manga MAO Set for Anime Debut on NHK in 2026
The anime is set to begin airing in spring 2026, most likely around April, and it will be broadcast on NHK General TV in Japan. As of now, no streaming platforms or international releases have been announced, but given the popularity of Takahashi’s works, it is likely that global streaming services will pick it up soon after.
This new adaptation is also part of a larger wave of renewed interest in Takahashi’s work. Urusei Yatsura received a new anime reboot in 2022, and a new season of Ranma ½ is also scheduled to begin airing in October 2025. With MAO joining the list, fans can now enjoy fresh anime versions of all of her major series.
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For fans of supernatural stories, time travel, and emotional character relationships, MAO is shaping up to be one of the most exciting anime to look forward to in 2026. With beautiful animation, a strong voice cast, and the creative touch of one of Japan’s greatest manga artists, it promises to be a memorable experience for both longtime fans and new viewers alike.
