The TV anime Hikuidori: UshuBoro Tobigumi, based on the novel by Naoki Prize-winning author Shogo Imamura, is scheduled to air in January 2026. Alongside the broadcast announcement, it was revealed that the main members of the "Boro Tobigumi" will be voiced by Yuichiro Umehara, Shuichiro Umeda, Subaru Kimura, Nobunaga Shimazaki, and Kensho Ono.

This large-scale spectacle is inspired by the historical event known as the Great Fire of the Meiwa era, portraying the brave firefighters of Edo who stood against devastating blazes. The story follows Gengo Matsunaga, once called Edo’s finest firefighting samurai, as he rebuilds the disbanded Boro Tobigumi with a band of eccentric yet formidable comrades to save the people of Edo from the recurring disasters of fire.

Yuichiro Umehara will voice protagonist Gengo Matsunaga, the group’s leader striving to restore the team. Shuichiro Umeda will play Shinnosuke Torigoe, the lively and mischievous deputy leader who serves as the mood maker. Subaru Kimura takes on the role of Torajiro, a gentle-hearted former sumo wrestler of unmatched strength. Nobunaga Shimazaki will portray Hikoya, an acrobat immensely popular among the women of Edo. Kensho Ono voices Seijuro Kaji, a master of astronomy and psychology who serves as the strategist of the fire brigade.

Alongside the announcement, a newly drawn key visual showcasing the Boro Tobigumi facing the flames with determination was released, along with comments from the cast.

Additionally, volumes 1 through 8 of the original novel series Ushu Boro Tobigumi will be reissued with special anime-themed obi wraps starting in early September. The special editions will feature not only the Boro Tobigumi members and Miyuki but also Gengo’s rival, Kankuro Oto of the Kaga Tobigumi.

The manga adaptation Hikuidori: Ushu Boro Tobigumi (Akita Shoten) will see its first compiled volume released on September 8. This inaugural volume will include an exclusive short story titled Hiyoke Mochi, newly written by the original author, Shogo Imamura.

Cast Comments

Yuichiro Umehara as Gengo Matsunaga
Matsunaga carries the burden of his past yet chooses to walk the path of a firefighter once again. His cool demeanor contrasts with the moments when his passion for saving others suddenly flares up—those moments were especially enjoyable to perform. Gathering comrades and charging forward on the path he believes in creates the kind of fiery drama that feels made for animation. Since this is a rare period novel adapted into anime, the dialogue and atmosphere are full of unique challenges, but I hope the blend of jidaigeki essence and animation makes it engaging. I will give my all so both longtime fans and newcomers can enjoy it.

Shuichiro Umeda as Shinnosuke Torigoe
My name is Shuichiro Umeda, and I’ll be voicing Shinnosuke Torigoe. The image of a hero changes with each era, but Hikuidori depicts the ‘Hikeshi,’ the firefighters who fought against great fires in Edo to protect lives. Shinnosuke is still inexperienced but runs alongside Gengo as a cheeky, upbeat mood maker. Please look forward to his moments to shine!

Subaru Kimura as Torajiro
I’m fired up. It’s precisely because Torajiro is so kind at heart that he can also be so strong. I’ll do my utmost to deliver that side of him, so I’ll be happy if you watch and enjoy!

Nobunaga Shimazaki as Hikoya
After reading the original novel, I immediately thought, ‘This is really good!’ That brings pressure, of course, but even more than that, I’m thrilled to walk alongside Hikoya in this story. He’s endlessly stylish and full of flair. As the ‘dashing acrobat,’ I’ll perform the role with full dedication. Thank you for your support.

Kensho Ono as Seijuro Kaji
I’m Kensho Ono, voicing Seijuro Kaji. Personally, I love the Edo period and historical stories, so I was very excited when I received this role. It will undoubtedly be a thrilling tale of how people in those days, without modern technology, risked their very lives to protect others from fire. I want to channel those feelings into my performance. That said, Seijuro’s initial appearance is quite cold and detached, far removed from passion, but watching how he grows and changes through encounters and bonds is something I look forward to portraying.

Source : ORICON NEWS