Ikoku Nikki: Journal with Witch Anime Expands Cast and Reveals Theme Song Artists for Anticipated January 2026 Premiere

Anticipation continues to build for the television adaptation of Ikoku Nikki: Journal with Witch, the acclaimed josei drama scheduled to premiere in January 2026. As part of the ongoing promotional efforts, the production committee has officially revealed four significant additions to its voice cast, alongside the high-profile artists selected to perform the main theme songs. This latest announcement substantially reinforces the foundation of the series, which explores profound themes of kinship and emotional recovery.

The previously announced leads include Miyuki Sawashiro, who voices the 35-year-old novelist Makine Kodai, and Mori Fuko, who portrays her 15-year-old niece Asa Takumi. The newly announced cast members are set to embody key supporting roles, bringing further depth to the narrative.

New Supporting Cast Members

Fans can anticipate performances by Junichi Suwabe as Shingo Kasamachi, Sumire Morohoshi as Emiri Nara, Eriko Matsui taking on the role of Nana Daigo, and Takashi Kondo rounding out the ensemble as Kazunari Tono. This talented collective will bring nuance to the delicate story, which centers on Makine and Asa finding a path forward together after a shared family tragedy, navigating the complex adjustments and emotional landscape inherent in their unexpected cohabitation.

The auditory experience of the series promises to be as compelling as the visual storytelling. Singer-songwriter TOMOO has been selected to perform the opening theme, "Sonare," which is expected to set a reflective tone for each episode. Complementing this, the closing theme, "Kotozute," will be delivered by the popular pop duo Bialystocks, ensuring an emotive and sophisticated musical backdrop that aligns perfectly with the series' dramatic essence.

Production Team Details

The adaptation is being handled by the highly respected production team at Studio Shuka, known for delivering high-quality animation. Miyuki Oshiro, celebrated for their work on Durarara!! Season 2, directs the series, while Kohei Kiyasu (My Home Hero) manages the scriptwriting duties. Character designs are crafted by Kenji Hayama, known for contributions to series such as Tiger & Bunny. Further elevating the atmosphere is composer Kensuke Ushio, whose acclaimed compositional work on hits such as Chainsaw Man and Tengoku-Daimakyo promises a deeply resonant score.

Based on the award-nominated manga by Tomoko Yamashita, which has been recognized by the Manga Taishou and the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize, Ikoku Nikki is poised to become a must-watch slice-of-life drama for viewers seeking mature, character-driven storytelling upon its highly anticipated debut in 2026.