The anime film based on the novel The Keeper of the Camphor Tree (Kusunoki no Bannin) Keigo Higashino has officially confirmed its release date in Japanese cinemas: January 30, 2026in local time in Japan, which corresponds to the early morning of January 30 at 02:00 (UTC+2) in Spain.
The announcement was made through the film's official website, where a teaser trailer in X and a promotional poster with the enigmatic phrase: “This tree keeps a secret”.
A main cast full of emotions
The main cast has Fumiya Takahashirecognized for his role as Aruto Hiden in Kamen Rider Zero-One, who will give life to Reito Naoia man who has unjustly lost his job and is sent by his aunt to guard an ancient and enigmatic camphor tree at the Tsukisato shrine. This will be the Takahashi's first starring role in an anime film.
Takahashi commented on the project: “This story offers moments to stop and reflect on life, something that is often overlooked in the daily routine. I hope that this encounter with 'The Keeper of the Camphor Tree' leaves an impression on each viewer.”
Joining him will be the renowned actress and former Takarazuka star, Yuki Amamiwho will play Chifune YanagisawaReito's aunt and former guardian of the tree. Amami is remembered for her role as Gran Mamare in Hayao Miyazaki's Ponyo (2008). Regarding his participation, he declared: “Each voice role is a new challenge. This time, I put all my heart into bringing Chifune to life, imagining her story and conveying a real emotional charge with each word.”
A top-notch production team
The direction is in charge of Tomohiko Ito (Sword Art Online), while the script is written by Taku Kishimoto (Haikyuu!). The character design will be in the hands of Tsubasa Yamaguchi (BLUE LOCK) and Akiko Itagaki (Lonely Castle in the Mirror). The artistic direction will be Hiroshi Takiguchi (Weathering With You), and the studio A-1 Pictures will be in charge of the animation, with distribution by Aniplex.
A story with deep roots
The Keeper of the Camphor Tree was originally published in March 2020 by Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha and has exceeded one million copies in print in Japan until March 2025. Although many of Higashino's works have been adapted to live-action format, this is the first time one of his novels has been turned into an anime film.
The English version of the book will be released by the Abacus publishing house in June 2026. The plot introduces us to Reito Naoia man unfairly fired who, in a desperate attempt, commits an impulsive act and ends up arrested.
In prison, he receives an unexpected proposal: to be released if he accepts a condition imposed by a mysterious client… his own aunt. Thus, Reito assumes the unusual role of guardian of a sacred treein a sanctuary where an ancient legend lives.
A feature film that promises to touch the soul
With an introspective premise, a promising cast and an outstanding creative team, The Keeper of the Camphor Tree is emerging as one of the most anticipated films of 2026. A story where nature, family ties and mystery intertwine to offer a unique cinematic experience.
