The second promotional video of the upcoming series has been released.
The upcoming Josei anime, Ikoku Nikki (Journal with Witch) is set to premiere on 4 January, 2026. The new promotional trailer of the series also unveiled new cast, opening theme song, and more details.
Ikoku Nikki anime cast, staff, and other details
The new voice actor joining the anime cast is:
- Sayaka Ōhara as Minori (Makio’s older sister and Asa’s late mother)
Previously announced cast members of the series are:
- Miyuki Sawashiro as Makio Kōdai
- Fūko Mori as Asa Takumi
- Junichi Suwabe as Shingo Kasamachi
- Sumire Morohoshi as Emiri Nara
- Eriko Matsui as Nana Daigo
- Takashi Kondō as Kazunari Tōno
The new trailer features all the voice actors who have been announced so far. It also previews the show’s opening theme song ‘Sonare’ performed by TOMOO.
Miyuki Oshiro directs the anime at Shuka, with Kōhei Kiyasu writing the scripts. Kenji Hayama designs the characters while Kensuke Uchio composes the music. The newly announced staff members include:
- Sub-character Designer: Toshie Kawamura
- Art Director: Eriko Takahashi
- Colour Designer: Miho Tanaka
- Prop Designer: Miyako Kanou
- Costume Designer: Kaede Aizawa
- Director of Photography: Satoshi Namiki
- Editor: Kazuhiko Seki
- Sound Director: Takahiro Oomori
The anime is based on Tomoko Yamashita’s manga series of the same name which began publishing in 2017 and ended in 2023. The story follows a 35-year-old stoic novelist, Makio Kōdai, who lives a solitary life as a shut-in. But her life changes when her estranged sister and her husband die in a car accident, leaving Makio to care for their 15-year-old daughter Asa. At first, Asa’s friendly and straightforward personality clashes constantly with Makio’s awkward and impassive demeanor. However, the two unlikely roommates soon find common ground and their relationship blossoms.