In an exciting announcement for manga and anime fans alike, VIZ Media has revealed its co-production role in bringing Hirayasumi, the critically acclaimed manga by Keigo Shinzo, to life as an anime series. Partnering with Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions Co., Ltd., the adaptation will be animated by the innovative studio Production +h, known for titles like The Orbital Children and Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction.

Originally serialized in Weekly Big Comic Spirits in April 2021, Hirayasumi has captured audiences with its reflective slice-of-life storytelling and richly human characters. It tells the story of Hiroto Ikuta, a 29-year-old with no grand ambitions, no full-time job, and no romantic partner, who somehow manages to embody a calm many in today’s high-pressure world struggle to find. With its gentle, emotional tone, the series has become a favorite among readers looking for something more grounded and introspective.

The manga has been widely celebrated, having won the grand prize at the 27th Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize, the 2021 Kagayake! Bros Comic Awards, and the Best Ongoing Comic title at Italy’s Lucca Comics and Games 2024. With over 1.1 million copies in circulation worldwide and six volumes currently published by VIZ in English, Hirayasumi has proven its quiet power through both critical acclaim and fan devotion.

Adding to the excitement, a live-action drama adaptation of the manga has also been announced. The news was accompanied by a celebratory illustration that gives fans a peek into what the upcoming visual world might look like. Creator Keigo Shinzo expressed his delight at the news, saying he is eager to see both the anime and drama take form. Known for his earlier work Tokyo Alien Bros., Shinzo’s unique voice continues to gain momentum in global storytelling.

While the official release schedule for the anime has yet to be confirmed, fans can expect more updates on its international distribution and platform availability in the near future. Given VIZ Media’s growing investment in co-productions and original anime projects, this marks yet another step in the publisher’s increasing influence beyond print.

Hirayasumi stands apart from most mainstream series by offering a poignant look at life’s slower rhythms. It asks big questions through small moments, showing how people connect, heal, and simply exist in a world full of uncertainty. Whether it is through anime or live action, the story’s transition to screen is bound to retain the warm, thoughtful charm that made the manga such a standout.

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