Otakuwriter
Hoppe-chan Anime Adaptation Set to Premiere in 2026
The beloved mascot franchise Hoppe-chan, known for its collection of cute, colorful slime characters, is making a major return to the spotlight with an official anime adaptation slated for release in 2026. Titled Hoppe-chan ~Sun Ookoku to Kuro Hoppe-dan no Himitsu~ (Hoppe-chan ~Mystery of the Sun Kingdom and the Black Hoppe Team~), the upcoming television anime will revive the celebrated brand first introduced by Japanese accessory company SUNHOSEKI in 2010.
After capturing the hearts of elementary and middle school audiences across Japan, Hoppe-chan faced a decline in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, after 15 years, the franchise is staging a remarkable comeback, now complete with a full-fledged anime adaptation produced by an experienced team of creators and voice talent.
Overview of Hoppe-chan ~Sun Ookoku to Kuro Hoppe-dan no Himitsu~
The upcoming Hoppe-chan anime adaptation will focus on two distinct yet interconnected storylines. In the dreamy and vivid world of the Sun Kingdom, a Hoppe-chan who has mysteriously lost her memory must join forces with others to defend their homeland from the threat of aggressive and toxic “uncute” slimes. Simultaneously, in present-day Japan, an office worker named Hoho is struggling with feelings of sadness and disconnection. Over the course of the series, these two worlds become increasingly intertwined as their destinies align.
A newly released key visual, shared via the anime’s official website and X (formerly Twitter) account, showcases the main characters, highlighting Hoho and several unique Hoppe-chan figures reflected in radiant gemstones. The aesthetic remains faithful to the franchise’s original design concept, emphasizing its warm and whimsical appeal.
Animation Studio and Staff Details
Hoppe-chan ~Sun Ookoku to Kuro Hoppe-dan no Himitsu~ is being animated by Toon Harbor Works, a studio known for its vibrant art direction and family-friendly storytelling. The series is being directed by Sachi Nabeshige, ensuring a cohesive creative vision that aligns with the tone of the original franchise.
Series composition will be overseen by Yoko Yonaiyama, whose previous work includes the anime mono. The scriptwriting team includes Yonaiyama as well as Takahiro Nagano (known for writing on Duel Masters) and Saji Komori (whose credits include PuniRunes), combining extensive experience with youth-targeted storytelling. Character designs for the anime will be handled by Gurin. and 1ssaKawaguchi, both bringing a fresh visual interpretation to the Hoppe-chan universe.
Confirmed Voice Cast
The Hoppe-chan anime adaptation features an exciting mix of experienced voice actors and popular online personalities from the realms of YouTube and VTubing. The main voice cast includes the following:
- Ganso Hoppe-chan: Voiced by Rin Kusumi (Kaoru in I Shall Survive Using Potions!)
- Ohana Hoppe-chan: Voiced by Kyoko Kuramochi (Amuse Dolce)
- Star Hoppe-chan: Voiced by Ayaka Takamura (Yuki Tendo in CUE!)
- Megane Hoppe-chan: Voiced by Ran Misato (Amuse Dolce)
- Heart Hoppe-chan: Voiced by Ayasa Ito (Arisa Ichigaya in BanG Dream!)
- Tiara Hoppe-chan: Voiced by Neo Tanaka
- Hoho: Voiced by Sachi Nabeshige
This cast reflects the franchise’s aim to appeal both to nostalgic fans and a younger, digital-native generation through its inclusion of popular virtual and social media talents alongside respected professionals from the anime industry.
Official Platforms and Promotions
The anime’s official website and social media presence were launched in conjunction with the announcement, providing updates on cast and staff, as well as the premiere schedule. While a specific premiere date has not been revealed at this time, the anime is confirmed to debut in 2026. Distribution details and television networks will be announced in future updates via the official channels.
The combination of nostalgic characters, a family-friendly storyline, and contributions from seasoned industry staff puts this adaptation on a promising path. With a lineage tracing back to its successful merchandise and character goods line, this new anime will aim to reintroduce the Hoppe-chan universe to existing fans while captivating a new generation of viewers.
About the Hoppe-chan Franchise
Created in 2010 by SUNHOSEKI, Hoppe-chan began as a character goods line focused on glittering, fantasy-themed slime characters with distinct personalities. The brand quickly gained traction among young schoolgirls, aided by its compelling visuals and wide array of collectible merchandise. Its decline during the global health crisis posed a risk to its survival, but growing interest in nostalgic and character-focused properties has reignited enthusiasm surrounding the brand. The announcement of the anime adaptation serves as a milestone in its long-awaited resurgence.
Release Information
Hoppe-chan ~Sun Ookoku to Kuro Hoppe-dan no Himitsu~ is slated for a full television release in 2026, with additional details on episode count, theme songs, and broadcasting platforms to be shared closer to its premiere. Fans of magical mascots, nostalgic character franchises, and heartfelt dual-world narratives will find plenty to look forward to in Hoppe-chan’s animated debut.
Source: Comic Natalie via Crunchyroll
