2024
January
January 1stMail from Japan Vol. 12
We start the new year with an unboxing video that sees us getting an unusual assortment of Urusei Yatsura goods from Japan. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
January 4th
Urusei Yatsura Opening & Ending Themes Announced
Maisondes returns with the new opening theme to Urusei Yatsura season 2: "Lock On" feat. HashiMelo, Megurimeguru and the ending theme "Raizakura" feat. 9Lana, SAKURAmoti. Source: Anime News Network
January 6th
Yashahime Chapter 28
A slight delay from Viz in the online publication of this chapter due to the holidays, but we have the summary up now. This month the half-demon princesses attack Zero's flagship, but her powerful World Reversal spell causes them to be separated so that she can pick them off one by one. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
January 8th
Happy Coming of Age Day
Takahashi-sensei posted a drawing of Sesshomaru and wished everyone a happy Coming of Age Day (成人の日/Seijin no Hi) saying, "congratulation to all the new adults!" The reason for the Sesshomaru image is because of his fluffy wrap looking like the stole worn by many girls over the kimono on this special day. Source: Rumiko Takahashi's Twitter Channel
January 9th
MAO Chapter 214
A local shaman is possessed by the disembodied arm of an oni, and Nanoka tries to prove that she can save him in order to impress Mao after her uncertainty of his status with Yurako. Source: MAO Online
Detective Conan Tribute Art
This week's issue of Shonen Sunday is the 30th anniversary of Detective Conan/Case Closed. To celebrate, a number of Sunday artists contributed artwork of their favorite Conan characters to celebrate, including Rumiko Takahashi who drew Ai. Source: MAO Online
January 11th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 24 Debuts
Urusei Yatsura returns for its second season with Ataru stealing Ten's wish-fulfilling bubblegum which he promptly uses to make copies of all the sexy girls he knows. Then Ataru accidentally hits Lum in the head with a rice cooker making her forget how to speak Japanese. Source: Tomobiki-cho
January 12th
Lock On Released
The new single from MAISONdes, Lock On, the opening theme for the 2024 season of Urusei Yatsura is in stores and available digitally today. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Conan Art on Display
Today a preview of the "30th Anniversary Detective Conan Exhibition" was held at Sunshine City Exhibition Hall A in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. Source: Edgeline Tokyo
Kaoru Wada's Next Concert
Kaoru Wada's next Inuyasha concert has been decided! The concert will take place Sunday, February 11, 2024, 2:30 p.m. at the Tokyo Metropolitan Theater Concert Hall. Special guests include Satsuki Yukino (Kagome) as the emcee, and Kumiko Watanabe (Shippo), and Noriko Hidaka (Kikyo) as discussion guests. New orginal goods will be sold. Ticket prices range from 9,500 yen to 12,500 yen. Source: Pacific Philharmonica Tokyo
January 15th
Rumic Mini 037
This month's Rumic Mini examines the small shrines found on the roadsides across Japan and what lies within? Ghosts? Spirits? Offerings? Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
January 16th
MAO Chapter 215
Nanoka battles against the oni's arm, however when she begins to absorb its malice with her sheathe she finds its dark power overwhelming. Source: MAO Online
January 18th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 25 Debuts
Ryunosuke has dinner with the Moroboshi family which stirs her heart to find out more about her long-missing mother, however Mr. Fujinami refuses to provide any clear information about what happened to his wife. Then Onsen-Mark begins his round of home visits starting with the Fujinamis who live in the school store. Source: Tomobiki-cho
January 19th
Atsushi Ohara's Obscene Anime
We've translated an article on the anime that writer Atsushi Ohara found particularly "awakening" during his childhood. He mentions Takahashi-sensei's fascination with Osamu Tezuka's W3 during her own childhood. Source: Rumic World
Raiou Released
The new single from MAISONdes, Raiou, the ending theme for the 2024 season of Urusei Yatsura is in stores and available digitally today. Source: Tomobiki-cho
January 23rd
MAO Chapter 216
Nanoka awakens after losing a great deal of blood in her battle with the oni's arm and Mao tells her how he felt when the thought he had nearly lost her. Nanoka, too, wants to tell Mao how she feels. Source: MAO Online
January 24th
Urusei Yatsura Music Box Interviews
The Urusei Yatsura Music Box is a collection of all of the soundtrack albums of the original series released in one collection. It is a rare and expensive set that comes with some great extras. One such extra is a lengthy interview with many of the musicians who worked on the anime. We've translated that here for your enjoyment. Source: Rumic World
January 25th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 26 Debuts
Jungle boy Shingo has been living in an electric jungle his entire life and raised on television. He heads out into the world and immediately becomes infatuated with Lum and decides to make her his wife, however Ataru and Mendo have strong reservations about the whole arrangement. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Yashahime Chapter 29
Zero thinks back on her love for Inuyasha and Sesshomaru's father and how his death devastated her. She was happy to love him from afar but after he was killed she could no longer live with the pain of his lingering memory haunting her for eternity. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
January 26th
Kaoru Wada Sheet Music
Inuyasha Fantasy, a collection of sheet music from Kaoru Wada’s recent orchestral Inuyasha concerts will go on sale February 14th. Additionally, fans can purchase limited edition color versions of the score in the signature colors of Kagome, Miroku, Sango and Shippo. The default Inuyasha color will be released for a limited time with Wada’s signature. Source: Kazenone.co.jp
Kyoto Animation Arsonist Sentenced to Death
Shinji Aoba, the arsonist who murdered 36 people and wounded 32 others at Kyoto Animation has received the death penalty in the case against him. Aoba set the fire on July 18, 2019. Among his victims was Shouko Ikeda (池田晶子) prolific animation director for Inuyasha and many other works.
Source: NHKJanuary 30th
MAO Chapter 217
Byoki plots with Hakubi to draw Natsuno into a meeting with Yurako. To do so, the cat causes a woman to become possessed by a nightmarish akayashi experience. Source: MAO Online
January 31th
Kappei Yamaguchi Interview
With special thanks to our friends as Shrine-Maiden.net, we have a new Kappei Yamaguchi interview that we've translated. In it he discusses his long career playing Takahashi heroes such as Ranma and Inuyasha, as well as his turn as the father of Rinne, Sabato Roudo. Source: Rumic World
February
February 1stUrusei Yatsura Episode 27 Debuts
Kurama is still on the hunt for a man worth mating with and her search leads her to Rei. Also, the Mendo family is ready for Shutaro to settle down, and insist on a marriage meeting. When the mysterious girl turns out to be the sister of his rival Tobimaro, Mendo protests, but a visit to the Mizunokoji Estate only reveals stranger secrets. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Urusei Yatsura 1992 Calendar
This month we're taking a look at a very rare 1992 Urusei Yatsura calendar from 1992 that featured original artwork that has never been seen elsewhere. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
February 7th
New Urusei Yatsura Pachislot Announced
The brand-new Urusei Yatsura pachislot machine (known as "Pachislot Urusei Yatsura") is being released in parlors across Japan in April. Made by Excite and New Guin, the machine features new animation and a plethora of original cast members from the 1980s anime returning to voice their characters.
The actors lending their voice to the machine include Fumi Hirano (Lum), Toshio Furukawa (Ataru), Kazuko Sugiyama (Ten), Saeko Shimazu (Shinobu), Mayumi Tanaka (Ryunosuke) and Shigeru Chiba (Megane).
Some original actors are not appearing, either due to retirement or that they are now deceased. Mendo will be played by Takehito Koyasu, Cherry by Hideyuki Umezu, Sakura by Ayumi Tsunematsu, Benten by Yuko Sasamoto, Oyuki by Yuko Kato, and Ran by Masako Shiro. Source: New Gin.co.jp and Chonborista.com
February 8th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 28 Debuts
Mendo cannot stand the idea of being married to a hulking, armor-clad giant, but when a stay bolt of lightning from Lum reveals Asuka is a gorgeous girl, he starts to rethink his marriage plans. Asuka's intense fear of men complicates things, however. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Theodora Ozaki Residence Preservation
A group of manga artists led by Kazumi Yamashita (山下和美) creator of The Life of Genius Professor Yanagizawa, and Nami Sasou (笹生那実) creator of The Rose is Born in Shuraba, held a press conference today at the unveiling of the "Ozaki Residence Preservation Project". Additionally, the group includes manga artists Rumiko Takahashi (高橋留美子, MAO), Norifusa Mita (三田紀房, Dragon Zakura), Nobuyuki Fukumoto (福本伸行, Kaiji), Tatuso Nitta (新田たつお, The Quiet Don) and Noboru Takahashi (高橋のぼる, Mogura no Uta) who all donated money. Osamu Akimoto (秋本治, KochiKame), Go Nagai (永井豪, Devilman), Tetsuya Chiba (千葉徹彌, Ashita no Joe) and Waki Yamato (大和和紀, Haikara-san) discussed the project with the gathered press.
The project is to purchase the property and historical home of Theodora Ozaki (1870-1932). Ozaki, a famed translator of Japanese short stories and fairy tales into English, was married to the former mayor of Tokyo. The 135-year-old building was in danger of being demolished in 2019 until Sasao and Nitta purchased the property, and then along with the five other manga artists, donated money to the restoration of the historic building. Rumiko Takahashi said at the event, "I thought it would be a dream if I could leave this kind of property (to future generations), so I didn't hesitate to get involved." The artists will auction off original artwork and setup a website to sale original art from the mangaka starting March 1st. You can read our translation of the original article here. Source: Comics Natalie
February 9th
God as Man - The Egotism of Osamu Tezuka
A curious side of the the most influential mangaka of all time is Tezuka's petty jealousies towards fellow artists such as Shotaro Ishinomori, Katsuhiro Otomo and Sanpei Shirato. Today, on the anniversary of his passing we wished to share a discussion of this rarely commented upon side of Tezuka's personality. Source: Rumic World
February 11th
Rumiko Takahashi Attends Concert
Rumiko Takahashi has posted to X (formerly Twitter) showing the flowers she sent to the "Anime Orchestra Series - The Musical World of Kaoru Wada and Inuyasha" concert tonight. About the concert she said, "It was wonderful! I heard that the performance will be held in Himeji as well!" In addition to Kaoru Wada conducting the orchestra, Noriko Hidaka, Satsuki Yukino and Kumiko Watanabe were all in attendance on stage introducing songs.
Source: TwitterFebruary 15th
Rumic Mini 038
In this month's Rumic Mini, we explore a subtle edit that was made to the original Japanese edition of Maison Ikkoku between its original publication and later collected version. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
Urusei Yatsura Episode 29 Debuts
Kotatsuneko acquires a possessed kotatsu from an antique dealer that has connections to the Mendo family, then Lum is bitten by a cow and seems to be transforming, finally Onsen-Mark visits Mendo's home for a parent/teacher conference. Source: Tomobiki-cho
February 16th
MAO Volume 19
MAO volume 19 is in stores today. Source: MAO Online
Yashahime Volume 6
Yashahime volume 6 by Takashi Shiina is in stores today. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
February 17th
Takahashi Stickers in Women's Magazine
This month's issue (volume 8, Feb. 29th-March 7th cover date) of Women's Seven (女性セブン/Josei Seven) has stickers of various characters from Takahashi-sensei's series to promote the upcoming release of her Colors artbook. Source: Josei Seven
February 20th
MAO Chapter 218
MAO returns after two weeks off. Natsuno and Byoki track down Yurako and confront her about what really happened in the wake of Daigo's death and how it connects with the murder of Masago. Source: MAO Online
February 22nd
Urusei Yatsura Episode 30 Debuts
Ataru buys some mind-swapping earmuffs and trades places with Ten, allowing him to do all sorts of perverted things, then a subspace portal sends Ataru and Lum ten years into the future to meet Ataru's future son, Kokeru. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Rumiko Takahashi's Quote for Fist of the North Star
Rumiko Takahashi provides the cover quote for Fist of the North Star (北斗の拳) vol 13 of the 40th anniversary release. Previously cover quotes have come from Akira Toriyama, Hirohiko Araki, Osamu Akimoto, Masanori Morita, Yoshihiro Togashi, Yasuhisa Hara, Shinichi Sakamoto, Kenshi Hirokane, Toshio Sako, Ajichika, Tsukasa Hojo, & Gosho Aoyama.
Source: Genicpress.comFebruary 24th
MAO Volume 19 Sales
For the week of February 12-18th MAO volume 19 debuted in the 27th position on the Oricon sales chart with a weekly total of 12,357 copies.
- Delicious in Dungeon World Guide: Boukensha Bible Perfect Edition (ダンジョン飯 ワールドガイド 冒険者バイブル 完全版)
- Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun (魔入りました! 入間くん) #36 (2 weeks)
- Unmei no Hito ni Deau Hanashi (運命の人に出会う話) #5
- Jujutsu Kaisen (呪術廻戦) #25 (multiple weeks)
- Call of the Night (よふかしのうた) #19
- Norakami (ノラガミ) #27
- Hajime no Ippo (はじめの一歩) #140
- Fall in Love, You False Angels (恋せよまやかし天使ども) #2
- Tensei Kenja no Isekai Life (転生賢者の異世界ライフ 〜第二の職業を得て、世界最強になりました〜) #23
- Rent-a-Girlfriend (彼女、お借りします) #35
- MAO (マオ) #19
February 25th
Mangaka Have Questions Following the Death of Hinako Ashihara
Following the January 29th suicide of mangaka Hinako Ashihara, many creators have shared their thoughts and feelings regarding the adaptations of their work in other media such as film, television and anime. This week Rumiko Takahashi's name came up in regards to her own long discussed issues with the adaptation of Urusei Yatsura in the early 80s. We examine the conversations that have been occurring in the wake of this tragedy. Source: Rumic World
February 27th
MAO Chapter 219
Yurako tries to silence Natsuno who has realized about Yurako's connection to Sana's death. Byoki allies himself with Yurako to ensure Natsuno is killed so that Daigo's soul can return to his body. Source: MAO Online
Yashahime Chapter 30
The battle against Zero reaches its conclusion, as the girls team-up to pierce her powerful defenses when Riku comes to their aid in the end. With Zero defeated, what becomes of Inuyasha, Kagome and Rin? Source: The Inuyasha Companion
February 29th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 31 Debuts
Shinobu ventures into subspace with Inaba, Lum and Ataru and they discover that their future happiness may not be what they hope for as they discover future lives where they are not married to who they might have hoped for. Source: Tomobiki-cho
March
March 1stRumiko Takahashi's Train Mascot - Marin
We're taking a look at a very obscure part of Rumiko Takahashi fandom this month as we look at Marin, the train mascot Rumiko Takahashi designed for the JR Line's Keiyo branch running from Tokyo to Chiba. You can check out the video version by clicking on the image or you can read the article version here. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
March 2nd
Week 2 MAO Volume 19 Sales
For the week of February 19-25th MAO volume 19 sold an additional 10,874 copies for a total of 23,2414 copies in its first ten days of release. It was in 50th place on the Oricon charts. Source: Manga Codex Twitter
March 5th
MAO Chapter 220
Natsuno grows weaker as Daigo's protection of her begins to wane when suddenly everyone is summoned once more to the five-sided shrine where the dark pact was once made to find the true successor to the Goko clan. Source: MAO Online
March 6th
Rumiko Takahashi/Lum Appear in Grand Jump
In today's issue of Grand Jump (volume 7) Becoming the Landlord of the Oldest Western-style Home in Setagaya (世田谷イチ古い洋館の家主になる) by Kazumi Yamashita (山下和美) details the artist trying to preserve the antique home. In the latest chapter Rumiko Takahashi appears (in the guise of Lum) as she becomes involved in the process to save the house. The story is based on the true story that we covered in the article on the Theodora Ozaki house that Takahashi-sensei has contributed funds to help save. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
Megan Thee Stallion Talks Kagome
Megan Thee Stallion names Kagome the definitive anime 'hot girl'. “Definitely Kagome from Inuyasha,” “She got all the boys fighting over her; she’s running around with her jewelry around her neck trying to put it all back together, and she just always comes out on top. Also, she has good hair [laughs] that’s important.” Source: Polygon
March 7th
Akira Toriyama (1955-2024)
Terribly sad news to hear of the passing of Akira Toriyama at the age of 68. From his work on Dragon Ball, Dr. Slump, the Dragon Quest series and Chrono Trigger, he will always be one of the foremost mangaka in history. We'll share this 1986 interview between himself and Rumiko Takahashi and offer our best wishes to his family and fans. You can read the interview at the link below. Source: Rumic World
Urusei Yatsura Episode 32 Debuts
With seemingly no decent futures in existence where Lum, Ataru and Shinobu are all happy, Inaba shows them how to manufacture a personalized ideal future, however the other rabbits object to the idea and decide to destroy all of the potential futures. Then, in his quest to visit the homes of his students, Onsen-Mark arrives at Shinobu's house in rough shape. Source: Tomobiki-cho
March 8th
Rumiko Takahashi Manga in Stop Piracy Ad
A very creative ad campaign for the "Stop Pirate Edition" program to combat the pirating of manga ran in the Asahi Shimbun today. It has a number of panels from manga such as Ranma 1/2, Maison Ikkoku, One Piece, Banana Fish, Bleach, Golgo 13 and many others. The clever part is the video campaign's song by Vaundy 「ありがとう」(Arigato/Thank You) uses the words of the panels which match the song lyrics. You can see the video here. Source: STOP! 海賊版 on Twitter
March 9th
TARAKO (1960-2024)
Beloved seiyuu TARAKO has passed away. Best known as the star of Chibi Maruko-chan, to Rumic fans she appeared as Sugar in Urusei Yatsura, the other Akemi from the Bunny Cabaret in Maison Ikkoku, and most recently the Wishing Star in the new Urusei Yatsura anime. TARAKO was famous amongst fans as she originally audtioned for the role of Lum in Urusei Yatsura but did not get the part. Instead she appeared in almost every episode of the series as various background voices throughout the series run. Source: The Mainichi & TARAKO; What's Your Job?
March 12th
MAO Chapter 221 & Shonen Sunday's 65th Anniversary
This week's volume of Shonen Sunday celebrates the magazine's 65th anniversary and in MAO this week Daigo's memories fly to the fore of Natsuno's mind as he draws closer and closer to her after emerging from the five-sided temple. In the past, Daigo wonders why Mao was chosen to be the target of everyone's curses and realizes it has something to do with Haimaru. Source: MAO Online
March 14th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 33 Debuts
Mendo has a terrible encounter with the supernatural that involves his missing octopus, Akamaru. Then, the soul of a dead girl named Nozomi cannot pass on to the afterlife until she can fulfill her long-held dream of going on a date with Ataru. Source: Tomobiki-cho
March 15th
Rumic Mini 039
In this month's Rumic Mini, we explore the saint that gave Sister Angela her name. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
March 18th
MAO Chapter 222
Shonen Sunday releases a day early this week as the resurrected Daigo confronts all the Goko clan members after 900 years. Next week MAO will be off and return in Shonen Sunday issue 19. Source: MAO Online
New Short Story - Riso no Musume
Rumiko Takahashi’s new short story Ideal Daughter (理想の娘/Riso no Musume) has been previewed for the April 5th issue of Big Comic Original. Source: Big Comic Original
March 19th
Newly Translated 1981 Interview
We have a newly translated early interview (from 1981) with Rumiko Takahashi where she discusses having recently won the Shogakukan Manga Award (for Urusei Yatsura), the lechery of her male characters and sexiness of her females. Source: Rumic World
March 20th
Lock On / Raiou Single
The opening and ending theme are the a-side and b-side for the new single from MAISONdes for the 2024 season of Urusei Yatsura. Source: Tomobiki-cho
March 21st
Urusei Yatsura Episode 34 Debuts
Onsen Mark suspects his worst students of badly abusing the Principal and beating him into unconsciousness, then Ran's flowers from outer space start to spread malicious gossip all over town. Finally Onsen Mark makes a visit to the Moroboshi household to conduct his home visit. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Animator Interviews
Animator Hiroshi Kariya and illustrator Yoko were interviewed by the Animate Times about their work on the newest ending theme song "Raiou" for Urusei Yatsura. You can read our translation here. Source: Animate Times
March 26th
Yashahime Chapter 31
Kagome, Rin and Inuyasha reunite with their children after years apart, and Kagome receives a message from home thanks to the modern technology of smart phones. With the children and their parents reunited, Sesshomaru prepares to battle against Kirinmaru. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
March 28th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 35 Debuts
Ataru is near-death after eating one of Ran's cupcakes intended for Rei and then Kitsune returns with a plan to transform Shinobu into a fox like he is. Finally Onsen Mark finishes his home visit rounds by traveling to Planet Oni and meeting Lum's mom and dad. Source: Tomobiki-cho
March 29
The Power of Money
Takahashi-sensei's new short story collection, The Power of Money (高橋留美子傑作集 金の力/Takahashi Rumiko Gekijo Kane no Chikara) is in stores today.
- The Power of Money
- Room for Two
- You Are No. 1
- Nasty Runner
- The Woman From the Past
- Dedicated to S
Urusei Yatsura Debuts on Crunchyroll
The original Urusei Yatsura series (HD remaster) has debuted on Crunchyroll for the first time. Source: Anime News Network
Haru Magai is Upcoming Ending Theme
A new ending theme for Urusei Yatsura has been announced. Haru Magai feat Ayuni D, NITO by MAISONdes will debut at the beginning of the fourth cour on April 11th. Source: Anime News Network
Sunday Thanksgiving 2024
After taking the last few years off due to Covid-19, Sunday Thanksgiving is back for the first time since 2020. Rumiko Takahashi and various other artists got together with assistants and editors, gave speeches, congratulated one another on their works for both Shonen Sunday and Sunday Gessan and did a pair of group drawings. Source: Tsubasa Fukuchi's Twitter
March 30th
Bye My Darling and Haru Magai Singles Released
Two new theme songs for Urusei Yatsura are in stores and available for digital download today. Both songs are from MAISONdes who has performed all of the theme songs from the 2022-2024 Urusei Yatsura adaptation. Source: Tomobiki-cho
April
April 1stUrusei Yatsura 2024 Calendar
On our YouTube channel this month we're taking a look at the new Urusei Yatsura calendar, the first one made since the mid-1990s. The calendar features artwork from the 2022 adaptation of the series with an illustration for every two months. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
April 2nd
MAO Chapter 223
MAO returns after a week off with a huge chapter revealing one of the central mysteries of the series- the origin of Byoki and the reason for the immortality of the Mao, his allies and his enemies. Source: MAO Online
April 3rd
Rumiko Takahashi and Yoko Kondo
We have two newly translated interview with Rumiko Takahashi and her high school classmate and noted mangaka Yoko Kondo. Kondo has had a career publishing manga in the avant-garde manga magazine Garo. In these two new interviews the pair recall their early friendship and bonding over the works of Yasutaka Tsutsui and Ryoichi Ikegami. You can read them here and here. Source: Rumic World
April 4th
Ideal Daughter
Takahashi-sensei's annual short story published in Big Comic Original is out today. This year we see the story of Futoshi Mayuda who finds himself falling in love with a young girl who is younger than his live-at-home daughter who seems to have no plans on getting married or moving out despite being 29 years old. You can read the summary on the site at the link below. Source: Rumic Theater
No Episode of Urusei Yatsura This Week
Urusei Yatsura is taking the week off as they transtion to the new fourth cour. In its place tonight Fuji TV aired a One Piece themed variety show, One Piece Variety: Become the Pirate King TV (ワンピースバラエティ 海賊王におれはなるTV/Wan piisu baraeti kaizoku-o ni ore wa naru TV). Source: Fuji TV
April 6th
Colors Artbook Sales
On her Twitter account, it was announced that Rumiko Takahashi's new artbook, Colors 1978-2024 has sold over 10,000 copies in its first week of release. To celebrate Takahashi-sensei has decided to run a giveaway on Twitter for five lucky winners to receive signed copies of the artbook. Source: Rumiko Takahashi's Twitter
April 8th
New Urusei Yatsura Pachislot Out Today
The brand-new Urusei Yatsura pachislot machine (known as "Pachislot Urusei Yatsura") is being released in parlors across Japan today. Made by Excite and New Guin, the machine is supposed to be available in approximately 5000 units and features voices from the original 1980s incarnation of the anime. Source: Rumic World
April 9th
MAO Chapter 224
Little by little the mystery that has spanned centuries slots into place as Mao and his rivals learn how Shiranui and Yurako became immortal after having not been present the night the Spell of Pot Binding was cast which granted all of them immortality. Source: MAO Online
Rumiko Takahashi Promotes Onmyoji 0
On her Twitter account, Rumiko Takahashi has posted her artwork of the main character, Abe no Seimei from the new film Onmyoji 0 (陰陽師0). The film stars Kento Yamazaki, Shota Sometani and Rihito Itagaki. Source: Rumiko Takahashi's Twitter
April 10th
Comiqueando Talks Maison Ikkoku
The Argentine comics site Comiqueando Online discusses Maison Ikkoku in a new article written by Gregorio Guerrero. The piece talks about the history of the series and its development in the seinen magazine Big Comic Spirits. Source: Comiqueando Online
April 11th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 36 Debuts
After a week off Urusei Yatsura returns to examine the origins of Shutaro's phobias by travelling through time. Plus, this week's episode debuts the new opening and ending themes by MAISONdesu, Bye My Darling and Haru Magai. Source: Tomobiki-cho
April 15th
Rumic Mini 040
In this month's Rumic Mini, we look at the bellywarmer, an item closely associated with Mr. Fujinami and a number of other fatherly characters in Japanese popular culture. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
April 16th
MAO Chapter 225
Pressed by Daigo, Shiranui reveals what happened one night, nine hundred years ago, when he saw his rival meeting with Sana after faking his death. Then Mao returns home realizing that the events he has just witnessed have brought the events of the past back to the fore once again. Source: MAO Online
April 17th
COLORS Interview Translation
From the brand new COLORS 1978-2024 artbook, we have translated Rumiko Takahashi's interview where she discusses MAO, the manga that influenced her, and her advice for young artists that hope to become mangaka. Source: Rumic World
April 18th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 37 Debuts
Asuka continues to make life difficult by being in love with her big brother Tobimaro. When she visits Tomobiki High, she runs across Ryunosuke, who she promptly infuriates by assumes she is a boy. Then Asuka tries to go on a date with Mendo, but Ataru and Ryoko decide to complicate things. Source: Tomobiki-cho
April 23rd
MAO Chapter 226
Kamon tells Mao about a rumor he has heard about the Tazuru Clan who sought the aid of the Goko Clan some years ago in extending the life of the headman's brother. Now the brother has returned after a long absence only to show violent, murderous tendencies. Source: MAO Online
April 25th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 38 Debuts
Asuka's date with Shutaro quickly falls apart when she crushes his rib cage and Ataru leaps in to begin working his unconscious body like a puppet. Tobimaro tries to help, but Ryoko steps in to make matters worse. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Yashahime Chapter 32
Inuyasha, Kagome and Rin return home to reunite with Sango, Miroku and Kaede while Towa, Setsuna and Moroha press on and finally encounter Sesshomaru who is preparing to do battle against Meidomaru, Kirinmaru's powerful personal guard. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
May
May 1stOrbiting Rumic World - Ryoichi Ikegami
On our YouTube channel this month we're taking a look the legend of shonen and seinen manga. Ryoichi Ikegami is one of the most naturalistic manga artists with a distinctive style that is wholly his own. Ikegami is Rumiko Takahashi's favorite manga artist and one of her biggest inspirations to enter the profession herself. If you prefer to read the article yourself rather than view it as a video, you can do that here. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
May 2nd
Urusei Yatsura Episode 39 Debuts
Ryunosuke and her father travel to a tiny island where they set up shop, but soon learn it is haunted by the ghost of a girl and her father. Then Ten tries his best to help a lost sprite recover his missing parasol so that he can get a free wish. Source: Tomobiki-cho
May 7th
MAO Chapter 227
Kamon accompanies Mao and Nanoka to investigate the monster that is attacking members of the Tazuru family. It seems his Seed of Haku from centuries ago may be at the heart of the matter. Source: MAO Online
May 9th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 40 Debuts
Nagisa comes to live with the Fujinami family and starts to annoy Ryunosuke endlessly, then Ten decides to disrupt Ataru's class, who are doing their best to remain silent so as not to have to come to school on the weekend. Source: Tomobiki-cho
May 10th
Takahashi Comments on Meiten Restaurant
Rumiko Takahashi has written a comment for the release of the third volume of Meiten Restaurant (冥天レストラン) by Suke Suzuno (鈴野スケ) which is being published online through Sunday Webry. Takahashi-sensei wrote the following which appears on the obi of the volume:
"Before each meal, it will make you laugh with a face-paced comedy, and after the meal you'll cry with the depiction of the drama of the guests. It's very interesting." Source: Rumiko Takahashi's Twitter
Kagome Gets the Spotlight
On Twitter this week, after a lenghty interval Rumiko Takahashi returns to discuss her characters. This time she shares about Kagome, the heroine of Inuyasha. Source: Rumic World
May 14th
MAO Chapter 228
Sosuke arrives with Hakubi's machete to attack his uncle who has been transformed by the power of the Seed of Haku. Kamon meets Mei, who has been misusing his ancient seed. Source: MAO Online
May 15th
Rumic Mini 041
In this month's Rumic Mini, we look at the depiction of Satan in Kyokai no RINNE After traveling through hell, Rinne spies Satan, and his depiction falls in line with how he was described in Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
May 16th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 41 Debuts
Inaba returns and recruits Shinobu to help him gain a promotion within the Fate Production Bureau. Ataru and Lum tag along and watch as Inaba and Shinobu put their growing trust in one another on display through various obstacles. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Inaba Gets the Spotlight
On Twitter Rumiko Takahashi discusses the creation of Inaba in honor of his appearance on today's episode of Urusei Yatsura. Source: Rumic World
May 17th
MAO Volume 20
MAO volume 20 is in stores today. Source: MAO Online
Yashahime Volume 7
Yashahime volume 7 by Takashi Shiina is in stores today. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
May 21st
MAO Chapter 229
Mei comes to terms with the destructive power of the Seed of Haku, a tool she believed had incredible restorative power with no downsides. Kamon offers to use his own skills to heal Mei of her own seed before it is too late. Source: MAO Online
May 22nd
Toru Furuya Admits Affair
Seiyuu Toru Furuya has issued an apology after information that he engaged in an affair with a fan has come out. Additional details involve an incident of physical abuse and an abortion. Furuya is known to Rumic fans as the voice of Shingo and Kosaku Hatanaka. Source: Toru Furuya's Twitter
May 23rd
Urusei Yatsura Episode 42 Debuts
When Ten burns the scarf Lum made for Ataru, he becomes terrified of the punishment he might receive. Then some of Ran's candy produces hearts over the heads of whomever eats them, steal the heart and they'll fall in love with you. Finally a visitor from a dark world seems to have designs on Lum. Source: Tomobiki-cho
May 25th
MAO Volume 20 Sales
For the week of May 13-19th MAO volume 20 debuted in the 34th position on the Oricon sales chart with a weekly total of 10,616 copies in its first three days on sale.
- Kingdom (キングダム) #72
- Blue Lock (ブルーロック) #29
- Daemons of the Shadow Realm (黄泉のツガイ) #7
- Mix #22
- Shura no Toki (陸奥圓明流外伝 修羅の刻) #21
- World Trigger (ワールドトリガー) #27
- Blue Lock (Limited Edition) (ブルーロック) #29
- Tensei Kenja no Isekai Life (転生賢者の異世界ライフ 〜第二の職業を得て、世界最強になりました〜) #24
- The Cafe Terrace and Its Goddesses (女神のカフェテラス) #15
- Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 4 (本好きの下剋上 Part 4) #8
- MAO (マオ) #20
Maison Ikkoku Complete Music Box Interviews
The complete set of interviews with all of the composers of Maison Ikkoku is now available in English for the first time. Click the link below to enjoy. Source: Rumic World
May 28th
MAO Chapter 230
Mao and Nanoka investigate the "molder of faces" a man who is altering faces of young women and criminals throughout Tokyo, however the terrible side-effects of his treatments are leaving a trail of dead victims in his wake. Source: MAO Online
Yashahime Chapter 33
Sesshomaru begins his battle against Meidomaru, a battle that has been fated to ensure someone dies regardless of what Sesshomaru does. With the battle joined, two allies fall to Meidomaru's incredible speed. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
May 30th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 43 Debuts
Lum returns to her home planet to discover that her great-grandfather made a deal that has caused her to be engaged to Rupa, an alien from a dark planet. Ataru seems indifferent to Lum's fate, only to see her lose her horns and her powers as Rupa steals her away. Source: Tomobiki-cho
May 31st
Week 2 MAO Volume 20 Sales
For the week of May 20th-26yh MAO volume 20 sold an additional 10,389 copies for a total of 21,005 copies in its first ten days of release. It was in 37th place on the Oricon charts. Source: Manga Codex Twitter
June
June 1stUrusei Yatsura 2024 Calendar
On our YouTube channel this month we've located an advertisement for the 1980s Japanese computer, the Sharp X1F which features Lum as the model for the machine's art program. Be sure to turn on subtitles. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
June 2nd
Shonen Sunday Storyboard Showcase
The editor of Major 2 and Red Blue, Miyakawa, has shared that Shonen Sunday is having an exhibition of mangaka storyboards beginning in June through January to celebrate the magazine's 65th anniversary. Each month will have two authors on display.
- June will feature Hiromu Arakawa (Silver Spoon) and Tomohito Oda (Komi Can't Communicate).
- July will feature Gosho Aoyama (Detective Conan) and Atsushi Namikiri (Red Blue).
- August will feature Rumiko Takahashi (MAO) and Aya Hirakawa (The Mikadono Sisters Are Surprisingly Easy).
- September will feature Mitsuru Adachi (Mix) and Takahiro Arai (Te no Geka).
- October will feature Kazuhiro Fujita (Sobotei Must Be Destroyed) and Aiko Koyama (Kiyo in Kyoto: From the Maiko House).
- November spotlights Syun Matsuena (You Are 008) and Shotan (You Are Ms. Servant).
- December will feature Kenjiro Hata (Fly Me to the Moon) and Kagiji Kumanomata (Sleepy Princess in the Demon Castle).
- The final month, January, will feature Takashi Shiina (Yashahime) and Yellow Tanabe (Birdmen).
- The display will be shown on the first floor of the Shogakukan Building, admission is free from 9:30am to 5:30pm Monday through Friday.
June 4th
MAO Chapter 231
Mao and Nanoka catch up to the Molder of Faces as Renji joins them in his quest for revenge for the death of Mineko. When they finally unmask the man they are shocked by his strange appearance and his reason for using the lethal ointment. Source: MAO Online
June 5th
MAISONdes Complete Urusei Yatsura Music
Collecting all of the opening and ending themes from the 2022-2024 Urusei Yatsura series by MAISONdes is on sale today. This eight track release comes in a deluxe and standard edition, with the limited deluxe set including a t-shirt. Source: Tomobiki-cho
June 6th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 44 Debuts
Oyuki, Benten, Ran, Rei and Mendo join Ataru in their attempt to rescue Lum from her impending marriage to Rupa. However Ataru meets Karula who storms the marriage hall bazooka blazing and sends everything into chaos. Source: Tomobiki-cho
June 7th
Editors Interviews
We've translated two interviews from Weekly Bunshun with three of Rumiko Takahashi's editors (Tomofumi Arito, Kento Moriwaki and Riri Okamoto). The first from the magazine is a general overview, but the second from their website is much more in depth and informative. Source: Rumic World
June 10th
Rupa Gets the Spotlight
On Twitter, Rumiko Takahashi discusses Rupa as the anime builds towards its conclusion. How did this handsome character come to have an accent? Click the link below to find out. Source: Rumic World
June 11th
MAO Chapter 232
The Molder of Faces reveals how he came to have the magical ointment, however the cursed jar of face cream soon shows that it has a mind of its own. Renji attacks and Hyakka's flame skills prove ineffective, proving only Nanoka can stand against the cursed medicine. Source: MAO Online
Shogakukan 94th Newcomer Awards
Rumiko Takahashi, along with Gosho Aoyama, Mitsuru Adachi and Kenjiro Hata, was one of the judges of the 94th Newcomer Awards who's results are published in this issue. The three winning series were: Call for UFO (コール・フォー・ユーエフオー) by Kashio Deshi (出路かし魚), Erica (エリカ) by Minamikawa (南川) and Yuki no Unko (雪のうんこ) by Dan Sakamoto (坂本暖). The three honorable mention winners were: Sarima no Mahou no Fuku (サリムの魔法の服) by Kitsuki (きつき), Tori no Mei (鳥の眼) by Kazuki Hayama (葉山一樹) and Gou (轟) by Jose Shirota (白田ジョゼ).
Takahashi's comments on Erica were, "It was extremely interesting. The heroine's setting is exciting. I wish the imagery had been made more readable by eliminating unnecessary lines, but I was able to get absorbed in reading it from the middle. On the other hand, if the first panel's too sloppy, you may not be able to read it, so be careful."
Regarding Yuki no Unko, Takahashi stated, "It's a casual story, but the detailed characters and descriptions are good. I think the scenenry is also used effectively. In the future, please create a main character who can lead the series."
Her general comments on the submissions as a whole were, "It was great to be able to feel the heat throughout. There were some people who lost out because the pictures looked good when you looked at the closely, but then when looked at on the whole they had some flaws. If the characters are still attractive, people will read your book, but please try harder. On the other hand, everyone was trying to create a story and their attitude was very good. Therefore, they were able to create works that established the characters, structure of story and make a difference in terms of composition. I hope you'll continue to conceive ways to present your stories in order to inform and entertain your readers."
It was then announced that the 95th Newcomer Awards would also be judged by the same group of mangaka and submissions would be accepted through September 15th. Source: Shonen Sunday 2024 Vol. 29
June 13th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 45 Debuts
Ataru refuses to give in and tell Lum he loves her, making things more and more complicated. When Karula comes to Earth, the mushrooms she offers as a gift soon grow out of control and only Rupa (and Lum) can stop them and save the planet. Source: Tomobiki-cho
June 15th
Rumic Mini 042
In this month's Rumic Mini, Kyokai no RINNE has a plethora of cat girls and cat boys, but where did this iconic trend begin in Japanese culture? Who was the first? Click the link to find out. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
Urusei Yatsura Anime Exhibit
An Urusei Yatsura anime exhibition will be held in Matsuya Ginza on the 8th Floor from October 2nd through the 14th. The event will also travel across Japan afterwards. Source: Urusei Yatsura All-Stars Ten
June 17th
Urusei Yatsura Movie 5 Cast and Staff Interview
With the impending ending of the Urusei Yatsura TV series we have translated the original cast and crew's comments about adapting "Boy Meets Girl" as Movie 5. Source: Rumic World
June 20th
Urusei Yatsura Episode 46 Debuts
We reach the emotional conclusion as Lum and Ataru recreate their race with Ataru refusing to tell Lum he loves her and the fate of the Earth hanging in the balance. Lum decides that she cannot allow Earth to be destroyed but will ensure Ataru and his friends forget about the aliens they have met forever if Ataru cannot confess his feelings. Source: Tomobiki-cho
Lum Gets the Spotlight
As a tribute to the concluding episode of Urusei Yatsura Rumiko Takahashi shares her comments on her most enduring character, Lum. Click the link below to read her comments on Lum. Source: Rumic World
Thanks from Sumire Uesaka and Hiroshi Kamiya
The official website released a new illustration in thanks for viewer support of Urusei Yatsura with a message that reads, "The TV anime Urusei Yatsura has reached its final episode after 46 episodes. To celebrate the broadcast of the final episode, we have released a visual to express our gratitude to everyone who has watched the show! The visual depicts the characters of Urusei Yatsura such as Ataru, Shinobu, Mendo, Sakuranbo, Sakura, Ran, Rei, Oyuki, Benten, Ten, Ryunosuke, Ryunosuke's father, and Kotatsuneko with their "typical" expressions and gestures at the feet of Lum who is sitting on the floor cross-legged. This image is available for purchase.
Hiroshi Kamiya, the voice of Ataru, commented, "After doing some research, I found out that the audition was in January 2021. I got the role and started recording at the end of that year... At the time, I thought it would be a long journey until the final episode, but I never imagined the final episode would finally air...! It really did go by in the blink of an eye. I think that just shows how fulfilling my time was! I was happy to be involved in Urusei Yatsura, which I love! I'm grateful to everyone who was involved in the production! And to Ataru, thank you so much! Ah! It was fun!!"
Sumire Uesaka, the voice of Lum, added, "I am so happy to have been able to play Lum-chan for four cour! I'm so happy! I'm sad that it is coming to an end, but I am honored to have been able to play my beloved Lum-chan all the way through "Boy Meets Girl".
I became obsessed with Urusei Yatsura when I found out about it through a rebroadcast of the anime, and I started collecting the original manga and merchandise, and had many favorite characters dating back to my school days, and my love for Lum-chan has not changed. Lum-chan is cute, devoted, jealous, a little mysterious, and the strongest. I never thought that the day would come when I would be able to be so close to her as a cast member.
Since I passed the audition and started dubbing, I have been spending happy and fun days as if in a dream. The anime broadcast will come to an end here, but I sincerely hope that I will have the opportunity to voice Lum-chan again...! I will be in perfect condition for that day!
To everyone who has always loved Urusei Yatsura and to everyone who has encountered Urusei Yatsura through this anime, thank you very much again. I believe that Urusei Yatsura is a work that will be read and passed down through generations for decades, even centuries.
I hope to continue loving the world of Urusei Yatsura together with all of you for a long, long time to come! Thank you for your continued support!" Source: UY-AllStars.com
June 25th
New Ranma 1/2 Anime Announced
In shocking news a new Ranma 1/2 anime has been confirmed in this week's issue of Shonen Sunday (Shonen Sunday 2024 Vol. 31). A comment from Rumiko Takahashi included on the image announcing the show's return states, "I'm really looking forward to seeing what kind of action scenes we'll see in the new Ranma anime!" Additionally the cover of Sunday mentioned that a "secret Ranma 1/2 announcement is inside."
The advertisement mentions a streaming announcement on July 17th with more information. At this time there is no further information about cast, crew, premiere date or number of episodes planned, simply Takahashi's comment and a confirmation for more information coming in July.
A trickle of news had started around the time of the second to last episode of Urusei Yatsura was airing, though with no confirmation. Chinese sources had begun to share the annoucement image (likely after Shonen Sunday had been sent to the printers around June 21st). Oricon News shared an article about the then pending issue of Sunday mentioning the cover model, Hana Kikuchi, and a small inset in the corner of the cover made mention of the Ranma anime. Sunday's "next issue" page had the same imagery up of MAO and Kikuchi sans the cover, confirming the connection.
Thanks to Bling for helping to confirm these sources! Source: Websunday.net
MAO Chapter 233
Nanoka is the only one that can destroy the swelling cursed mud belonging to the Molder of Faces. When she and Mao help to save Renji, will he allow Mao to remove the Seed of Haku in his arm? Source: MAO Online
June 27th
Taiki Matsuno Passes Away
We are very saddened to share the news that seiyuu Taiki Matsuno (松野太紀) has passed away from a cerebral hemmorage at 56 years old. Matsuno is best known as for voicing Koga in Inuyasha & Hajime Kindaichi in Kindaichi Case Files as well as Agumon in Digimon, & Trebol in One Piece. Source: Aoni Productions
June 28th
Yashahime Chapter 34
With Hisui dead, Sesshomaru finds the Tenseiga unwilling to revive the boy. As Akuru, the guardian of space time watches on, Towa and Setsuna have to decide what to do next after watching their comrade killed in battle. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
June 30th
Colors Artbook Winners
Rumiko Takahashi has confirmed that the five winners of the Colors Artbook contest on Twitter have been notified and she will be working on their chosen drawings, which will be sent out in August. Source: Rumiko Takahashi's Twitter/X
July
July 1stThe 1991 Ranma 1/2 Calendar (Anime Version)
To celebrate the newly announced Ranma 1/2 anime, we thought our video this month would take a look at the anime version of the 1991 Ranma 1/2 calendar. These calendars featured all new artwork made especially for them, making them great collector's items. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
July 2nd
MAO Chapter 234
The Box of Monstrosity returns as Hyakka encounters Sasuga and the two begin to battle over who will win the powerful cursed object. Elsewhere Mei confirms Mao's warning to Renji about the dangerous side effects of the Seed of Haku inside of his body. Source: MAO Online
July 9th
MAO Chapter 235
Hyakka and Sasuga begin their battle over the Box of Monstrosity as both of their allies slowly begin to arrive. Hakubi seems able to hold his own against Mao, Kamon and Nanoka as well. Source: MAO Online
July 10th
Urusei Yatsura Blu-Ray Event
Hiroshi Kamiya and Sumire Uesaka of Urusei Yatsura gathered for a broadcast today which found Uesaka singing "Lum no Love Song" to celebrate the release of the third Blu-Ray boxset of the new anime. The footage will be collected on the just announced fourth and final set which will be released on September 25th. Source: Urusei Yatsura All-Stars Twitter
July 13th
Anime Viewership Ratings Added
We've added viewership ratings data to all of the episodes in each respective series' anime pages on the website. Additionally we have ranked the top 10 most viewed episodes of each series (Urusei Yatsura, Maison Ikkoku, Ranma 1/2, and Inuyasha). We are still looking for data on Kyokai no RINNE and the 2022 Urusei Yatsura series if anyone happens to come across that information we would greatly appreciate being able to add it to the site. Source: Rumic World
July 16th
MAO Chapter 236
Daigo joins the battle against Hakubi and Sasuga to recover the Box of Monstrosity. Sasuga initially thinks Daigo may be only slightly stronger that Nanoka, but the earth-user soon shows his true power. Source: MAO Online
July 17th
Ranma 1/2 New Cast and Artwork Announced
A live stream at 6:00 pm Tokyo time revealed artwork for the new Ranma 1/2 anime, along with a release date of October 5th (after midnight so technically October 6th) on Nippon Television and distributed by Netflix. A clear file signed by the cast will also be given away. The cast will include:
- Kappei Yamaguchi as male Ranma
- Megumi Hayashibara as female Ranma
- Noriko Hidaka as Akane
- Cho as Genma
- Kikuko Inoue as Kasumi
- Minami Takeyama as Nabiki
- Rei Sakuma as Shampoo
- Akio Otsuka as Soun
- Koichi Yamadera as Ryoga
- Kenichi Ogata as Narrator
Ranma 1/2 Cast Comments
We've translated and archived comments from Kappei Yamaguchi, Megumi Hayashibara, Noriko Hidaka and opening theme song singer Ano sharing their excitement for the new Ranma 1/2 adaptation. Source: Rumic World
July 23rd
Noriko Ohara Passes Away
It is with tremendous sadness that we share the news of Noriko Ohara (小原乃梨子)'s passing at the age of 88. Ohara-san was the voice of Oyuki in Urusei Yatsura, Nobita in Doraemon, Conan in Future Boy Conan, Doronjo in Yatterman and so many other iconic roles. Source: NHK
MAO Chapter 237
Daigo reveals his true loyalties like with Mao and Nanoka, explaining that he has been able to see them through Natsuno and learned how trustworthy they were, however Kamon is dubious. When Daigo takes his leave, he immediately goes to confront Yurako. Source: MAO Online
July 24th
Sazae-san 55th Anniversary Event
Fuji TV is holding an event to celebrate Sazae-san's 55th anniversary. Art by Rumiko Takahashi, Eiichiro Oda, Gosho Aoyama, Mitsuru Adachi, Osamu Akimoto, Riyoko Ikeda and many other mangaka was created of the famous series and is being displayed as part of the event. Source: Mezamashi Media
July 25th
1983 "Youth of Romantic Comedies" Shonen Sunday Released
A new book entitled 1983 "Youth of Romantic Comedies" Shonen Sunday is out today. The book, featuring Urusei Yatsura on the cover examines Shonen Sunday in 1983 at the height of their circulation during the romantic comedy boom. The book will feature nine selected works:
- Touch (タッチ) by Mitsuru Adachi
- Urusei Yatsura (うる星やつら) by Rumiko Takahashi
- Musashi no Ken (六三四の剣) by Motoka Murakami
- Blazing Transfer Student (炎の転校生) by Kazuhiko Shimamoto
- Sayonara Triangle (さよなら三角) by Hidenori Hara
- Gu-Gu Ganmo (ＧＵ－ＧＵガンモ) by Fujihiko Hosono
- Fireball Boy (火の玉ボーイ) by Osamu Ishiwata
- Tadaima Jugyouchuu! (ただいま授業中！) by Tsuguo Okazaki
- Futari Daka (ふたり鷹) by Kaoru Shintani
Additionally the book will feature a new interview with Kazuyoshi Tanaka, the editor-in-chief of Shonen Sunday in 1983 along with new interviews with Gosho Aoyama, Rumiko Takahashi and Mitsuru Adachi. Other features include all of Shonen Sunday's 1983 covers and an article by Kazushi Shimada. Source: Shogakukan
Noriko Hidaka and Sumi Shimamoto
We have a newly translated talk between Sumi Shimamoto (Kyoko Otonashi of Maison Ikkoku) and Noriko Hidaka (Akane of Ranma 1/2, Kikyo of Inuyasha) about their work on Takahashi anime and Mitsuru Adachi's Touch. Source: Rumic World
July 26th
Yashahime Chapter 35
The girls push on into Kirinmaru's castle and soon find themselves separated from Sesshomaru. Meidomaru steps in to battle the great demon, but Kohaku asks if Sesshomaru will allow him to avenge what the wicked demon did to Hisui in his stead. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
July 27th
Colors Artbook Contest Winners
Rumiko Takahashi's Twitter/X account ran a contest when her Colors artbook was released allowing fans to talk about their favorite illustrations. Those who were chosen got to request a character drawing from Takahashi-sensei herself. The artwork has been finished and has started to arrive. The winners were: Source: Various Twitter/X Accounts
July 30th
MAO Chapter 238
Daigo reveals his plans for Yurako, who he blames for Sana's death. Then Mao and Nanoka pursue a new lead for a bronze mirror found in the belly of a dead shark that seems to drown anyone who keeps it in their possession. Source: MAO Online
July 31st
New Species Named After Ranma
Yoshinobu Matsuhita (松島吉伸), a master's student at Hokkaido University Graduate School of Science, has discovered a new species of crustaean at the Port of Nagoya Aquarium. He named the creature Apseudes ranma, after Ranma Saotome in Ranma 1/2, due to the crustaean being hermaphroditic. Thanks to Las Series de Rumiko for passing along this news. Source: Hokudai.ac.jp
August
August 1stKyokai no RINNE Special Stage Event
On our YouTube channel this month we're sharing a fan event featuring the cast of Kyokai no RINNE. At the event was Kaito Ishikawa (Rinne), Marina Inoue (Sakura) and Ryohei Kimura (Tsubasa). Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
August 5th
Novelist Yuyuko Takemiya Discusses Urusei Yatsura
Novelist Yuyuko Takemiya (竹宮ゆゆこ) discusses her love of Urusei Yatsura in this newly translated article from "Good Life With Books". Source: Rumic World
August 6th
MAO Chapter 239
Mao and Nanoka go to investigate the bronze mirror that has been drowning anyone that possesses it and they arrive just in the nick of time to find a temple flooded by the cursed object. However Nanoka spies Shiranui watching from on high as well. Source: MAO Online
Urusei Yatsura Anime Exhibition
In Shonen Sunday this week there is an ad for an upcoming Urusei Yatsura anime exhibition in Tokyo on October 2nd. The exhibition promises a new, life-sized Lum sculpture, objects and artwork from the anime's production as well as an original video for the exhibition, "Girl Hunt with Ataru" (あたると一緒にガールハント‼/Ataru to issho ni gaaru hantto!!), which will also be the theme of the exhibition's layout. The exhibition will feature unique goods exclusive to the venue and will take place at the Matsuya Ginza on the 8th floor venue space from October 2nd to October 14th. Source: UY-All Stars & Shonen Sunday 2024 Vol. 37-38
Ranma 1/2 Manga Boxset
A new boxset of the complete 38 volumes of the Ranma 1/2 manga is being produced in Japan. The set will feature a collector's case and a new piece of artwork which will come with the boxset. The boxset will retail for 29,700 yen and will be released in February 2025. Source: Shogakukan.co.jp & Shonen Sunday 2024 Vol. 37-38
August 7th
Ranma 1/2 Anime Leaks Online Before Official Debut
A number of episodes of the brand new Ranma 1/2 anime which have yet to air have leaked online. Episodes 1 through 12 of Ranma 1/2 along with episodes 1 through 6 of Dan Da Dan (ダンダダン), the entire Gekijoban Mononoke: Karakasa (劇場版モノノ怪 唐傘) film, all episodes of Terminator Zero (ターミネーター) and the first episode of the third season of Re: Zero - Starting Life in Another World (Re：ゼロから始める異世界生活) have all new leaked to torrenting sites.
The watermarks are obscured on many of the downloads to mask the sources through which they were acquired, but some of these (such as Ranma 1/2) were set to debut at international anime events. Ranma 1/2 and Dan Da Dan will debut at Anime NYC on August 24th while Re: Zero - Starting Life in Another World's visible watermark indicates it came from a source sent to France in July for Japan Expo 2024.
It is obviously very disappointing news a number of episodes of the new Ranma 1/2 series have leaked online. Needless to say, viewing these and not financially supporting the show disincentivizes more Ranma 1/2 being made. This is a tremendous loss to MAPPA for their hard work.
Your own decisions on viewing and discussing these episodes is a personal decision. Please understand we will not be discussing or reporting on these episodes until they have been released through their legitimate channels and proper airdates.
Having waited decades for these episodes to be made, we support the hard work of the creators, voice actors and production crew seeing these air as they were intended, at the time they were made for and in the manner in which they were supposed to.
We also very much support all of these individuals receiving the financial profit they deserve for bringing something we all love to us. They deserve to reap a financial reward for their work regardless of its availability through free avenues due to this leak. Source: Anime News Network
August 10th
Further News on Ranma 1/2 Leak
Netflix and Crunchyroll both confirmed their pursuit of the responsible party after the leak of many anime before their release date. They both mention one of their post-production partners as being the source of the leak. Though neither company named the partner, Iyuno Inc. a California-based dubbing and subtitling company released a statement saying that their servers were compromised. Iyuno is not thought to be the source of the Re: Zero - Starting Life in Another World leak, which has a watermark indicating it came from Japan Expo 2024 in France. Source: CBR.com, The Wrap & Iyuno
August 14th
The Queen of Shonen Sunday is Still Alive and Well! Rumiko Takahashi's MAO
A new article by Kazuhiro Ito (伊藤和弘) about Takahashi-sensei's new series, MAO was published today and we've got the translation up. Source: Good Life with Books
August 15th
Rumic Mini - 043: The Son of Oyuki
In our latest Rumic Mini, we're looking at the family connections between the recently deceased Noriko Ohara (小原乃梨子) and her son, who has directed a number of Rumic World anime titles. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
MAO Volume 21
MAO volume 21 is in stores today. Source: MAO Online
More Ranma 1/2 Cast Comments
We've translated and archived comments from Minami Takayama, Kikuko Inoue, and the new voice of Soun, Akio Otsuka sharing their excitement for the new Ranma 1/2 adaptation. Source: Rumic World
Kaoru Wada in Concert
Kaoru Wada conducted the orchestra in his compositions from Inuyasha in "Inuyasha's Musical World" in Himeji today. Satsuki Yukino was on hand to read a monologue as well. Source: Kaoru Wada's X Account
August 20th
MAO Chapter 240
After Shiranui reveals that Masago created the cursed Mirror of the Sea Dragon, it is up to Nanoka to help set Mao free from his watery imprisonment. However, Shiranui is unwilling to part with the powerful artifact. Source: MAO Online
August 23rd
MAO Volume 21 Sales
For the week of August 12-18th MAO volume 21 debuted in the 49th position on the Oricon sales chart with a weekly total of 7,477 copies in its first two days on sale.
- My Hero Academia (僕のヒーローアカデミア) #41 (17 days on sale)
- Blue Lock (ブルーロック) #30 (3 days)
- In the Clear Moonlit Dusk (うるわしの宵の月) #8 (10 days)
- Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun (月刊少女野崎くん) #16 (10 days)
- Chainsaw Man (チェンソーマン) #18 (17 days)
- Katainaka no Ossan, Kensei ni Naru (片田舎のおっさん、剣聖になる～ただの田舎の剣術師範だったのに、大成した弟子たちが俺を放ってくれない件～) #6 (13 days)
- The Heroic Legend of Arslan (アルスラーン戦記) #21 (12 days)
- Jujutsu Kaisen #27 (呪術廻戦) (multiple weeks)
- One Piece #109 (multiple weeks)
- Oshi no Ko (【推しの子】) #15 (multiple weeks)
- MAO (マオ) #21 (2 days on sale)
August 24th
More Ranma 1/2 Cast Comments
New comments from Cho (Genma Saotome), Koichi Yamadera (Ryoga Hibiki) and Rei Sakuma (Shampoo) have been shared on the 2024 Ranma 1/2 remake site and we have translated them as the link below. Source: Rumic World
More Ranma 1/2 Episode 1 World Debut
The first episode of the new Ranma 1/2 television series will debut today at 2:30 EST at Anime NYC 2024 in New York City on the Sakura Stage. The screening will also feature trivia and a free prize for all attendees. Source: Viz
August 26th
Yashahime Chapter 36
Kohaku battles against Meidomaru as he comes to terms with his past with Naraku, while Towa, Setsuna and Moroha battle against the conjoined twins Souka and Kouka. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
August 27th
MAO Chapter 241
Mao battles against Shiranui, but much to everyone's shock and confusion, Byoki arrives to protect Nanoka when Shiranui turns his wrath against her. Witnessing this, Shiranui begins to realize what plans Byoki may have in store for Nanoka. Source: MAO Online
August 31st
MAO Volume 21 Sales
For the week of August 19-25th MAO volume 21 in its first full week of release reached the 28th position on the Oricon sales chart with a weekly total of 12,156 copies bringing its total sales to 19,633.
- The JoJoLands #4
- Real (リアル) #16
- BLUE LOCK (ブルーロック) #30
- Zatch Bell 2 (金色のガッシュ!! 2) #4
- Firefly Wedding (ホタルの嫁入り) #5
- Fundari, Kettari, Aishitari (踏んだり、蹴ったり、愛したり) #5
- My Hero Academia (僕のヒーローアカデミア) #41 (24 days)
- Tsuiraku JK to Haijin Kyoushi #20 (墜落JKと廃人教師)
- Honey Lemon Soda (ハニーレモンソーダ) #26
- Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation (無職転生 〜異世界行ったら本気だす〜) #21
- MAO (マオ) #21 (9 days on sale)
Ranma 1/2 Ending Theme
It was announced that the ending theme for the new Ranma 1/2 anime would be "Anta Nante" (あんたなんて。) by Riria (りりあ). The official ranma-pr.com site describes Riria as "a next-generation singer-songwriter with 1.3 million followers on TikTok and over 450,000 subscribers on YouTube, whose song expresses the frustrating relationship between Ranma and Akane." You can read Riria's comments about her song on the site here. Series director Konosuke Uda contributed a drawing of Akane along with his comments on the song, stating: "The feelings of Akane, who is upset by Ranma, were beautifully expressed in the song. Thank you so much.". Noriko Hidaka, the voice of Akane, added, "When I heard the lyrics "Anta Nante", I felt like crying because this is my song, my feelings have become a song... Please wait until the end of the first episode while thinking about Akane-chan for the first time in 35 years." Source: ranma-pr.com
September
September 1stA Look at the First Chapter of Ranma 1/2 in Shonen Sunday
For our YouTube channel this month, we thought we would take a look at Shonen Sunday 1987 Vol. 36 which featured the very first chapter of Ranma 1/2. Let's see what else was running at the time as well as how Shonen Sunday was selling compared to its rival magazines in 1987. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
September 3rd
MAO Chapter 242
Shiranui learns that Daigo attacked Yurako and branded her throat with a powerful curse. Using the brand, Daigo reveals to Mao and Kamon that he can track Yurako and discover Shiranui's secret hideout. Source: MAO Online
September 4th
The History of Animage's Anime Grand Prix
We've posted two articles compiling Animage magazine's annual Anime Grand Prix rankings for Best Male Characters and Best Female Characters from 1979 to present. We hope that the articles will be of use to multiple fandoms of within the anime community, as well as to Rumiko Takahashi fans in particular to show her place in the history of anime. Source: Rumic World
September 5th
Rumiko Takahashi Judges 12th Seinen Manga Award
Rumiko Takahashi is judging Big Comic and Big Comic Original's 12th Seinen Manga Award. Takahashi-sensei's comment states: "I usually work in shonen magazines, so this is my first time judging a manga for seinen magazine. However, I think the basic principle of manga is the same: 'Communicate the story in your head to the reader in an entertaining way.' On top of that, I'm really looking forward to seeing what kind of characters, ages, situations, and other things that everyone aiming to create seinen manga will show us. Please draw whatever you want to draw, however you like. "Liking" is also important. We look forward to seeing your manga." Submissions will open for the award on November 30th. Source: Big Comic Bros
Shogakukan Thanksgiving
Rumiko Takahashi participated in a live drawing event which was broadcast on Youtube today while attending the Shogakukan Thanksgiving Party (本日小学館の謝恩会). Others who took part include Tsubasa Fukuchi, Yellow Tanabe, Kazuhiro Fujita, Hiroyuki Nishimori, Katsutoshi Kawai and Kazuhiko Shimamoto. The illustration board will be displayed on September 8th at the Sunday Cultural Festival. Source: Shonen Sunday Twitter
September 7th
More Ranma 1/2 Cast Comments
There are new casting announcements for a number of actors from the 2024 Ranma 1/2 anime adaptation. Tomokazu Sugita (Renkotsu from Inuyasha) will play Kuno. Ayane Sakura as Kodachi. Toshiyuki Morikawa (Naraku from Inuyasha) will play Dr. Tofu. Mikado will be voiced by Mamoru Miyano (Mendo from Urusei Yatsura 2022) and Aoi Yuki (Ten from Urusei Yatsura 2022) will play Azusa. You can read the comments from the actors about their casting and excitement for the new series at the link below. Source: Rumic World
September 10th
MAO Chapter 243
Leaving Nanoka and Hyakka behind, Mao, Kamon and Daigo set off to Shiranui's watery shrine in hopes of attack him while he is caught unaware. As soon as the battle begins, Daigo reveals himself to be a shockingly aggressive opponent in the attempt to rescue Masago's corpse. Source: MAO Online
September 15th
Rumic Mini - 044: The Real Tako Hachiro
In our latest Rumic Mini, we're taking a look at the boxer turned comedian, Tako Hachiro (たこ八郎), that inspired the name for One Pound Gospel's Mexican boxer. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
September 17th
MAO Chapter 244
Daigo prepares to face off against Shiranui, who reveals he has kept the Goko Clan's treasure house in his oceanic temple. Meanwhile Mao and Kamon chase after Shiranui's dragon that is fleeing with Masago in its clutches. Source: MAO Online
September 19th
Shinya Arino Named Official Urusei Yatsura Supporter
Shinya Arino (有野晋哉) of the comedy duo "Yoiko" and the host of Game Center CX will be the host of an Urusei Yatsura event taking place on September 22nd and will air at 1:55 AM (Japan time). The tweet states that Arino is a big fan of Lum and Urusei Yatsura. Source: Urusei Yatsura Official Twitter
September 21st
Iinazukkyun Single by ano Release Date
Ranma 1/2's opening theme song "Iinazukkyun" (許婚っきゅん) by ano will be released as a single on October 9th. The release will feature a limited edition cover drawn by Mappa studios featuring the cast of the anime standing with an animated version of ano. Source: Ranma-PR.com
September 22nd
TV Guide Voice Stars Vol. 9
Kappei Yamaguchi and Noriko Hidaka are doing a special photoshoot for TV Guide Voice Stars magazine volume 9, which is on store shelves now. The duo are promoting the debut of the new Ranma 1/2 anime 35 years after the debut of the original series. Source: @TV Guide PERSON
September 24th
MAO Chapter 245
Kamon struggles to reclaim Masago from Shiranui as Mao battles against his old rival on the surface of the ocean. However Daigo decides to linger and search the remains of the treasure house in hopes of finding an artifact from the Heian period. Source: MAO Online
Yashahime Chapter 37
Sesshomaru and Kirinmaru face off, with the powerful demon under the control of the Grim Comet, Kirinmaru reveals that he plans to travel 500 years into the future, to the 21st century where Towa was raised. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
September 25th
Uchuu wa Taihen Da! Single Released
A brand new cover of the classic Urusei Yatsura theme song featuring voice actors from the anime remake hits stores today. Source: Tomobiki-cho
October
October 1stMAO Chapter 246
Daigo slips away without Mao realizing he has the Spear of Taima in his possession, while Nanoka and Hyakka investigate the latest assassination attempt engineered by Soma. It seems Soma's failures have started to make him seem unreliable to Hakubi who expects results. Source: MAO Online
Shinya Arino Meets Sumire Uesaka
At today’s opening of the "Urusei Yatsura TV Anime Exhibition" in Matsuya Ginza, comedian and Game Center CX (ゲームセンターCX) host Shinya Arino met Sumire Uesaka, the voice of Lum in the new version of Urusei Yatsura. When asked about the appeal of Urusei Yatsura, Uesaka said, "I'm not from the generation that watched it in real time, but I saw a re-run when I was a student. I was fascinated by how cute the characters were. I think that the excitement has been preserved in the anime, packed with new animation and love for the original work. They've done a good job of showing the episodes that I wanted to see in the anime, like the original 'Boy Meets Girl' story. I'm happy as a viewer, and I think it was a work that gave me a sense of purpose as a cast member."
She also shared her memory of meeting Rumiko Takahashi. "When recording was about to begin, Rumiko Takahashi-sensei hosted a dinner party for me. I was so nervous... I ended up drinking about a bottle and a half of wine," Uesaka revealed with a shy laugh. Arino was surprised and asked, "What? You drink when you're nervous?" Uesaka recalled with a wry smile, "I thought I'd be able to talk well if I had a few! But I was still nervous," but she also expressed her gratitude, saying, "She was so kind! She told me, 'I'm looking forward to Urusei Yatsura."
Arino introduced Ataru as "a high school student who loves women like no other". I can't say that nowadays (laughs). I started to think that I want to be an amorous guy like that", and he made everyone laugh.
In addition, Arino's favorite line, "Darling, I won't forgive cheating!" was also performed live, and Arino said with a smile, "I was shocked." Uesaka then added, "Arino, I won't forgive cheating!" to which Arino was delighted, saying, "I will never cheat on you! Great Lum!"
Urusei Yatsura is based on a manga by Rumiko Takahashi. It began serialization in Weekly Shonen Sunday in 1978, and became an anime series on Fuji TV in 1981, becoming popular across generations as one of Japan's leading sci-fi romantic comedies. This exhibition will introduce the world of the TV anime Urusei Yatsura in a three-dimensional way.
The exhibition will run from tomorrow, the 2nd, until the 14th at the same location. Source: Oricon
October 2nd
Ranma 1/2 1990 Calendar
For our YouTube channel this month, we wanted to share the 1990 Ranma 1/2 calendar which features original color manga artwork made especially for this release. We thought everyone would enjoy it with the impending debut of the new anime this weekend. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
October 4th
TV Guide Voice Stars with Kappei Yamaguchi and Noriko Hidaka
We've got a translation of the brand new interview with Kappei Yamaguchi (Ranma) and Noriko Hidaka (Akane) about their return to the series they first worked on in 1989. They share how much the series means to them and their hopes for being able to see the series through to its conclusion. Source: Rumic World
October 5th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 1
Ranma 1/2 (2024) debuts with the arrival of Ranma and her father Genma Saotome to at the Tendo Dojo. Much to everyone's surprise Ranma is a girl and supposed to be engaged to one of the there Tendo daughters, Kasumi, Nabiki or Akane. However Ranma and Genma harbor a secret curse brought on during their recent training trip to China. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
Anta Nante. Single by Riria Release Date
Ranma 1/2's ending theme song "Anta Nante." (あんたなんて。) by Riria will be released as a single on October 13th. The release will feature a cover drawn by Minami Kitamura. A physical single release will hit stores on November 6th featuring a cover of "Anta Nante." by Noriko Hidaka (Akane Tendo). Source: Ranma-PR Twitter
October 8th
MAO Chapter 247
Nanoka and Hyakka arrive just in time to stop Soma's latest assassination attempt, but soon make a shocking discovery about just how corrupted Soma has become. Mao returns from his sea excursion with Kamon and is relieved to find Nanoka safe and sound. Source: MAO Online
October 9th
The Complete Rumic Anime Grand Poll
To celebrate Rumiko Takahashi's birthday, we have translated results of the Complete Rumic Anime Grand Poll, a poll conducted by NHK and aired as a television special on the works of Rumiko Takahashi. The data collected shows the world's favorite series, characters, episodes and songs from all of Rumiko Takahashi's anime projects. Source: Rumic World
Iinazukkyun Single by ano Release Date
Ranma 1/2's opening theme song "Iinazukkyun" (許婚っきゅん) by ano is available in stores today. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
October 10th
Ranma 1/2 Event at Ueno Station
To honor the panda theme at the Ueno Station (the nearest station to Ueno Zoo), the station will feature various Ranma 1/2 characters around the station between October 15th and October 31st. A special video will be shown on the 100 meter screen on platform 13 between 8:00 am through 11:00 pm. An additional panda Genma video will be shown as well on screens on the third floor park exit as well as imagery on the elevator walls. Plus a new message will be recorded by Kappei Yamaguchi that will play in the station as well. Source: Ranma-PR.com
More Ranma 1/2 Cast Comments
It has been annouced that an anime-only character, Ichiro, a member of the Furinkan High broadcast club will be commentating some of the matches that take place at the school and he will be played by Tomokazu Seki. Seki has released new comments on the project which we have translated at the link below. Source: Rumic World
Gift From Editorial Department
Rumiko Takahashi's Twitter account mentions that the editorial department bought her Kenshi Yonezu's album "Lost Corner" this year. Source: Rumic World
October 12th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 2
Ranma has his first day at school at Furinkan High and watches as Akane squares off against a hoard of boys trying to date her. He then meets Tatewaki Kuno, the head of the kendo club who is in love with Akane, but soon is smitten by the Pig-Tailed Girl as well. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
October 13th
Global Manga Sales Surpasses 230 Million
In an article about the second episode of Ranma 1/2 it is mentioned that Takahashi's global manga sales have surpassed 230 million. The previously reported sales milestone was 200 million in 2017 which was reached during the publication of Kyokai no RINNE volume 17. Source: PR Times.jp
Ranma 1/2 Netflix Ratings
For the week of October 7th-12th Ranma 1/2 was viewed 1.9 million hours in its first week of release and was viewed 2.5 million times. The top ten non-English television shows on Netflix are:
- Deceitful Love: Limited Series 1 Week in Top 10
- DAN DA DAN 1 Week in Top 10
- The Secret of the River: Season 1 1 Week in Top 10
- Culinary Class Wars: Season 1 4 Weeks in Top 10
- Ranma 1/2: Season 1 1 Week in Top 10
- Love Next Door: Limited Series 9 Weeks in Top 10
- Gyeongseong Creature: Season 1 3 Weeks in Top 10
- Love is Blind, Habibi: Season 1 1 Week in Top 10
- Envious: Season 1 4 Weeks in Top 10
- The Great Indian Kapil Show: Season 2 4 Weeks in Top 10
October 15th
MAO Chapter 248
Nanoka and Ayame team up to investigate a cursed, beastial woman who is actually a trap set by Kagari and Soma to lure Nanoka out on her own. With Mao occupied elsewhere, Nanoka gets cornered by Soma. Source: MAO Online
October 19th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 3
Nabiki decides to make some extra money by selling photographs of Ranma and Akane to Kuno, and after Ranma gets injured he pays a visit to Dr. Tofu where he discovers that Akane has a rival for the doctor's affections- her sister Kasumi. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
October 20th
Ranma 1/2 Netflix Ratings
For the week of October 14th-20th Ranma 1/2 was viewed 1.8 million hours in its second week of release and was viewed 1.5 million times. The top ten non-English television shows on Netflix are:
- Deceitful Love: Limited Series 2 Weeks in Top 10
- The Secret of the River: Season 1 2 Week in Top 10
- DAN DA DAN 2 Weeks in Top 10
- Culinary Class Wars: Season 1 5 Weeks in Top 10
- A Virtuous Business: Limited Series 1 Week in Top 10
- Love is Blind, Habibi: Season 1 2 Weeks in Top 10
- Love Next Door: Limited Series 10 Weeks in Top 10
- Ranma 1/2: Season 1 2 Week in Top 10
- The Envoys: Season 1 1 Week in Top 10
- Gyeongseong Creature: Season 1 4 Weeks in Top 10
October 21st
Interview with Singer ano
ano, the opening theme song singer for Ranma 1/2 sat down with Shonen Sunday to discuss her new song, fashion, and what she would turn into if she fell into a cursed Jusenkyo spring. You can find our translation at the link below. Source: Shonen Sunday 2024 Vol. 47
October 22nd
MAO Chapter 249
Nanoka and Soma begin to battle against one another, but when the boy insults the memory of Natsuno, Nanoka lashes out. It seems that Soma has grown greatly in power, but Nanoka has powerful secrets that he is unaware of. Source: MAO Online
October 25th
Rumiko Takahashi in DaVinci Translated
We have a translation of Rumiko Takahashi's brand new interview with DaVinci magazine up on the site. In it Takahashi-sensei discusses the new Ranma 1/2 series, her excitement about the original cast returning, her future plans at Big Comic Original and a great deal about writing Ranma 1/2. We also have the DaVinci interviews with Kappei Yamaguchi and Noriko Hidaka, Megumi Hayashibara, Koichi Yamadera and Rei Sakuma translated as well as director Konosuke Uda and producer Hiroya Hasegawa. Source: Rumic World
Yashahime Chapter 38
With Riku under Kirinmaru's control, the time portal back to the present reopens, and the girls have no choice buy to pursue their former ally to the present day before he gains control over time and space. Towa, Setsuna and Moroha return to the Higurashi Shrine as Sesshomaru battles Kirinmaru. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
October 26th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 4
Ranma's old rival Ryoga Hibiki arrives, seeking revenge against Ranma. When their battle begins Akane tries her best to help Ranma, but accidentally gets too close to the fight between Ranma and Ryoga with terrible consequences. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
October 27th
Singer Matthew Sweet Hospitalized
Canadian singer-songwriter Matthew Sweet, known in the early days of anime's boom period on American shores as "The Highest Profile Otaku in the World" has been hospitalized after suffering a stroke. The artist's management team has announced a GoFundMe page to raise money for Sweet's medical costs. Amongst Western anime fans, Sweet was known for his music video "I've Been Waiting" featuring Lum and numerous clips from Urusei Yatsura as well as "Girlfriend" which used clips from Space Adventure Cobra. Sweet was such a fan of Urusei Yatsura that he had a tattoo of Lum on his arm. Source: Anime News Network
Seiyuu Completes Collection
Fresh off playing Rupa in Urusei Yatsura, seiyuu Yuichi Nakamura has announced that he has finished collecting every single Super Famicom game in their original boxes. He announced on his Youtube page that the collection is over 1,400 games in total. Source: Anime News Network
Ranma 1/2 Netflix Ratings
For the week of October 21th-27th Ranma 1/2 was viewed 2.1 million hours in its third week of release and was viewed 1.4 million times. The top ten non-English television shows on Netflix are:
- Deceitful Love: Limited Series 3 Weeks in Top 10
- Dragon Ball DAIMA: Season 1 1 Week in Top 10
- DAN DA DAN 3 Weeks in Top 10
- The Secret of the River: Season 1 3 Weeks in Top 10
- Hellbound: Season 2 1 Week in Top 10
- Ranma 1/2: Season 1 3 Week in Top 10
- Culinary Class Wars: Season 1 6 Weeks in Top 10
- A Virtuous Business: Limited Series 2 Week in Top 10
- Love Next Door: Limited Series 11 Weeks in Top 10
- The Envoys: Season 1 2 Weeks in Top 10
October 29th
MAO Chapter 250
Nanoka remembers the advice of Natsuno and redoubles her efforts to fight back against Soma, however the boy has grown hateful and bloodthirsty and seems unwilling to surrender, even when Nanoka has him trapped. Source: MAO Online
November
November 1stToday's Mail From Japan Vol. 13
For our YouTube channel this month, we are looking at some items we have recently received in the mail from Japan, including the last Urusei Yatsura color pages and two issues of Shogaku Sannensei with MOON the Great Pet King. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
November 2nd
Ranma 1/2 Episode 5
Akane comes to terms with her shocking hair cut while Ryoga returns to the Tendo Dojo to attack Ranma, revealing that he too visited Jusenkyo and fell into one of the cursed springs. However, thanks to Akane's kindness, Ryoga's curse may not be as awful as he believed. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
November 4th
Kazuo Umezu (1936-2024)
Profoundly sad to report that prolific mangaka Kazuo Umezu (楳図かずお) passed away on October 28th. Umezu published alongside Rumiko Takahashi in both Shonen Sunday and Big Comic Spirits, and Takahashi briefly worked as an assistant to him for three days before she began Urusei Yatsura. For more of Takahashi's memories of Umezu, please see our translation of her 2019 Big Comic Spirits related interview at the link below. Kazuo Umezu was 88. Source: Rumic World
November 5th
MAO Chapter 251
Nanoka manages to absorb the malice of Soma's beast, but the boy violently punches her, leaving her in rough condition. He flees the battlefield after Nanoka's success, but Mao realizes the boy may be beyond forgiveness. Source: MAO Online
November 6th
Interview with Konosuke Uda and Hiroya Hasegawa
We have translated a brand new interview from DaVinci magazine with Konosuke Uda and Hiroya Hasegawa, the director and producer of the 2024 adaptation of Ranma 1/2. The duo discuss hiring the original cast and their approach to adapting the manga series. Source: Rumic World
Anta Nante. Single
The first ending theme to the 2024 adaptation of Ranma 1/2 was released today. Anta Nante is performed by Riria. The digital single was released on October 13th, but today's release is the physical release. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
November 9th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 6
Kodachi arrives and promptly finds herself in conflict with both Akane and female Ranma. However when male Ranma saves her from falling off the roof, she immediately falls in love with him. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
November 10th
Interview with Ayane Sakura
Following Kodachi's debut in the anime yesterday, we've translated a brand new interview with Ayane Sakura, the voice actress of the rhythmic gymnast herself. She discusses taking on the role from Saeko Shimazu and the nervousness she felt to work alongside so many veteran voice actors. Source: Mantan Web
November 12th
MAO Chapter 252
While Nanoka recovers, Mao and Hyakka investigate a rat-faced killer who is somehow connected to Soma. While Hakubi initially seems to have lost faith in his protégé, the creation of an iron rat curse seems to intrigue him. Source: MAO Online
November 16th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 7
Ranma and Kodachi begin their battle at St. Hebereke with Kodachi promising to give up her love for (male) Ranma should she lose, however she's willing to use every dirty trick in the book to ensure she comes out victorious. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
November 18th
MAO Volume 22
MAO volume 22 is in stores today. Source: MAO Online
Yashahime Volume 8
Yashahime volume 8 is in stores today. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
November 19th
MAO Chapter 253
Mao and Hyakka find themselves in the Garden of Longevity facing off against a still injured Soma. When Sasuga and Hakubi join the battle, Hakubi teleports Soma to safety, or so he believes... Source: MAO Online
November 22nd
Rumiko Takahashi and Gender
We're sharing a translation of writer Yuki Hanioka's recent Nippon.com article discussing gender in the works of Rumiko Takahashi. The article offers a fascinating insight into the characters throughout most all of Takahashi-sensei's works from a Japanese perspective. Source: Rumic World
November 23rd
Ranma 1/2 Episode 8
A day at the skating rink turns sour when Azusa Shiratori kidnaps P-chan and Mikado Sanzenin kisses Ranma, out for revenge, Akane and Ranma decide to pair up, but Ryoga wants a to get involved against the Golden Pair as well. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
November 25th
Yashahime Chapter 39
The girls return to the present and try to adjust to a life of luxury and ease compared to the hard days struggling in the feudal era. Towa admits to her family that she feels she belongs in the past and has purpose there while Moroha gets to know Kagome's family. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
MAO Volume 22 Sales & Yashahime Volume 8 Sales
For the week of November 18th-24th MAO volume 22 debuted in 25th position on the Oricon sales chart with a weekly total of 17,569 copies while Yashahime volume 8 debuted in 47th place with a total of 10,319 copies sold.
- A Bride's Story (乙嫁語り) #15
- Chikawa (ちいかわ) #7
- Record of Ragnarok (終末のワルキューレ) #23
- My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 (山田くんとLv999の恋をする) #10
- Chikawa Limited Edition (ちいかわ) #7
- One Piece #110
- Oni wa Hanayome (鬼の花嫁) #6
- Land of the Lustrous Limited Edition (宝石の国) #13
- Blue Period (ブルーピリオド) #16
- Land of the Lustrous (宝石の国) #13
- MAO (マオ) #22
- Yashahime (半妖の夜叉姫) #8
November 26th
MAO Chapter 254
Daigo arrives to confront Soma, telling the boy that he remembers being decapitated despite his trance-like state. Soma is shocked to see that Daigo is still alive. Meanwhile Mao and Hyakka take on Sasuga and Hakubi as Mao severely wounds the solider. Source: MAO Online
November 27th
Inuyasha Added to School Manga Ban in Tennessee
Two Tennessee school districts (Rutherford County & Wilson County) have removed a combined list of over 150 titles from school libraries. Affected manga include Inuyasha as well as other Shonen Sunday series Detective Conan/Case Closed, and other popular works including Attack on Titan, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Akira, Fist of the North Star, Hunter x Hunter, and Alice 19th. The Age-Appropriate Materials Act of 2022 definition of obscentity was expanded on July 1, 2024 to include: any material "containing nudity or describes or depicts sexual excitement, sexual conduct, excess violence or sadomasochistic abuse." Source: Anime News Network
November 30th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 9
The battle heats up as Ranma and Akane's relationship is put to the test against the Golden Pair's ultimate technique, a move designed to ruin the trust skating pairs have in one another. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
December
December 1st1994 Ranma 1/2 Calendar
This month we're looking at the original artwork that appeared on the 1994 Ranma 1/2 Calendar. As we've mentioned in the past, these calendars are filled with original anime and manga artwork that is rarely ever reprinted elsewhere. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
December 2nd
Pachislot Inuyasha 2 Release
A new pachislot game "Pachislot Inuyasha 2" (パチスロ犬夜叉 2) is being released today from Cross Alpha. The game features songs from the anime as well as some new music written for the game as well. Source: P-Town.dmm.com
December 3rd
MAO Chapter 255
Mao and Hyakka turn the tide against Hakubi and Sasuga, but soon find themselves ejected from battle. Soma is at a loss for what he should do, and Kamon finds a clue he hopes may lead him to Masago. Source: MAO Online
December 4th
Kappei Yamaguchi and Noriko Hidaka in DaVinci
The two leads in Ranma 1/2 discuss with DaVinci magazine their hopes that the new series will animate the ending of the series, how their characterizations have changed over the decades and discussion of their fellow voice actors' portrayal of the classic characters. Source: Rumic World
December 7th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 10
The battle against the Golden Pair draws to a close, but just when Ranma thinks he has solved all his problems, a girl from China named Shampoo arrives to make his life even more complicated. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
December 9th
Chinese in Manga: Ranma 1/2's Shampoo and Dialect
The two leads in Ranma 1/2 discuss with DaVinci magazine their hopes that the new series will animate the ending of the series, how their characterizations have changed over the decades and discussion of their fellow voice actors' portrayal of the classic characters. Source: Rumic World
December 10th
MAO Chapter 256
While searching for Masago, Kamon crosses paths with Shiranui who has laid a trap to get revenge. It seems he is seeking the Spear of Taima, a weapon that was stolen by Daigo and could spell death for both Byoki and Mao. Source: MAO Online
Kaoru Wada in Newtype
The newest issue of Newtype has some original Ranma 1/2 promotional artwork along with an interview with Kaoru Wada who discusses the process of writing music for the new adaptation of Ranma 1/2. Source: Newtype January 2025
December 13th
Takahashi Talks Sci-Fi
We have translated an essary written by Rumiko Takahashi in 1980 for Starlog magazine about her thoughts on what makes good science fiction and her thoughts on "mobs/crowds" in sci-fi. Source: Rumic World
December 14th
Ranma 1/2 Episode 11
Shampoo falls in love with male Ranma, prompting many jealous fits from Akane who tells Ranma that the two fo them are no longer engaged. When Shampoo gets angry with Akane, she gives her the Kiss of Death and Ranma finds Akane unconscious in a field with no memory of who he is. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
December 19th
Koichi Yamadera Interview
The voice of Ryoga discusses the new Ranma 1/2 series along with his experiences from the original 1989 show, plus his thoughts on Ryoga's personality and his approach to playing him in our newly translated interview from DaVinci. Source: Rumic World
December 21st
Ranma 1/2 Cour 2 Announced
Ranma 1/2 Season/Cour 2 "season 2" (traditionally "cour 2", but most Japanese outlets are using the "season" term" in their announcement) has been announced by both Rumiko Takahashi and the official Ranma 1/2 anime's official Twitter. No date for the debut was given, only confirmation that it would happen. The official account shared a drawing by character designer Hiromi Taniguchi. Source: Ranma 1/2 Anime Twitter & Rumiko Takahashi's Official Twitter
Ranma 1/2 Episode 12
Ranma sets out to try and restore Akane's memory of him, but Shampoo makes him promise to nearly kill female Ranma. Ryoga is reluctant to help Akane remember Ranma, and Dr. Tofu tries his best to help as well. Source: Ranma 1/2 Perfect Edition
December 23rd
Rei Sakuma Interview
We've translated the interview from DaVinci magazine with the voice of Shampoo, Rei Sakuma, who expresses her surprise that Shampoo is a popular character and shares he thoughts on how Shampoo will be portrayed in the 2024 anime adaptation. Source: Rumic World
December 24th
MAO Chapter 257
Shiranui recalls how he found out about Masago being summoned to the Five-Colored Temple as he and Kamon battle one another in the whirlpool at sea. Kamon soon realizes that as long as Shiranui has Masago's corpse, he will never be able to kill him or risk losing her forever. Source: MAO Online
Yashahime Chapter 40
In the present, Riku sends the root head demon to capture Sota, Moe and Mei in order to force Towa to come confront him alone, while in the past Rin meets with the spirit of the Tree of Ages in order to attain an object that can help Kagome send her powers to help the girls in the future. Source: The Inuyasha Companion
December 27th
Takahashi Talks Ashita no Joe
To celebrate the English language release of Asao Takamori and Tetsuya Chiba's Ashita no Joe, we have translated a 2011 interview with Rumiko Takahashi discussing the influence of Tetsuya Chiba and the iconic boxing manga. Source: Rumic World
Readers Rate Ranma 1/2 as Best Anime of 2024
Readers of AnimeAnime.jp have ranked their top three best anime of 2024 with Ranma 1/2 coming in at number 1. Rounding out the other slots are The Demon Prince of Momochi House (百千さん家のあやかし王子) in second place and My Hero Academia (僕のヒーローアカデミア) in third place. Source: AnimeAnime.jp
December 31st
Rumic World 2024 Year in Review
This month we're looking at the original artwork that appeared on the 1994 Ranma 1/2 Calendar. As we've mentioned in the past, these calendars are filled with original anime and manga artwork that is rarely ever reprinted elsewhere. Source: Rumic World YouTube Channel
Readers Rate Ranma 1/2 as Best Anime of 2024
Readers of AnimeAnime.jp have ranked their top three best anime of 2024 with Ranma 1/2 coming in at number 1. Rounding out the other slots are The Demon Prince of Momochi House (百千さん家のあやかし王子) in second place and My Hero Academia (僕のヒーローアカデミア) in third place. Source: AnimeAnime.jp