A shimmering pole, a mysterious infant, and a world where music, magic, and virtual realities collide—Cosmic Princess Kaguya! invites viewers into a bold reimagining of Japan’s oldest folktale. Directed by Shingo Yamashita, making his feature-length debut, the anime promises a stunning fusion of folklore, fantasy, and cutting-edge animation.
Fans of his work on Jujutsu Kaisen, Chainsaw Man, and Urusei Yatsura already know the visuals will be immaculate, but this story goes beyond spectacle—it’s a tale of friendship, identity, and destiny, told across the virtual landscapes of Tsukuyomi.
Cosmic Princess Kaguya Release Date
Netflix has confirmed the Cosmic Princess Kaguya release date: January 22, 2026, when viewers worldwide can stream the film. Anime fans can finally step into Tsukuyomi and follow the journey of Kaguya and Iroha as they navigate music, magic, and the mysteries of the moon.
This original film combines Yamashita’s signature dynamic 3D camera work and polished animation with a story inspired by The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, modernized for a new generation.
Plot Overview: From Tokyo Streets to Tsukuyomi
Seventeen-year-old Iroha Sakayori struggles to balance academics and part-time work in Tokyo. Her escape comes in the form of Tsukuyomi, a virtual space run by the enigmatic streamer Yachiyo Runami. Here, creativity flourishes, and users live lives they can’t in the real world.
One day, Iroha encounters a glowing telephone pole—and from it emerges an infant destined to become Princess Kaguya. Rapidly growing into a girl her own age, Kaguya brings both charm and mischief into Iroha’s life. Together, they launch Kaguya’s streaming career in Tsukuyomi, with Iroha as producer and songwriter, and Kaguya as singer and performer. But lurking in the shadows are forces intent on returning Kaguya to her lunar origins, turning their creative partnership into a race against destiny.
The story combines themes of friendship, self-discovery, and music-driven magic, with Kaguya singing originals such as “Watashiha Watashinokotoga Suki” (“I like who I am”) and the main theme “Ex-Otogibanashi”, composed by ryo (supercell).
Cast & Animation Team
The voice cast features:
- Yuko Natsuyoshi as Kaguya
- Anna Nagase as Iroha
- Saori Hayami as Yachiyo
Animation is produced by Studio Colorido in collaboration with Studio Chromato, with character designs by Hechima (The Idolmaster Gakuen) and Akihiro Nagae (Drifting Home). Fans can expect polished visuals, emotive pacing, and dynamic 3D sequences that reflect Yamashita’s celebrated style.
The soundtrack features top-tier Vocaloid producers including ryo (supercell), kz (livetune), 40mP, HoneyWorks, Aqu3ra, and yuigot—ensuring the music carries as much narrative weight as the visuals.
Official Trailer
Get a glimpse of the film’s dazzling visuals and musical spectacle:
The trailer showcases Kaguya’s charm, the immersive Tsukuyomi world, and the sweeping visual style that Yamashita has become known for. Fans are already speculating about the story’s twists, the creative use of music, and how this fresh adaptation will reinterpret the classic folktale.
Fan Reactions: Hype Across the Community
Anime enthusiasts are already buzzing online. One Reddit user noted,
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From social media to anime forums, discussions center on Yamashita’s direction, the film’s music-heavy storytelling, and how the classic tale has been modernized with virtual-world elements. The excitement is palpable as the release date approaches.
FAQ: Cosmic Princess Kaguya Essentials
When is the Cosmic Princess Kaguya release date?
January 22, 2026, exclusively on Netflix.
Is this connected to Studio Ghibli’s Princess Kaguya film?
No, it’s a completely original take inspired by The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter.
Who is directing the film?
Shingo Yamashita, making his feature-length debut.
What is Tsukuyomi?
A virtual world where users can explore creativity, pursue streaming careers, and live alternate lives.
Who is in the voice cast?
Yuko Natsuyoshi (Kaguya), Anna Nagase (Iroha), and Saori Hayami (Yachiyo).
Final Thoughts: A Celestial Anime Adventure
With its Cosmic Princess Kaguya release date set for January 22, 2026, anime fans are in for a stunning audiovisual experience. This film blends folklore, music, and cutting-edge animation to tell a story of friendship, identity, and destiny.
Whether you’re drawn by Yamashita’s signature animation style, the modern reinterpretation of a classic folktale, or the mesmerizing soundtrack, this film promises a journey that’s as emotional as it is visually spectacular. Prepare to be whisked away into Tsukuyomi and experience Kaguya’s cosmic adventure—one that will linger long after the credits roll.
