Takahashi Returns: MAO Anime Brings Supernatural Taishō Thriller in 2026

Fans of Rumiko Takahashi rejoice, her latest manga, MAO, is finally headed to the screen. Announced in July 2025, Sunrise Studios is adapting the ongoing series into a television anime set to premiere on NHK General TV in spring 2026.

Serialized in Weekly Shōnen Sunday since May 2019, MAO has steadily gained popularity; as of May 2025, it has reached 24 volumes, with more on the way. The story weaves time travel, supernatural investigation, and teenage drama. After a childhood accident, Nanoka Kiba unexpectedly travels back to the Taishō era, where she meets Mao, a centuries‑old onmyōji cursed by a demon cat.

Together, they unravel paranormal mysteries linked to her past while battling demons and uncovering hidden connections.

The production team reunites long-time Takahashi collaborators: Teruo Satō (Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon) directs, Yūko Kakihara handles series scripts, and Yoshihito Hishinuma leads character design and chief animation, roles echoing those in prior adaptations like Inuyasha.

The voice cast is equally impressive: Yūki Kaji voices Mao, Natsumi Kawaida plays Nanoka, Hiro Shimono portrays Hyakka, and Toshiyuki Toyonaga takes on Kamon. Their casting was announced alongside the first official teaser and visuals, generating buzz across the anime community.

In Spain, the manga is already available through Planeta Cómics, with eight volumes released to date, providing local fans with early access while they wait for the anime. For Takahashi, whose works have sold over 230 million copies globally, this marks the final major manga awaiting adaptation, completing a full circle from Urusei Yatsura to MAO.

With its blend of historical fantasy, mystery, and emotional stakes, MAO is shaping up to be a defining work of her storied career. Anticipation is high: this spring, prepare to step into a world where curses linger and time bends.