🌀Shabake (2025): Cast, Plot, Release Date, Review & Where to Watch – Edo’s Mysteries, Spirits, and Murder Unfold on Crunchyroll

This October, the supernatural and the historical collide as Shabake finally makes its full anime debut. Based on Megumi Hatanaka’s beloved historical fantasy novel series, Shabake takes viewers into Edo-period Japan where spirits walk among men and murder lurks in the shadows. Produced by Bandai Namco Pictures, the anime premieres October 3, 2025, on Fuji TV’s Noitamina block and will stream worldwide on Crunchyroll.

At the center of this tale is Ichitaro, heir to the great Nagasakiya store, whose fragile health keeps him bound indoors—until one night he steps into the streets of Edo and witnesses a murder that will change his destiny forever. With the aid of loyal spirit companions, Ichitaro’s hunt for a deadly culprit begins.

📖 From Page to Anime – The Journey of Shabake

First published in 2001, Shabake (しゃばけ) has captivated Japanese readers for over two decades with 23 volumes, blending historical mystery with spiritual folklore. Its universe expanded with a manga adaptation (2017–2023) and even a short 3-minute ONA in 2021, celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Now, in 2025, fans worldwide will finally see the series come alive with rich animation, haunting atmosphere, and a mystery that intertwines human lives with yokai spirits.

🎬 Plot – Edo’s Deadly Shadows

Ichitaro, though young and frail, is never alone. By his side are protective spirit companions like the Hakutaku and the Inugami. But when he witnesses a murder in Edo, strange killings spread across the city.

What begins as one crime soon reveals a pattern of supernatural darkness—one that will test Ichitaro’s courage, his bond with spirits, and his ability to unravel the truth hidden in the heart of Edo.

As Ichitaro remarks: “Even the weak can stand tall—when the spirits walk beside them.”

⭐ Main Cast & Characters

• Ichitaro (Daiki Yamashita) – the fragile young master with a strong spirit.

• Nikichi (Kōji Okino) – loyal protector, fierce yet kind.

• Sasuke (Taku Yashiro) – ever-watchful companion.

• Nozoki Byōbu (Daisuke Namikawa) – the eerie byōbu spirit with hidden motives.

• Matsunosuke (Seiichiro Yamashita) – human ally of Ichitaro.

• Oharu (Shion Wakayama) – bringing heart to the story.

• Suzuhiko-hime (Akira Sekine) – a mystical presence from beyond.

• Plus more spirits and allies, each adding depth to Edo’s supernatural world.

Behind the magic:

• Director: Takahiro Ōkawa

• Series Composition: Touko Machida

• Character Designs: Akari Minagawa

• Music: Rei Ishizuka

• Opening Theme: “Inochi no Parade” by Kujira

• Ending Theme: “Myaku-Myaku” by KAFUNÉ

🔮 What Makes Shabake Stand Out?

Unlike other historical anime, Shabake isn’t just about politics or swords—it’s about the invisible bonds between humans and spirits. It blends:

• Mystery & Murder – a case that spreads through Edo like a curse.

• Folklore & Fantasy – yokai and spirits woven into daily life.

• Human Fragility vs. Spiritual Strength – Ichitaro’s weakness contrasts with his courage.

• A Timeless Literary Legacy – two decades of novels now brought vividly to life.

The result? A series that feels like Natsume’s Book of Friends meets Mononoke, but with a murder-mystery edge.

📅 Release & Streaming

• Japan Premiere: October 3, 2025 (Fuji TV / Noitamina)

• Streaming Worldwide: Crunchyroll 🌍

• Genres: Historical Fantasy | Mystery | Supernatural

🕯️ Final Thoughts

Shabake is a tale where history, folklore, and mystery collide, giving anime fans something truly unique this fall. For long-time readers of Megumi Hatanaka’s novels, this adaptation is a long-awaited dream; for newcomers, it’s an invitation into Edo’s haunted streets.

As Ichitaro’s journey begins, one truth lingers: “The living and the spirits share the same world… but only the brave can walk in both.”

This October, step into Edo’s shadows and witness the mystery unfold.