Fans of the historical action anime “The Elusive Samurai” can mark their calendars, as the second season is officially slated to premiere in July 2026. The announcement was made during the Jump Festa ’26 event on Sunday, revealing exciting details for the series’ return. Produced by CloverWorks, the new season will continue the journey of Hojo Tokiyuki, the young heir seeking revenge and survival.
Season 2 Premiere Details and First Season Rerun
The highly anticipated second season of “The Elusive Samurai” (Nigejōzu no Wakagimi) will debut in July 2026 on Fuji TV’s Noitamina programming block. Before the new episodes arrive, viewers will have the opportunity to revisit the initial installment, as the first season is scheduled to re-air on the same Noitamina block starting in April 2026. This strategic rerun will allow both new and returning fans to catch up on Tokiyuki’s adventures ahead of the season two launch. The announcement at Jump Festa ’26 also included the unveiling of a new teaser visual and video, building further anticipation for the anime’s return.
The Story of “The Elusive Samurai”
Based on the manga by Yusei Matsui, “The Elusive Samurai” tells a unique historical tale set against the backdrop of the downfall of the Kamakura shogunate. The narrative centers on Hojo Tokiyuki, the last surviving heir of the Hojo clan, who must flee after the massacre of his family by the traitor Ashikaga Takauji. Unlike typical shōnen protagonists, Tokiyuki’s primary strength lies in his elusiveness and strategic retreat, making his fight for survival a fresh and compelling narrative. With the help of loyal retainers, including the clairvoyant Suwa Yorishige, Tokiyuki embarks on a journey to reclaim his birthright and enact revenge.
Manga’s Acclaim and Ongoing Serialization
Yusei Matsui, known for works like “Assassination Classroom,” launched “The Elusive Samurai” manga in Weekly Shonen Jump in January 2021. The series has garnered critical acclaim, winning the 69th Shogakukan Manga Award in 2024. As of December 2025, 23 tankōbon volumes have been released. Both Viz Media and MANGA Plus are simultaneously releasing new chapters of the manga digitally in English as they debut in Japan, with Viz Media also publishing print volumes.
First Season’s Success and Production Team
The anime’s first season, animated by CloverWorks (known for “SPY x FAMILY” and “Wonder Egg Priority”), premiered in July 2024. Crunchyroll streamed the anime as it aired, including an English dub, making it accessible to a global audience. Yuta Yamazaki directed the first season, with Yasushi Nishiya handling character designs. The opening theme song “Plan A” was performed by DISH//, and the ending theme song “Kamakura STYLE” by Botchi Boromaru. Key voice cast members include Asaki Yuikawa as Hojo Tokiyuki, Yuichi Nakamura as Suwa Yorishige, Hinaki Yano as Shizuku, and Katsuyuki Konishi as Takauji Ashikaga.
The confirmation of a second season underscores the series’ strong performance and dedicated fanbase, promising a deeper dive into Tokiyuki’s clever fight for survival and his quest for retribution.
