The highly anticipated anime film adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s novel, The Camphorwood Custodian (Kusunoki no Bannin), has revealed additional cast members and an unprecedented bonus text story for moviegoers ahead of its January 30, 2026, premiere in Japanese theaters. This marks the first time acclaimed author Higashino has penned an original text story as a theatrical bonus.
The new announcements provide fans with more insights into the production and offer a unique incentive for those attending the cinematic release.
Expanded Voice Cast Bolsters Star-Studded Ensemble
The latest additions to The Camphorwood Custodian‘s voice cast include several prominent figures in the anime industry. Kenjirō Tsuda, Tomokazu Sugita, Taku Yashiro, Reina Ueda, and Nobuo Tobita have been confirmed to join the animated feature. Their roles are expected to further enrich the narrative depth of the film.
These newly revealed cast members join an already impressive lineup:
- Fumiya Takahashi as the protagonist Reito Naoi.
- Yūki Amami as Chifune Yanagisawa.
- Takehito Koyasu as Masakazu Yanagisawa, Chifune’s cousin and CEO of Yanattsu Corporation.
- Miō Tanaka as Katsushige Yanagisawa, Masakazu’s younger brother.
- Akira Kamiya as Tōichirō Ōba, chairman of Takumiya Company.
- Asuka Saitō as Yumi Saji, a college student.
- Ryūbi Miyase as Sōki Ōba.
- Takao Ōsawa as Toshiaki Saji.
Exclusive “Kusunoki no Urawaza” Text Story for Moviegoers
One of the most exciting revelations is the announcement of an original text story titled “Kusunoki no Urawaza” (The Camphorwood’s Secret Power), penned by the original novel’s author, Keigo Higashino, specifically for moviegoers. This exclusive story will delve into the past of Chifune’s cousin, Masakazu, and uncover a previously unknown power of the mystical camphorwood tree—details not explored in the original novel or the film itself. This unique offering is a significant draw, providing an unprecedented extension to Higashino’s acclaimed narrative.
The Story of The Camphorwood Custodian
Based on Keigo Higashino’s best-selling novel, which has sold over a million copies, The Camphorwood Custodian follows Reito Naoi, a young man who finds himself unjustly fired from his job. After committing a crime in retaliation and facing arrest, Reito is presented with an unusual proposition by a mysterious lawyer: his freedom in exchange for fulfilling a client’s request. This client turns out to be his late mother’s half-sister, Chifune Yanagisawa, who tasks Reito with becoming the “camphorwood tree custodian” at the sacred Tsukigō shrine. The narrative explores Reito’s journey as he encounters various individuals drawn to the temple grounds and the enigmatic camphor tree.
Visionary Team Brings Higashino’s Work to Life
The anime film is brought to life by a highly respected production team. Tomohiko Ito, renowned for his directorial work on Sword Art Online and ERASED, is helming the project. The screenplay is penned by Taku Kishimoto, known for his contributions to popular series like Haikyu!! and Sakamoto Days.
Further key staff include:
- Character Designers: Tsubasa Yamaguchi, the creator of the Blue Period manga, and Akiko Itagaki.
- Art Director: Hiroshi Takiguchi.
- Music Composer: Yūgo Kanno, recognized for his work on JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders and Psycho-Pass.
- Theme Song: “Katawara nite Tsukiyo” (Moonlit Night By My Side) performed by Uru.
Animation production is a collaboration between A-1 Pictures and Psyde Kick Studio, with Aniplex handling the film’s distribution. The film is set to open in Japanese theaters on January 30, 2026.
