Watch
  • NHK WORLD-JAPAN

ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION

  • 2023 – 2026
  • Returning Series
  • Documentary
  • 4 seasons

The size of the Japanese animation market was 2,426 billion yen by 2020. More than half of that amount came from overseas sales. The manga market is also expanding, reaching 675.9 billion yen in 2021. Those unique visuals and stories from Japan have struck a chord with fans around the world and are growing into a huge industry. ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION will actively feature major works that are highly recognized by overseas fans and reveal the secrets of Japanese anime and manga creation through the series.

Latest: 2026 · 2026

View all seasons
  1. E1. NEXT GENERATION PIONEER: Yamashita Shingo

    Jan 25, 2026 · 28m

    This episode spotlights next-generation creator Yamashita Shingo, known for his key animation work on NARUTO SHIPPUDEN and opening direction for JUJUTSU KAISEN. Plus, we follow Yamashita behind the scenes as he directs his new feature film, Cosmic Princess Kaguya! See how he blends cutting-edge tools with a fresh creative vision to craft anime.

  2. E2. MAO Special

    Mar 22, 2026 · 28m

    This time, we're featuring MAO, the latest from manga legend Takahashi Rumiko, creator behind Urusei Yatsura, Inuyasha, and more. We share handwritten comments from Takahashi herself, offering a glimpse into the passion driving the series. Plus, we go behind the scenes of the upcoming anime adaptation to see how the creative team is working to bring the original manga's world to life.