ranma 1/2

End of February 2026 Update: Lunar New Year & Cosplay Making

Posted by

1

Hi all ^.^

February has come and gone in a sprint. While I’ve been fully immersed in anime-related activities, I’ve also been stretched thin as my annual March anime con draws near. Let’s revisit my 2026 blog goals, what I’ve been currently watching, and other things that have occupied the Lunar New Year month.

Blog Goals

1. Make it to the end of the year with all 12 monthly updates posted. We’re 2 for 2, even if I’m technically uploading this on March 1.

2. Finish a few projects I had started/continued in 2025. I reeaalllly need to finish my daily vlogs for last year’s Japan trip. When I started, they were fairly short posts, but then they started getting longer as I added more details from various events and activities. I ought to go back to short ‘n sweet if it means finishing it up.

3. Watch my entire physical backlog of anime. This year’s Lunar New Year Special, Chihayafuru, is helping me accomplish this. That said, I did just order a couple Blu-rays from the Crunchyroll Store sale. Give and take, ya know?

4. Write a reflection post for at least one anime each month. I was ABOUT to have a Chihayafuru post ready, but I decided to opt for Love Through a Prism instead. Now I simply need to write the post . . . It should be out soon, so March will have at least 2 anime reflection posts.

5. Watch at last 26 anime released from 2021 to 2025 (not including films). FIVE so far! Godzilla S.P., Lord of Mysteries, Fire Force Season 3 Part 1, Ranma 1/2 (2024) 2nd Season, and Love Through a Prism.

Recently Watching

Fire Force Season 3 Part 1 – An exhilarating follow-up to season 2. Although they share the same director, season 3 supports much of the same wacky, cinematic symbolism of season 1, which I personally prefer. I own the manga and have read it to completion, and I’m continually astounded at how David Production adapts this nearly frame-for-frame, maintaining the energy and spirit of the manga even at a breakneck pace. If content got cut, I honestly couldn’t tell you what did. I’ve brazenly upheld Fire Force as the next great 60-ish episode “COMPLETE” shounen epic, a kind of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood which defines this current generation (flaws and all). So long as Part 2 stays the course, I won’t have to eat my words. And the scene where Captain Obi hoists a battle-exhausted Shinra on his back? TEARS to mortal mens’ eyes.

Ranma 1/2 (2024) 2nd Season – I love, love, LOVE Ranma. Always have, always will. The Netflix-produced Mappa remake’s second season introduces Ukyo, my favorite okanomiyaki-flipping fighter, as well as the gremlin panty thief Happosai. It’s so weird watching Happosai’s perverted antics outside the context of the 90s, but here we are – uncensored and uncut. With less time to mill around than the classic animated series, however, the Ranma remake moves at a good clip to maintain comedic timing and dramatic reactions. Genuinely, the remake makes me giggle at nearly every gag. Either that or shake my head in involuntary solidarity with the series’ own characters. I’m sincerely hoping that 2026 will bring a season 3 announcement. It would be such a shame to leave Ranma and Akane where the 2nd season’s curtain closes.

A Place Further Than the Universe (REWATCH) – After finally getting my hands on the Blu-ray from Shout Factory/Anime Limited, I’d been begging my schedule for a chance to plug YoriMoi back in, my first revisit since 2018. Some of the more emotional bits seemed slightly less resonant this time around, though that could be for three separate reasons: 1) Different me of then vs. now; 2) I knew the “twists” coming; 3) I gave the English dub a shot this time. It’s likely that this third reason is the culprit, not because the dub cast is poor but more so that the original Japanese audio is that amazing. Saori Hayami voices Yuzuki Shiraishi, and I’m biased for this actress through her role as the band club president from Sound! Euphonium, saxophonist Haruka Ogasawara. Regardless, I’m set to go to an anime con this March (more info down below) where two of the English dub actors will be there, so this was also an exercise in prepping myself for the con. Whether dubbed or subbed, YoriMoi remains inspirational for my travel ambitions. (Though I was shocked to remember that they don’t actually *arrive* at Antarctica until, like, 7 or 8 episodes in! In my memory, they were there by ep 3!)

Love Through a Prism – As the years go on, it’s increasingly rare that a new anime breaks into my favorites list. Any imagined top 25, 50, or 10 has long since been solidified and colored by the rosy lens of nostalgia. Then comes along Love Through a Prism to completely change my mind. I don’t think it’s a very fitting localized title (nor is the original Prism Rondo any better IMO), but that’s just about my only complaint with this historical romance drama animated by Wit Studio. The animation combines the sharp, hyper-detailed polish of Lord of Mysteries (i.e., the “new high quality” look) with the period drama elegance of Violet Evergarden or Emma: A Victorian Romance. Wit’s always featured sprawling, hand-painted landscape background arts in its titles. For an anime about painting and the art of creation, I need to have an art book on my shelf ASAP! And the monochromatic visuals for the timeskip? *chef’s kiss*

I also watched this one dubbed BECAUSE it had English accents, and can I say that Lili Ichijoin is just THE most adorable Japanese transfer student in an Edwardian London that I’ve ever had the pleasure of following. Her enduring personality reminds me of Tohru from Fruits Basket – combined with the whimsy and forwardness of a Castlevania character. And then there’s the rest of the cast: the shamelessly prideful sculptor Joffrey O’Brien, the ridiculously outgoing go-getter (and Lili’s kind-hearted dorm mate) Dorothy Brown, the charismatic artist and economics whiz Peter Anthony, the cute boy-next-door Shin, the domineering Lady Catherine, and the local space cadet and academy heartthrob himself KIT motha-fkin CHURCH. God how I’ll miss this fantastic, unique, and talented crew of college students. Oh yeah, REAL ANIME COLLEGE STUDENTS. I really felt like I bonded with each of them during Lili’s time as a student at Saint Thomas Art Academy.

If you’re at all interested in art, historical dramas, or cross-class romances, you owe it to yourself to watch this one. It might join your favorites list, too. And the premise is an instant sell: Lili Ichijoin is allowed to pursue her art abroad, but unless she makes the top of the class, she’ll be forced to return home to run the family’s traditional kimono boutique in Japan.

Chihayafuru – Speaking of admirable students whom I only wish the absolute best for in life . . . Awkward, passionate Chihaya and her karuta club members are all my children. The closest spiritual comparison of this show that comes to mind is Haikyuu!! When you’re able to convince me that a sport/hobby that I’ve got no initial stake in whatsoever is somehow the single most compelling, soul-binding activity on this planet, you’ve earned a respectful win. My favorite parts are actually when the histories of the classic text and language intersect with the major themes of an episode or a character’s struggle. As such, Kanade is a top contender for fave character. But I also adore Taichi cause, well, he’s Taichiiiiii: a hottie, dreamy and smooth, yet also still sorting out his passions. And he’s cOMPLETELY AND HELPLESSLY DEVOTED TO CHIHAYA OHMYGOD I’M NORMAL ABOUT THEM. Eherm. Get it together, Eyelashes – I’m rootin’ for YOU!

I’ll have more to report once I’ve finished the second season. Right now, I’m 15 episodes in, which means only 10 eps left in S2 and all 24 eps of S3. I’d like to do S3 on Blu-ray, but IDK when the next Sentai sale will be. If I don’t get to S3 as part of 2026’s Lunar New Year Special, know that it’ll be the first priority once I get my hands on the BD. Chihaya, you’re a keeper~!

Anime Concerts and Con Prep

Violet Evergarden Live Concert

Around Valentine’s Day, I had the pleasure of visiting the city to catch the Violet Evergarden Live Concert Tour. In addition to a live orchestra performing scores from the series/films while scenes from the anime were projected on screen, the vocalists for the series’ opening, ending, and insert songs also gave performances with the ensemble. Put simply, the three ladies are amazing. Evan Call’s scores for Violet Evergarden are already emotionally charged. In the dark of the concert hall, I was swept up by the orchestra and vocals. And now I want to rewatch all of it. Which, you know, I totally have the time for.

Genshin Impact – Lantern Rite 2026

For the past 5 years, I’ve celebrated the Lunar New Year celebration in Genshin with its annual Lantern Rite tradition. I thought the story pacing was a bit lacking in the end, especially compared to 2024 (11 OUT OF 10) and 2025 (STILL REALLY GOOD). But when the harbor is alight with glowing amber lanterns and the sky full of fireworks, my complaints matter little when considering we welcomed the main star of this year’s tale – Zibai, the graceful envoy from the moon. Zibai marks my first 5-star character to go C1 within a single banner. Like Xianyun, she’s an adeptus whose wisdom, charm, and attitude I’m completely smitten by. Since the festival concluded, I’ve been milling around Piramida, exploring the northern isle of Nod-Krai for the first time and getting cozy with Illuga, heh.

Making Cosplay

Each year around now, my hobbies tend to take the back seat so that I can prep for the anime con I like attending in March. I’ve got three cosplays lined up: Ryoga (from Ranma 1/2), whom I’ve done before so this one’s a breeze; Shinra/Hinawa (from Fire Force), of which I’ve also done but need to decide which of these two characters I want to do again; and Kinich (from Genshin Impact), whom I trialed last year with just the clothes. This year, I’ve been working on making his signature weapon, “Fang of the Mountain King,” a giant claymore of EVA foam with built-in LEDs. Above are a few progress pics. I ran out of contact cement (oops), so my goal is to finish the build by the end of next week. I usually post cosplay photos on my Instagram, so follow @ takutoac if you’re interested!

I’ll have that Prism Rondo post out hopefully sooner rather than later. ‘Til then, let me know what you watched this February or if you did something fun. Thanks for reading!

– Takuto

Let’s Go Traveling! Five Fall Vacation Spots in Anime || The Animanga Festival

Posted by

9

Hello all, and welcome to my second official entry in The Animanga Festival, hosted by Auri and Nairne over at Manga Toritsukareru Koto!

Today we’re going on a vacation, all expenses paid, throughout anime—and right from the comfort of your own screen! Just as the title says, here we’ve got a few of my favorite anime hot spots I’d love to visit. I even themed our trip for the fall season just to add that realistic flair (you’re welcome). There’s a long journey ahead of us, so strap in, and let’s go traveling.

land of dragons 1.PNG

Delight in the Refined English Air of Endor College

Mary and the Witch’s Flower

I know school is THE last place you want to be when on vacation, but hear me out: Most college campuses are beautiful in the fall, and Endor College is no exception. Although England is technically known for its smoggy air, this prestigious university floats high in the clouds, hidden from view.

endor college.PNG

At Endor College, young witches learn about all things magic through their fantastical studies and whimsical teachers, not unlike Hogwarts. We may even bump into the famous headmistress, Madam Mumblechook, or the wacky Doctor Dee! College is a time of new beginnings—that’s why we’re starting here, and I hope you have a magical time.

Immerse Yourself in the Atmosphere of Victorian England

Emma: A Victorian Romance

Fall is Victorian weather. Rainy days, cloudy nights, always cool, and always busy preparing for winter. While we’re still in England, let’s make a stop at one of the luxurious estates the region is known for. Have you ever wished you could travel back in time and see what life was like for a wealthy and noble Victorian family? Well, now you can! Take your pick at touring and temporarily staying at the Jones Estate that the titular Emma loves visiting, the elegant Mölders Estate in Yorkshire, the traditional Campbell Estate in London, and other estates featured in the series—they’re all lovely, and very well-maintained by a hardworking team of maids, servants, butlers, cooks, and the like!

jones estate.PNG

Take a walk through their sprawling maze gardens, enjoy an elaborate and authentic feast in the great hall—just make sure to mind your manners at this stop. Remember, we are their honored guests. And who knows, you might even get the opportunity to dance with a handsome nobleman or fair noblewoman at one of the magnificent balls!

Room At the Nicest Lodging Ever in the Kind Country

Kino’s Journey

Not sure where it’s located, but here we are at our next stop: the Country of the Kind up in the mountains. Everyone who lives here seeks a life of kindness and respect, making them just about the nicest populace for a town you could ever stop through. The small country prides itself on its rich culture and village ancestry, which is reflected in intricate Italian architecture of this mountainside city. Take a walk down the spiraling cobblestone roads and admire the gorgeous fall forestry surrounding the country while munching on flaky, freshly baked pastries. The sweet cinnamon aroma of pastry shops is to die for!

kind country.PNG

The famous traveler Kino regards this stop as one of the few that fellow travelers have actually been tempted to end their journeys at to start a new living here. The only caveat? Three nights is all we get, for then WOOSH, this village is gone, and nothing but wistful memories will remain. To say the least, it’ll be one country you’ll certainly never forget.

Witness Legendary Creatures Fly Freely in the Land of the Dragons 

The Ancient Magus’ Bride

I don’t know about you, but I’ve always been a dragon kid at heart. Our second to last stop is probably the most exciting on this list, especially if you, too, have wanted to see one of these beasts up close and personal. Who knows—maybe you’ll even get to fly with one and gaze down at the luscious landscape below.

land of dragons 2.PNG

Gushing waterfalls, scenic nature hiking trails, and colorful dragons everywhere! Playing with the young dragons IS encouraged, so be sure to treat them to a few minutes of your time. Magic is in the air in the enchanting land of the dragons, so saddle up and get ready to soar in the clouds with one of nature’s most incredible creations.

Soak in the Ancient Waters of the Jusenkyo Hot Springs

Ranma 1/2

While we spent a good portion of this vacation touring places in Europe, I would be remissed if I didn’t allow us to spend our final destination relaxing at a hot springs. Taking us all the way out to the Bayankala Mountain range in China, this springs in particular carries with it an ancient history. Since long ago, people and animals have underestimated the water’s depths and have drowned in the various springs that make up Jusenkyo. As such, when a person mistakenly falls into one of these cursed springs, they might find themselves transforming into the creature of lore that drowned there.

jusenkyo.PNG

However, not all of the springs are cursed—but you should still stay close to the rocks! May relaxing in the springs, training with skilled martial artists, and admiring the natural landscapes of ancient China sooth your soul, strengthen your body, as well as rejuvenate your mind. And with that, our trip is complete!

How’s this for a travel itinerary through some of my favorite places in anime? Is this a vacation trip you’d be willing to go on? To keep with the fall theme (and not be as cliche as possible), I left out a TON of top-tier destinations. So, what other places in anime or manga do you think would be beautiful to visit in the fall? I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments! ‘Till the next festival post!

– Takuto, your host

End of October Update 11/7/16

Posted by

16

*chiseled*

As everyone’s spook day festivities come to an end, so does the summer weather over here. Fall has finally set in, and times are busy, but that doesn’t stop me from making my rounds in the aniblogger community. Now for this past month’s recap–It’s update time!

Recently Finished:

The Ambition of Oda Nobuna – There was only one main reason I began watching this show. That is, the word “ambition.” It’s one of my favorite words. After being thoroughly intrigued by all of the Satsuki Kiryuin/Oda Nobunaga fan-interpretations, I decided to strike up a show with the legend’s name. And lo and behold, I hit a title with two of my needs! Despite it being another fan-service history mash-up with girls serving as ancient Japanese mascots, the show, surprisingly, had a lot to offer. More to come on that if I review it.

Sailor Moon R – My Sailor Moon marathon session continues in Viz’s re-release DVD sets. On October’s plate was R, the season of the rose–of romance. The web of deceit and falsehood continues to weave itself into complex net of twisted relationships. Invaders from distant planets and galaxies try to tear apart our star-crossed lovers, and the tragic legacy left by the evil Queen Beryl doesn’t help our heroes. It’s a bit harder to love, with all the new characters and revelations, but it’s still the same passionate Sailor Moon. Perhaps I’ll review each series if the soon-to-be-released S really gets my motivation going!

Shelter – Everyone saw (heard?) this little diddy floating around Twitter and YouTube. Because my opinion of it wasn’t very different from that of the masses (IT’S AWESOME), I won’t be doing a separate post over it. If you somehow missed this creative music video, I’ll leave it right here for ya! Shelter’s got a production history unlike any out there, and I hope we see projects like these more frequently in our future! Really neat stuff!

Shiki – This year, my Halloween break revolved around the spooky vampire fling that is Shiki. It failed to really “scare” me, but instead brought a whole slew of psychological realism surrounding skepticism in remote areas. Very peculiar and rife with internal conflicts regarding ethics and rational. I won’t speak more because I DO have a review forthcoming, but it was a spook day well spent.

The Empire of Corpses – The first Project Itou film stole the last day of my mini Halloween break–and boy was it nothing like I expected! From what I had picked up on, it was going to be a gorgeous film with a halfway decent plot. What I got, however, was an intriguing concept lost to cluster-fudge of jaw-dropping visuals. In other words, my eyes certainly got their exercise, but my brain still can’t seem to shake off the events of the film, particularly the climax. Up until the end, it was bloody fantastic. After that, hmm, more to come on the ending with a review [dedicated to blogger-buddy Crimson once again].

Currently Watching:

Izetta: The Last Witch – Oh boy, oh boy, it’s simulcast time–and is it just me or does this season seem like one of the better ones to come in recent years? Let me know what you think. But hey, my first hit-up for this fall was Izetta. I really, really like where it’s going. The most recent episodes, 4 and 5, showed us how the media can glorify anything–including a little girl who flies on a rifle.

Awakened from a cryo-like sleep, Izetta, the last little witch of her kind, is reunited with the princess of a distressed kingdom. Finé , our unfortunate heir, finds her trump card hidden with Izetta’s incredible powers. Set in an alternative pre-WWII world where magic runs deep within the Earth’s roots, Princess Finé must ally herself with whoever she can in order to save her poor country! Check it out on Crunchyroll streaming now!

Sound! Euphonium 2 – More Euphonium = a very happy Takuto. Having been more than satisfied with the first, Eupho has returned triumphantly in order to finish telling the tale of Kyoto’s Kitauji High School Band! I can’t spoil much since it is a sequel, but I did review the first a while back if you want to check that out here. If you loved the first, then the second will only bring you more of KyoAni’s topnotch animation and tightly-knit cast of characters. Five episodes in and still groovin’, Eupho 2 can also be found on Crunchyroll.

Yuri!!! On ICE – I have not felt this inspired to get active since back in 2013 when Free! Iwatobi Swim Club aired. WOW. THIS is easily my favorite title of the fall anime that I am following!!! Heck, I felt so emotionally charged that I had to write about the dramatic episode 3 in a post comparing our two lead characters which you can read RIGHT HERE! I thought I did a decent job on that post, too, so please feel free to share it with the YOI fandom ^.^

But if you didn’t know, the show follows Yuri Katsuki, a 23-year-old figure skater who was feeling a bit dried up with his season until his idol and world champion skater Viktor Nikiforov of Russia paid a visit to the family spa. But why would a star visit a rural Japanese hot springs? Why, to train Yuri himself, of course! Yuri!!! On ICE is about seeing your own reflection in others and finding the inspiration to help them out. In turn, you end up finding fresh motivation from their youth. Full of light-hearted moments that’ll just warm you to the core, Yuri!!! On ICE has proven that even with half of its season still not out yet, it’s definitely earned those three exclamation points–It’s Gonna MAKE HISTORY!!! NOW, seek out Crunchyroll my cafegoers!

Ranma 1/2 (Viz Set 3) – Viz describes this oddity better than anyone else has: “Things just can’t stay quiet at the Tendo Dojo.” I’m not going to describe Ranma  because I really shouldn’t have to. Boy gets hit with cold water: turns into girl. Doused again with hot water: she’s back to a he. Classic anime for ya. But it’s been one of my family’s favorites for years now, so set three here I come! I can tell you that its late 1989 quality has come a long way with its third season–that’s for sure!

Lostorage Incited WIXOSS – I’m a huge WIXOSS fanboy. Hopefully that wasn’t news to you. Naturally, I was so hyped to hear that one of my favorite “magical girl” series was getting a continuation in the same universe. Then it hit me–I haven’t seen the movie, selector destructed WIXOSS yet. Soooo, either I hunt for it online [and then, of course, support the official release later, geez] in order for me to continue, or I skip out this season. Not sure what I’ll do yet.

Outside of anime, fall has finally hit, WUAH! How I love the cool weather! Today it rained off and on from morning to evening, so I’m probably pushing my luck on future cloudy days *sighs*. Anyway, how was your spook day? Also, I’m dying to know what’s piled on your plate for this season of anime? Are you planning with Izetta and the crew, or perhaps are you practicing hard for Nationals with Kitauji? Either way, you’ll never be chill until you settle down with the Yuris. Yes. Both of them. They are sides of the same coin. I’ve even changed my Twitter name just for the spirit of things. I’m also suddenly interested in ice-skating. EHERM. ‘Till next we meet ~

– Takuto, your host

yuzuru-hanyu-full-1677203

Follow my Twitter @TakutoAnimeCafe AKA Taku!!! On ICE for all my latest shenanigans~!

50 Followers Q&A Responses

Posted by

12

HELLO EVERYONE! After one week of waiting, I have returned with a clear head, ready to answer your questions!

From mirrorpurple:

“Who ye waifu?”

Haha, ok, so I realize that you can pretty much only have one, and cheating on her would be considered very disrespectful, but at this moment in time, I have two: Saber (Fate/Zero) and Sinon (SAO II). In terms of respect, it’s definitely Saber – I bow down, trust me. But if I were to chill with another girl, I think Sinon’s pretty awesome.

From Lovely:

“What’s your favorite anime of all time? Any places you want to go someday?”

Hontou ni?? Of all time? I could never pick, as it depends on my mood. Buuuuut, Steins;Gate does tend to gravitate towards my top five every time . . . that and Railgun, and Fate/Zero . . . Kill la Kill‘s pretty rad, and I’m an Eva-boy . . . >.<

As for places, Japan of course! But that’s with every anime fan. I think it’d be neat to visit an Irish castle or go shopping in China. I’ve always liked castles and such, and China just seems like a cool place.

From LitaKino:

“What was a funny thing that happened of when you were younger? What do you aim to be in your life work wise? Whats your favorite food?”

I guess this one’s kinda anime-related, but whatever: When I was younger, my mom would always take us to our Dillons food store, because back then, they had a movie-rental area where we’d rent stuff all the time. Probably my first anime (besides like Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh), she rented a random DVD of Ranma 1/2 for us. For those who don’t know, Ranma is full of straight-up boob flashes, so when the first one was revealed on our TV, my siblings and I just cried laughing, while my mom was just giggling and blushing! Sadly the rental section went out of business, but when they closed they let us buy the DVD for like a dollar. It currently sits on my sister’s shelf with the Dillons casing and everything, a memento of childhood. 🙂

Work-wise, I’m not quite sure yet – it’s been the big question since I started my anime hobby. I do great academically, and am talented in the arts, but yeah, still not sure . . .

Favorite food? Anything with rice. Seriously, anything!

From The Otaku Judge:

“Which anime has the most disappointing ending?”

Ah man, I can’t choose the most disappointing, but I do have one in mind. Also, I’m going to interpret this question as “most un-fullfilling” ending instead. My award for a very “disappointing ending” goes to Black Bullet (check out my review!). I fell in love with it, hoping it would be a new fav, but instead it deteriorated like a creaky, rusty gate. Not good.

And I guess that’s all! Yup! Thanks for asking your questions and of course thanks for following, liking, and supporting my lil’ blog. Become a cafe-goer today buy clickin’ the follow button on the right! Now, I’m shooting for 100 followers! Until next time, this has been

– Takuto, your host