Spotify Enhances Export of Japanese Anime Music Worldwide with Revamped "Anime Hub"

The audio streaming service "Spotify" has announced a global revamp of its "Anime Hub," where users can access official anime playlists, related podcasts, and audio content by simply searching for "anime" on Spotify. This move comes in response to the growing worldwide popularity of anime music. With this upgrade, Spotify aims to expand its reach to both domestic and international anime fans more effectively.

Spotify, with over 626 million users globally, has seen a surge in the streaming of anime-related songs, which have increased by about 400% since 2021. This growth is most notable in countries like the United States, Indonesia, Mexico, Brazil, and Taiwan. There are over 6.7 million user-generated anime playlists on Spotify, with the most-added song being “Gurenge” by LiSA, the opening theme for the anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Other popular tracks include “unravel” by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure (Tokyo Ghoul OP), “Blue Bird” by Ikimono Gakari (Naruto Shippuden OP), “Kaikai Kitan” by Eve (Jujutsu Kaisen OP), and “Silhouette” by KANA-BOON (Naruto Shippuden OP).

With the revamped "Anime Hub," both free and premium users around the world can now explore content in more diverse ways than ever. Categories such as "Popular Anime," "Discover the World of Anime through Talk Shows," "Anime by Genre," and "Anime by Era" allow users to not only find their favorite anime but also discover a wide range of new content.

Additionally, the cover designs for Spotify's 12 official anime playlists, such as “Anime Now” and “Anime On Replay,” have been renewed. These new designs have been created by the emerging animation team "NOSTALOOK," known for crafting nostalgic 70s-90s style animations, such as the official animated MV for Dua Lipa’s song “Levitating.” New original characters, including two girls named "Mimi" and "Kiki" from Spotify Music School, along with the music entity "Spotty," appear in different designs for each playlist.

Furthermore, there are playlists categorized by the Japanese eras of Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa, along with official podcasts and playlists produced in collaboration with Crunchyroll, one of the world’s leading anime streaming services. In select countries and regions, the "Crunchyroll" shelf is displayed within the Anime Hub, allowing people worldwide to enjoy Japanese music and audio content.

To commemorate this revamp, a promotional video for the "Anime Hub" was released on Spotify’s official YouTube channel on August 21st (Wednesday). The music for the video was composed by Yuki Hayashi, known for his work on original soundtracks for TV anime series such as My Hero Academia and Haikyuu!!—a delightful touch for anime fans.

Leveraging its strength as a global audio platform, Spotify is putting significant effort into initiatives that deepen the connection between Japanese anime content and anime fans around the world, making it a platform to watch closely in the future.

Have a listen here!

Shonen JUMP Characters That Have Grown the Most!

It's fascinating to see characters evolve and grow throughout their journeys in Jump anime history. The survey was conducted to determine the characters who have grown the most in Jump anime history using the voting service provided by goo ranking. 1,174 votes were collected from participants during the survey period, which ran from December 31, 2023, to January 14, 2024. 

Here are the top three characters who have shown remarkable personal growth:

Naruto & Hinata’s “Set Ring” is now available!

 From "BORUTO-NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS", a set ring with the image of Naruto and Hinata is now available. Reservations are currently being accepted at Premium Bandai

Netflix “Pokémon Concierge” will be available from December 28th! Fairouz Ai joins the cast Trailer also released

 The Netflix series "Pokémon Concierge" has been announced to stream worldwide from December 28th. It was also announced that Ai Fairouz will appear as a voice actor, and the theme song will be Mariya Takeuchi's new song "Have a Good Time Here". Additionally, a trailer and key art were also released.

Introducing sneakers inspired by Yuji Itadori, Megumi Fushiguro, Nobara Kugisaki, and Satoru Gojo from "Jujutsu Kaisen"!

Sneakers featuring Satoru Gojo and others are now available. Reservations are currently being accepted at "animate LIMITED SELECTION".

"Kuroko's Basketball" ♪ Collaboration cafe will be held in Shibuya

A collaboration cafe for the TV anime "Kuroko's Basketball" will be held from November 10th to November 30th at Chugai Grace Cafe on the 7th floor of Shibuya Modi.

Anime Tokyo Station debuts Naruto Figure and Game exhibition

Event Dates: October 31, 2023 (Tuesday) to January 28, 2024 (Sunday)

Calling all fans of "NARUTO"! Brace yourself for an extraordinary journey into the captivating universe of this beloved anime. This limited-time exhibition, running until January 2024, is your chance to immerse yourself in the world of "NARUTO" through an enthralling showcase of figures and games.

What to Expect:

- Meet Kurama: Prepare to be wowed by an enormous, never-before-seen  Kurama balloon taking center stage on the first floor. It's a sight to behold!

- Character Welcoming Party: The second floor is where the magic truly unfolds. A warm welcome from various iconic characters awaits you.

- NARUTOP99 Figures:  Get up close and personal with an impressive collection of figures related to "NARUTOP99," a fan-favorite selected by NARUTO enthusiasts from across the globe.

- Master the Rasengan: Ever wondered what it's like to wield the mighty ninjutsu "Rasengan"? In the experience corner, you can step into the shoes of your favorite ninja and feel the power for yourself. It's a thrilling opportunity for both gamers and anime aficionados.

Don't miss this chance to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the incredible world of "NARUTO." Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, this exhibition promises an unforgettable adventure.

Join the event from October 31, 2023, to January 28, 2024, and let the magic of "NARUTO" sweep you off your feet!

Source: Anime Tokyo Station

Anime Tokyo Station Opens Its Doors in Ikebukuro: A Hub for Japanese Anime Enthusiasts

In a vibrant celebration of all things anime, "Anime Tokyo Station" officially raised its curtains on October 31st in the bustling heart of Ikebukuro, Tokyo. With a mission to become the epicenter for the transmission of Japanese anime, this new hub has set its sights on captivating not just the local audience but also anime enthusiasts from around the globe.

Exciting News: "SPY×FAMILY" Large-Scale Event Coming in June 2024 with 8 Stellar Cast Members, Including Takuya Eguchi!

We're thrilled to announce that a grand special event for the TV anime "SPY×FAMILY" is set to take place on June 9, 2024, at the Musashino Forest Sports Plaza.