Shingo Horiuchi
Director
ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION (2023)
2025
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.
Released April 30, 2023
Episode 28 min
None+
Genres: Documentary
Keywords: tmdb.mangaka, tmdb.manga-artist, tmdb.manga-industry, tmdb.anime-studies
Production Companies: NHK, FRAMEN, NHK Enterprises
Network: NHK WORLD-JAPAN
S3E1 - THE ANIME STUDIO: Pierrot
This episode highlights renowned anime studio Pierrot, known for countless international hits. Hear creators share untold stories behind the global phenomenon NARUTO and get an exclusive look at the production process of BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War. Join us and discover the unwavering passion for anime that has defined Pierrot's 45-year legacy.
Jan. 26, 2025, midnight
S3E2 - American Comic Book Anime
This episode focuses on anime adaptations of American comic book characters, reimagined with a distinct Japanese flair. We go behind the scenes of Batman Ninja and Suicide Squad ISEKAI to learn more about these cross-culture collaborations.
March 16, 2025, midnight
S3E3 - Legendary Creator Yasuhiko Yoshikazu
This episode features creator Yasuhiko Yoshikazu, an industry legend that worked on many early Japanese TV anime, including Mobile Suit Gundam. After retiring from the anime industry, he became a manga artist until he returned to anime 25 years later. What brought him back? And what drives him to continue creating at 77 years old? Join us as we explore the passion of Yasuhiko Yoshikazu.
April 27, 2025, midnight
S3E4 - The Apothecary Diaries Special
This episode features The Apothecary Diaries, a mystery-entertainment series gaining popularity worldwide. The author reveals the secrets behind the story, which fans of all ages love. We also go behind the scenes of the anime production and explore the professional techniques used to bring the rich world of the rear palace and its colorful characters to life.
May 25, 2025, midnight
S3E5 - FEATURED ANIMATION ARTIST: Yoshiura Yasuhiro
This episode spotlights director Yoshiura Yasuhiro, who gained attention at age 28 with Time of EVE and later earned global praise for Sing a Bit of Harmony. Watch three pivotal short films that shaped his career and gain exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into his bold experiments with kaiju, comedy, and robot-themed stories.
June 29, 2025, midnight
S3E6 - Classic Tales Reborn: SAINT SEIYA / TOUGEN ANKI
This episode explores manga and anime that breathe new life into classic myths and folktales. We take a closer look at SAINT SEIYA, inspired by Greek mythology, and TOUGEN ANKI, a fresh spin on Japan's famous legend about Momotaro. Watch and discover how familiar stories are reborn through the creative process.
July 17, 2025, midnight
S3E7 - THE ANIME STUDIO: bones
This episode features the anime studio bones, known for captivating fans with high-quality action. We go behind the scenes of their latest works, Gachiakuta and My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON. In addition, charismatic animator Nakamura Yutaka, who is responsible for countless iconic moments for the anime studio, makes his first-ever television appearance.
July 28, 2025, midnight
S3E8 - DIGIMON Special
This episode focuses on DIGIMON, the global hit that has evolved from simple pixel-art games into a beloved anime series. How did a modest handheld game turn into such a powerful, emotional story? We sit down with the key figures behind its success and visit the studio producing the latest series, DIGIMON BEATBREAK. Discover what has kept DIGIMON evolving and fans hooked for over 25 years.
Oct. 26, 2025, midnight
S3E9 - Anime Sound Special
In this episode, we explore the craft of anime sound. Voice actor Otsuka Akio, who has performed in over 400 anime titles, recreates recording sessions from My Hero Academia and BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War, revealing the techniques behind iconic lines. We also go behind the scenes at the music recording session for the new anime Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 "The Duel: Payback," where composer Inai Keiji crafts a dramatic score that brings the visuals to life.
Nov. 30, 2025, midnight
S3E10 - Sports Manga & Anime
This time, we spotlight sports manga and anime, a genre beloved in Japan and worldwide. How has the portrayal of sports evolved over time, and how have creators refined their craft? We explore those questions with anime critic Fujitsu Ryota. Plus, we visit the production of the figure skating anime Medalist to find out how animators capture the subtle movements and atmosphere of the rink.
Dec. 28, 2025, midnight
Network: NHK WORLD-JAPAN
Episode Runtime: 28 min.
Season Runtime: 777 min.
Released: April 30, 2023
Last Air Date: Dec. 28, 2025, midnight
Status: Returning Series
Certification: NR
Rate this show
Add {Movie} to static lists