“Gegege no Nazo”: Kitaro’s Father, Mizuki, Neko Musume, and More Lovably Rendered as Bakeneko in New Goods from Picture Book Author Ishiguro Ayako

A brand new collection of collaboration goods featuring the movie Kitarou Tanjou: Gegege no Nazo and the acclaimed artist and picture book author, Ishiguro Ayako, has just been unveiled! This exciting lineup includes items adorned with freshly drawn illustrations, depicting beloved characters like Kitaro’s Father and Mizuki transformed into charming *bakeneko* (monster cats), including “Acrylic Stands,” “Pouches,” and “Cushions.”

The movie Kitarou Tanjou: Gegege no Nazo, a special feature film commemorating the 100th anniversary of manga artist Mizuki Shigeru’s birth, delves into the origins of the Gegege no Kitarou series. Based on the sixth TV anime season, it unravels the poignant tale of “Kitaro’s birth,” chronicling the fateful meeting between Kitaro’s Father (who was once the iconic Medama Oyaji) and the human Mizuki, and the destiny they bravely confront together. This compelling narrative earned the film an Award of Excellence for Animation at the 47th Japan Academy Film Prize.

Building on its success, a special version of the film, Kitarou Tanjou: Gegege no Nazo Shinsei-ban, featuring enhanced visuals and sound, was released in October 2024. Furthermore, in April 2025, a TV anime masterpiece collection titled Gegege no Kitarou Watashi no Aishita Rekidai Gegege began airing, celebrating 10 years since Mizuki Shigeru’s passing.

A heartwarming collection of collaboration items is here, featuring paired characters from the movie Kitarou Tanjou: Gegege no Nazo! We’re talking about beloved duos like Kitaro’s Father and Mizuki, Mizuki and Sayo, Kitaro’s Father and Kitaro’s Mother, and even Kitaro and Neko Musume!

These captivating illustrations were newly drawn by Ishiguro Ayako, an artist and picture book author renowned for her ability to portray *youkai*, *bakeneko*, and fantastical creatures with a unique blend of humor and mystery. Her past works include popular titles like Bakeneko Zorozoro, Imouto Kaigi, and Eto Eto Gassen. Her renditions of Kitaro’s Father and the other characters as *bakeneko* offer a charm that’s wonderfully distinct from the film itself, adding a fresh and delightful perspective.

This collection boasts designs that are both wonderfully mysterious and possess a charmingly retro vibe. All items are crafted for practicality and ease of daily use, ensuring you can enjoy a touch of the Gegege no Kitarou world every day!

For instance, the versatile “Gazette Slider Pouch” is a multi-purpose clear case made from translucent material, making it super easy to spot what’s inside.

The “Hand Towel” offers a delightfully soft and squishy texture, making it perfect for everyday convenience. Meanwhile, the “Eco-Bag” is an excellent choice for your shopping trips or as a handy sub-bag that can be effortlessly tucked into your main bag.

And there’s more to love! Don’t miss the “Crew Neck T-Shirt” with its smooth feel and authentic design, the generously sized “Big Blanket” that promises cozy comfort, or the utterly heartwarming “Die-Cut Cushion,” whose plump and adorable form is simply irresistible.

You might find yourself delightfully spoilt for choice with this rich lineup, which also includes the “Tappuri Mug Cup” (Generous Mug Cup) – perfect for making your coffee breaks even more enjoyable with its user-friendly, large capacity. And of course, there’s the classic “Acrylic Stand,” an ideal item for sprucing up your living space with a touch of *youkai* charm.

Each of these delightful items is currently available for pre-order on the online store “ANIMATION ADDICT STORE” until November 30th. Please note that pre-orders may close early if the planned production quantity is reached. Products are scheduled to be shipped starting from early March 2026.