Get Ready to Test Your Knowledge with the Natsume Yuujinchou Kentei 2026!
Calling all fans of the beloved supernatural series! The very first official Natsume Yuujinchou Kentei 2026 (which can be translated as Natsume’s Book of Friends Exam 2026) is set to take place simultaneously across Japan on February 22, 2026, with both Tokyo venue and online options available. This exciting event will test your knowledge of the anime, and to kick things off, a brand-new key visual has been unveiled. Plus, a whole host of luxurious special gifts for examinees have been revealed!
About Natsume Yuujinchou
For those who might be new to the world, Natsume Yuujinchou is a heartwarming supernatural tale based on the manga by Midorikawa Yuki, serialized in Hakusensha’s “LaLa” magazine. The original comic has seen its domestic cumulative circulation smash past 18 million copies! The story follows Natsume Takashi, a boy who has been able to see youkai (spirits) since he was little. After inheriting the “Book of Friends” from his grandmother, Reiko, he spends his days returning the names of the youkai bound within it, accompanied by his self-proclaimed bodyguard, the hilarious and adorable Nyanko-sensei.
The TV anime adaptation first aired from July to September 2008 and has continued with multiple seasons, with the latest seventh season, Natsume Yuujinchou Shichi, broadcasting from October to December 2024. The franchise also includes an OVA titled Natsume Yuujinchou: Itsuka Yuki no Hi ni released in February 2014, the September 2018 film Gekijouban Natsume Yuujinchou: ~Utsusemi ni Musubu~, and a new anime Natsume Yuujinchou: Ishiokoshi to Ayashiki Kihousha that had a limited screening from January 2021.
What is the Natsume Yuujinchou Kentei 2026?
This brand-new official exam is designed to challenge your knowledge of the entire TV anime series, from Season 1 all the way to Season 7. Questions will cover a wide range of topics including memorable episodes, beloved characters, and intricate setting details. Whether you’re a longtime fan or have recently joined the fandom, this is the perfect chance to dive deep back into the series’ rich world.
You can choose to take the exam at a designated venue in Tokyo or opt for the convenient online version from the comfort of your home. This flexible approach ensures that as many fans as possible can participate. Revisiting past episodes while studying is sure to make you feel even more immersed in the gentle, youkai-filled world of Natsume Takashi.
Special Key Visual and Exam Perks
The newly released key visual was drawn exclusively for this exam. It features plum blossoms, a traditional Japanese symbol of good luck for examinations, making it a heartfelt illustration wishing success for all participants. This special, one-time-only artwork will also be used on the official certificate of completion awarded to those who pass!
But the perks aren’t just for the successful examinees. All participants are in for some treats! Those who pass will receive a certificate featuring the key visual, while even those who don’t pass will get a special, personalized notification. Furthermore, during the exam, you’ll be treated to exclusive, newly recorded voice lines from none other than Nyanko-sensei himself, who will be playing the role of exam proctor! Venue examinees will get to hear a special version, so that’s an extra reason not to miss out.
On top of that, only exam takers will have the opportunity to purchase original limited-edition goods featuring the key visual. It’s shaping up to be a truly unique event for dedicated fans.
How to Join the Exam
The Natsume Yuujinchou Kentei 2026 will be held simultaneously nationwide on Sunday, February 22, 2026. The application deadline is Tuesday, January 27, 2026. You can choose between venue testing in Tokyo or online testing from your own home using a camera-equipped PC, smartphone, or tablet.
Please note: The Tokyo venue has limited capacity. Applications will close as soon as seats are filled.
Exam Fees (All prices include tax):
- Tokyo Venue: Beginner Level: 5,800 yen / Intermediate Level: 6,900 yen / Beginner & Intermediate Combo: 12,060 yen (5% off)
- Online: Beginner Level: 5,500 yen / Intermediate Level: 6,600 yen / Beginner & Intermediate Combo: 11,500 yen (5% off)
Eligibility: Anyone who loves Natsume Yuujinchou is welcome to take the exam!
For more details on additional planned gifts and the latest updates, be sure to check out the official website. It’s time to hit the books—or rewatch those anime episodes—and prove your mastery of the wonderful, spirit-filled world created by Midorikawa Yuki!
《By Nakase Koutarou》
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