The upcoming TV anime adaptation of KAGURABACHI has revealed that Tomokazu Seki will voice Kunishige Rokuhira, the father of protagonist Chihiro Rokuhira. A character visual and character PV were also unveiled alongside the announcement.
Based on the manga by Kento Hokazono, serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump, KAGURABACHI is a sword-fighting battle action series that has surpassed 4 million copies in total circulation (including digital editions). The anime is directed by Tetsuya Takeuchi, with animation production by Cypic. Chihiro Rokuhira is voiced by Taiga Kimura.
The story follows Chihiro, a boy who aspires to become a swordsmith, and his father Kunishige, a renowned swordsmith. Their peaceful days are shattered by an attack from the mysterious sorcerer organization “Hishaku.” Six “Enchanted Blades” of immense power, which once decided the fate of the nation, are stolen. Chihiro, robbed of his warm daily life, takes up the seventh blade “Enten” left by his father and embarks on a blood-soaked path of revenge.
Kunishige Rokuhira is a warm father who quietly watches over his son’s growth. He is an unmatched swordsmith, the only one capable of forging Enchanted Blades. His blades are said to have ended the Saitei War. Three years ago, he lost his life during the Hishaku attack.
The official Twitter account shared the news: see post.
Tomokazu Seki (Kunishige Rokuhira) Full Comment
Thoughts on Recording and Character Portrayal
“Kunishige is a legendary swordsmith, but at the same time a warm father. I performed with care so that both sides of his charm come across naturally. In daily humorous scenes I tried to be bright and fun, and in moments where he speaks of his convictions as a swordsmith, I hope each line carries weight for the audience.”
Reaction to Being Cast and Enthusiasm for the Anime
“I was truly happy when I was chosen for the role of Kunishige. KAGURABACHI is a work loved by many fans, and Kunishige is a crucial character in the story. I am doing my best to deliver the passion of the original and the feelings of the characters in a form unique to anime.”
First Impression of the Work
“When I first read the manga, I thought, ‘This is such a passionate work!’ The powerful action is impressive, and emotions like determination, loss, and revenge are portrayed deeply—I was drawn in immediately. The unique worldbuilding also makes me want to know what happens next.”
The Greatest Charm of Kunishige
“I think Kunishige’s charm lies in the strength to uphold his beliefs and his deep love. I myself tend to dive headfirst into things I love, so I might feel a slight connection to him.”
Describe KAGURABACHI in One Phrase
“A soul passed down.”
TV Anime KAGURABACHI Overview
Broadcast Info: April 2027
| Staff | |
|---|---|
| Original Work | Kento Hokazono (serialized in Shueisha Weekly Shonen Jump) |
| Director | Tetsuya Takeuchi |
| Character Design | Keigo Sasaki |
| Animation Production | Cypic |
| Production Committee | Shochiku・CyberAgent |
| Cast | |
|---|---|
| Chihiro Rokuhira | Taiga Kimura |
Original Work Info: Total circulation exceeds 4 million copies (including digital). Volume 11 now on sale. Price: 572 yen (tax included).
(C) Kento Hokazono/Shueisha・Kagurabachi Project
(C) Kento Hokazono/Shueisha
