Kodansha has released a new deluxe photo book chronicling the original Kamen Rider television series, collecting rare behind-the-scenes stills from all 98 episodes and two feature films.
Titled TV Magazine Special Edition: Kamen Rider Showa 46-48 Kodansha Collection Photo Book: Ultimate, the volume is now available for 19,800 yen (tax included).
The original Kamen Rider aired from 1971 to 1973, and 2026 marks the franchise’s 55th anniversary. The series remains hugely popular more than half a century after its debut, with the newest entry, Kamen Rider Mice, set to begin airing on September 6.
A Treasure Trove of Never-Before-Published Still Photos
This 400-page A4 variant-format book (with cover) contains still photographs taken on the sets of the first TV series and its two theatrical films. These images come exclusively from Kodansha’s archives, captured by staff photographer Ooshima Koji, who documented tokusatsu productions for years. His camera froze the decisive moments of the original series’ filming in ways never seen before.
In addition to classic shots that appeared in TV Magazine and previous mooks, the photo book features many images that could not be published before—including shots where Kamen Rider’s face is barely visible, individual monster photos taken from angles other than the front, and sequential frames that are not the usual “finishing pose” cuts. The book also completely covers the final GelShocker arc, all the way to the concluding episode.
Relive the Legendary Battles of Riders 1 and 2
From the very first transformation to the fierce showdowns against the evil organizations, this collection lets fans revisit the magnificent and brutal history of Kamen Rider 1 and Kamen Rider 2. Whether you grew up with the series or are discovering it now, this ultimate photo book offers an unprecedented look at the origins of the Kamen Rider saga.
Product Details
- Title: TV Magazine Special Edition: Kamen Rider Showa 46-48 Kodansha Collection Photo Book: Ultimate
- Price: 19,800 yen (tax included)
- Format: A4 variant size, 400 pages (with cover)
- Release date: September 3, 2026
- Publisher: Kodansha Co., Ltd.
Available at bookstores and online retailers nationwide.
(C) Ishimori Productions / Toei
