Celebrating 20 Years of Bonoron: A Special Arts Event and More

Celebrating 20 Years of Bonoron

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the cherished storybook '森の戦士ボノロン' (Forest Warrior Bonoron), published by Coamix, following the dream to reach every child with a tale. To celebrate this milestone, Coamix is introducing four exciting initiatives aimed at families and children, including a special stage performance and an exhibition in Tokyo.

What is Bonoron?

Launched in 2005, '森の戦士ボノロン' aims to foster communication between parents and children while nurturing kindness and compassion. Sponsored by Seven Bank, the storybooks are distributed for free every two months at various locations, including Seven-Eleven and Denny’s. The series was creatively produced by the well-known manga artist Tetsuo Hara of 'Fist of the North Star' fame, while the original story is by Seibo Kitahara and illustrated by Hikari.

Major Events to Celebrate

1. Free Admission for Kids at the Stage Performance in Kumamoto

The first-ever stage adaptation of Bonoron, titled '森の戦士ボノロンねこ岳伝説の巻' (Forest Warrior Bonoron: Legend of Nekodake), will be performed in Kumamoto. The cast features the all-female opera company O'Clock Kumamoto Opera. As part of its commitment to the community, Coamix invites children under 13 and their parents to attend the show for free.

Venue: Kumamoto Manga Arts, B1F, 4-1 Tezuka Hommachi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City
Dates:

- General Performances: July 25, 26, and August 30, 31, 2025.
- Invitation Performances: July 27 through August 24, 2025.

After 20 years, this stage performance is a splendid way for families to create cherished memories together.

For free invitation applications, visit: Coamix Bonoron Invitation

2. Bonoron Exhibition in Kichijoji, Tokyo

The 'ずっと、いっしょ。ボノロン展' (Forever Together: Bonoron Exhibition) will take place at Gallery Zenon in Kichijoji, Tokyo. Attendees can view all 121 released storybooks, rough sketches by Tetsuo Hara, and panels showcasing famous scenes from the series. Additionally, festival-goers can purchase new merchandise, including plushies and other collectibles, as well as enjoy Bonoron-themed café offerings.

Dates: July 19 - August 3, 2025
Location: Gallery Zenon, 2-11-1 Minamimachi, Musashino City, Tokyo
Admission: Free for children under 12, 330 yen for junior/high schoolers, and 550 yen for adults (includes a souvenir)

Enjoy unique café specials like the 'Bonoron Kids Plate' available only during the exhibition!

3. Release of Bonoron Official Fanbook

An exclusive fanbook titled 'ずっといっしょ。ボノロンずかん' (Forever Together: Bonoron Encyclopedia) will be available for early purchase at the exhibition. It features summaries of 122 stories, character explanations, and interviews with the authors.

Price: 2,750 yen (incl. tax)
Size: B5, 96 pages

4. Re-release of Past Stories Digitally

To mark the anniversary, the digital version of '森の戦士ボノロンポラメル復刻版' (Forest Warrior Bonoron: Polamer Reprint) will be launched starting June 15. Previously unavailable stories will now be accessible as ebooks, and five stories will be free for a limited time on the 20th anniversary special site.

Prices:

- Single story: 275 yen (incl. tax)
- Compiled version: 1,320 yen (2005 edition only for 440 yen)

Release Schedule:

- June 15, 2025: Episodes 1-28
- July 15, 2025: Episodes 29-58
- August 15, 2025: Episodes 59-88
- September 15, 2025: Episodes 89-118

Visit the Bonoron 20th Anniversary Site at: Bonoron 20th Anniversary

5. Commemorative Issue with Special Read-aloud

beginning June 15, the 'ポラメル6月号' (Polamer June Issue) will be distributed at Seven-Eleven and Denny’s across the country as a 20th-anniversary special. This edition features a read-aloud by famous voice actor Kazuhiko Inoue.

Official Bonoron Websites & Social Media

Conclusion

The story of '森の戦士ボノロン' continues to inspire and cultivate family bonds. Coamix hopes to nurture children's hearts and provide warm moments for families to relive through Bonoron.

Let's celebrate together with Bonoron!