Exciting Collaboration: New 'urawaza' Umbrellas Launched with 'Hikuidori' Anime

Moonbat Inc., headquartered in Kyoto, has announced the release of two new additions to their popular "urawaza" series of umbrellas, "urawaza Musou" and "urawaza Komachi", scheduled for release on January 26, 2026. This launch features a unique collaboration with the popular anime adaptation of the acclaimed novel "Hikuidori: Ushu Borotobi-gumi" by the Naoki Prize-winning author Shogo Imamura. This partnership aims to promote the new products and highlight their appeal to a broader audience.

As part of this promotional campaign, special key visuals and an introduction video have been created, which will be shared across social media platforms and in-store displays. Additionally, a special in-store announcement will be made by voice actor Yuichiro Umehara, who voices "Matsunaga Gengo", and actress, model, and talent Ayaka Miyoshi, who portrays "Miyuki", adding a unique layer to the shopping experience and aligning the product with the anime's rich narrative.

Background of the Collaboration

The "urawaza" series is popular for its remarkable utility and design, with the collapsible umbrellas having sold over 260,000 units to date. The newly launched "urawaza Musou" features enhanced wind resistance capabilities, while "urawaza Komachi" has been designed to be smaller and more compact, making them distinct in functionality and appeal. Furthermore, the cross-promotional work with "Hikuidori" significantly complements the strong personalities and dramatic themes of the series, making it an ideal partnership.

The storyline of "Hikuidori: Ushu Borotobi-gumi" revolves around Gengo Matsunaga, a former fireman known as the "fire-eater", summoned to revive a failing firefighting brigade in the Shinjō domain against the backdrop of mysterious fires terrorizing Edo. With rich storytelling and deep characterizations, Imamura's work has amassed a robust fanbase, connecting deeply with the themes represented in the new umbrella series.

Collaborative WEB Movie

To showcase this collaboration, a WEB movie combining "urawaza Musou", "urawaza Komachi", and the "Hikuidori" animation will be released online. You can watch it via the following link: Collaborative WEB Movie.

Product Features

urawaza Musou

- Strengthened Wind Resistance: The durable design features a unique blue skeletal structure that connects up to four support rods, promoting robustness and stability. The umbrella has passed tests for wind speeds up to 30m/s (equivalent to extremely dangerous winds) highlighting its strong construction while emphasizing user safety during storms.

urawaza Komachi

- Compact Yet Sophisticated Design: This product features a refined and small form factor, easily fitting into the palm of your hand, thanks to its innovative sheet structure.

Advantages of the urawaza Series

- Quick Folding Mechanism: Utilizing guide sheets within the umbrella fabric, the folding process is intuitive and effortless, streamlining the user experience significantly.

- Comfort in Rainy Weather: Incorporating Teflon, known for its water-repellent properties, ensures a top-grade hydrophobic performance, allowing users to stay dry even during heavy rain.

Product Specs

- urawaza Musou (Manual Open): Price: ¥6,600 (tax included); Dimensions: 58cm rib, 102cm open; Weight: approx. 400g; Available in dark gray, black, turquoise blue, and deep blue.

- urawaza Musou (Automatic Open/Close): Price: ¥7,150 (tax included); Dimensions: 58cm rib, 102cm open; Weight: approx. 490g; Colors same as above.

- urawaza Komachi (Compact Plain): Price: ¥5,500 (tax included); Dimensions: 50cm rib, 92cm open; Weight: approx. 198g; Available in black, off-white, beige, pale pink, light green, and turquoise blue.

- urawaza Komachi (Automatic Open/Close): Price: ¥6,050 (tax included); Dimensions: 50cm rib, 92cm open; Weight: approx. 248g; Colors same as above.

Product Site: Detailed information will be available on estaa.jp from January 30, 2026.

About 'Hikuidori: Ushu Borotobi-gumi'

The series, originally crafted by Shogo Imamura is a gripping tale that encapsulates the lives of a fireman overcoming tremendous odds to protect others, tightly weaving elements of action and emotion, thus establishing a compelling narrative that resonates with the audience. The series also aired on the CBC/TBS network starting January 11, 2026.

Author Profile

Shogo Imamura, born in Kyoto in 1984, has achieved significant recognition in contemporary literature with multiple awards for his compelling storytelling. Beyond writing, he engages in promoting reading among the youth through various initiatives aimed at enhancing literacy and appreciation for literature.

- For more about Imamura and his works, visit his official site.

Availability: The new umbrellas will be sold through the MOONBAT ONLINE SHOP and various retailers, including Loft and Hands, across Japan.

Company Overview: Moonbat Inc. specializes in the design and production of high-quality accessories including umbrellas and fashion items. Their commitment to innovation and quality continues to position them as a leader in their field. (Visit: moonbat.co.jp).