#Japan #Tokyo #Animation #Hoppe-chan #Sanhohseki

The New Era of Hoppe-chan: Celebrating 15 Years with Animation

In a wonderful tribute to its loyal fans, Mitto Merhen Co., Ltd., from the Sanhohseki business division, has announced the upcoming anime series 'Hoppe-chan: The Kingdom of Sun and the Secret of the Black Hoppe Corps' set to premiere on January 10, 2026. This marks the 15th anniversary of the beloved character Hoppe-chan, renowned for its vibrant silicone material and unique expressions, making it immensely popular among younger fans, especially elementary school girls.

The Journey of Hoppe-chan

Since its debut in 2010, Hoppe-chan has sold tens of millions of units, captivating children's imaginations all around Japan. The anime adaptation serves not only as a celebration of its enduring popularity but also as a heartfelt thank-you to the dedicated fanbase who have supported the character over the years. This initiative aims to pass down the torch of Hoppe-chan to the next generation, ensuring the character continues to live on in the hearts of both old and new fans.

Unveiling the Story

The anime presents a parallel fantasy comedy narrative, intertwining the enchanting Kingdom of Sun and the journey of a struggling office worker named Hoho. As Hoho encounters Hoppe-chan and her friends, viewers will experience a delightful story that emphasizes the importance of maintaining one’s dreams into adulthood and the courage to reclaim one’s identity. This dual narrative appeals not only to children but resonates deeply with adult audiences as well.

In this series, expect to find Hoppe-chan characters like never before, breaking established norms and highlighting the concept of diversity in a charming way. The message of ‘everyone can be Hoppe-chan’ is central to the series, allowing for a broad acceptance of different interpretations of the character.

A Nostalgic Touch

The animation will feature nostalgic items reminiscent of the 'Profile Books' that once delighted many young girls, alongside elements that mirror the magical experience of visiting a Sanhohseki fan's desk. The inclusion of commentary from past collaborators and a comprehensive look back at Sanhohseki’s journey will evoke a deep sense of nostalgia for longtime followers, making it a heartfelt experience. The combination of retro and contemporary elements allows for viewers to reminisce about the sparkle of their childhood while enjoying a fresh take as adults.

Exciting Music Collaborations

The anime is blessed with contributions from renowned artists, enhancing its appeal. The opening theme titled 'Hope & Jump' featuring Crystal Kay is performed by the new EXILE unit 'EXILE B HAPPY' and promises an energetic tune that embodies hope and positivity. Notably, listeners will hear the catchy phrase ‘Hoppe-chan’ woven into the lyrics, offering an endearing connection to the character. Additionally, the choreography by EXILE TETSUYA brings another layer of excitement to the experience, with social media content showcasing Hoppe-chan dancing along.

The ending theme, 'Tokimeki Agetchau yo,’ performed by a vibrant 2.5D VTuber idol group with a mix of virtual and real-world appearances, will surely enchant audiences. Their music will blend imaginatively with classic Hoppe-chan themes, bridging the old and new.

Moreover, a supporting song titled 'Hoppe-chan Ondo', sung by national singer Yoshimi Tendo, will further immerse fans in the whimsical world of Hoppe-chan. This historical nod occurs during an exciting upcoming live Christmas music festival where attendees can witness this song performed live.

A New Beginning for Sanhohseki

This anime not only represents a celebration of Hoppe-chan’s legacy but also marks a significant relaunch of the Sanhohseki brand under its newly formed Mitto Merhen Co., Ltd. The animation project is part of a broader strategy to deliver both fond memories and new experiences through cross-media endeavors such as merchandise, social media engagement, and fan events.

The statement from Sanhohseki expresses deep gratitude for the ongoing support from fans and aims for a collaborative future:

“We are truly excited about the upcoming television broadcasts and streaming. Embracing the new possibilities of Hoppe-chan after 15 years, we hope fans young and old will welcome and enjoy this fresh interpretation, ensuring everyone finds their place in the Hoppe-chan universe.”

As we count down to the premiere, anticipation grows for what promises to be a joyful blend of nostalgia and innovation that reinvents Hoppe-chan for a new era.

Additional Information

Title: 'Hoppe-chan: The Kingdom of Sun and the Secret of the Black Hoppe Corps'
Broadcast Date: January 10, 2026 (5:00 PM JST)
Channels: Yamanashi Broadcasting, Chiba TV, Kanagawa TV, Saitama TV, BS Nippon Television, Western Japan Broadcasting, Hokkaido Cultural Broadcasting
Online Streaming: Starts January 10, 2026 (5:30 PM JST) on d Anime Store, with additional platforms to follow.
Official Website: hoppechan.jp
Social Media: Twitter

Fans are invited to join in this exciting celebration as we embark on a new adventure with Hoppe-chan!