Higurashi: The Sound of the Cicadas Returns with Special Broadcast Event

Get Ready for a New Higurashi Adventure

As we approach the traditional Japanese festival of "Watanagashi" in June, fans of the anime series "Higurashi: When They Cry" are in for a treat with a special broadcast event. Celebrating the enigmatic series, Dwango Co., Ltd. has announced that all 50 episodes of the two anime adaptations will be aired for free on Niconico Live. This event, aptly titled “Watanagashi 2025 Higurashi Challenge,” will take place over two days: June 21st and 22nd, 2025.

The gripping psychological horror series is set in a remote village called Hinamizawa during the summer of Showa 58 (1983). Here, the seemingly peaceful community is divided by a haunting tradition known as the "Watanagashi" festival. Unbeknownst to the new arrivals, this festival carries dark implications; every year, it is tainted by a gruesome pattern of mysterious deaths—a fact that becomes central to the narrative.

Each year on the day of the festival, one villager mysteriously dies while another goes missing. This cyclical horror raises questions about fate and inevitability for the protagonists, especially the curious Keiichi Maebara and his friends: Renna, Mion, Satoko, and Rika. As the cheerful days pass, the dark truth about the village's past looms ever closer.

Broadcasting Details

On June 21, fans can catch "Higurashi: When They Cry", comprising 26 thrilling episodes. Viewers can join at 1 PM JST via this link, with the broadcast scheduled to conclude around 12:15 AM on June 22. The next day, from 1 PM JST, the sequel series "Higurashi: When They Cry Kai" will follow, featuring 24 episodes full of unexpected twists and dark revelations. The viewing link for this is available here.

The Mystery of Hinamizawa

As viewers delve into the series, we witness Keiichi, a bright and sociable boy who recently moved to the snowy village, quickly forming bonds with his classmates. However, when festival day arrives, what should be a joyous celebration becomes a stage for horror. The secrets of Hinamizawa begin to unravel, forcing Keiichi to confront the village's hidden darkness. Will he be able to uncover the truth and break the cycle of tragedies before it’s too late?

The roots of this gripping series trace back to the visual novel created by Ryukishi07 in 2002, leading to the first anime adaptation airing in 2006. Following its success, a sequel titled "Higurashi: When They Cry Kai" was released in 2007, further captivating audiences and building a dedicated following. The series remains a beloved classic, often revisited by fans, particularly on Niconico.

Join the Watch Party!

Fans eagerly anticipate this unique opportunity to re-experience the heart-pounding atmosphere and riveting storytelling of Higurashi as they share the journey with fellow viewers. This year’s Watanagashi festival promises to be more than just a celebration, but a collective reminisce of chilling narratives and the bonds formed between characters starved for mystery.

Don't miss out on this chance—mark your calendars for June 21-22, and immerse yourself in the traditions and terrors of Higurashi: When They Cry!