"Hishū borobitogumi"-historical fire brigade saga receives manga and anime adaptation

The successful novel series "Hishū Borobitogumi" by Shōgo Imamura will be adapted into a TV anime in 2026, while the first volume "Hikuidori" (Eng. "The Fire Eater") will be released as a manga in spring 2024. A key visual and a teaser trailer offer the first glimpses into the visual adaptation of this dark firefighter epic.

The story is based on the historical Great Fire of Meiwa (1772) and follows Matsunaga Gengo, a legendary firefighter who leads the Borobitogumi—a team of eccentric heroes. Together, they battle not only fires but also corruption and social injustice in feudal Edo.

Manga Adaptation

- Artist: Shinobu Seguchi ("Prisoner Riku") brings her distinctive aesthetic to the adaptation.

- Release: Starting spring 2024 in Weekly Shōnen Champion (Akita Shoten).

Anime Adaptation

- Studio: SynergySP (known for "Beyblade") is handling production.

- Premiere: Winter 2026

The key visual depicts the Borobitogumi in a dramatic battle against a raging inferno, while the trailer captures their determined faces and the menacing atmosphere of a massive fire.

Imamura expressed his enthusiasm: "This story of men who never give up will warm the hearts of viewers. I am convinced this will be the greatest historical anime and manga adaptation ever made." The project also enjoys support from mangaka Aimi Shibata, among others.