Japanese Dub of 'Zijin: Yu Miao Fang' Starts in October 2026

The Chinese animated series 'Zijin: Yu Miao Fang' (also known as 'Paws & Palaces') is receiving a Japanese dub, which will air from October 2026 under the title 'Zijin: Yu Miao Fang – Forbidden City Cat Security Room'. The series is based on the webcomic of the same name by A Nan and Dai Tu and was originally produced as a Chinese ONA (Original Net Animation) by iQIYI and Kuaikan Manhua. The animation comes from Studio Colored Pencil Animation. The Japanese dub production is handled by KADOKAWA.

The story is set in the Forbidden City (紫禁城), where six imperial cats are tasked with protecting the memories of cultural treasures—known as 'Wuhua'. They enter the world of the Wuhua and fight against the destructive Black Owl to preserve the cultural artifacts. The cats are divided into two groups: the Civil Division with Luban and Momo, and the Military Division with Shuang Mei, Aobai, Pingan, and Xiaozi.

The Japanese voice cast includes:
- Shuang Mei (霜眉): Kazuki Ura (浦和希)
- Aobai (鰲拜): Makoto Furukawa (古川慎)
- Pingan (平安): Sora Amamiya (雨宮天)
- Xiaozi (小仔): Takeo Ōtsuka (大塚剛央)
- Luban (魯班): Kentarō Tone (利根健太朗)
- Momo (么么): Hikaru Tōno (遠野ひかる)

The voice actors expressed their excitement: Kazuki Ura, who voices the lead role Shuang Mei, raved about the cat-filled world and the action-packed battles. Makoto Furukawa expressed anticipation for the dynamic portrayal of the powerful Aobai. The other actors also praised the lovingly crafted characters and the high-quality animation.

A teaser PV and a concept visual have already been released. The Japanese broadcast is scheduled to start in October 2026. Further details on the airtime and streaming will be announced later.