by The highly acclaimed historical manga Jardugal of the Tent is officially being adapted into a TV anime, set to premiere in July 2026. The series will air nationwide in Japan on TV Asahi’s “IMAnimation” block across 24 affiliate stations, as well as on BS Asahi. Alongside the announcement, a teaser trailer and teaser visual were released, immediately drawing attention for their striking artistry and international creative lineup.
Produced by the globally respected animation studio Science SARU, the anime brings together some of the most celebrated creators in modern animation both in Japan and abroad making it one of the most anticipated anime projects of 2026.
What Is Jardugal of the Tent?
Originally created by Tomato Soup, Jardugal of the Tent is a historical manga serialized in Souffle (Akita Shoten). The story is set across the vast landscapes of 13th-century Mongolia and Persia, blending political intrigue, cultural conflict, and deeply personal human drama.
The manga has received exceptional critical recognition, including:
- No.1 in This Manga Is Amazing! 2023 (Women’s Edition) by Takarajimasha
- Nominee for the Manga Taisho Awards in both 2023 and 2024
These accolades have cemented the series as one of the most important historical manga of recent years.
A Visually Powerful Teaser That Signals an Epic Journey
The newly released teaser trailer introduces viewers to Sitara, the story’s central heroine, as she runs through the bustling streets of 13th-century Tus, an Iranian city rich in culture and history. Markets, architecture, and flowing fabrics are brought to life through Science SARU’s signature animation style—marked by warm textures, bold motion, and vivid color layering.
The teaser visual complements this with a poetic image: a dove soaring across an endless sky, petals drifting in the wind, and Sitara gazing forward with quiet determination. Together, the visuals suggest both inner strength and the beginning of a grand, emotional journey.
A World-Class Creative Team
One of the biggest talking points surrounding the anime is its exceptional staff lineup, often described as “Japan’s global elite” in animation.
Key Staff
- General Director: Naoko Yamada
(The Tale of the Heike, A Silent Voice, The Colors Within) - Director: Abel Gongora
(Dandadan Season 2, Star Wars: Visions – T0-B1, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off) - Character Design / Chief Animation Director: Kenichi Yoshida
(Eureka Seven, OVERMAN King Gainer, Orbital Children) - Series Composition: Kanichi Kato
(Black Clover, Teasing Master Takagi-san) - Music: Hiroshi Hino (first anime soundtrack)
This team combines experience in emotional storytelling, experimental animation, and international productions perfectly suited to a story that crosses cultures and eras.
Director Comments: Respecting History While Telling a New Story
Naoko Yamada (General Director)
Yamada expressed deep admiration for the original manga, describing it as “fresh and full of surprises.” She emphasized that Sitara and the surrounding characters live with conviction—sometimes boldly, sometimes delicately while navigating a turbulent era.
“We will depict this story with respect and care. I hope viewers will feel the strength and charm of these characters.”
Abel Gongora (Director)
Gongora highlighted the cultural depth of the Mongolian and Persian worlds:
“With deep respect for the people who carried these cultures forward, we’ve interpreted history in our own way—beyond strict fact or legend. I’m honored to animate the moment Sitara steps onto her own shining path.”
Kenichi Yoshida (Character Design)
For Yoshida, this project marks a personal milestone:
“This is my first time adapting an original work. I’m giving everything I have to this challenge.”
Kanichi Kato (Series Composition)
Kato emphasized the modern relevance of the story:
“Through Sitara’s struggles, encounters, and hopes for the future, we learn how to survive and understand cultures different from our own.”
Hiroshi Hino (Music)
Hino shared that composing for Jardugal of the Tent was a first in many ways—his first anime soundtrack and first time creating Persian–Mongolian-inspired music.
“Portraying Sitara’s complex emotions was challenging yet deeply rewarding. I sincerely hope for a world where no child has to endure such suffering.”
Why This Anime Matters in 2026
Jardugal of the Tent stands out in a crowded anime landscape for several reasons:
- A rare focus on Central Asian and Middle Eastern history
- A strong female protagonist navigating politics, survival, and identity
- A production team known for emotion-driven, art-forward storytelling
- A blend of historical realism and lyrical interpretation
For beginners, the series does not require prior historical knowledge. Instead, it invites viewers into its world through character emotion, atmosphere, and visual storytelling.
Broadcast Information (Beginner-Friendly)
- Title: Jardugal of the Tent
- Premiere: July 2026
- Broadcast: TV Asahi “IMAnimation” (24 stations nationwide), BS Asahi
- Animation Studio: Science SARU
Final Thoughts
With its award-winning source material, globally recognized creators, and bold artistic vision, Jardugal of the Tent is shaping up to be one of summer 2026’s most important anime releases. It promises not just spectacle, but meaning bridging history, culture, and human resilience through animation.
Whether you’re a longtime anime fan or someone looking for a powerful, story-driven series, this is a title worth watching closely.
