by The upcoming original anime “Sayonara Lala” (Goodbye Lala) has unveiled an exciting preview of scenes from Episode 1, along with its second main visual, ahead of its official July 2026 broadcast.
Set against the scenic beauty of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, this emotional fantasy anime tells the story of a mermaid princess reborn in the modern world, blending romance, nostalgia, and heartfelt human drama.
Second Key Visual Highlights Main Characters and Setting
The newly released second main visual beautifully captures three central characters standing by Lake Biwa, surrounded by a bright blue sky and playful seagulls.
Characters Featured:
- Lala (CV: Kana Hishikawa)
A mermaid princess resurrected after 200 years, now living in modern-day Shiga. Her flowing red hair and sparkling eyes reflect her innocent and free-spirited personality. - Mari Otsu (CV: Nana Kawaishi)
A determined high school boxer, shown reaching out toward a seagull, symbolizes her energetic and bold nature. - Luca (CV: Ayumu Murase)
A mysterious boy Lala encounters in Shiga, depicted closing one eye as if dazzled by sunlight, hints at a calm yet complex personality.
The visuals’ nostalgic color palette and the emotional tagline:
“This world isn’t so bad, is it?”
Suggest a story filled with hope, healing, and emotional depth.
Episode 1 Preview Released on YouTube (Limited Time)
Fans can now get an early glimpse of the anime through a limited-time preview of Episode 1, currently available on YouTube.
What the Preview Shows:
- Lala’s awakening in modern-day Lake Biwa
- Her first experiences interacting with the human world
- Early encounters with Mari and Luca
- A calm yet emotional atmosphere with strong cinematic visuals
This preview gives viewers a taste of the anime’s gentle storytelling style and emotional tone, making it perfect for fans of slow-paced, character-driven narratives.
Story Overview – A Modern Mermaid Tale
“Sayonara Lala” is inspired by the classic fairy tale “The Little Mermaid”, but with a fresh and emotional twist.
Beginner-Friendly Plot Summary:
Lala, a mermaid princess, is mysteriously resurrected after 200 years in Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake. As she adapts to life in the human world, she encounters new friendships, emotions, and challenges.
The story explores:
- The meaning of true love
- Adjusting to a new world and identity
- Bonds between different individuals
- The passage of time and emotional healing
It promises a poignant yet uplifting narrative about everyday life and human connection.
Produced by Kinema Citrus – A Studio with Proven Success
“Sayonara Lala” is part of the 15th anniversary project of the renowned animation studio Kinema Citrus.
The studio is known for producing critically acclaimed anime such as:
- Made in Abyss
- My Happy Marriage
- The Rising of the Shield Hero
- Shoujo☆Kageki Revue Starlight
With such a strong portfolio, expectations are high for high-quality animation and storytelling.
Direction and Production Details
The anime is directed by Takashi Koide, who hails from Shiga Prefecture, making this project especially personal and meaningful.
- Director: Takashi Koide (Directorial debut)
- Setting: Lake Biwa, Shiga
- Studio: Kinema Citrus
- Release: July 2026
Koide’s connection to Shiga adds authenticity to the setting, likely enhancing the anime’s realistic atmosphere and emotional storytelling.
What Makes ‘Sayonara Lala’ Unique?
This anime stands out due to its distinct blend of elements:
- A mermaid story set in modern Japan
- Strong focus on scenery and atmosphere (Lake Biwa)
- Emotional themes of love, loss, and rediscovery
- Character-driven storytelling rather than an action-heavy plot
It is ideal for fans who enjoy:
- Slice-of-life anime
- Emotional romance
- Visually rich, slow-paced narratives
Final Thoughts
With its beautiful visuals, emotional premise, and unique setting, Sayonara Lala is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated anime of Summer 2026.
The combination of:
- A resurrected mermaid princess
- A peaceful yet emotionally complex setting
- And a story about love and belonging
makes it both heartwarming and deeply engaging.
Don’t miss the Episode 1 preview on YouTube and stay tuned for more updates as the July release approaches.
