After years of quiet anticipation, Kyoto Animation has reignited hope for fans by unveiling the first trailer for its upcoming TV anime Sparks of Tomorrow — the long-awaited adaptation of Hiro Yuki’s light novel “20 Seiki Denki Mokuroku.”

Premiering during the Kyoto Animation Fan Event, the studio confirmed a 2026 broadcast and officially introduced the lead cast and production team.

Sparks of Tomorrow Anime Trailer and Visual

A RETURN YEARS IN THE MAKING

Originally announced back in 2018, the project faced an indefinite halt following the tragic Kyoto Animation Studio 1 arson attack in 2019 — a devastating incident that claimed the lives of several beloved staff members, including directors and animators who helped shape the studio’s legacy.

Now, six years later, Sparks of Tomorrow marks both a creative and emotional revival for KyoAni, as the studio brings one of its most personal projects back to life.

CAST AND CREW DETAILS

The anime will star:

• Kihachi Sakamoto voiced by Yuma Uchida (Megumi Fushiguro in JUJUTSU KAISEN)

• Inako Momokawa voiced by Sora Amamiya (Chizuru Ichinose in Rent-A-Girlfriend)

Behind the scenes, Sparks of Tomorrow will be directed by Minoru Ota, marking his series directorial debut at Kyoto Animation.
The production team also includes:

• Series Composition: Tatsuhiko Urahata (Violet Evergarden)

• Character Designs & Chief Animation Direction: Kohei Okamura (Free! The Final Stroke)

• Worldview Setting: Takaaki Suzuki (Violet Evergarden)

• Music: Hitomi Koto (video game composer)

A STORY OF REBIRTH AND INVENTION

Set in an alternate version of early 20th century Kyoto, the series follows two young dreamers in an age where steam technology dominates, but the promise of electricity lingers just out of reach.

Kihachi, a boy haunted by the loss of his brother, and Inako, a girl bound by faith and memory, cross paths while searching for the mysterious “20th Century Electrical Catalog.” Their journey becomes one of discovery, grief, and renewal — a reflection of Kyoto Animation’s own spirit of perseverance.

The studio describes it as:

“A tale of adventure for boys and girls who dreamed of the Age of Electricity in a world shrouded in smoke. Surpass who you are now and break through the dreams you once had — this is the story of regeneration.”

A TRIBUTE TO KYOANI’S LEGACY

Spark of Tomorrow isn’t just another anime — it’s a symbol of Kyoto Animation’s enduring resilience and artistry. With veterans and new talents working side by side, the series stands as both a continuation of the studio’s legacy and a celebration of those who made it possible.