Rilakkuma is getting a new short anime series in 2026
A new short anime series based on the popular San-X character “Rilakkuma” has been officially announced.
The new television series is scheduled to begin its broadcast in April 2026.
Rilakkuma, whose name is a combination of the words “relax” and “kuma” (the Japanese word for bear), was created by Aki Kondo.
The character is a small, bear-like creature in a costume, who is known for his lazy, laid-back personality and his love of relaxing.
This gentle, “goyururi” or “laid-back” worldview has made Rilakkuma a massively popular “iyashi-kei,” or “healing-type,” character in Japan and around the world, spawning a huge range of merchandise, books, and other collaborations.
To accompany the announcement of the new anime, a teaser visual and an official introduction to the series have been released.
The new visual features the four main characters of the franchise: Rilakkuma, Korilakkuma, Kiiroitori, and Chairoikoguma, all with their signature, relaxed expressions.
This new series will bring the charming and gentle world of the popular character to a wider audience.
An official website and a social media account on the platform X have also been launched for the new anime, where character information and future updates will be posted.
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I fell in love with Rilakkuma and the anime series when I went to Japan a couple years ago. I’ve been praying and anticipating another series to come out! You don’t know how happy I am to hear about this. Yay!