Dragon Ball Celebrates with New Anime Road in Tokyo
Fans of the iconic anime series Dragon Ball have reason to celebrate as Tokyo’s Nakano Ward prepares to unveil the Nakano Mural Anime Road in 2026. This project will feature vibrant murals celebrating various anime franchises, with Dragon Ball taking a prominent place among other beloved series such as Puss in Boots, Mazinger Z, and Galaxy Express 999. While the specific opening date has not yet been announced, the initiative marks a significant step in promoting anime culture in the area.
The Nakano Mural Anime Road is a collaborative effort between the Nakano Branch of the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Nakano Ward, aimed at revitalizing the local economy through anime-related content. Hiroto Masamura, Chairman of the “Nakano Connecting Through Anime Executive Committee,” expressed enthusiasm for the project. He noted that the committee has been working since 2017 to establish Nakano as a hub for anime culture, attracting both local and international interest.
Masamura stated, “Prior to the launch of the Nakano Connecting Through Anime Executive Committee this year… we have been working together as a public-private partnership to revitalize the local economy through anime content.” He emphasized that the Mural Anime Road will allow visitors to experience the charm of Nakano while celebrating its rich anime heritage.
In a show of support for the initiative, Katsuhiro Takagi, President of Toei Animation, highlighted the company’s long-standing connection to Nakano. “We have been based in Nakano, the town of anime, since 2013,” he remarked. As Toei Animation approaches its 70th anniversary in 2026, Takagi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the project, which features visuals from 19 cherished anime works displayed on local infrastructure.
This announcement comes at a time when fans are also eagerly anticipating the future of the Dragon Ball franchise. While the series did not participate in this year’s Jump Festa, plans for a significant event in 2026 promise to shed light on the direction of the series, keeping the excitement alive among its dedicated followers.
The Nakano Mural Anime Road represents more than just a tribute to anime; it is a testament to the growing influence of anime culture in Japan and its potential to drive local economic growth. As major anime companies flock to Nakano, the area is poised to become an even more prominent destination for both fans and tourists.
As the project progresses, details regarding the official opening date and additional features will be shared. For now, both local residents and anime enthusiasts around the world can look forward to experiencing the vibrant intersection of culture and community in Nakano.
