Shogo Imamura, a Japanese author born in 1984, is known for historical fiction, with “Hikuidori” being his debut novel from 2017, part of the “Ushu Boro Tobi Gumi” series. It won the Yoshikawa Eiji Bunko Prize in 2021 and is now gaining attention through its adaptations.
Story Overview
The novel is set during the Great Fire of Meiwa, a significant historical event in 1772, and centers on Gengo Matsunaga, a retired samurái firefighter called back to lead the Boroho-gumi brigade. They tackle fires and investigate mysterious arsons in Edo (now Tokyo), offering a blend of action and mystery.
Adaptations
The manga adaptation began on February 27, 2025, in Weekly Shônen Champion, drawn by Shinobu Seguchi. The anime, produced by Synergy SP, is slated for winter 2026, with a teaser PV released to build anticipation, showcasing the historical and dramatic elements.
The announcement of “Hikui Tori: Ushu Boro Tobi Gumi,” also known as “Hikuidori” or “Fire Eater,” being adapted into both manga and TV anime has sparked significant interest among anime and historical fiction enthusiasts.
Background on the Novel and Author
Shogo Imamura, born in 1984 in Kyoto, Japan, is a prominent figure in historical fiction literature. Before becoming a full-time writer in 2018, he worked as a dance instructor and archaeologist at the Moriyama Buried Cultural Properties Center.
His debut novel, “Hikuidori,” published in 2017 by Shodensha, is the first installment in the “Ushu Boro Tobi Gumi” series, which has since expanded to 13 volumes.
The novel won the sixth Yoshikawa Eiji Bunko Prize in 2021 and was nominated for the Naoki Prize in 2019 for another work, “Warabe no Kami.”
Imamura’s writing style, described as “writing without a plot” with only a desired ending in mind, draws inspiration from authors like Shōtarō Ikenami and Ryōtarō Shiba. His influence extends beyond novels, with works like “Ikusagami” (Last Samurai Standing) adapted into a Netflix live-action series set for release in 190 countries in 2025.
Story Premise and Historical Context
“Hikuidori” is set in feudal Japan during the Great Fire of Meiwa in 1772, one of the three great fires of Edo (now Tokyo), alongside the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657 and the Great Fire of Bunka in 1806.
The story follows Gengo Matsunaga, a samurái known as “Kuidori” or “Fire Eater,” who was once the best firefighter in Edo. After retiring for personal reasons, he is called back to serve in the Shonai domain, leading the Boroho-gumi fire brigade.
The narrative revolves around their efforts to combat a series of mysterious arsons that threaten the city, blending historical drama with mystery and action. The Great Fire of Meiwa, starting on April 1, 1772, destroyed vast areas, including 178 temples, 127 daimyo residences, and caused over 6,000 casualties, providing a rich backdrop for the story.
Manga Adaptation Details
The manga adaptation, illustrated by Shinobu Seguchi, known for “Shûjin Riku,” began serialization in Weekly Shônen Champion issue 13 on February 27, 2025. Weekly Shônen Champion, published by Akita Shôten since 1969, is a prominent shōnen manga magazine featuring series like “Baki the Grappler.”
The manga’s launch coincides with the magazine’s recent issues, offering fans a visual interpretation of Imamura’s historical narrative. Given the serialization start date, details on character introductions and plot developments are emerging, but early chapters likely focus on Gengo Matsunaga’s return and the initial fire-fighting challenges.
Anime Adaptation Details
The TV anime adaptation is being produced by Synergy SP, a Japanese animation studio founded in 1998, known for works like “Mermaid Melody Pichi Pichi Pitch” and recent titles such as “A Salad Bowl of Eccentrics” in 2024.
The anime is scheduled for a winter 2026 premiere, aligning with the seasonal anime release calendar. A teaser PV was released on February 26, 2025, offering a glimpse into the animation style and key scenes, likely featuring Gengo Matsunaga in action and the chaotic fire scenarios. While staff and cast details are not yet available, Synergy SP’s track record suggests a focus on detailed historical settings and character-driven narratives.
Character Insights
The central character, Gengo Matsunaga, is depicted as a skilled samurái firefighter with a past that led to his retirement, adding depth to his character arc. Known as “Kuidori,” his nickname reflects his reputation as a “flame-eating bird,” symbolizing his prowess.
The Boroho-gumi, his fire brigade, is described as eccentric, suggesting a diverse team with unique personalities, though specific members are not detailed in early announcements.
The story’s focus on mysterious arsons hints at potential antagonists, possibly linked to political or personal motives within the Edo period setting.
Additional Context and Comparisons
An interesting aspect is Imamura’s broader influence, with “Ikusagami” (Last Samurai Standing) also adapted into a Netflix live-action series, set for release in November 2025, highlighting his growing impact in global entertainment.
This dual adaptation path, manga and anime for “Hikuidori,” live-action for another work underscores his versatility.
The historical setting and firefighting theme offer a unique niche compared to typical samurai or fantasy anime, potentially attracting fans of series like “Dororo” or “Rurouni Kenshin” for its blend of history and action.
“Hikuidori: Ushu Boro Tobi Gumi” represents a fascinating intersection of historical fiction and anime, with its adaptations promising to bring Gengo Matsunaga’s firefighting saga to life. The manga, starting this week, and the anime, set for next year, offer fans multiple ways to engage with this story, supported by a teaser PV that builds anticipation.
As more details emerge, particularly with the manga’s serialization, the community can expect deeper insights into the characters and plot, enriching the experience of this historical drama.
