'Demon Slayer' film sets Japan opening 3-day box-office record
The latest film, "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba 'Infinity Castle -- Part 1: Akaza Returns'" drew 3.84 million visitors, hitting 5.52 billion yen ($37 million) in box-office revenue over the three-day period from Friday, Aniplex Inc. said.
The subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc. added the film earned 1.64 billion yen on its first day, 1.84 billion on the second, and 2.04 billion on the third, making it the highest-grossing movie ever released in Japan on an opening day.
Sunday marked the highest single-day box-office revenue on record. In the four days through Monday, total revenue topped 7.32 billion yen, according to Aniplex.
The manga title, serialized in the Weekly Shonen Jump from 2016 to 2020, tells the story of Tanjiro Kamado, an adolescent boy who battles human-eating demons while searching for a cure for his sister, who has turned into a demon.
The previous animated work based on the series, released in 2020, became the first film in Japan to surpass 40 billion yen in box-office revenue.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Japan Times
13 hours ago
- Japan Times
Junglia, Japan's newest theme park, opens in northern Okinawa
Junglia , Japan's newest theme park, featuring jungle safari- and dinosaur-inspired attractions, will open Friday in a mountainous area in northern Okinawa, introducing a two-tier pricing system for residents and nonresident visitors. The theme park operator, Japan Entertainment, aims to make it a new tourism destination in Okinawa, known as a beach resort, with the theme park's economic impact projected to be about ¥6.8 trillion ($46 billion) in the coming 15 years. Located in the village of Nakijin about 90 minutes by car from the island's capital and nearest airport of Naha, Junglia covers 60 hectares with restaurants, shops, and 22 attractions and stage shows. Rather than roller coasters, however, Junglia focuses on adventure sports and encounters with tyrannosaurs and other prehistoric creatures amid Okinawa's subtropical greenery. During a press preview in the days before Junglia's official opening, media members were able to experience three adventure sports attractions in the park's Jungle Extremes area: Titan's Swing, on which groups of four hurtle back and forth over nearby treetops; Sky-End Trekking, a precarious walk across a suspension bridge that is at points 30 meters off the ground and features obstacle course-style challenges; and Buggy Voltage, in which visitors drive all-terrain vehicles along predefined courses. First to greet visitors to Okinawa's newest theme park is the 14½-meter-tall 'Junglia Tree,' a combination of an artificial base and a natural upper portion. | Owen Ziegler Junglia also previewed several of its dinosaur-themed attractions. In the 'Jurassic Park'-esque Dinosaur Safari ride, guests are driven through a simulated habitat of several dinosaur species before a containment breach of several Tyrannosaurus rexes incites a dash to safety. In the child-friendly Finding Dinosaurs, visitors are guided through a mock dino conservatory as they search for a missing baby triceratops. For general admission tickets, Junglia is offering a two-tiered pricing system. For Japan residents, a one-day ticket costs ¥6,930 for adults and ¥4,950 for children between 4 and 11 years old (children under 3 are free of charge). Access to Spa Junglia — the park's on-site collection of baths, saunas and the world's largest infinity pool by tub size, as recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records — costs a further ¥2,640 for adults and ¥1,540 for children, with combo tickets coming with a ¥500 voucher for food carts within the park. For nonresidents, general admission costs ¥8,800 for adults and ¥5,940 for children, plus ¥3,080 and ¥1,870, respectively, for Spa Junglia. Nonresident prices put Junglia on roughly equal footing with Japan's other high-profile theme parks, including Tokyo Disney Resort and Osaka's Universal Studios Japan. Junglia is also offering a Premium Pass that allows guests to skip queues for individual attractions (costs range from ¥1,800 to ¥2,700, with the high end pairing different combinations of attractions together). In Buggy Voltage, visitors drive all-terrain vehicles through predefined courses during a media preview at Junglia in Nakijin, Okinawa Prefecture, on Wednesday. | Owen Ziegler Japan's ongoing typhoon season makes Okinawa's weather unpredictable this time of year. During Junglia's preview opening, tropical storm Francisco, or taifū No. 7 as it's known in Japan, brought occasional heavy rain and wind gusts of up to 72 kilometers per hour, forcing the temporary closure of some attractions as the storm passed to the south of Okinawa. Less rain and cooler temperatures from October may bode well for guest experiences. However, long wait times are anticipated during Junglia's opening weeks. Given the nature of most adventure sports attractions, Junglia requires all participants to sign waivers, be weighed for safety and equipment checks, and don full-body harnesses. Also, many attractions are able to accommodate only a handful of participants at a time — a positive for the personal touch offered by Junglia park staff, referred to by the company as 'navigators,' but a negative for fast-moving queues. For example, the bungee-inspired Human Arrow attraction is a single-rider operation, as opposed to a typical roller coaster that can accommodate dozens at a time. Junglia's location deep in the mountains of Okinawa's Motobu Peninsula may deter travelers who favor convenience and may prove prohibitive for overseas tourists whose only means of transport to and from Naha Airport are expressway buses. But for those already set on trekking outside of the Okinawan capital, Junglia may establish itself alongside the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium as one of the must-see attractions of the island's northern reaches.
Kyodo News
16 hours ago
- Kyodo News
"Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" Double Theme Song by Aimer and LiSA, Single CDs Released!
Blockbuster movie "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" has released single CDs for its two theme songs, performed by Aimer and LiSA! This announcement was accompanied by comments from both artists, as well as messages from Go Shiina and Yuki Kajiura, who were responsible for the music production. Furthermore, it has been revealed that the music videos for both songs will premiere on the official YouTube channel. CD Release Confirmed for Two Theme Songs! "Demon Slayer," a manga from Koyoharu Gotouge and published by Shueisha's Jump Comics, has sold over 220 million copies of volumes 1-23. The anime adaptation is produced by ufotable. Its newest installment, the movie "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" premiered in Japan on Friday, July 18. Now, the movie's two theme songs has been released as single CDs on Wednesday, July 23 (Japan Time)! Aimer and LiSA, both of whom have previously performed theme songs for the "Demon Slayer" anime, are responsible for these new tracks. Aimer's "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" features lyrics by Hikaru Kondo, the general producer of the "Demon Slayer" anime at ufotable. Go Shiina, who composed the background music for the anime, handled the music and arrangement. This majestic theme combines a rich, grand orchestra with Aimer's powerful vocals. Meanwhile, LiSA's "Shine in the Cruel Night" was composed and written by Yuki Kajiura, also known for her background music in the "Demon Slayer" anime. This powerful track, another collaboration between LiSA and Yuki Kajiura, creates a grand and dynamic world view, echoing their previous successful theme songs for the series. Artist and creator comments were released alongside the singles. Comments from Artists and Creators Aimer's Comment: This song was lovingly entrusted to me by Go Shiina-san and Hikaru Kondo-san, who have been deeply involved with the anime "Demon Slayer." I sang with my own "total concentration," hoping my song could support the destiny of those who transform their individual sorrows into strength as they leap into the final phase. I hope this song reaches you, who are still fighting in a "world where the sun never rises." Go Shiina's Comment: This song came to life with the invaluable support of many, led by Aimer-san, and including lyricists, arrangers, performers, engineers, and staff. Witnessing Aimer-san's deeply emotional vocal recording alongside the visuals ignited my fighting spirit, compelling me to share this song without delay. Immerse yourself in Aimer-san's multifaceted voice, featuring up to 12 vocal layers. Her range, from the lowest to the highest notes, offers a kaleidoscope of expression. Additionally, I hope you enjoy discovering the various "Demon Slayer" themes woven throughout the song. LiSA's Comment: I am on my way to "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" alongside Yuki Kajiura-san, who has graced us with numerous songs for "Demon Slayer." To everyone who is fighting: I sang with prayers and wishes. This is "Shine in the Cruel Night." Yuki Kajiura's Comment: It is a profound honor to have co-created the theme song for "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" with LiSA-san. Given how deeply this song is connected to the story, we worked meticulously to ensure its alignment with the narrative while also crafting a piece that LiSA-san could deliver with immense power and emotion. My hope is that this music will both enrich the story and, as a song performed by LiSA-san, uplift your spirits." Music Videos for Two Theme Songs Set to Premiere on YouTube! Music videos for two theme songs are scheduled to premiere on YouTube in the evening of Thursday, July 24th! Moreover, leading up to these MV releases, a special event titled "Demon Slayer Anime Theme Songs MV Marathon" has been announced! This event, featuring a back-to-back showcase of music videos from past Demon Slayer series theme songs, will be held on YouTube starting at 7 PM (JST) on Thursday, July 24th. Aimer: " A World Where the Sun Never Rises" MUSIC VIDEO *Premiering around 7:45 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) LiSA: "Shine in the Cruel Night" MUSIC VIDEO *Premiering around 7:50 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) "Demon Slayer Anime Theme Songs MV Marathon" *Starting at 7:00 PM (JST) on 7/24 (Thu) Product Information The single CDs featuring the main theme songs will be released simultaneously on Wednesday, July 23rd (Japan Time)! The Limited Edition for both singles come with a mini poster featuring exclusive "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" artwork and are packaged in a three-sided case! Aimer's single "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" comes in a three-sided case with newly drawn artwork of the character "Shinobu Kocho," while LiSA's single "Shine in the Cruel Night" features exclusive artwork of "Giyu Tomioka." Both limited editions are luxurious packages that include a Blu-ray Disc containing the music video for each theme song. Release Information Aimer Single "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Release Information Title: A World Where the Sun Never Rises Release Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (Japan Time) Purchase CD Here "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Now available for download and streaming on various digital platforms! Release Formats and Prices: • Limited Edition (CD+Blu-ray) / VVCL 2751-2752: ¥1,760 (tax included) Includes a mini poster featuring original anime artwork & comes in a three-sided case [CD Content] *The CD content is the same for both Limited and Regular editions. 01. A World Where the Sun Never Rises (Lyrics: Hikaru Kondo (ufotable), Music: Go Shiina, Arrangement: Go Shiina, Sachiko Miyano) 02. A World Where the Sun Never Rises -Instrumental- [Blu-ray Content] "A World Where the Sun Never Rises" Music Video • Regular Edition (CD only) / VVCL 2750: ¥1,430 (tax included) LiSA Single "Shine in the Cruel Night" Release Information Title: Shine in the Cruel Night Release Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025 (Japan Time) Purchase CD Here "Shine in the Cruel Night" Now available for download and streaming on various digital platforms! Release Formats and Prices: • Limited Edition (CD+Blu-ray) / VVCL 2754-2755: ¥1,760 (tax included) Includes a mini poster featuring original anime artwork & comes in a three-sided case [CD Content] *The CD content is the same for both Limited and Regular editions. 01. Shine in the Cruel Night (Lyrics: Yuki Kajiura, Music: Yuki Kajiura, Arrangement: Yuki Kajiura) 02. Shine in the Cruel Night -Instrumental- [Blu-ray Content] "Shine in the Cruel Night" Music Video • Regular Edition (CD only) / VVCL 2753: ¥1,430 (tax included) About "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle" Synopsis Tanjiro Kamado – a boy who joined an organization dedicated to hunting down demons called the Demon Slayer Corps after his younger sister Nezuko was turned into a demon. While growing stronger and deepening his friendships and bonds with fellow corps members, Tanjiro has battled many demons with his comrades, Zenitsu Agatsuma and Inosuke Hashibira. Along the way, his journey has led him to fight alongside the Demon Slayer Corps' highest-ranking swordsmen, the Hashira, including Flame Hashira Kyojuro Rengoku aboard the Mugen Train, Sound Hashira Tengen Uzui within the Entertainment District, as well as Mist Hashira Muichiro Tokito and Love Hashira Mitsuri Kanroji at the Swordsmith Village. As the Demon Slayer Corps members and Hashira engaged in a group strength training program, the Hashira Training, in preparation for the forthcoming battle against the demons, Muzan Kibutsuji appears at the Ubuyashiki Mansion. With the head of the Demon Corps in danger, Tanjiro and the Hashira rush to the headquarters but are plunged into a deep descent to a mysterious space by the hands of Muzan Kibutsuji. The destination of where Tanjiro and Demon Slayer Corps have fallen is the demons' stronghold – the Infinity Castle. And so, the battleground is set as the final battle between the Demon Slayer Corps and the Demons ignites. Cast Tanjiro Kamado: Natsuki Hanae Nezuko Kamado: Akari Kito Zenitsu Agatsuma: Hiro Shimono Inosuke Hashibira: Yoshitsugu Matsuoka Kanao Tsuyuri: Reina Ueda Genya Shinazugawa: Nobuhiko Okamoto Giyu Tomioka: Takahiro Sakurai Tengen Uzui: Katsuyuki Konishi Muichiro Tokito: Kengo Kawanishi Shinobu Kocho: Saori Hayami Mitsuri Kanroji: Kana Hanazawa Obanai Iguro: Kenichi Suzumura Sanemi Shinazugawa: Tomokazu Seki Gyomei Himejima: Tomokazu Sugita Akaza (Upper Rank Three): Akira Ishida ©Koyoharu Gotoge / SHUEISHA, Aniplex, ufotable ※Some parts of this text have been translated using machine translation
Japan Times
17 hours ago
- Japan Times
Behind the scenes: Inside Fuji Rock's strategy for staying on top
The failure of Coachella, one of the biggest ongoing music festivals in the United States, to sell out for the second year in a row shook the concert industry recently. Previously, tickets would sell out the day they were made available. One theory for the decline is ticket prices, which range from $549 to $599 for each of the two festival weekends — about a $100 increase from just four years ago. Another reason is that Coachella keeps increasing audience capacity, meaning it must sell more tickets. But Coachella also indicates a trend — at least in the U.S. — away from festivals. They're not only expensive, but fewer people want to pay for this particular experience. When the summer festival craze was at its peak, about 10 years ago, promoters were often competing for the same big-name acts. Though the base appeal of a music festival is the expansive musical buffet, many fans bought tickets based on the artists they were interested in seeing. The reality, however, was that most would prefer to see their favorite acts in standalone concerts. In contrast, the 2025 edition of the Fuji Rock Festival, one of Asia's premier summer music festivals, is enjoying its best sales in years. Two weeks before the festival's opening on July 25, three-day passes and tickets for Saturday were sold out. "It's the most tickets we've sold since the COVID-19 pandemic," Yuji Toki says via email. Toki is in charge of ticket sales for Smash Corporation, the concert promoter who organizes Fuji Rock. "Sales actually started later than they usually do, but they've been very strong." The festival's organizers say that the theme of Fuji Rock is coexistence between nature and music. | MARK THOMPSON Even more encouraging for Fuji Rock's future is the customer demographic, which has shifted younger. "We found that many newcomers bought tickets this year," Toki says. "The 25-34 age group was the largest, which is a change from the past." And yet, half of all ticket sales still go to "repeat customers," he adds, including a significant portion of Fuji Rock regulars who return regardless of the lineup. Another notable trend is an increase of foreign visitors. "Inbound customers account for about 10% of all ticket sales," Toki says, "though the actual number could be higher since Japanese friends of some visitors may be buying their tickets for them." Toki reveals that tickets for Fuji Rock this year were purchased in 60 countries, though the overwhelming majority of foreign festivalgoers are from Taiwan, South Korea and China. Fuji Rock benefits from a larger trend: Music festivals featuring international acts have grown more popular in Asia over the past decade and attract an increasing number of domestic fans. It indicates not only a surge in appreciation for global pop styles but also more disposable income in the hands of more people. Many of these new festivals face problems due to inexperience in planning and insufficient infrastructure. Fuji Rock, which was launched in 1997, is seen as a reliable bet for music lovers in Asia who can afford the trip. It's not just the festival that makes an impression. Japan has been inviting major artists since the 1960s, and for decades, it was the only Asian country where it was possible to see these top international acts. "We are actively trying to attract music fans from other Asian countries," says Noriyuki Yamamoto, who has been working for the festival since its inception and is in charge of booking, stage production and promotion. "In four places — Taiwan, China, Singapore, South Korea — you can purchase tickets directly from local vendors." Another development working in Fuji Rock's favor is the greater availability of and interest in music from this hemisphere. "Japanese and Asian music in general is attracting a lot of attention worldwide," Yamamoto says. "We consider ourselves the pioneering Asian music festival, and actively seek Asian acts and other elements that will attract people from other countries." In addition, Fuji Rock collaborates with other Asian festivals to bring international acts to the region — not just to cut costs, but because a multi-stop tour across Asia is more appealing to artists than a single show. "There are other festivals held around the same time as Fuji," Yamamoto said. "Some during the same week. So we work closely with them when booking artists." New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde performed at Fuji Rock Festival in 2017. | MARK THOMPSON Nevertheless, it's the lineup that most people notice first about a festival, and even in that regard, Fuji Rock has changed. This year, none of the headliners are what would be considered blockbuster acts, meaning the kind that, in the past, would guarantee a large turnout. Yamamoto says two of the main stage headliners this year — British dance music upstart Fred Again.. and American funk-rock collective Vulfpeck — have never performed in Japan before. 'I think they lend the festival a slightly different feeling — in a good way,' he says. 'It's not that their appearances alter anything, but up until now, headliners have mostly been acts who have visited Japan before, either at Fuji Rock or at concerts, so I think these two artists give the audience a fresh impression of the festival." In recent years, Fuji Rock has also showcased more top-selling Japanese acts, better reflecting the home audience's preferences. Many of the Japanese artists at this year's festival, including Vaundy, Radwimps, Creepy Nuts and Hitsujibungaku, have garnered substantial followings overseas, especially in Asia. "We've also added more Asian acts," Yamamoto says. "The purpose is to present a lineup that shows a wide variety, which is the point of a festival." The one aspect of Fuji Rock that has not changed over the years is its setting. The creator of the festival, Smash founder Masahiro Hidaka, envisioned it as a place where you can hear music surrounded by abundant nature. "It's something we think is hard to really experience," Yamamoto says, "not only in Japan, but elsewhere as well." Plenty of other festivals are held outdoors: Glastonbury, the inspiration for Fuji Rock, and Woodstock, the granddaddy of all rock festivals, are and were held on farms, while Coachella takes place in a desert basin. In fact, Fuji Rock's original location was also on farmland near Mount Fuji. For various reasons, it had to be relocated, and Hidaka chose the Naeba Ski Resort in the mountains of Niigata Prefecture. Nature is more or less a distraction at other outdoor festivals; at Fuji Rock, which offers dense forests and a big cooling river, it's all-enveloping. "The theme of Fuji Rock is coexistence between nature and music," Yamamoto says. "It's an experience that can be appreciated by people of all ages." And all nationalities. Fuji Rock Festival takes place at Naeba Ski Resort, Niigata Prefecture, July 25 to 27. Follow our coverage on our dedicated liveblog and on Instagram . For more information, visit
