In a vibrant celebration of its new mobile game, the much-loved world of "Chiikawa" is soon branching out into the mobile app scene with the release of "Chiikawa Pocket." Scheduled for launch on March 27, 2025, this long-awaited game aims to immerse fans deeper into the charming universe created by illustrator Nagano. Fans will get the chance to celebrate its launch with a pop-up event in Tokyo and Osaka from April 2 to April 7, 2025. The pop-up will unfold at ZeroBase Omotesando and the Shinsaibashi PARCO B1F POP UP SPACE from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily. Best of all, entry to this event is free!
The launch of "Chiikawa Pocket" has garnered significant excitement, not least because over 2 million players have already pre-registered for the app across 43 countries, including Japan, South Korea, the United States, and several Southeast Asian nations. According to recent statistics, the app’s engaging gameplay, which encapsulates the whimsical charm of “Chiikawa,” is expected to attract even more players after its official release. Nintendo Switch and console adaptations are even being discussed due to the enthusiastic reception.
In addition to the app launch excitement, the unveiling of the "Chiikawa Official Free Channel" on the streaming platform ABEMA has also stirred anticipation. Beginning on March 26, 2025, all episodes of the "Chiikawa" anime will be streamed every day for free. This channel will grant viewers access to every episode, including the latest ones after their original airings, which will be available free of charge for a week.
This free channel aims to boost interest in the "Chiikawa Pocket" app and reinforce the existing fanbase that has grown substantially over the years. The anime, which follows the delightful adventures of characters like Chiikawa and his friends Hachiware and Usagi, has transformed into a cultural phenomenon, winning prestigious awards including the 2022 Grand Prix in the Japan Character Awards.
Notably, the "Chiikawa Official Free Channel" will not only feature the anime episodes but will also host special broadcasts that coincide with the release of the mobile game. For instance, on March 29, 2025, select episodes that align with the game's themes will be aired as a special promotional initiative.
Fans can also look forward to collaboration campaigns launched alongside the free channel. These campaigns include the chance to win a "Chiipoke Postcard Set" for those who interact with the channel on X (former Twitter) by posting comments linked to viewing the shows. The campaign pledges to select 50 lucky participants by drawing, creating an opportunity for fans to engage more with the content.
Moreover, another campaign will reward fans with exclusive in-app items for the “Chiikawa Pocket” game. To partake, viewers must enter the special serial codes released during the streaming of episodes on the free channel, ensuring that fans are rewarded for their engagement with both the app and the anime.
This dual effort of app launching and anime streaming is expected to drive a new wave of engagement and anticipation in the Chiikawa fan community. As the characters continue to resonate with audiences young and old, fans are invited to dive into the worlds of Chiikawa and connect with their beloved characters on multiple platforms.
The Chiikawa universe continues to thrive, with its recent initiatives showcasing the potential to charm a broader audience while reinforcing the bond with its existing fanbase.
As the anticipation builds for both the new app and the free channel, fans have every reason to celebrate as they embrace the colorful antics of their beloved Chiikawa characters in diverse and interactive ways.
