A Legacy of Anime and Community Growth
Since its inception in 2022 as “Anime no Manga no Musashino,” the project has garnered significant acclaim, paving the way for its fourth successful year. This year marks a refined focus, with the anime division rebranded as “Anime no Musashino” (or “Animusa”). The Musashino Chamber of Commerce and the Musashino City Tourism Organization continue to partner with Musashino City, local animation studios, and creators to deliver captivating anime-related information and events starting in November 2025. This enduring collaboration aims to boost local tourism and invigorate the regional economy, aligning with Musashino City’s industrial promotion plan which prioritizes business partnerships leveraging content industries.
Mobile Police Patlabor EZY Takes Center Stage
The 2025 Animusa project proudly features a collaboration with Mobile Police Patlabor EZY, the latest installment in the iconic Patlabor series, produced by J.C.STAFF, an animation studio located within Musashino City. The Mobile Police Patlabor series, which began in 1988, is a pioneering media-mix project that captivated audiences with its realistic portrayal of humanoid labor machines (Labors) and the Special Vehicle Section 2, a police unit dedicated to combating Labor-related crime in a near-future Tokyo. Its innovative approach to depicting robots as systems, combined with intricate Tokyo scenery and character-driven drama, established it as a monumental work in the history of anime. This groundbreaking strategy, known as “media mix” in Japan, involves simultaneous development across various formats like OVA, manga, films, and TV series, creating a synergistic effect that propelled Patlabor to widespread popularity.
The new animation, Mobile Police Patlabor EZY, is slated to launch its project in 2026, promising a fresh narrative set 30 years after the events of the original series. Fans are buzzing with anticipation to see how the world of Patlabor, a series that pioneered the very concept of “media mix,” will evolve with ‘EZY,’ especially with its deep roots in Musashino City.
Engaging Events Across Musashino City
This year’s Animusa project brings a diverse array of events designed to immerse fans in the world of Patlabor:
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The 4th Animusa Festival: Scheduled for February 14, 2026 (time to be announced), at Musashino Kokaido in Kichijoji. This event will feature an anime screening and a talk show celebrating the Mobile Police Patlabor series and its connection to the Kichijoji area.
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Anime Production Material Exhibition: From February 16 to 22, 2026 (closed on February 18), the first-floor gallery of Musashino Place in Musashisakai will host a free exhibition of anime production materials. This event offers a unique glimpse into the creative process, thanks to the cooperation of J.C.STAFF.
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Original Sticker Distribution: Look forward to late February 2026 for the distribution of original stickers featuring newly drawn illustrations in the Mitaka Station North Exit area. Further details on dates and participation will be announced later.
These initiatives, alongside the utilization of main visuals, project logos, and continuous information dissemination via official channels, aim to deepen the connection between anime culture and the local community.
Stay Connected for Updates
For the latest information on the “Anime no Musashino” project and Mobile Police Patlabor EZY collaboration, be sure to visit the official website and X (formerly Twitter) account:
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Official Website: https://animan634.com/
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Official X: @kouhouaniman634
A Glimpse into the Future of Kawaii Culture Abroad
The “Anime no Musashino” project exemplifies how local governments and organizations in Japan are embracing anime as a powerful tool for regional revitalization. By collaborating with a globally recognized series like Mobile Police Patlabor, Musashino City is not only celebrating its own identity as an anime hub but also extending an invitation to fans worldwide. This strategic blend of local charm and international fandom sets a precedent for how beloved Japanese cultural elements can contribute to community development, fostering a vibrant future where anime continues to bridge cultures and captivate hearts across the globe.
