TOTAL LICENSING
KENSHIN (ART OF WAR) BRINGS ORIGINAL JAPANESE IP SAMURAI ANIMALS TO LICENSING EXPO KENSHIN (ART OF WAR) Brings Original Japanese IP “Samurai Animals” to Licensing Expo Las Vegas for the First Time Japanese character content and fine arts brand Kenshin Co., Ltd. (Art of War) is set to make its debut at Licensing Expo 2025 in Las Vegas, exhibiting its original IP “Samurai Animals” within the International Pavilion. The appearance marks the first overseas showcase of this uniquely Japa-
nese property, which blends traditional samurai themes with the twelve animals of the zodiac to deliver a richly developed fantasy narrative. “Samurai Animals” is a distinctive character-based IP rooted in authentic Japanese cultural motifs. The story centers around a group of twelve animal warriors, each based on the zodiac, who engage in an epic struggle to establish a new kingdom. As the zodiac is a cultural tradition fa-
miliar not only in Japan but also across Asia and parts of Europe, the IP offers broad international appeal. Its core strength lies in the emotional resonance of users identifying with their own birth-year animal character. The brand is the result of more than two decades of cultural research and development by Kenshin, a company known for its dedication to preserving and promoting “genuine” Japanese cultural values. Although the IP’s storyline is tailored toward older audiences with its layered themes and spiritual depth, it is also easily adaptable for younger demographics, enabling flexible licensing applications across publishing, gaming, animation, and merchandise. “Samurai Animals” was previously shortlisted in the Character or Toy Brand Program category at the 2015 Licensing Awards, where it earned high praise for its original concept, storytelling, and character design—being selected as one of the six finalists. At Licensing Expo 2025, Kenshin plans to showcase the artistic quality and world-building of the brand through a visually striking booth featuring traditional ink painting-inspired concept artwork. This Las Vegas debut will serve as a global launchpad for the next phase of international licensing and collaboration for the property.
KADOKAWA CORPORATION Kadokawa comprises a wide range of businesses as a comprehensive entertainment company, including publishing, video, game, Web services and educationThe company is a Japanese publisher and multimedia company producing hit anime titles. Recent popular titles include OSHI NO KO, Delicious in Dungeon, Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World, Eminence in Shadow, OVERLORD, The Rising of the Shield Hero, KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World!, and more.
TV TOKYO TV Tokyo is a dedicated anime licensor, sharing cherished titles with fans worldwide. One of the five private national TV networks in Japan the parent company is Nikkei News Paper, Financial Times of Japan.
MAINICHI BROADCASTING SYSTEM For over half a century, MBS has been a pioneer in the Japanese broadcasting industry, consistently airing Anime and multiple programs. Today, they continue to offer a number of anime time slots, including “Nichi 5”and “Animeism,” to maximize the appeal of anime and reach not only audiences across Japan but also worldwide anime fans.
108