The upcoming Chinese-produced fantasy series Forbidden Imperial Cat Guard (Shikin Gyonekobo: Shikinjo Neko Keibishitsu) has officially detailed its broadcast plans, revealing the synopsis and premiere preview stills for the opening episode. Based on popular web comics centered around the real-life feline residents of Beijing's historic Forbidden City, the Japanese dub version is gearing up for a major television launch.
Scheduled to premiere on October 10, 2026, the series will kick off with an unprecedented four-episode nonstop broadcast event across Tokyo MX and BS Nippon Television, giving viewers an immediate deep dive into the secret feline society. Subsequent episodes will settle into regular weekly broadcasts starting mid-October.
Cast and Creative Vision
The series centers on a secret feline organization operating within the shadows of the Forbidden City, tasked with protecting priceless cultural relics from malicious corruption. Six exceptionally skilled cats journey into spiritual realms known as "Buka Worlds" to preserve historical memories and fend off the villainous Black Owl.
An impressive lineup of voice actors anchors the Japanese dub version. The lead feline protagonist, Shuangmei (Shoubi), is voiced by Kazuoki Urada, alongside Kazuyuki Furukawa as Oboi, Sora Amamiya as Heian, Takeo Otsuka as Zeze, Kentaro Tone as Rohan, and Hikaru Tono as Momo. The sprawling supporting cast features industry heavyweights including Yoshitsugu Matsuoka, M.A.O, Makoto Koichi, Shinnosuke Tachibana, Masahiro Yamanaka, Genta Nakamura, and Sho Hayami as the menacing Black Owl.
Episode 1 Plot and Preview Cut Gallery
In the series premiere, titled "The Beginning of Adventure," the secret guard unit dives directly into the spiritual realm of the Ming dynasty's famed 'Doucai Three-Autumn Cup' to thwart an emerging threat orchestrated by the Black Owl.
As the feline guardians navigate ancient historical artifacts and confront spiritual manifestations, viewers can expect an intricate blend of historical intrigue and lighthearted animal antics.
