Ghost in the Shell, a monumental work in Japanese anime, has passionate fans all over the world. In 2026, the long-awaited new series has been announced, drawing renewed attention to the franchise.
However, with multiple storylines such as the theatrical film "Ghost in the Shell," the TV series "STAND ALONE COMPLEX (S.A.C.)," and the prequel "ARISE," many people are left wondering, "Where should I start watching?"
In this article, our anime & manga loving editor will clearly explain the series overview and main characters, focusing on "recommended viewing order by target audience."
Get ready to dive into the cyber world in preparation for the new 2026 release!
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Where can you watch the new 2026 TV anime ""攻殻機動隊 THE GHOST IN THE SHELL"?
"Ghost in the Shell" is a manga series by Masamune Shirow, serialized in Young Magazine Pirate Edition from 1989 to 1990,, with the collected volume released in 1991. Based on this original work, it has been adapted into anime multiple times. The new series of "Ghost in the Shell" will begin in 2026!
Broadcast & Streaming Informationf
- Terrestrial TV: From July 2026, every Tuesday at 11:00 PM on Kansai TV / Fuji TV nationwide network the nationwide late-night anime slot “Tuesday Anibal!!”
- Streaming: Available from July 2026 on Prime Video
*There may be region-limited streaming or broadcast dates later than in Japan.
Official Website 👉Here (Japanese)／👉Here (English)
[Understand in 1 Minute] What is "Ghost in the Shell" about?
First, let's briefly explain the main points of this work.
The setting: Near-future Japan where "brains" are connected to the net
The story takes place in Japan from the 2030s onward, where it is common for people to connect their brains directly to the network through "cyberization," and for bodies to be cyberized into cyborg bodies.
The elite unit "Public Security Section 9"
To prevent increasingly complex cybercrimes and terrorism, a small elite organization operating under the direct authority of the Prime Minister, Public Security Section 9 (commonly known as "Ghost in the Shell"), solves various cases.
Does the "Ghost" (soul) exist?
Even if the body becomes mechanical, does the soul (ghost) that makes you who you are still exist? This philosophical theme is depicted alongside overwhelming action.
Must-Know! Main Character Guide
Section 9 is a single team, but they do not operate with typical teamwork. Each member possesses extremely high individual abilities and carries out missions based on their own judgment. The unique feature of this team is that their teamwork is actually born from these individual performances.
Motoko Kusanagi (Major)
Leader of Section 9. Except for her brain, her entire body is a high-performance cyborg, making her one of the world’s top experts in both combat and hacking. Her famous quotes, “My ghost whispers to me, telling me what to do,” and “The net is vast and infinite…” are widely known.
Batou
From left among the four in the center: Batou, Motoko Kusanagi, Togusa, Aramaki. Source: Animate
A former Ranger and a giant of a man. He is the Major’s reliable partner; though he looks intimidating, he is actually very compassionate and has a soft spot for the AI tanks “Tachikoma” and “Fuchikoma.”
Togusa
The only former police detective in Section 9, and the only member who is “almost fully human” (with only his brain cyberized). He is married and was recruited by the Major to bring diversity to the team. He serves as the character closest to the audience’s perspective.
Daisuke Aramaki
The boss of Section 9. A sharp-minded leader who supports the team with his political maneuvering and wide network of connections. He is the ideal leader, trusting his members more than anyone else.
Tachikoma & Fuchikoma
AI-equipped, spider-like multi-legged tanks. Despite their childlike, high-pitched voices, they often engage in deep philosophical discussions, making them endearing. They can also be ridden. The process of these AIs growing and developing is one of the most moving aspects of the series.
Ghost in the Shell: Three Viewing Routes Explained
The Ghost in the Shell franchise is divided into three largely independent timelines (parallel worlds). While the main characters and basic settings are shared, the style of each is quite different, so it’s best to choose your starting point based on your preferences.
This time, we’ll introduce three routes so you can choose the best viewing order for your taste.
Route 1: Theatrical Film / Mamoru Oshii Route (for movie and art lovers): Total runtime: 3 hours 3 minutes
For those who enjoy artistic or philosophical styles, we recommend starting with this series.
The first theatrical film, released in 1995, is said to have influenced movies like "The Matrix" and was one of the major works that brought Japanese anime to the attention of the world. It highlights philosophical questions such as whether a person remains the same individual even if their memories and personality are transferred from their body to an external medium known as "cyberbrain."
This adaptation is characterized by a stylish tone that differs greatly from the original manga by Masamune Shirow. It marked the first animated adaptation directed by Mamoru Oshii. The live-action Hollywood film "Ghost in the Shell" (2017) was also based on this first movie.
"Innocence" is also directed by Mamoru Oshii, but this time Batou, not Motoko Kusanagi, takes the lead role.
- "GHOST IN THE SHELL" (1995): 1 hour 23 minutes
- "Innocence" (2004): 1 hour 40 minutes
Route 2: S.A.C. Route (For fans of social commentary and police dramas): 27 hours 47 minutes
If you want to watch many short episodes like a police drama, this is the route for you.
This is the most popular series, bringing together everything that makes Ghost in the Shell so compelling. It was broadcast on Japanese TV in 2002. Some episodes are self-contained, making it easy to start watching. As the story progresses, you'll be drawn in by how the episodes connect to larger incidents.
Especially Season 2 and the concluding film together form one continuous story, so we recommend watching those two in succession.
- "Ghost in the Shell: STAND ALONE COMPLEX" Season 1 (2002-2003): 25 min × 26 episodes
- "Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG" Season 2 (2004-2005): 25 min × 26 episodes
- "Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. Solid State Society" Conclusion (2006): 2 hours 3 minutes
- "Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045" Latest 3DCG Series (2020/2022): 1 hour 58 minutes / 2 hours 6 minutes
Route 3: ARISE Route (For those who want art closer to the original and a prequel): 5 hours 55 minutes
Since this is set before the formation of Public Security Section 9, this is the route to take if you want to follow the story in chronological order.
This route depicts how Public Security Section 9 was formed. The art style is different from routes ① and ②, and it consists of four approximately 60-minute episodes plus a theatrical film, making a total of five works that are easy to watch. It depicts how Motoko, Batou, Togusa, Aramaki, and other main members met and became comrades.
- "Ghost in the Shell: ARISE" All 4 Parts (2013-2014): 59 min / 57 min / 59 min / 1 hour
- "Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie" (2015): 1 hour 40 minutes
[Prediction] What Will Change in the New Series in 2026?
From here, let's make some predictions about the new series. The 2026 production will be handled by Science SARU, known for works like "Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!" and "Dandadan." The director will be Mokochan, character design and chief animation director will be Shuhei Handa, known for "Dandadan," and the series composition and script will be by science fiction novelist Toh EnJoe, as announced.
Until now, the Ghost in the Shell series has depicted profound stories infused with philosophical, political, and social satire, all brought to life with stunningly realistic visuals. In this latest installment, not only does it feature 2D animation and character designs closer to the original manga, but thanks to Science SARU’s signature dynamic and innovative animation style, fans are anticipating the birth of a “completely new Ghost in the Shell.”
Other predictions from fans found online include the following:
- It may depict the comical and humorous scenes from the original manga that previous anime adaptations rarely showed.
- Themes closely tied to the reality of 2026, such as “generative AI,” may become a central focus.
This new installment is expected to be a “fourth route” that even newcomers without prior knowledge of the series can enjoy. However, watching at least one of the previous works will deepen your understanding of the world and make viewing even more enjoyable.
Ghost in the Shell Filming Locations to Experience in Japan
If you’re visiting or living in Japan, there are sacred sites (locations) you’ll want to visit. We also recommend taking photos that compare scenes from the anime with real-life locations!
Pilgrimage to Sacred Sites (Ghost in the Shell Locations)
① [Hyogo・Kobe City] Port Island
Port Island is said to be the model for the offshore city “Niihama (Newport City),” which serves as the base for Public Security Section 9. The bright red Kobe Ohashi Bridge is depicted in the background.
If you’re traveling to the area, check these out too!
👉12 Recommended “Kobe-Exclusive Souvenirs” You Can Buy at Shin-Kobe Station
👉Kobe Chinatown (Nankinmachi) Street Food Guide
👉Complete Guide to Kobe Airport: Access, Souvenirs, Shops, and Lounge Information
② [Hyogo・Sayo Town] SPring-8
This scientific facility, located in Harima Science Garden City, appeared as a background in the final episode (Episode 26) of Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG. While it’s not generally open to the public, if you inform the security office that you’d like to visit, it seems you may be allowed to tour the facility.
③ [Osaka・Osaka City] Dotonbori
In the first season of S.A.C., there are scenes believed to depict Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous entertainment district. Dotonbori is a popular spot among international tourists for street food like takoyaki, shopping, and the iconic Glico sign.
If you’re traveling to the area, check these out too!
👉8 Recommended Takoyaki Shops in Osaka Dotonbori & Namba (with Tasting Reports)
👉Coin Lockers & Luggage Storage in Namba and Dotonbori, Osaka
👉Complete Guide to Osaka’s Annual Events: Festivals, Fireworks, Illuminations
Events
[Tokyo・Toranomon] Ghost in the Shell Exhibition: Ghost and the Shell — January 30, 2026 to April 5, 2026
From January 30 to April 5, 2026, the largest-ever exhibition dedicated to “Ghost in the Shell” is being held at TOKYO NODE in Toranomon Hills. The exhibition looks back on 30 years of the franchise’s history through over 1,600 original drawings and production materials, interactive AR experiences, and collaborations with contemporary artists.
👉Read our report on the Ghost in the Shell Exhibition
In addition, you can experience the world of Ghost in the Shell in various forms, including the latest technology-equipped pachinko and pachislot machines.
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🏨Book your accommodation with JAPANiCAN! 👉Click here
Summary: The Latest “Ghost in the Shell” Series Starts in July 2026!
Even nearly 30 years after its debut, “Ghost in the Shell” continues to predict the future of our networked society and AI, making it a truly visionary work.
In preparation for the new installment in 2026, we recommend diving into either the 1995 theatrical film or the S.A.C. TV series first!
“The Net is vast and infinite...”
Just as Major Motoko Kusanagi, the protagonist, once said, we hope you’ll immerse yourself in this vast and profound world.
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