In the drama “Sa-do 2026: Finding Balance While Slacking Off in Life,” based on Katsuki Tanaka’s manga *Manga Sa-do: The Way of the Sauna in Manga*, Masaki Hashimoto (timelesz) has been cast as the new character, Mushi-kun.

The key visual and a 30-second trailer have also been released. The series will air for five consecutive days—a first for the franchise—during Silver Week from September 19 to 23, 2026.

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Overview of “Sa-do 2026: New Cast & Key Visual Revealed”

TV Tokyo has unveiled the new cast and key visual for the drama “Sa-do 2026: Finding Balance While Slacking Off.”

The role of “Mushikun,” a new character whose casting had previously been announced for a later date, has been awarded to Masaki Hashimoto of timelesz.

*Broadcast as the highlight of the “TV Tokyo Network: What Is Well-Being? WEEK”

Sa-do 2026: New Character “Mushi-kun” and Masaki Hashimoto

“Mushi-kun” is a professional soccer player who struggles with never having experienced a proper sauna session.

The story begins when Atsuro Nakata (played by Taizo Harada) and Guanjou (played by Hiroki Miyake) meet Mushi-kun at their regular spot, “Sauna Hoku.” The three hit it off immediately and chat in the dining area, but it seems Nakata and Mushi-kun have been troubled by something recently—and the story unfolds from there.

As “Sa-do” enters its eighth year, a new member joins the group, and this installment depicts the down-to-earth, everyday lives of these three very different individuals.

Key Visual and Trailer for “Sa-do 2026”

A 30-second trailer has also been released.

*The trailer is available on TV Tokyo’s official YouTube channel

“Sa-do 2026” Broadcast and Streaming Information

Broadcast times differ between the first two days and the latter three days.

*Season 1 aired in July 2019, Season 2 aired in July 2021, and a total of seven special episodes have been broadcast or streamed to date

Sa-do 2026 “Spa LaQua” Collaboration

Ahead of the broadcast, a collaboration event is being held with Tokyo Dome Natural Hot Spring Spa LaQua.

During the event period, the facility will feature special decorations immersing visitors in the world of “Sa-do,” and a panel exhibition will also be on display.

*The admission discount applies only to the standard admission fee when applied for at the Spa LaQua front desk; it cannot be combined with other discounts
*Discounts or refunds are not available for online purchases

Sa-do 2026 “Spa LaQua” Collaboration Sauna Meals

Three restaurants and cafes inside the facility are featuring “sauna meals” produced by Taizo Harada, Hiroki Miyake, and the original manga author, Katsuki Tanaka.

All dishes are available at the 5th-floor locations, and when you order a collaboration dish, you’ll receive a “Sauna Nana × Spa LaQua Special Sticker” featuring an original illustration by Katsuki Tanaka.

Sa-do 2026 Original Merchandise from “Spa LaQua”

During the collaboration period, original merchandise featuring a design created exclusively by Katsuki Tanaka for the collaboration between TV Tokyo’s character “Nanana” and “Sa-do” will be on sale.

They are available at the Information & Shop (5F) inside Spa LaQua.

*Image for illustrative purposes only
*The Sauna Hat comes in two designs: one with the “SADO” logo and one featuring a character
*The Locker Keychain comes with a coiled wristband

Frequently Asked Questions About Sado 2026

Who plays the new character “Mushi-kun”?

Masaki Hashimoto from timelesz. He plays the role of a working adult soccer player who worries that he hasn’t had a proper sauna experience.

When and where will it air?

September 19 and 20, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 4:20 PM; September 21, 22, and 23, from 11:30 AM to 11:50 AM. The broadcast networks are TV Tokyo, TV Osaka, TV Aichi, TV Setouchi, TV Hokkaido, and TVQ Kyushu Broadcasting.

Can I watch it online?

After each episode airs, it will be available for unlimited streaming on “U-NEXT” and “Prime Video,” and catch-up streaming will be available on “TVer,” “Net mo TV Tokyo,” and “Lemino.”

How long will the Spa LaQua collaboration last?

From September 1 to 30, 2026. The event will feature in-facility decorations, panel displays, three collaborative “Spa Meals,” original merchandise sales, and a discount campaign on admission.

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Please check the official website for details.
*Please note that the information in this article may be outdated. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please check the official website for the latest information.

© “Sa-do 2026” Production Committee / Katsuki Tanaka / Kodansha