Nintama Rantarou: Saraba Ninjutsu Gakuen no Dan

Released in 2017, Saraba Ninjutsu Gakuen no Dan stands as a distinct special in the long-running Nintama Rantarou franchise. Produced by Studio Ajiado, which has been the home of the series since its inception in 1993, this installment continues the lighthearted, slapstick tradition of Soubee Amako's original manga. The narrative focuses on the familiar ensemble of students at the Ninjutsu Academy, maintaining the show's hallmark balance of historical-comedy tropes and enduring character dynamics.

The visual direction and character designs reflect the evolution of the series' aesthetic over several decades, adhering to the recognizable, streamlined style that keeps the franchise accessible to multi-generational audiences in Japan. Ajiado sought to retain the nostalgic charm of the television series while delivering a self-contained story that emphasizes the bonds between Rantarou, Kirimaru, and Shinbei. It was received as a celebratory nod to the show's longevity, serving as a reminder of the franchise’s status as a staple of NHK’s educational and entertainment programming.