One Piece fans may catch their first look at the treasure in 2026.
One Piece took the stage as the grand finale at Jump Festa 2026, a highlight of the anime and manga calendar in Japan. This annual event is where fans gather for the latest updates, and as always, One Piece commands a significant presence. While this year didn’t bring a slew of major announcements, it hinted at a thrilling new story arc that could lead to Laugh Tale, the fabled island where the One Piece treasure awaits.
The event was packed with excitement, featuring a stunning trailer for JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run and the announcement of a special anime episode for My Hero Academia, adapting the final chapter from the manga’s last volume. One Piece kicked off with a nostalgic look back at Tony Tony Chopper, the beloved doctor of the Straw Hat crew, showcasing his most memorable moments. The anime voice actors then engaged in a fun competition to determine who would voice Chopper in the live-action adaptation, with Ikue Otani, the current voice of Chopper, emerging victorious. It was confirmed that she will reprise her role in the Japanese dub for Netflix’s series. Additionally, a teaser for the upcoming Elbaph Arc was unveiled, set to premiere on April 5, 2026.
Fans eagerly await insights from One Piece creator Eiichiro Oda, whose messages are often shrouded in mystery. This year, he shared a tantalizing update (translated by an outlet):
“Regarding the anime film, I haven’t been given the green light to discuss this, but let’s just say progress isn’t exactly smooth. Still, I know many of you are curious, so please be patient.
Since it’s Jump Festa, let’s talk about the manga.
After a lengthy flashback that dives into Elbaf’s history, we’ll return to the present. As we do, the appearance of Elbaf will become clear, and then **boom**, we’ll wrap things up in a spectacular fashion. From here on, things are going to get intense.
We’re heading to **that island** that only the Pirate King has ever reached!!? The man marked by flame will also make an appearance. Characters who have never met will finally cross paths. Those two will meet, and those two will meet as well.
Next year could be a festival of encounters. The story will pick up speed, but as I’ve grown older, I’ll be balancing my health while continuing to sail at the fastest pace One Piece has ever seen, steady and powerful, into next year. What lies ahead is a celebration. Please look forward to it.”
The most intriguing part of Oda’s message is the reference to the island only visited by the Pirate King, likely pointing to Laugh Tale, the legendary resting place of the One Piece treasure, which can only be accessed by collecting the four Road Poneglyphs. The last crew to set foot there was Gol D. Roger and his team, suggesting that fans might finally catch a glimpse of the One Piece or at least its location in 2026.
Next year promises to be monumental for the One Piece franchise. The anime will transition to a seasonal production model, prioritizing quality over quantity, resulting in just 26 episodes. A remake produced by Studio WIT is also in the works, though details on its release remain under wraps. Season 2 of the live-action series is set to debut in March, with a third season already confirmed. Meanwhile, the manga continues its journey toward an epic conclusion, though that finale is still a few years away, thankfully.
