New Collaboration Between Ai Yazawa and Yebisu Beer: Summer-Themed Special Designs Arriving on Tanabata
Sapporo Breweries has announced the second series of its special collaboration with world-renowned manga artist Ai Yazawa. These new designs, which will feature on Yebisu Beer cans, will be released in limited quantities on July 7th, coinciding with Japan's traditional Tanabata festival. Following the success of the first series released in March 2026, this new collection includes special illustrations that capture the spirit of the summer season and depict characters in traditional yukata attire.
Ai Yazawa, the creator of works that masterfully blend fashion and drama such as Nana, Paradise Kiss, and Gokinjo Monogatari, is considered one of the most iconic names in the manga world. The Nana series, which has been on an indefinite hiatus due to health issues since 2009, is still awaited by millions of fans worldwide. The artist's recent return to the spotlight with the "All Time Best" exhibition and her participation in such special projects keep hopes alive among fans regarding the future of the series.
Yebisu Beer has kept its brand fresh for many years by combining the "Bijin-ga" (pictures of beautiful people) tradition with modern artists. Having previously worked on similar projects with JoJo's Bizarre Adventure creator Hirohiko Araki, the brand continues this tradition with Yazawa's elegant lines. This collaboration is seen not only as a product launch but also as a return of the creative energy of an artist who has remained silent for a long time. In an interview in the special book "The World of Nana" published in 2025, Yazawa reiterated her determination to finish the story, giving fans the light they have been waiting for.
