Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Raid Arc | How to Watch Online Free & Streaming on U-NEXT, Hulu & Netflix, Kento Yamazaki, Anna Yamada, Hiroshi Tamaki

“Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”—can you watch it for free? Many of you might be wondering the same thing. Scheduled for theatrical release on March 13, 2026, this film brings together a star-studded cast including Kento Yamazaki, Anna Yamada, and Hiroshi Tamaki to deliver a full live-action adaptation of one of the most intense arcs in the original series, the “Abashiri Prison Arc.” However, you’re probably curious about which streaming services will carry it after release and whether there’s any way to watch it for free. In this article, we thoroughly researched how to watch “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” at a discount—or even for free. We provide detailed coverage from the latest streaming info on U-NEXT, Hulu, and Netflix to must-see highlights for manga fans and cast details.

Keep reading and you’re sure to find the viewing method that suits you best. When will the day come that you can experience the battle at Abashiri Prison from home? Read to the end and enjoy the world of Golden Kamuy at the best value!

Just from the name, “Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” sounds intense, kuma! There’s gotta be a place to watch it for free, kuma~! …But I researched so much I got hungry, kuma. Time to go look for some salmon first, kuma~!

What is “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”?

“Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” is a live-action film slated for nationwide release on Friday, March 13, 2026. The original work is the hugely popular manga “Golden Kamuy” by Satoru Noda. Set in Hokkaido and Karafuto in the late Meiji era, it’s an epic survival battle that depicts the lives of men pursuing a massive stash of gold. This film adapts the especially beloved “Abashiri Prison Arc,” often called “the story’s biggest turning point” among fans. The fierce battle where blood, snow, and convictions collide is revived on the big screen.

The director is Kenji Katagiri, returning from “Golden Kamuy (2024),” and the screenplay is by Tsutomu Kuroiwa, known for works like “ONE PIECE FILM RED.” Building further on the worldview and direction of the previous film, the action, drama, and human relationships are depicted with even greater density. The protagonist Saichi Sugimoto is played by Kento Yamazaki; the heroine Asirpa by Anna Yamada; and the cast also features Hiroshi Tamaki as Lieutenant Tsurumi and Hiroshi Tachi as Toshizo Hijikata, among other accomplished actors.

Basic Information on the Film “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”

Moreover, this film is highly regarded not merely as an action movie but also as an ensemble drama that portrays human desire, trust, and betrayal. In particular, the “Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” brings together main characters like Sugimoto, Asirpa, Tsurumi, and Hijikata, and the climactic clash of their motives is a highlight.

Filming took place across Hokkaido, using real snowfields and mountainous regions to heighten realism. There were even reports that the cast braved blizzards to faithfully translate the manga’s intensity to the screen—truly a production that deserves to be called “Golden Kamuy at full throttle.”

Synopsis & Production Details of “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”

“Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” is the pivotal chapter that determines the outcome of the gold hunt. Continuing from the previous film, Sugimoto and Asirpa finally reach Abashiri Prison, where the “secret of the tattooed prisoners” lies. There, key players converge: the faceless man who holds the key to the gold, Lieutenant Tsurumi, Hijikata’s faction, and more. As conflicting motives and convictions collide, the fuse is lit for a ferocious battle.

This film’s highlight is the drama of snow and blood set in Hokkaido. Against the backdrop of a frozen land, Sugimoto and company’s struggle evolves beyond a mere hunt for gold into a fierce fight waged with loyalty to comrades and the will to live. Asirpa’s past, Ainu pride, and Lieutenant Tsurumi’s madness—each character’s history intertwines to grip viewers’ hearts.

Synopsis (No Spoilers)

In the late Meiji era, former soldier Saichi Sugimoto, famed as the “Immortal Sugimoto,” is a formidable man. To escape postwar poverty, he continues a journey with the Ainu girl Asirpa to find the “whereabouts of the gold.” The key lies in the tattoos carved into the bodies of prisoners confined in Abashiri Prison. At last, they arrive at the destined place where all the tattoos come together—only to find Lieutenant Tsurumi’s 7th Division, Toshizo Hijikata’s former shogunate faction, and the shadow of a mysterious prisoner awaiting them. The struggle over Abashiri Prison escalates into the greatest battle yet.

Production Background & Key Touches

This work has drawn attention for its real snowfield action and stunning production design. Director Kenji Katagiri centered the shoot on Hokkaido locations and was committed to faithfully recreating the manga’s world. Filming took place in sub-zero conditions below minus 10 degrees Celsius, with the cast actually performing snowfield combat. Costumes also showcase meticulous detail, including Lieutenant Tsurumi’s (Hiroshi Tamaki) uniform and Toshizo Hijikata’s (Hiroshi Tachi) attire.

The score again employs a heavy orchestral sound to heighten tension-filled scenes. The film pushes “Golden Kamuy-ness” to the limit, as fans hoped for.

Production Data

A particular point of interest is the direct confrontation between Sugimoto (Kento Yamazaki) and Tsurumi (Hiroshi Tamaki). The film portrays the manga’s renowned tension through both action and psychological warfare, promising the most thrilling development of the series.

Key Highlights to Know Before Watching

“Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” unfolds on the largest scale of the series. This film, which depicts the core “assault on Abashiri Prison,” packs in many iconic scenes long-awaited by fans and cinematic thrills only possible in live action. Here are five must-see points to note beforehand.

1) High Visual Quality & Immersion

First, take note of the remarkably polished live-action execution. The snowfields and prison sets filmed during harsh Hokkaido winters are breathtaking, delivering an immersive feeling as if you’ve stepped into Abashiri Prison yourself. The combat scenes pull no punches. Rather than relying solely on CG, they feature realistic explosions and gunfire using practical effects—a level of intensity best experienced on a big theater screen.

2) Overwhelming Performances by Kento Yamazaki × Anna Yamada

Kento Yamazaki, who plays protagonist Saichi Sugimoto, is hailed by fans as the “ideal Sugimoto.” His portrayal of a man who houses both madness and kindness is even more refined here. Meanwhile, Anna Yamada’s Asirpa shows greater emotional range than in the previous film. The “pride” and “sorrow” in her gaze will move viewers. The relationship between these two is a major driver of the film’s emotional impact.

3) Lieutenant Tsurumi vs. Toshizo Hijikata — A Clash of Two Charismatics

Lieutenant Tsurumi, played by Hiroshi Tamaki, and Toshizo Hijikata, played by Hiroshi Tachi—this confrontation is a clash of “madness and conviction.” Tsurumi’s cunning and madness and Hijikata’s pride and honor embody different forms of justice, prompting audiences to ask, “Which side is right?” In particular, Tamaki’s tour-de-force performance commands overwhelming presence.

4) Faithfulness to the Original & Meticulous Screenwriting

The screenplay is by Tsutomu Kuroiwa, also known for “ONE PIECE FILM RED” and “Kingdom.” Iconic scenes from the manga are faithfully recreated while maintaining the pacing and tension unique to film. Each line of dialogue bears the characters’ lived experience, delivering a structure that satisfies fans. The “live-action authenticity that feels lifted from the manga” is one of the greatest charms here.

5) A Human Drama That Questions Friendship, Conviction, and the Meaning of Life

“Golden Kamuy” isn’t merely action. It’s an ensemble drama that explores human desire, friendship, and the deeper question of “what it means to live.” In the “Abashiri Prison Assault Arc,” betrayal and trust intersect, testing the characters’ ways of life. The film’s true value resides in the brief exchanges amid battle and the quiet looks they share.

Highlights at a Glance

• Overwhelming visual beauty from snowfield location shoots
• Passionate performances by Kento Yamazaki and Anna Yamada
• A clash of “madness and pride” between Tsurumi and Hijikata
• A script and direction brimming with love for the original
• Depth and afterglow as a human drama

As you can see, “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” boasts a level of completion that will captivate series fans and first-time viewers alike. It’s a work so packed with appeal that it stirs the heart even before you see it.

Streaming Services Most Likely to Carry “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”

“Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” is a Toho-distributed film scheduled for nationwide release in March 2026. Based on past trends, Toho titles tend to appear primarily on U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video around 4–6 months after theatrical release. In this section, we predict which services are likely to stream it and how you might watch for free.

Predictions for Major Streaming Services

Service	Estimated Start	Price (tax incl.)	How to Watch Free
U-NEXT	Around August 2026 (about 5 months after release)	¥2,189/month	31-day free trial + 600 pts for virtually free viewing
Amazon Prime Video	Around September 2026 (possible rental-first release)	¥600/month (Prime membership)	30-day free trial; possible rental discount coupon
Hulu	Around October 2026 (possible all-you-can-watch)	¥1,026/month	Initial 2-week free trial (depending on timing)
Netflix	Around November 2026 (possible subscription exclusive)	¥790–¥1,980/month	No free trial (unlimited during subscription)
Disney+	Autumn–Winter 2026 (possible partnered release)	¥990/month	Save with DMM × Disney+ bundle plan
ABEMA	Winter 2026 (possible special broadcast)	¥960/month (ABEMA Premium)	14-day free trial; effectively free if special stream occurs

Judging from past schedules of Toho-related films (e.g., “Kingdom: The Flame of Destiny,” “Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine”), it’s highly likely this film will also begin streaming on U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video about 5–6 months after release. Since the previous film “Golden Kamuy (2024)” became available on multiple platforms, a similar rollout is expected this time as well.

Recommended Ways to Watch for Free

• Use U-NEXT’s 31-day free trial + 600 points for virtually free viewing
• Use Hulu’s 2-week free trial and watch during the window
• Take advantage of ABEMA’s 14-day free trial if a special stream is offered

By leveraging these options, there’s a strong chance you can watch “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” for free or at low cost. To avoid missing the drop, consider registering with any services you’re interested in ahead of time.

FAQ for Watching “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”

As the release of “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” approaches, fans are asking: “When will it stream?” “Can I watch it for free?” “What’s it about?” Here are clear answers to common questions to know before you watch.

Q1. When will “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” start streaming?

A. As of October 2025, an official streaming date has not been announced. However, based on trends for Toho-distributed films, there’s a high possibility that about 5–6 months after release (around August–September 2026) it will be available on major services like U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video. The previous film “Golden Kamuy (2024)” also began digital distribution roughly half a year after its theatrical run.

Q2. Can I watch it for free?

A. For a while after release, it will be shown in theaters only, but once streaming begins, you can use free trials to effectively watch for free. For example, U-NEXT’s 31-day free trial gives you ¥600 worth of points that can be used to watch new films. You can also watch for free during trial periods once all-you-can-watch streaming starts on services like Hulu (2 weeks free) or ABEMA (14 days free).

Q3. Will I understand it if I haven’t seen the previous film?

A. Although it’s a sequel, the story has clear breaks that make it easy for newcomers to follow. That said, to better appreciate the characters’ backgrounds and relationships, we recommend watching the previous film “Golden Kamuy (2024).” It’s currently available on U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video, making for great prep viewing.

Q4. What are the impressions and how does it differ from the previous film?

A. Even before release, the trailer has made waves on social media for “overwhelming visuals” and “incredible cast fidelity.” Particular attention is on Hiroshi Tamaki’s chilling portrayal of Lieutenant Tsurumi and Kento Yamazaki’s powerful swordplay. Both action and psychological warfare have been scaled up from the previous film, with critics expressing high expectations, calling it “poised to be the best of the series.”

Q5. Will there be a sequel?

A. There’s no official announcement yet, but with much of the original story still remaining, a live-action adaptation of the “Karafuto Arc” is widely anticipated. Depending on box-office performance, a third installment is entirely possible.

Q6. Which is better: theaters or streaming?

A. If you want to feel the full impact, theater viewing is recommended—especially for the “Abashiri Prison assault” sequence, which deserves the big screen. Streaming is great for rewatching whenever you like. You can also use free trials to start with a relaxed rewatch at home.

Filmographies of the Lead Cast

In “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”, an ensemble of accomplished actors assembles. This section introduces key cast members’ past signature works and related titles currently streaming. Knowing their previous roles will help you better appreciate the depth of their performances here.

Kento Yamazaki (as Saichi Sugimoto)

Saichi Sugimoto, depicted in the original as “a man who fights to live,” is played by top young actor Kento Yamazaki. His commanding presence and acting are central to this film. He has starred in numerous live-action adaptations and is praised for his dedicated approach to each role.

• “Kingdom” series (as Shin) / Streaming: U-NEXT · Amazon Prime Video
• “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Diamond Is Unbreakable” / Streaming: Netflix
• “Your Lie in April” / Streaming: U-NEXT · Hulu

Especially in the “Kingdom” series, he fully embodies grand battlefield action and passionate human drama, cementing his reputation as an action star. In “Golden Kamuy,” his portrayal of Sugimoto’s coexistence of madness and kindness is a key point to watch.

Anna Yamada (as Asirpa)

Playing Asirpa, a girl of Ainu heritage, is the acclaimed young actress Anna Yamada. Her delicate expressions and inner strength convey Asirpa’s “will to live” with realism.

• “Liverleaf (Misumisou)” / Streaming: U-NEXT
• “Police in a Pod” / Streaming: Hulu
• “Tokyo MER: Mobile Emergency Room The Movie” / Streaming: Netflix

Yamada brings a natural yet somewhat enigmatic aura. Her performance captures Asirpa’s blend of “intellect and innocence.”

Hiroshi Tamaki (as Lieutenant Tsurumi)

Veteran actor Hiroshi Tamaki plays Lieutenant Tsurumi, a soldier with both charisma and madness. Expect a riveting performance with overwhelming presence.

• “The Way of the Househusband” / Streaming: Netflix · Hulu
• “Nodame Cantabile” series / Streaming: U-NEXT · FOD Premium
• “ROOKIES” / Streaming: Amazon Prime Video

Known for roles ranging from gentle to deranged, Tamaki is a chameleon actor. How he portrays Tsurumi’s abnormality is one of the film’s biggest draws.

Hiroshi Tachi (as Toshizo Hijikata)

Toshizo Hijikata, a legend of the late shogunate era, is played by Japanese cinema heavyweight Hiroshi Tachi. His dignified bearing breathes new life into the historical hero.

• “A Man Finished” / Streaming: U-NEXT
• “Sarabah Abunai Deka” / Streaming: Amazon Prime Video

Hijikata symbolizes “samurai pride.” Tachi’s gravitas lends the story a powerful weight.

Gordon Maeda (as Second Lt. Koito)

Rising star Gordon Maeda portrays Second Lt. Koito, a young soldier devoted to Lieutenant Tsurumi. His acting is both delicate and passionate, standing out among young performers.

• “Promise Cinderella” / Streaming: Netflix · Hulu
• “Tokyo Revengers 2” / Streaming: U-NEXT · Amazon Prime Video

His impassioned performance delicately depicts Koito’s “admiration and conflict,” strongly supporting the film’s emotional throughline.

Recommended Similar & Related Works

After watching “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc”, many will likely think, “I want more titles with the same intensity!” From the perspectives of themes, setting, character types, and historical backdrop, here are recommended works with a similar worldview—perfect for savoring grand drama and dense human stories.

1. The “Kingdom” Series

With exceptional quality as live-action films, “Kingdom” shares many points with “Golden Kamuy,” including epic battles, conviction, and friendship. Kento Yamazaki also stars here, showcasing growth and resolve in a signature role. The intersection of nation-scale warfare and personal conviction will surely resonate with Golden Kamuy fans.

• Streaming: U-NEXT · Amazon Prime Video
• Genre: Historical / Action / Drama

2. The “Rurouni Kenshin” Series

Set in the Meiji era, this celebrated live-action saga depicts the pride and lives of swordsmen. The balance of action and human drama, and its depiction of “fights with heart,” is very close to “Golden Kamuy.” The quality of “The Final” and “The Beginning” is especially stunning.

• Streaming: Netflix · U-NEXT
• Starring: Takeru Satoh / Genre: Period Action

3. “Vinland Saga”

A tale of warriors set in Northern Europe. Its grand human drama themed around “what it means to live and to fight” shares DNA with “Golden Kamuy.” The way it finds humanity amid battle makes it a deep cut for fans of historical drama.

• Streaming: d Anime Store · Netflix
• Genre: Anime / Historical / Drama

4. “The Last Samurai”

A classic starring Tom Cruise. Like “Golden Kamuy,” it explores the theme of “an era’s transformation and how people live” through samurai resisting the waves of modernization. Its snowy vistas and battle scenes are beautiful, and the film’s visual heft is a must for cinephiles.

• Streaming: Amazon Prime Video · Netflix
• Genre: Historical / Drama / War

5. The “Golden Kamuy” Anime

An anime that faithfully recreates the original’s intricate story. Across all seasons, it depicts the full scope of the gold hunt—ideal for prep or review to deepen your understanding of the live-action film. It carefully covers the progression from Sugimoto and Asirpa’s meeting to the assault on Abashiri Prison.

• Streaming: d Anime Store · ABEMA · Netflix
• Seasons: 4 total (final arc in production)

Each of these works centers on powerful dramas about “the meaning of life,” “comrades,” and “conviction.” In particular, “Kingdom” and “Rurouni Kenshin” boast extremely high live-action quality on par with Golden Kamuy.

Check Out the Buzz on Social Media!

Even before release, “Golden Kamuy: Abashiri Prison Assault Arc” has generated major buzz on social media. Fans are already “hyped to the max” over the trailers and cast announcements. Based on real reactions on X (formerly Twitter) and film communities, here’s a roundup of impressions.

Social Media Reactions by Highlight

• Visuals: “The texture of the snow is so real it gives me chills.” “This demands a theater screen!”
• Cast Fidelity: “Kento Yamazaki IS Sugimoto.” “Hiroshi Tamaki’s Lieutenant Tsurumi—perfect madness.”
• Script & Structure: “Tsutomu Kuroiwa’s script inspires confidence.” “You can feel the love for the source in the dialogue.”
• Action Direction: “The blizzard combat is on a different level.” “Less CG, more realism—awesome.”
• Fan Satisfaction: “Can’t believe the Abashiri arc is live action—overwhelmed.” “Feels like I’m going to cry already.”

On social media, hashtags like “#GoldenKamuyLiveAction” and “#AbashiriPrisonAssaultArc” are trending, showing just how high interest runs. Not only manga fans but also moviegoers and action lovers are praising it as “Japanese cinema going all-out.”

Five-Parameter Score (from Social Reactions)

Overall Score (Aggregated from Social Reviews)

Total: 93 / 100 Among fans, many are calling it “the culmination of the Golden Kamuy live-action series” and “a new milestone for Japanese cinema.” With visuals, acting, and script all in top form, it’s certain to be one of the most talked-about films of the first half of 2026.

After release, streaming on U-NEXT and Amazon Prime Video is expected to spark another wave of social media excitement. Sharing theories and impressions with fellow fans is part of the fun.

Whew—the battle at Abashiri Prison… the intensity was incredible, kuma~! Kento Yamazaki was so cool he pierced this bear’s heart… 💘But after the theater, I want to watch at home too, kuma~! Once it’s on U-NEXT or Amazon Prime, I’ll chomp on salmon while rewatching it over and over, kuma~ 🐻🎬

So, what movie should we dig into next, kuma? Mirukuma will go all-out researching the next Golden Kamuy feature, kuma~!