can you visit kyoto animation

Unlocking the Magic: Discover the Enchanting World of Kyoto Animation

Kyoto Animation, also known as KyoAni, is a renowned animation studio based in Kyoto, Japan. It has left an indelible mark on the world of anime with its captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and unparalleled attention to detail. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the enchanting world of Kyoto Animation, exploring its legacy, artistic brilliance, success secrets, impact on the evolution of anime, beloved works, and creative process.

A Glimpse into Kyoto Animation’s Legacy

Kyoto Animation’s legacy is built on a foundation of passion, dedication, and innovation. Since its establishment in 1981, the studio has consistently pushed the boundaries of animation, delivering exceptional content that resonates with audiences worldwide. With a focus on creating original works and nurturing talented animators, Kyoto Animation has cultivated a loyal fanbase and garnered critical acclaim.

One of the defining aspects of Kyoto Animation’s legacy is its commitment to portraying genuine emotions and human connections. The studio’s stories often delve into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes of love, friendship, and personal growth. This authenticity has struck a chord with viewers, making Kyoto Animation’s works relatable and emotionally impactful.

Additionally, Kyoto Animation has played a pivotal role in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the anime industry. By featuring a diverse range of characters and narratives, the studio has challenged stereotypes and created a more inclusive space for underrepresented voices.

Exploring the Artistic Brilliance of Kyoto Animation

When it comes to artistic brilliance, Kyoto Animation stands in a league of its own. The studio’s animation quality is renowned for its fluidity, attention to detail, and breathtaking beauty. Each frame is meticulously crafted, bringing the characters and their world to life with stunning realism.

One of the key elements that sets Kyoto Animation apart is its mastery of character animation. The studio excels in capturing subtle nuances of human expression, making the characters feel alive and relatable. Whether it’s a fleeting smile or a tear rolling down a cheek, Kyoto Animation’s animators have a keen eye for capturing the intricacies of human emotion.

Furthermore, Kyoto Animation’s background art is a feast for the eyes. From lush landscapes to intricately designed interiors, every setting is meticulously rendered, creating a visually immersive experience for the viewers. The attention to detail extends to the smallest elements, such as the play of light and shadow, adding depth and atmosphere to the scenes.

In addition to its visual brilliance, Kyoto Animation also excels in sound design. The studio’s use of music and sound effects enhances the storytelling, creating a multisensory experience that further immerses the audience in the narrative.

Unveiling the Secrets Behind Kyoto Animation’s Success

Kyoto Animation’s success can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its unique approach to storytelling, dedication to quality, and nurturing of talent.

One of the secrets behind Kyoto Animation’s success is its emphasis on original works. Rather than relying solely on adaptations, the studio takes risks by creating original stories that push creative boundaries. This approach allows the studio to maintain artistic integrity and deliver fresh, innovative narratives.

Another key aspect of Kyoto Animation’s success is its unwavering commitment to quality. The studio sets high standards for its animation, ensuring that every frame meets its exacting criteria. This commitment to excellence has earned Kyoto Animation a reputation for delivering consistently exceptional content.

Furthermore, Kyoto Animation’s focus on nurturing talent has played a crucial role in its success. The studio invests in the development of its animators, providing them with a supportive and collaborative environment to hone their skills. This investment in talent has resulted in a team of exceptionally skilled animators who bring Kyoto Animation’s stories to life with unparalleled brilliance.

The Evolution of Anime: Kyoto Animation’s Impact

Kyoto Animation has had a significant impact on the evolution of anime as an art form. The studio’s unique storytelling style and visual aesthetics have influenced countless anime creators and inspired new approaches to animation.

One of the key contributions of Kyoto Animation is its emphasis on character-driven narratives. The studio’s focus on exploring the complexities of human relationships and emotions has inspired other creators to delve deeper into character development, resulting in more nuanced and compelling stories.

In addition, Kyoto Animation’s attention to detail and commitment to quality has raised the bar for animation standards within the industry. Many studios have been inspired by Kyoto Animation’s meticulous approach, striving to match its level of craftsmanship and deliver visually stunning works.

Moreover, Kyoto Animation’s dedication to portraying diverse characters and narratives has had a profound impact on the anime industry. The studio’s inclusion of underrepresented voices and stories has paved the way for greater diversity and representation within the medium.

Kyoto Animation: A Journey through the Most Beloved Works

Kyoto Animation has produced a multitude of beloved works that have captured the hearts of anime enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s take a journey through some of the studio’s most iconic and cherished creations.

1. “K-On!”: This heartwarming series follows a group of high school girls who form a band and navigate the ups and downs of friendship. With its catchy music and endearing characters, “K-On!” has become a beloved classic.

2. “Clannad”: Known for its emotional storytelling, “Clannad” explores themes of family, love, and the power of human connections. The series has touched the hearts of viewers with its heartfelt narrative and memorable characters.

3. “Violet Evergarden”: This visually stunning series follows the journey of Violet Evergarden, a former soldier who becomes an Auto Memory Doll, writing letters for others. With its breathtaking animation and poignant storytelling, “Violet Evergarden” has garnered widespread acclaim.

4. “Free!”: A popular sports anime, “Free!” revolves around a group of friends who are part of a swim team. The series combines captivating sports action with heartfelt character development, creating a compelling and engaging narrative.

These are just a few examples of Kyoto Animation’s vast repertoire of beloved works. Each creation showcases the studio’s dedication to storytelling and its ability to captivate audiences with its unique charm.

Behind the Scenes: Kyoto Animation’s Creative Process

Kyoto Animation’s creative process is a testament to the studio’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail. From the initial concept to the final product, every step is meticulously planned and executed.

The creative process begins with the development of a compelling story. Kyoto Animation’s writers work closely with the director and key staff members to craft narratives that resonate with audiences. This collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of the story, from the characters to the themes, are carefully considered.

Once the story is finalized, the animation process begins. Kyoto Animation’s team of talented animators meticulously bring the characters to life, paying close attention to their movements, expressions, and overall design. The studio’s dedication to character animation is evident in the fluidity and realism of the visuals.

In parallel, the background art team works on creating visually stunning and immersive settings. Through meticulous research and attention to detail, they ensure that every location in the anime is richly detailed and visually captivating.

Sound design also plays a crucial role in Kyoto Animation’s creative process. The studio collaborates with talented composers and sound engineers to create a soundtrack that complements the visuals and enhances the emotional impact of the story.

Throughout the entire creative process, Kyoto Animation maintains a strong focus on quality control. Every frame is carefully reviewed and refined to ensure that it meets the studio’s high standards. This attention to detail is what sets Kyoto Animation apart and contributes to its exceptional output.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kyoto Animation

Q: what are some other notable works produced by kyoto animation.

A: In addition to the mentioned works, Kyoto Animation has also produced popular anime series such as “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya,” “Kobayashi-san Chi no Maid Dragon,” and “Sound! Euphonium.”

Q: What makes Kyoto Animation’s animation style unique?

A: Kyoto Animation’s animation style is characterized by its attention to detail, fluidity, and realistic portrayal of human emotions. The studio’s animators excel in capturing subtle nuances of expression, making the characters feel alive and relatable.

Q: How has Kyoto Animation contributed to the anime industry?

A: Kyoto Animation has made significant contributions to the anime industry through its emphasis on original storytelling, commitment to quality, and promotion of diversity and inclusivity. The studio’s works have inspired other creators and raised the bar for animation standards.

Q: What sets Kyoto Animation apart from other anime studios?

A: Kyoto Animation stands out for its unwavering commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and dedication to portraying genuine human emotions. The studio’s unique storytelling style and visual aesthetics have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

Expert Advice on Kyoto Animation

When it comes to exploring the world of Kyoto Animation, here is some expert advice:

1. Immerse yourself in the storytelling: Kyoto Animation’s works often delve into deep emotional themes and offer a unique perspective on the human experience. Take the time to fully immerse yourself in the narratives and allow the stories to resonate with you.

2. Appreciate the visual artistry: Pay attention to the meticulous animation and stunning background art that Kyoto Animation is known for. Notice the small details and how they contribute to the overall visual experience.

3. Explore the studio’s diverse repertoire: Kyoto Animation has produced works in various genres, from slice-of-life to fantasy. Don’t limit yourself to one type of anime and explore the diverse range of stories that the studio has to offer.

4. Support the studio: Show your support for Kyoto Animation by purchasing official merchandise and supporting the legal streaming platforms that distribute their works. By doing so, you contribute to the continued success of the studio and the anime industry as a whole.

By following this expert advice, you can truly unlock the magic of Kyoto Animation and appreciate the enchanting world it has created.

Izumi Kenta

Hi, I’m Izumi Kenta from Japan. By profession, I worked as a tourist guide and interpreter in Japan. Besides this profession, I’m a hobbyist blogger. I love to talk about different things about Japan and share them with a wider audience who wants to know about my country. To share my thoughts, I’ve created this site Visitjapan and brought some Japanese travel enthusiasts and tourists worldwide to share their experiences.

What Kyoto Animation Means to Us

In loving memory of those who lost their lives.

Warning: Spoilers ahead for all major Kyoto Animation works.

The Anime We Hold Most Dear

A score isn't the only thing that can tell us how much people loved an anime. As a standard MAL user, you're allowed to display 10 favorite anime on your profile, which can be very difficult to choose with limited space. These 10 spots become evermore precious when you reach hundreds or even thousands of completed anime. When an anime receives a high number of favorites compared to the number of people who have seen it, that's when you know how special it is. By that principle, these five Kyoto Animation works are their most beloved.

Clannad: After Story

9.89% (52,260 favorites)

Koe no Katachi

5.88% (34,291 favorites)

5.59% (14,532 favorites)

4.59% (12,613 favorites)

Violet Evergarden

4.38% (15,529 favorites)

The Moments We Remember

Think of your favorite Kyoto Animation anime for me. Got it? Now picture the moment you remember most fondly or even the moment that you knew it had become your favorite. Every anime has its standout moment or episode that stays with us long after we've completed them, but so many of Kyoto Animation's works have left us with impressions that may never leave us. For almost every TV anime that Kyoto Animation has ever produced, these are the episodes and moments that scored the highest in episode discussion threads and in our memories; pictures speak a thousand words.

Clannad: After Story Episode 18 - ⭐4.92

The Ends of the Earth

Nichijou episode 25 - ⭐4.91.

Hibike! Euphonium 2 Episode 5 - ⭐4.90

Miraculous Harmony

Violet evergarden episode 10 - ⭐4.88.

'A Loved One Will Always Watch Over You'

Full metal panic fumoffu episode 7 - ⭐4.88.

The War Cry of Excessiveness

Lucky☆star episode 22 - ⭐4.87.

The Yonder Here

K-on episode 24 - ⭐4.87.

Graduation Ceremony!

Hibike euphonium episode 8 - ⭐4.84.

Festival Triangle

Kobayashi-san chi no maid dragon episode 4 - ⭐4.83.

Kanna Goes to School! (Not that she needs to.)

Chuunibyou demo koi ga shitai episode 9 - ⭐4.83.

A Confused... First Love Frustration (Chaos Heart)

Amagi brilliant park episode 12 - ⭐4.82.

Nobody Knows What the Future Holds!

Full metal panic the second raid episode 12 - ⭐4.81.

Burning Hong Kong

Clannad episode 9 - ⭐4.79.

Until The End Of The Dream

Tamako market episode 9 - ⭐4.79.

Singing a Love Song

K-on episode 5 - ⭐4.77.

Hyouka Episode 17 - ⭐4.75

The Order of Kudryavka

Chuunibyou demo koi ga shitai ren episode 6 - ⭐4.75.

Travelling to the Island of Tsukushi... of Hesitation

Kanon (2006) episode 22 - ⭐4.74.

Symphony of Recollections

Suzumiya haruhi no yuuutsu episode 6 - ⭐4.72.

Remote Island Syndrome (Part One)

Air episode 11 - ⭐4.72.

Free! Episode 8 - ⭐4.70

Revenge in the Medley!

Tsurune: kazemai koukou kyuudoubu episode 13 - ⭐4.70.

Irreplaceable

Kyoukai no kanata episode 4 - ⭐4.66.

Bitter Orange

Free eternal summer episode 10 - ⭐4.60.

The Six-Beat Kick of Tears!

Musaigen no phantom world episode 11 - ⭐4.56.

Tiny Haruhiko-kun

Suzumiya haruhi no yuuutsu (2009) episode 1 - ⭐4.52.

Bamboo Leaf Rhapsody

Free: dive to the future episode 11 - ⭐4.50.

Streamline of Unity!

The friends we made.

Among the top 100 characters on MAL, there are 7 that originate from a Kyoto Animation work. With the same limit of 10 favorites, these characters rose above the tens of thousands of characters that reside in our database to become some of the most treasured and adored thanks to the life that Kyoto Animation breathed into them.

Konata Izumi (Lucky☆Star)

17,168 favorites / Rank #47

Haruhi Suzumiya (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu)

16,090 favorites / Rank #54

Rikka Takanashi (Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai!)

15,213 favorites / Rank #57

Houtarou Oreki (Hyouka)

14,406 favorites / Rank #59

Tomoya Okazaki (Clannad)

11,503 favorites / Rank #81

Shouko Nishimiya (Koe no Katachi)

11,101 favorites / Rank #86

Mio Akiyama (K-On!)

10,045 favorites / Rank #100

The Lives We Experience

Out of the top 25 most popular Slice of Life anime on MAL, a stunning 10 (40%) of them were made by Kyoto Animation, as listed above. To put that in perspective, the next highest is only two of that 25.

In Clannad , we witnessed a delinquent with a broken heart be healed by new friends and unfamiliar love.

In Clannad: After Story , we witnessed the value and unbreakable bond of a growing family.

In Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! , we witnessed the acceptance of one's "delusions" and the emotional understanding that comes with it.

In Hyouka , we witnessed the little mysteries to be discovered everywhere, spread throughout our own lives.

In Kyoukai no Kanata , we witnessed the burdens of two "cursed" individuals being lifted through each other.

In Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu , we witnessed the extraordinary characters of the SOS Brigade fight back against the threat of boredom.

In K-On! , we witnessed an inexperienced dreamer grow into a passionate performer with the aid of supportive friends.

In Violet Evergarden , we witnessed the precious words residing in the hearts of everyone that need only be brought out.

In Kobayashi-san Chi no Maid Dragon , we witnessed the value of self-love and companions even when one is weary from adult life.

In Nichijou , we witnessed how even "everyday lives" can be thrilling and lively.

Even among supernatural beings and absurd happenings, Kyoto Animation has treated us to so many compelling stories and characters that we can feel connected to.

The Emotions We Are Left With

You can read the full review here , but I'll give you the opening words to conclude this tribute to Kyoto Animation and their continued influence on our community:

I laughed... I cried... I experienced something that changed my life...

In a nutshell, Clannad ~After Story~ influenced the way I will live for the rest of my life and not just in some half-assed way like any other show would. It legitimately moved me to make certain decisions, for better or for worse. In that sense, no other anime can compare, as no other anime has provided an equivalent reaction on my part.

Thank you, Kyoto Animation. We hope you'll continue to touch our hearts in the coming years.

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The Evolution Of Kyoto Animation: A Unique Anime Studio And Its Consistent Vision

August 25, 2018 kvin comments 34 comments.

Article pinned in memoriam of everyone who lost their lives in the terrorist attack today at the studio. We can only extend our heartfelt condolences to the victims, everyone’s families and friends, and all affected parties in general. Please take care.

Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu! began its broadcast in August 25, 2003, exactly 15 years ago today: a remarkable event not just because it was an amusing series, but because it was the first TV anime produced by Kyoto Animation. How have things changed for them since then, and what was the long road that led them there like? This is the story of one studio that’s had a very clear philosophy many years before their grand debut, and how that’s led to tremendous success and an unusually good working environment, but also the curious issues they’ve had to tough it through. Find out why KyoAni are one of a kind!

Housewives painting anime cels

Yoko Hatta , a painter with experience on classic titles like Princess Ribbon at Mushi Production, left the studio and moved to Kyoto after marrying Hideaki Hatta. Once she was there, she gathered a few housewives from the neighborhood with time to kill under the name Kyoto Anime Studio , dedicated to painting cels for Tatsunoko Pro and Pierrot productions for the most part. They began appearing in anime credits in the early 80s, including titles like SDF Macross , the Time Bokan series ( Ippatsuman and Itadakiman ), Genesis Climber Mospeada , Pierrot’s classical magical girl titles , Mirai Keisatsu Urashiman , Urusei Yatsura , and so on. Not all of the initial members – Emiko Honda, Akiko Fujimura, Ayako Takemura , and of course Hatta herself – stayed as they transitioned from a semi-professional crew to a more serious endeavor, but it already set the tone for what would become a studio with a predominantly female voice.

Come 1985, Hatta made an important decision: founding an actual company, Kyoto Animation, which would have her husband Hideaki Hatta as the president but keep her as the actual head of operations; that arrangement hasn’t changed throughout the studio’s lifespan, and to this day she still has the final say on their anime projects. They slowly began to be credited under the company’s new name, though the Hattas always kept Kyoto Anime Studio in their hearts – hence why it was credited for the composition of KyoAni’s first independent anime decades later. It’s hard to forget your own roots.

But let’s not get too ahead, since those early stages of the studio were chock-full of important developments. Just one year after formally coming into existence, Kyoto Animation created its own animation department, later followed up by an art crew, and eventually a photography Photography (撮影, Satsuei): The marriage of elements produced by different departments into a finished picture, involving filtering to make it more harmonious. A name inherited from the past, when cameras were actually used during this process. department in the late 90s. As time passed it became a regular occurrence to see their name supporting important productions, be it drawing in-betweens In-betweens (動画, douga): Essentially filling the gaps left by the key animators and completing the animation. The genga is traced and fully cleaned up if it hadn't been, then the missing frames are drawn following the notes for timing and spacing. ( Kimagure Orange Road , 1987 ), key animation Key Animation (原画, genga): These artists draw the pivotal moments within the animation, basically defining the motion without actually completing the cut. The anime industry is known for allowing these individual artists lots of room to express their own style. ( Dirty Pair OVAs and Mister Ajikko , 1988), or even background art ( Neon Genesis Evangelion , 1995 ), all while also doing minor assistance work on notable theatrical works like those of Ghibli or Akira . It’s important to note that this wasn’t notable in itself, since we’re in an industry where everyone has to help their peers, but their ability to regularly tackle sizable chunks of whatever they were entrusted with and produce high-quality work did earn them quick acknowledgment.

The earliest important instance of this dates back to 1987. The studio hadn’t been around for long, but by that point they had assisted enough Tatsunoko projects to catch the eye of now-legendary producer Mitsuhisa Ishikawa . At the time he was looking for a way out of the studio, so when time came to produce Zillion , he entrusted Kyoto Animation with the co-production of the series… though by his own admission, instead of splitting the work with a Tatsunoko sub-unit, it actually ended up being KyoAni’s first production of sorts – not quite manufacturing the show since they weren’t prepared for that, but effectively managing its production. This fully earned Ishikawa’s trust and established a subtle yet crucial bond, as later that year Hideaki Hatta became one of the initial shareholders on Ishikawa’s new subsidiary IG Tatsunoko . KyoAni playing a role in the existence of an entity as massive and seemingly unrelated as Production I.G is one of those pieces of trivia that are always fun to think about.

The road to establishing an individual style

Proficient as they may have been, it’s impossible to develop much of a unique flavor if all you ever do is handle single elements in other people’s productions. Artists like Takeshi Kusaka established themselves as important figures in the studio’s infancy, and yet they were missing any personal flair. This would be a perfectly fine situation if your aim is to be a support studio, but as you can imagine, that wasn’t the case. The first step to move forward, naturally, was to begin making their own episodes and short films. And out of all the things it could have been, Kyoto Animation’s first self-contained piece was Shiawasette Nani : a 1991 short film contracted by the controversial Happy Science cult ; far from being noteworthy on its own, even if it did accidentally tease out some creative roles we would see over and over years afterward. Requesting preachy material from KyoAni became a bit of a trend, seeing how they also got tasked with educational OVAs by the government. Maybe all the Haruhiism jokes of the 00s were fated to be.

If you want to understand the direction the studio took though, you’re best served by looking back at 1992’s Noroi no One Piece , a co-production with Shin-Ei Douga that served as Yoshiji Kigami ’s directorial debut. Just about every part of that sentence changed KyoAni’s identity and still has a massive effect on them nowadays, so even though we’ve got to summarize the situation, it’s important to get across the basics. While the two studios had begun establishing a link prior to this project through assistance on franchises like Doraemon , this can be considered their first major collaboration. Quite the important development contained in a mostly forgotten VHS!

Kigami was one of Shin-Ei’s animation aces – first as an actual member of the studio and later attached to Animaruya , a group of talented ex-members who still worked for them – so his first bout as director was a noteworthy event. We’re talking about someone talented enough to be considered a rival by the one and only Toshiyuki Inoue! Kigami had already shown his alluring comedic fluidity and his grasp of his mentor Hiroshi Fukutomi ’s complex camerawork when working on Sasuga no Sarutobi . And just as importantly, he’d left a very strong impression working on iconic movies on the rise of realism in anime; not many people can boast about having penned some of the most impressive scenes in Grave of the Fireflies and Akira . And he wouldn’t do it, but he definitely has the right to.

Noroi no One Piece is a collection of unsettling short tales penned by Shungicu Uchida, all revolving around a cursed dress that brings misfortune to its wearers. What makes it so interesting isn’t its straightforward yet effective horror trappings, but rather the impeccable character expression, mixing attention to gesture with the right levels of elasticity in the animation ; this kind of thorough acting would feel exceptional at the best of times, let alone for the debut of both a director and a studio for what was supposed to be a small project. Kigami saw a diamond in the rough within KyoAni: the makings of a technically brilliant creative crew, waiting for the right person to arrive and polish them up.

And from that point onwards, that was exactly Kigami’s role. Rather than conveying purely technical aspects – which he also did, to the point that even nowadays most animators at the studio draw effects in Kigami-like shapes – what he made an effort to spread was the Shin-Ei attitude of not cutting corners. Not just to go all out during isolated hectic scenes, but to be extremely meticulous when depicting the demeanor of the characters as well. This simple precept that has led to the studio’s unique animation identity has been misconstrued as an attempt to place subdued acting above all, which is slightly off the mark. Kigami is no stranger to exaggeration and outrageous cartoony animation, having directed some of the most extreme episodes in projects like Nichijou . As far as I can tell, simply being willing to be equally fastidious when depicting everyday life is so exceptional in the TV anime space that it can make people feel that’s all there is.

Kigami’s humane approach resonated with the studio from the get-go. KyoAni may not have had a defined style yet, but the team did already have a clear ethos. People often ask why other anime production companies don’t mimic the Kyoto Animation model, if it’s so positive and has directly led to their success. The answer is simple yet discouraging: as seen in this 1992 feature by Masahiro Haraguchi , they’ve had to stick to their beliefs for a long time to become what they are; the explicit mentions of communication between the staff in a shared space, the workplace oozing with gentleness, trying to handle every step in the production process, the female staff preeminence – these are all points that are brought up now to explain what makes them unlike their peers, and yet they were already a factor decades ago. Try as they may, it’s not easy for other studios to emulate this, especially since taking management risks now is even more dangerous in today’s climate.

Deluxe outsourcing Outsourcing: The process of subcontracting part of the work to other studios. Partial outsourcing is very common for tasks like key animation, coloring, backgrounds and the likes, but most TV anime also has instances of full outsourcing (グロス) where an episode is entirely handled by a different studio. studio

This ability to deliver high-quality work right off the bat earned the attention of major studios, always on the look-out for new capable hands. It’s easy to see why working with them became such an appealing prospect. KyoAni proved that they were a very consistent assistance crew, as seen by the 33 episodes of Inuyasha they fully produced while also providing help to other staff in the series. Their work was solid at worst and exceptional at best, and yet they could keep things fairly inexpensive due to their location and by avoiding further subcontracting, since they had all departments required to make anime. Viewers nowadays associate anime outsourcing Outsourcing: The process of subcontracting part of the work to other studios. Partial outsourcing is very common for tasks like key animation, coloring, backgrounds and the likes, but most TV anime also has instances of full outsourcing (グロス) where an episode is entirely handled by a different studio. with bad production practices… which to be fair tends to be true, but that wasn’t always the case. For about a decade, subcontracting work to Kyoto Animation was a very smart move.

The result of that allure was endless calls for help. It’s often said that the studio’s excellent schedule management, another defining trait, was developed while juggling all the requests they received in this period. During the 90s and early 00s they were all over the place, starting with productions handled by their old acquaintances. They kept on helping Tatsunoko and especially Shin-Ei’s Doraemon and Shin-chan franchises, peaking with contributions to their theatrical projects where the uncompromising approach the studio had inherited from Shin-Ei in the first place felt right at home. Old companion Pierrot also got a good taste of their skill, not only through various TV shows but also when they let a greenhorn company like them essentially produce an entire Kimagure Orange Road movie . Even the videogame industry quickly reached out to them, which allowed various franchises to feature opening sequences animated by KyoAni.

With 4 openings and 1 ending sequence, Konami’s PawaPuro franchise is the game series that KyoAni contributed to the most.

Their plentiful output at the time makes this a fascinating period in their history, but to get a good grasp on the studio’s history, we need to separate the countless curiosities ( like this collaboration between Mamoru Hosoda and KyoAni ) from the meaningful developments. Truth be told, not all subcontracted work is made equal. Those led by Kigami were as wonderful as the resources were realistically allocated and then some (especially when he could supervise and provide animation on top of directing), whereas those in the hands of the new generations were generally more modest at first.

Who stepped up to the plate then? Tatsuya Ishihara is an interesting case, since he was never all that invested in the animation process and jumped onto directorial opportunities the second they presented themselves. He became their most ubiquitous director and developed a sense for moderate slapstick comedy that was very rooted in its time, which makes his current output feel amusingly anachronistic when it comes to humor. This stands in contrast with Yasuhiro Takemoto , who had similar origins, save for the fact that he was more enamored with animation, and yet came to go down a very different path. He gradually developed that understanding of physical space that makes his works so special, and gained even more unique flair when coming in contact with Akiyuki Shinbo for the production of The SoulTaker . Though he’s grown to be more of a solemn director that a flashy one, he’s kept that appreciation of chiaroscuro shots and monochromatism with accents, plus that surreal staging for situations that require it.

Working alongside Tsutomu Mizushima on Hare+Guu was a formative experience for Takemoto and the rest of the studio, which still share similar comedic sensibilities.

Other figures rose within the studio during that period (like Yoshiko Shima , KyoAni’s first female director), but if I had to highlight someone as their new ace, that would undoubtedly be Tomoe Aratani . Although she joined the studio much later than all the aforementioned staff, her talent and versatility quickly made her stand out. It didn’t take her long to become a regular storyboarder on Inuyasha , a supervisor and director wherever it was needed, the studio’s first dedicated character designer, and even an animation mentor to all her peers. Her keen awareness of body movement and ability to extrapolate realistic mannerisms onto stylized cartoon forms made her the perfect asset for the studio, and she did her best to spread her teachings around. KyoAni’s predilection for placing women in animation direction Animation Direction (作画監督, sakuga kantoku): The artists supervising the quality and consistency of the animation itself. They might correct cuts that deviate from the designs too much if they see it fit, but their job is mostly to ensure the motion is up to par while not looking too rough. Plenty of specialized Animation Direction roles exist – mecha, effects, creatures, all focused in one particular recurring element. and character design roles can easily be traced back to Aratani’s positive impact in these early stages. Beyond gender itself, this is simply a neverending attempt to try to capture the same magic – which they did and more, as we’ll see later.

New era for anime, new era for the studio

To understand how quickly things escalated after that, you have to keep in mind the changing landscape for anime as a whole. The industry was about to ditch traditional cel production, and despite their roots doing just that, Kyoto Animation seized the opportunity to grow at hand by getting acquainted to the new ways of production before the rest of the pack. The situation is comparable to the studios currently ahead of the competition when it comes to digital workflows – the likes of Colorido, which unsurprisingly features some artists of KyoAni origins among their ranks. It’s hard to tell when the next game-changing development in production will happen and what it will be (perhaps truly trustworthy automated in-betweening?) but whoever exploits the new possibilities first will surely reap massive benefits, even if they’re newcomers.

What was their first independent offering like, then? Munto was juvenile, often awkward, coming across like Yoshiji Kigami’s own teenage fantasy dreams made into a cartoon. At the same time, it was an astonishing animation feat that easily ranks among the most spectacular studio debut works. It’s worth noting that the first OVA and its 2005 sequel actually channel the team’s action and effects capabilities first and foremost, which brings the result much closer to anime’s regular sakuga Sakuga (作画): Technically drawing pictures but more specifically animation. Western fans have long since appropriated the word to refer to instances of particularly good animation, in the same way that a subset of Japanese fans do. Pretty integral to our sites' brand. showcases than the studio’s output usually is. Instead it was the 2009 incarnation of the series – quite the messy format it ended up having, perhaps deservedly so – that went out of their way to humanize the characters through their acting in that distinctly KyoAni-like way .

Their first TV series, which has now reached its 15 th anniversary, was none other than Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu! ; a spinoff that represented quite the change for the franchise, switching studio and genre in one fell swoop. Back when he directed his first series, Yasuhiro Takemoto hadn’t yet developed the sense of warmth that nowadays gives his works a recognizable flavor even when he handles very different genres, that special touch that makes works as different as High Speed! and Maidragon feel like they share a meaningful something. However, it did put all his eccentric comedy experience to good use, including an episode fully storyboarded around the concept of ingeniously hiding nudity that has to be seen to be believed. There’s a reason that he’s still one of the go-to staff members when it comes to surreal humor, despite viewers associating him with stoic work.

It’s worth noting that, while Fumoffu! is by all means KyoAni’s first show, it’s not fully theirs like the productions that followed it. Capable as they were, the studio simply didn’t have enough staff to make an entire series without compromising quality. The solution to this problem was to fully outsource 4 episodes to Tatsunoko, who had accompanied them in this anime adventure since the very beginning; a touching role-reversal, in spite of the fact that these subcontracted episodes sort of failed to live up to the execution of the rest of the series. The experiment paid off either way, and by the time Full Metal Panic: The Second Raid (the last FMP season that’s avoided having its production horribly implode) was broadcast in 2005, the studio was already capable of producing an entire TV show.

The Goose That Laid the Golden Cartoons

If we’re talking about 2005 KyoAni titles though, the project that had the biggest impact was without a doubt the adaptation of Air . Which means we’ve got to switch protagonists back to Tatsuya Ishihara, who happened to be a big fan of Key visual novels and strongly pushed for this project. As it turns out, Ishihara’s preferences had massive industry-shifting consequences. As a big otaku himself he’s always understood what attracts fans (mostly the male ones) to the world of latenight anime, but his polite and pleasant delivery has historically given his works an unexpectedly broad appeal. Once you notice this, you can understand how he cemented the visual novel anime boom through adaptations with a surprisingly broad appeal, and how one year later he would revolutionize the anime world entirely with The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya . This ability is something he passed onto his pupils as well, as seen in the wild success of K-ON! , and it’s become one of those intangible factors of the studio’s success.

It’s easy to fast-forward through this period, not because the works they produced aren’t worthy of attention in one way or another, but due to the remarkable consistency the studio achieved. Air was followed up by other Key titles like Kanon (2006) and Clannad , gradually refining the skill of the studio’s ever-increasing directorial crew regardless of how clumsy the tales they adapted may have been – not that this ever got in the way of their tremendous success. At the same time, the studio’s partnership with Kadokawa led to even more massive hits like the aforementioned Haruhi and Lucky Star , titles that defined the anime fandom worldwide for years. Even as they took a risk by entrusting an obscure IP to a newbie director, K-ON! turned out to be one of the most successful anime of all time. A curious belief spread: that no matter the vocal detractors, in the end the results showed that KyoAni could basically do no wrong. Even the studio basked in their own popularity by including plenty of references to their other titles in a similar way to what TRIGGER does now.

The company’s management also appeared to follow a consistent path. The stable, high-quality productions became an integral part of what made them special, even more so as the rest of the industry generally headed into a downward spiral. The studio philosophy made explicit in that 1992 article was reinforced with time: a family mentality among the team and the development of all departments involved in animation. To consolidate this unique culture, the studio started focusing on fostering new talent as their number one goal; the KyoAni School began running with the studio’s staff as instructors, and company recruitments were limited to youngsters as well, so everyone working in their projects had a shared set of skills and beliefs that made them more likely to work well together. KyoAni’s works were unlike the rest, made by full-time employees who no matter their (sometimes stark) artistic differences, shared the same fundamentals. The staff developed a clear identity that made it very easy to either love them or hate them, and the former appeared to be the more common reaction.

This isn’t to say that everything went perfectly, as seen by the great exodus of the mid to late 00s. Creators leave the studio on the regular, often attracted by the allure of freelancing life even though they know their working conditions will take a hit. Some key figures have resigned throughout the years: the aforementioned Aratani temporarily transferred to Nintendo following a local program and enjoyed the experience so much that she stayed there, whereas the brilliant Noriko Takao felt the harsh competition to earn a series director Series Director: (監督, kantoku): The person in charge of the entire production, both as a creative decision-maker and final supervisor. They outrank the rest of the staff and ultimately have the last word. Series with different levels of directors do exist however – Chief Director, Assistant Director, Series Episode Director, all sorts of non-standard roles. The hierarchy in those instances is a case by case scenario. spot was so overwhelming she fled to A-1, where she’s arguably become their top director.

Aratani is currently in charge of cinematic design on games like Zelda Breath of the Wild, but her animation skills will never get rusty.

While those talent leaks do hurt, they’re generally compensated by the studio’s endless quest to train new artists. What happened at the time, however, was a bigger deal. Unfortunately, to explain what happened I have to bring up Yutaka “Yamakan” Yamamoto , the anime equivalent of crossing Anakin Skywalker with Jabba the Hutt. He was supposed to be the chosen one after all. Yamamoto was the protégé of Kigami and new leading voice of KyoAni’s Osaka branch Animation Do, which had existed for many years (though it only became its own entity in 2000) but began developing a culture of its own under his leadership. After playing a key role in Haruhi , being famously responsible for its iconic dance, Yamamoto was entrusted with Lucky Star … and then removed from the directorial seat after 4 episodes, accompanied by a suspicious blunt note by the studio indicating that he didn’t have the skills to direct a TV show yet. Soon afterward, he left the company altogether and a bunch of his co-workers followed him.

Yamamoto ended up founding studio Ordet, where he gathered the people who followed his steps and other ex-KyoAni members who had departed the studio during the 00s. Their first offerings were very impressive as a consequence, from the amusing Kannagi that they heavily assisted to the astonishing 2010 Black Rock Shooter OVA , your one chance to see KyoAni-bred animation muscle work alongside Yutaka Nakamura . And yet, that was pretty much the end. How come Satoshi Kadowaki immediately left him and is now one of WIT Studio’s main assets? Why did Masaharu Watanabe instead decide to focus on Naruto under the name Gorou Sessha , before starting his own directorial career with the likes of Re:Zero ? Why did Yusuke Matsuo abandon him and become a massively popular designer elsewhere?

The answer, to put it plainly, is that Yamamoto is an insufferable asshole that only got more rotten with time. Rather than gather around him, almost all his coworkers quickly found new destinations. The rumors about inappropriate sexual behavior being a factor in his departure gained credibility after stunts like publicly tweeting that he’d have to “hold back on sexual harassment-ish things” with voice actress Minami Tsuda, among many other appalling statements. So even though it led to the departure of some talented people and a chunk of the workforce, perhaps even this incident eventually had a positive outcome for the studio.

Self-sufficiency and complete isolation

What do you do when seemingly everything goes right, then? Stick to your path and do more of the same you say? Actually, you scrap your formula for success and make fundamental changes to your output to screw over your fanbase… or at least that’s how people who fell in love with their Kadokawa-era titles like Haruhi and FMP would like to frame the situation. Something I purposely neglected to mention earlier is that one of the important new developments of their early independent stage was to launch the KyoAniBon . The first of 25 volumes of this web magazine was released in March 2007, as an attempt to reach out to fans directly with interviews, behind the scenes clips, but also by sharing many pitches of potential projects by various staff members. The desire to make anime truly of their own was clearly there, also made obvious by the animated commercials they began putting out .

Getting that across is important because it helps you understand why they’d move away from a model that had been so ridiculously successful, stepping away from popular IPs to start handling dubious titles they have ownership over. They first announced the yearly KyoAni Awards where the staff would give prizes to the amateur submissions they liked the most. Those books would then be published by their new KA Esuma imprint and adapted into animation if any director was up to the task. A controversial decision to this day, and yet entirely coherent to the attitude they’d been showing since the 90s. And also importantly, an excellent business move as well. These changes were tied to the studio’s initiative to start leading the production committees of their projects , bypassing the industry’s major issues with actually rewarding the creators whenever a title is successful. Even though it didn’t quite hit the same levels of massive popularity as their 00s peaks, Free! is undoubtedly the franchise that’s been most lucrative for KyoAni&Do, as the main investors and merchandise producers for the series. And its existence would have never been possible in the first place without the change in their model, which now allows the company to be as financially invested in their properties as the staff is emotionally invested in their making. Risky, but so far it’s paid off.

This desire for independence in all respects, to truly be in charge of the anime they make, is the drive behind many of their decisions. Their self-sufficiency in production matters hasn’t been matched by any other studio in anime history, which makes them the object of envy for other companies and marks the path to follow for others. Studio leaders have come to understand that their attitude towards work isn’t a quirk or them just being nice, but rather an ingredient to their success; the unmatched stability of KyoAni’s quality can’t be explained without their top team of in-betweeners, which features some people who have been doing what’s a criminally underpaid task elsewhere for decades, working alongside newcomers to train. Making animation is a stressful endeavor either way so working at KyoAni is far from a dream job unless you already are hopelessly in love with the art, but it’s comforting to see a successful company that ensures the work you’re seeing wasn’t put together by overworked, underappreciated staff who won’t even be rewarded if it turns out to be successful.

Does that make all their moves towards this unique position unquestionably good? I wouldn’t say that’s the case either. As neat as this self-sufficiency is, they had to get there by discarding an excellent set of connections that most studios would love to have. This seems to have an impact not only when it comes to the people actually making the show, but also with the producers who are now so cut off from the rest of the industry that sometimes they don’t seem to have much of a grasp of what viewers want. On an artistic level I believe it all worked out great though, even if the clear identity of their work can very easily blind detractors and make them feel like it’s all exactly the same; an anecdote with the studio’s designers comes to mind in this regard, as during the latest fan event they showed real curiosity about what viewers perceived to be the “KyoAni animation style”, since they’ve worked together forever and feel like they’re all worlds apart. It’s a matter of perspective and the personal quirks being able to resonate with you or not!

KyoAni in 2018: 15 years of independent creation

The latest stage in Kyoto Animation’s evolution is plagued with understated yet meaningful changes. The company’s kept on growing, having recently inaugurated a new building that includes a fancier store and animation Studio 5. As they recently passed the 200 employees landmark, KyoAni are now among the top anime studios in sheer size, let alone relevance. This weight in the industry now allows them to approach new kinds of projects and still lead the production committees, as seen in the Euphonium franchise but most impressively in Koe no Katachi – a huge movie adaptation that was truly in their hands.

As interesting as those management changes may end up being though, I’d like to wrap up with a look at the latest stylistic trends at the studio, to help people truly grasp what Kyoto Animation is like now. For example, it’s important to note that it was Takemoto’s attitude during The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya (the studio’s first true theatrical project) that made the studio as a whole switch gears and become even more uncompromising. The obscene quality of the likes of Hyouka can’t be explained without the director’s obsession to create something that felt like a genuine step up during his previous project.

And this didn’t come down to only the animators: it was all departments working together, exploiting that weapon unique to KyoAni. Photorealism that couldn’t be achieved without the cooperation of art and photography Photography (撮影, Satsuei): The marriage of elements produced by different departments into a finished picture, involving filtering to make it more harmonious. A name inherited from the past, when cameras were actually used during this process. departments, excellent color design that makes the more traditional work pop out in an attractive way, and of course animation teams that feel respected no matter their position. It’s not as if gathering staff in the same physical place and exclusively making them work forever is the only path to success in anime, but these people have proved that it’s a damn good one.

When it comes to modern trend-setters at the studio though, no one comes close to the golden duo of Naoko Yamada and Yukiko Horiguchi , a perfect combination we’re now tragically bereft of after the latter left the studio (and animation as a whole, temporarily) in 2014. While that partnership lasted though, the two led a revolution that was arguably comparable to the effect Kigami had on the studio ages ago. Although people understandably point at K-ON! as the title that changed everything, there are actually earlier samples like their collaboration on Clannad AS #3, which let them loose (quite literally when talking about Horiguchi’s animation ) to make something entirely unlike the rest of the series; lax drawings that feel adorable rather than crude , bouncy animation that isn’t at odds with nuanced gestures . Even taken to their extremes, Yamada’s live action leanings as director and Horiguchi’s cartoony exaggeration were an excellent, elegant mix , because at the end of the day their desire to breathe life into characters was the same. An attitude that two gifted friends had developed together.

Is there life in a world set after the end of their partnership then? As much as it hurt, of course there is. The unimaginable influence that Yamada has over the rest of the studio, even after losing her original partner, is something that we’ve already covered when talking about her career . With her as the new de facto solo studio leader it’s no surprise that low-key acting is now the bread and butter, but projects like Maidragon reminds us that the spirit from Nichijou and even Haré+Guu still lives. KyoAni appears to trend toward higher detail in the design work because of veteran Shouko Ikeda ’s Euphonium work and especially Akiko Takase ’s monstrous Violet Evergarden concepts, yet at the same time Futoshi Nishiya ’s stylized, virtually kagenashi designs on Liz and the Blue Bird feel like a game-changer. More young series directors than ever before have also recently been promoted, so the studio is currently a fascinating melting pot that no one can quite tell which flavor it will take.

What we know for a fact, though, is that unless a tragedy occurs it’ll still feel like Kyoto Animation: a team of creators who’s had a consistent vision for decades, one that they’ve stuck with through hardships and success.

Support us on Patreon to help us reach our new goal to sustain the animation archive at Sakugabooru, Sakuga Video on Youtube, as well as this Sakuga Blog. Thanks to everyone who’s helped out so far!

Access to Kyoto Animation Headquarters

2023/1/27 2023/1/27 Kyoto

About Kyoto Animation Headquarters

Kyoto Animation is a unique animation company in recent years, known for its excellent production. Kyoto Animation headquarters is a small three-story building, located in Kyoto Uji City, for ACG fans undoubtedly a place of pilgrimage. It’s a shame that the studio doesn’t allow tours, but there is a KyoAni SHOP on the second floor, where you can buy some SHOP limited peripherals and twisted eggs, and the paper bags sent seem to be SHOP limited as well. Not far from here there is another KyoAni Studio, probably not about 10 minutes away. One can let you quietly read a day comics with a variety of comfortable posture, and outdoor plaza can sunbathe, really comics fans of paradise.

Kyoto Animation Headquarters Ticket Prices

Free of charge

Kyoto Animation Headquarters opening hours

Kyoto Animation Headquarters Address

32, Kibata Osei, Uji-shi, Kyoto

http://www.kyotoanimation.co.jp/

Kyoto Animation Headquarters Introduction

Kyoto Animation is an animation company with a sense of exploration and ambition, he was not willing to just work for others, so he created KA Bunko gradually began his own project, although it is said that the new Kyoto is much different than the old Kyoto both in terms of sales of works and the popularity of works, but Kyoto has always been innovative, has been exploring its different animation style.

Kyoto Animation is a company that knows how to look at the atmosphere he is one of the softest head of Japanese animation companies, as long as he has experienced a failure he will never try the same type again, which is both his strength and his weakness.

Kyoto Animation is neither the most well-financed animation company, nor the one with the best production ability, nor the one with the most human resources, but he has produced successful commercial animation time and again through consistent quality of works and accurate grasp of the market. Kyoto animation’s biggest advantage is his stable quality of painting, said Kyoto painting good and other companies are not the same, Kyoto and A1, Bones, Sunrise different, he improve the quality of painting is not to improve the quality of the performance of a single painting, but through the increase in the number of original paintings to improve the quality of the corresponding painting, his single painting in the industry is not in the best of the line, but the victory is stable.

For the old Kyoto, the phrase “Kyoto production, must be the best” can be said to be true. For the new Kyoto, which is now exploring and shaping, I hope he can carry on this saying.

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Kyoto Animation: A unique force in Japan's anime industry

People pray in front of bouquets left for victims of the arson attack at a Kyoto Animation studio in Kyoto on Friday. | KYODO

It took Kyoto Animation Co. almost 40 years to establish itself as one of the leading animation production studios in the country.

At around 10:35 a.m. on Thursday, a suspect who has been identified by police as Shinji Aoba allegedly stormed into the studio's main building and set it on fire.

By the end of the day, 33 of the studio's employees had been confirmed dead. Another victim died Friday, pushing the death toll to 34. More than 30 people were also injured in the attack.

The death toll is the highest for an arson incident since 2001, when a blaze in Tokyo's Kabukicho district killed 44 people.

The hours following news of the attack saw an outpouring of anger, grief and confusion both at home and abroad.

Sentai Filmworks, an anime licensing firm based in Texas, set up a crowdfunding page to collect donations, raising about $1.6 million (about ¥172.3 million) by Saturday afternoon. In Japan, anime retailer Animate announced plans to accept donations at its stores.

Condolences also poured in from world leaders. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called the attack "too appalling for words."

"In the face of the large number of casualties and the shocking sight, I am at a loss for words," he wrote in a Twitter post.

Apple CEO Tim Cook said Kyoto Animation artists had helped "spread joy all over the world."

"Kyoto Animation is home to some of the world's most talented animators and dreamers — the devastating attack today is a tragedy felt far beyond Japan," he tweeted.

Founded in 1981 by animator Yoko Hatta and her husband, Hideaki, Kyoto Animation, which is also known by its abbreviation KyoAni, was a different kind of studio from the very beginning.

For one thing, there was its distance from Tokyo, where the large majority of Japan's anime studios are located. This physical distance came to represent a deeper philosophical divide in terms of the company's business practices.

Most studios in Japan employ animators on a freelance basis, a practice that has created unlivable wages and overwork for many in the industry, especially young people.

But Kyoto Animation had developed a culture by the early 1990s that emphasized communication, education and full-time employment. The studio's in-house KyoAni School spent a large amount of time training young recruits, a significant percentage of whom were women.

The seeds planted during this period, when Kyoto Animation mostly provided subcontracting work for other studios, started to bear fruit in the 2000s as it began to produce its own series and films.

In an industry known for wildly fluctuating quality and production delays, Kyoto Animation distinguished itself for being remarkably consistent with both its animation quality and storytelling.

A definitive, original style began to emerge and the studio became known for its "slice of life" tales of high school camaraderie, angst and humor that struck a chord with viewers both at home and abroad.

Kyoto Animation characters were praised for their detailed, expressive eyes and movements, and the studio's preference to use real-life locations as the basis for background art led fans to embark on pilgrimages to those sites.

Early hits such as "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya," "Lucky Star" and "K-On!" — all adaptations of novels and manga — were helmed by in-house directors like Naoko Yamada, who joined Kyoto Animation out of university and made her directorial debut at age 24.

In the early 2010s, the studio set up the KyoAni Awards, to which aspiring writers would submit novels; winning novels would then be adapted into anime. Several of the studio's recent properties, including "Free!" and "Violet Evergarden," were the product of this system.

Meanwhile, Yamada's 2016 film "A Silent Voice" was crowned best animated feature at the 2017 Japan Movie Critics Awards.

Despite its geographical and philosophical distance from Tokyo, Kyoto Animation has been influential to the anime industry as a whole.

A number of studios founded after Kyoto Animation — including P.A. Works — have drawn inspiration from the trailblazing Kansai firm, establishing themselves outside of the capital and providing technical training and full-time salaries for their production staff.

And a number of production staff who trained at Kyoto Animation, including director Hiroko Utsumi and character designer Yukiko Horiguchi, have gone on to become independent, bringing the skills they learned at the studio to the industry at large.

As of last week, the studio was working on follow-ups to "Free!" and "Violet Evergarden," plus a new series based on the latest KyoAni Award-winning novel.

The materials for these works have all been destroyed in the fire, President Hideaki Hatta said Friday. Hatta praised the victims as "excellent colleagues" and described the incident as "a serious blow to our company and the industry."

It is unclear how soon — if ever — the studio will recover. And the incident is already having a ripple effect across the industry.

Promoting his new film "Weathering With You" on Friday, "Your Name." director Makoto Shinkai praised the studio as "a group of people who have polished their skills in order to create great images for audiences to enjoy."

"Accepting that anyone who expresses themselves takes a risk in doing so," Shinkai said, "I believe the only thing to do is to continue to make anime — unflinchingly."

In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

10 Best Kyoto Animation Anime Series To Watch, From Clannad To Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid

Kyoto Animation anime

Without a doubt, Kyoto Animation is a big name in the anime industry. They have since solidified their position as the purveyor of the slice of life genre, with their unique art direction and stunning visuals.

With consistently amazing animation and storylines, it’s no wonder that most of their series are big hits amongst fans. From classics that propelled them to fame to underrated series, here’s your starter pack to the 10 best anime series Kyoto Animation has to offer.

Table of Contents

1. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

2. tamako market, 4. hibike euphonium, 5. miss kobayashi’s dragon maid, 6. nichijou: my ordinary life, 9. amagi brilliant park, 10. violet evergarden, best anime series by kyoto animation.

Haruhi Suzumiya is bored. And so the eccentric, adventure-loving protagonist decides to relieve her boredom by seeking out aliens, time travellers, and espers (humans with ESP, or the sixth sense). With the reluctant help of her schoolmate Kyon, Haruhi manages to set up a school club and recruits Nagato, Asahina, and Koizumi – all of whom have secret supernatural powers unbeknownst to their club leader.

At its core, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is a school comedy with some supernatural elements, mixing genres such as romance, slice of life, science fiction, and mystery convincingly. The club goes around having fun, with Kyon and the group of supernatural beings trying to keep Haruhi entertained lest she wreak havoc on the world.

As Kyoto Animation was one of the first studios to adapt light novels, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya was considered groundbreaking at its time fo release. In particular, its infamous episode, Endless Eight , has become quite an unspoken rite of passage for fans of anime and the series alike.

The sequel movie, The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya is hailed as a masterpiece by many, so be sure to catch it once you’re done watching the series.

Length: 28 episodes, 1 movie Available on: Netflix, Funimation, Crunchyroll

Tamako Market tells the story of Tamako, daughter of a family-owned mochi shop located in a shopping district, and her encounter with Dera, a pompous bird who is on a mission to find a bride for his country’s prince.

After he binge eats mochi and is unable to fly back home, Dera stays behind at Tamako’s house. The series follows the heroine’s everyday life with Dera, her friends, and mochi.

As the purveyor of the slice of life genre, Kyoto Animation does what it does best – setting a believable setting and accurately depicting the liveliness of a typical Japanese shopping district. The animation is bubbly and bright, and gets its details down to a T, allowing viewers to live a peaceful, ordinary life through the adorable characters vicariously.

But don’t expect it to cover any significant plot, as the short series has no strong themes or plot. For those who are in the mood for relaxing shows, Tamako Market, with its comedy and romance elements, is the slow-paced, slice of life anime for you.

Length: 12 episodes, 1 movie Available on: Amazon Prime

When Kyoto Animation is mentioned, Hyouka does not immediately spring to mind as their representative work. But it is certainly the pinnacle of the slice of life genre, and an outstanding series that is a testament to the studio’s prowess in gorgeous animation and mood-setting.

Adapted from a 2001 Japanese mystery novel with the same title, Hyouka is about a group of high school students who solve inconsequential, ostensibly underwhelming everyday mysteries. Oreki, the sharp-witted protagonist, is often hailed as the Sherlock of the group – much to his chagrin, as all the boy wants to do is to lead a dull life and not stand out.

Though the series is rather episodic and nothing earth-shattering happens, not a moment feels repetitive – thanks to the well-written and nuanced characters who have flaws and desires, and the idealistic portrayal of friendship blossoming into romance.

Besides the characters’ development, Kyoto Animation’s attention to details and breathtaking art style make this a must-watch.

Length: 22 episodes, 1 OVA Available on: Muse Asia (YouTube)

Hibike! Euphonium is a harmonious coming-of-age story that centres on Kumiko, a newly minted high schooler who decided to quit playing the euphonium after a setback in middle school.

Despite her determination to stay away from the instrument, she is unwillingly dragged into the school’s band club. Together with their strict club advisor and her new bandmates, Kumiko works hard to overcome her insecurities and aims for the national championships.

Don’t make the mistake of dismissing the series as your average high school club drama story, as the portrayal of the euphonium is incredibly accurate, from chord fingerings and sounds, to even instrument maintenance. If you enjoy slice of life anime series with no big drama, just plenty of solid music performances and relatable characters, give Hibike! Euphonium a go.

Season 3, which will focus on Kumiko’s third year in high school, was announced in 2019. But due to the arson attack at the studio in the same year, the series has been postponed and is set to be released in 2024.

Until then, catch up on the series and movies. The first two movies are film adaptations of the series, followed by the third movie Our Promise: A Brand New Day , which is meant to be a sequel after the second season. Liz and the Blue Bird , the final movie in the franchise, is a standalone film focusing on the friendship between Mizore and Nozomi, 2 side characters who were first introduced in season 2.

Length: 2 seasons, 26 episodes, 1 OVA Available on: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime

A cute moe comedy series with a ridiculous premise, Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid is exactly what the title suggests. Tohru, an anthropomorphic dragon in a maid costume shows up one day at Kobayashi’s doorstep, as she offered the homeless dragon a place to stay in her drunken state the previous night.

With no choice but to take the dragon girl in, Kobayashi starts living with Tohru and subsequently Kanna, Tohru’s friend from the dragon world. Forming their own tight-knitted nuclear family, Tohru assumes the role of a maid and keeps the house in order, while Kobayashi acts as the breadwinner.

Notwithstanding the outrageous proportions and bust sizes of the characters, Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid is a pretty wholesome show about familial ties you make on your own. Though nonsensical at times, it’s a light-hearted watch to breeze through.

Length: 2 seasons, 25 episodes, 2 OVAs Available on: Crunchyroll, Netflix

The premise of Nichijou: My Ordinary Life might sound as bland as it can get – it follows a group of high school friends leading a normal life in the town of Tokisadame. But the comedic slice of life series is essentially a compilation of random and hilarious anecdotes.

Although their lives are seemingly mundane, the characters often find themselves in absurd and over-the-top comedic situations, making the series an entertaining watch. Happenings range from assaulting a policeman to retrieve their NSFW manga to wondering about the expiry date of a melon bread.

The series’s offbeat humour might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the short episodic stories are easy to digest and perfect to watch over lunch breaks.

Length: 26 episodes Available on: Funimation

Widely recognised as the starter pack to the school girl slice of life genre, K-On! at its core, is basically a dopamine-inducing show featuring a bunch of cute girls goofing around after school and occasionally playing instruments.

Yui, a music novice, is roped in to joining her school’s Light Music Club in order to save it from disbandment. Though initially hesitant due to her lack of experience with musical instruments, Yui’s interest is piqued after witnessing the club’s live performance.

With the Light Music Club revived from the brink of dissolution, the group spends their day hanging out and practising.

Critics of the show may see the lack of a narrative structure as a major flaw of K-On! . But for hardcore fans, what’s regarded as a weakness is also their strongest suit. After all, who wouldn’t want to watch characters laze around and host tea parties in their club room after school?

Length: 2 seasons, 39 episodes, 2 OVAs, 1 movie Available on: Crunchyroll, Hulu

For fans who prefer something with more emotional depth, Clannad is no doubt your go-to series. The story starts with third-year student Tomoya encountering Nagisa, a sickly girl who had to repeat a year of school due to her illness, by chance one day.

When he learns that her dream is to revive and join the school’s dying drama club, Tomoya decides to lend Nagisa a hand. In doing so, he meets four other girls and after getting to know them better, he helps them with their personal problems and issues.

Compared to the first season which has more romcom elements that flesh out Tomoya’s relationship with the respective characters, its sequel, Clannad: After Story, is emotionally heavier as it follows Tomoya as he transitions into adulthood.

Touching on themes of inevitability of change that comes with growing up and the sense of loss, along with other heartaches that the characters experience, it gets realistically dark at times, so prepare a box of tissues on the side.

Length: 2 seasons, 47 episodes, 2 OVAs, 1 movie Available on: Netflix, Hulu

How do you ask someone out on a date? We can think of an infinite number of ways, but holding the other person at gunpoint is definitely not one of them. Amagi Brilliant Park starts with Sento borderline threatening Seiya to accompany her to the titular theme park by doing just that.

As it turns out, this is not a romantic first date Seiya envisioned it to be. Instead, he is being recruited to bring visitors back to the failing amusement park, where the mascots are actual living creatures from a magical realm known as Maple Land, instead of sweaty people in costumes.

If Seiya fails to attract more people and hit the quota of 250,000 visitors in three months, Amagi Brilliant Park will be forced to close down for good and have its land reclaimed by a greedy corporation.

As expected of Kyoto Animation, the art and visuals of the anime are vibrant, fitting of an exciting amusement park. Besides the attention to details to create the perfect setting, the explosion of colours and backdrop make the world of Amagi Brilliant Park come alive too.

Length: 13 episodes Available on: Crunchyroll

An emotional tearjerker from start to finish, Violet Evergarden is a story about love and loss. Raised with the sole purpose to be a tool in the war, the robotic Violet knows nothing other than to strike down enemies when the situation calls for it.

But when Gilbert, her major, imparts his dying message to her and confesses that he loves her, the once-unfeeling robot decides to embark on a journey to decipher the meaning of his words.

Landing a job as an Auto Memory Doll, Violet ghostwrites letters for customers who are unable to express themselves, and begins to learn about complex human emotions for the first time in her life.

Although all animated works that are produced by Kyoto Animation are excellent from an artistic and cinematographic point of view, the studio really outdid themselves with Violet Evergarden. The animation and art are stunning, a testament to Kyoto Animation’s dedication to their craft.

Length: 13 episodes, 1 OVA, 2 movies Available on: Netflix, Funimation

Besides producing masterpiece after masterpiece, Kyoto Animation is also well-known for providing good working conditions and paying proper salary to their animators. Despite the arson attack in 2019, it seems that the studio is slowly but steadily getting back on its feet, with several projects announced.

Let’s continue to support them by watching and appreciating the effort that goes into each series.

For more, check out:

Original anime film Bubble to drop on Netflix
Isekai anime series
Top anime tearjerkers of all times
Sports anime like Haikyuu!!
Japanese romance drama series

Cover image adapted from: Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid Official Website , IMDb , @amaburiANIME

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The Incredible Artists of Kyoto Animation: Part 1

To acknowledge each individual's contributions, we hope to offer a clear record of their art and skill. Of the 35 lives lost, police have released the names of 10 as of this writing. These are their works, the memories from their families and colleagues, and their passions as best we can describe.

Yuka Kasama

Yuka Kasama 's death puts a particularly fine point on just what was lost in the fire. One thing Kyoto Animation was particularly known for was its policy of recruiting recent college graduates directly into staff positions, where they would go through training programs run by veteran KyoAni animators, including the late Yoshiji Kigami . Kasama was just 22 years old and had just joined the studio this spring, and; she apparently hadn't even been credited on any KyoAni productions yet at the time of her death, though in an interview with NHK , an old professor of hers from Osaka Seikei University mentioned that she had started work on a film just a month before the attack. He also released footage of Kasama's thesis project, featuring simple, expressive character animation depicting what appears to be anxiety over finding a job. It's clear from her student work that Kasama had a promising career ahead of her, and with the help of KyoAni's training program she would have no doubt blossomed into a talented professional animator.

Like Yuka Kasama , Yūki Ōmura was a recent college graduate who joined Kyoto Animation just this year. But even before he joined the studio, Ōmura was already making waves. He won seven awards at the Nika Exhibition for animation, and produced a stunning graduation project that his alma mater, Tohoku University, released to the public after his death. The project, a digital illustration arranged into a long scroll, is called “Dokkun Dokkun” (Japanese onomatopoeia representing a heartbeat) and depicts the history of life on Earth using big manga-style sound effect lettering. Ōmura hadn't yet been trained in the KyoAni house style, and his artwork in Dokkun Dokkun has more in common with Hayao Miyazaki , particularly the vibrant colors, children's book illustration style, and wobbly line work of Ponyo .

Jun'ichi Uda

Uda began working at Kyoto Animation as early 2009 creating in-between cels for three episodes of K-ON! The 34-year-old would continue to work at the studio, credited as an in-between animator on all of the works in the Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! franchise , several works in the Free! - Iwatobi Swim Club franchise , A Silent Voice , Tamako Market , The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya , Nichijou , HYOUKA , Liz and the Blue Bird , and most recently, Sound! Euphonium The Movie - Our Promise: A Brand New Day .

Uda's job was to make sure the motion for the cuts he was given were fluid.

Yoshiji Kigami

Every single death and injury in the Kyoto Animation arson attack is a tragedy, but one of the most brutal ones is the death of Yoshiji Kigami , a master animator who was integral to Kyoto Animation 's growth as a home for some of the most talented artists in the industry. Kigami's career stretches all the way back to Shin-Ei Animation , the successor to the legendary A Production and the studio behind long-running hits like Doraemon and Crayon Shin-chan . His detailed realist animation featured fine character and creature motion, and he reveled in effects like water and smoke.

His talent was so respected in the industry that in 1988 Katsuhiro Ōtomo trusted him to animate the entire fight scene in the drainage pipe in Akira .

Animator Toshiyuki Inoue , a living legend in his own right, recently recounted how when he first joined the industry, Kigami was the first animator he looked up to, and how it was Kigami who taught him the philosophy of “fast and good.” In fact, Inoue is such a big fan of him that he often shows Kigami's sequences from The Fox of Chironup to young animators as inspiration when he begins work on a new project.

At Kyoto Animation , Kigami served as a director, animator, and mentor to others. He directed the studio's debut work, Munto , as well as an incredibly cute 2017 short called Baja no Studio loosely based on KyoAni itself. He storyboarded and animated a number of key sequences in KyoAni shows, with one of the most noteworthy being the emotionally charged scene of Kumiko running across the bridge in Sound! Euphonium episode 12.

And perhaps most tragically of all, Kigami was one of the teachers in Kyoto Animation 's animator training program, helping to inspire a new generation to follow his stellar example. Kigami was 61 years old.

The 30 year old Ami Kuriki was a key animator who worked on many of Kyoto Animation 's recent works, including Violet Evergarden , Liz and the Blue Bird , Free! Dive to the Future , Free! -Take Your Marks- , High Speed! -Free! Starting Days- , Sound! Euphonium 2 , A Silent Voice , Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid , Love, Chunibyo and Other Delusions! Take On Me , Myriad Colors Phantom World , Tsurune: Kazemai Kōkō Kyūdō-bu , and most recently, Sound! Euphonium The Movie - Our Promise: A Brand New Day .

Yasuhiro Takemoto

Early on as people scrambled to figure out who was caught in the arson attack at KyoAni, it became clear that two of the studio's star directors, Naoko Yamada and Taichi Ishidate , were safe and sound. Unfortunately it did claim another major Kyoto Animation director: Yasuhiro Takemoto . Unlike Yamada and Ishidate, who came into their own in the more recent years of the studio, Takemoto directed some of Kyoto Animation 's earliest works, including its first TV series, Full Metal Panic! Fumoffu , and its follow-up, Second Raid .

He took over as director on fan-favorite comedy series Lucky Star when controversial director Yutaka Yamamoto left the project after episode 4, and directed The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya movie under supervision from another early KyoAni director, Tatsuya Ishihara . Amongst the flourishing of his fellow directors, including most notably Yamada (who went from directing K-ON to A Silent Voice and Liz and the Blue Bird in just about seven years), Takemoto remained an important director for the studio on projects like Amagi Brilliant Park , High Speed! -Free! Starting Days- , and Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid .

Like many directors, Takemoto started his career as an animator, and continued to contribute animation to projects at the studio, both his own and those of his peers. Some of his most notable scenes are the walk cycles in the Tamako Market OP and Clannad After Story ED, which bring out the individual personalities of their characters through subtle changes in posture and gait. Takemoto was 47 years old.

Sachie Tsuda

Tsuda suffered from severe asthma as a child and so could not be very active. Her father told the Kobe Shimbun that she liked to draw anime characters at her desk as a kid. She went on to enter an animation technical school after finishing high school.

Tsuda was a long-time employee of KyoAni having worked there for almost 20 years, but she would always go visit her family in Kakogawa for the New Year's and Obon holidays. Her father is recently widowed so Tsuda brought him a lunch and came to see him in May.

Her dad remembers the first time he saw her name in the ending credits for Detective Conan and Crayon Shin-chan . Finding her name was something he enjoyed doing with his wife. Tsuda worked primarily in finishing animation for final approval, making sure the sequences were clean and coloring frames as needed.

Tsuda's dad flew to Kyoto and went to the KyoAni studio site immediately after he received news that they weren't sure of his daughter's status. He gave his DNA and went to her apartment and met one of her friends there. Talking with her concerned friend, her father learned that his daughter was not only kind to her parents, but to everyone.

Futoshi Nishiya

A recurring story with many of the Kyoto Animation staff who died in the arson attack is one of versatility. The studio had a reputation from some fans for making series with a very similar design style and fan appeal, likely fueled by their early adaptations of Key visual novels. But especially in the past decade, KyoAni showed themselves to be highly adaptable creators. The late Futoshi Nishiya was an animator and character designer who showed that more than almost anyone else. His most enduring contribution as a designer was Free! , a series where character design and differentiation played an important role in its popularity. Its focus on cute boys was also a major departure for a studio that previously specialized in cute girl characters, and any Free! fan can tell you that he absolutely hit it out of the park with the designs.

But when you look across Nishiya's career, you can see a designer capable of a wide range of styles, including the more traditional designs of Hyou-ka , the subdued delicacy of Liz and the Blue Bird , and even Nichijou !

On that show in particular, Nishiya pulled off the difficult task of precisely adapting Keiichi Arawi 's manic and cartoony designs to animation. It's remarkable how much that series recreates the exact look and feel of the original manga! As an animator, Nishiya, like many of his contemporaries at the studio, was a talented realist, depicting carefully constructed human motion with attention to the physics of limbs and clothing. And like many of the best realists, he incorporated a little bit of exaggeration, including a slightly floaty sense of inertia and the occasional smear frame, that elevated his work above slavish realism. Despite such an accomplished career, Nishiya was only 37 years old.

Keisuke Yokota

Yokota was 34-years-old and worked as a production manager for Clannad , Clannad After Story , K-ON!, HYOUKA , Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! , Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions! -Heart Throb- , Love, Chunibyo and Other Delusions! Take On Me , Sound! Euphonium , A Silent Voice , Tamako Market , Violet Evergarden , Tsurune: Kazemai Kōkō Kyūdō-bu , Free! - Iwatobi Swim Club , Free! Dive to the Future , Free! Eternal Summer , High Speed! -Free! Starting Days- , Gekijō-ban Hibike! Euphonium: Todoketai Melody , Beyond the Boundary , and Beyond the Boundary -I'LL BE HERE- Future , among others.

As a production manager, Yokota was responsible for maintaining the studio's work schedule on a project and ensuring it stays within budget.

Mikiko Watanabe

Kyoto Animation gets a lot of attention for their richly detailed character animation, but backgrounds have played a huge role in their series as well. One of the handful of art directors who made that background art come alive was Mikiko Watanabe . She drew backgrounds for lots of series at KyoAni, and served as the art director, a role that entails supervision and correction of individual background artists, on Amagi Brilliant Park , Nichijou , and more.

Like many of the highly talented background artists at the studio, Watanabe displayed a remarkable versatility, sometimes even more so than her animator counterparts. Under her supervision, backgrounds could transform as necessary to fit the needs of the show, from atmospheric environments packed with signage and other details in Beyond the Boundary to scratchy, textured, storybook art in Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid and the stunning, nearly photorealistic European locations of Violet Evergarden . Watanabe was 35 years old.

If you'd like to learn more about how you can help KyoAni heal, you can read about the studio's fundraising efforts here and here .

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20 Best Anime By Kyoto Animation (Series + Movies)

Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya Movie Screenshot

I’ve been a fan of Kyoto Animation ever since I watched The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya back in 2006.

Since then, I’ve made sure to keep up with their releases – and I’ve grown to love them like the average Westerner loves Disney or Pixar.

It’s a studio that shines for making beautiful anime with incredibly high production values. Everything – from the visual direction to the soundtrack – must be perfect, and they rarely miss the mark.

Kyoto Animation’s shows are a pleasure to watch from start to finish. Even if there’s nothing exciting happening on the screen, the sheer visual appeal of the characters is more than enough to enjoy each frame.

Let’s take a look at their best work.

20. Baja no Studio

Released: 2017 Genre: Fantasy Length: 21 Min.

Baja no Studio is one of the least-known entries on the list.

It’s a one-shot OVA about an adorable itsy-bitsy hamster that lives in an animation studio, with fantastic animation quality and great voice acting from some pretty young actors.

If you’ve ever had a small pet or just love cute furry critters, you’ll enjoy watching Baja save his duckling friend from a cat with the help of a fairy.

19. Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu

Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu Kyoto Animation anime

Released: 2003 Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life Length: 12 Eps.

Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu was released as a companion series to the original Full Metal Panic , and FMP: The Second Raid – which was also handled by KyoAni.

I choose to include this companion series over The Second Raid simply because I find it more creative.

All the jokes about Sousuke completely militarizing seemingly normal situations are hilarious, and Bonta-kun, the miniature mecha, is a great mascot.

You don’t even need to watch the original FMP to understand Fumoffu, so don’t let that keep you from this great comedy.

18. Beyond the Boundary

Released: 2013 Genre: Dark Fantasy, Romance, Supernatural Length: 12 Eps. + OVA

My favorite part about Beyond the Boundary has to be the main female protagonist – Mirai.

She has the glasses, the pastel color palette, the fluffy bed hair – and those red-framed glasses are the icing on the cake.

Her reserved and clumsy personality is also endearing – and you can’t help but want to see more of her.

Regrettably, the narrative and the rest of the characters can’t really compare. The animation quality is good enough to warrant taking a look at it, but I can’t really say much for the story.

17. Amagi Brilliant Park

Released: 2014 Genre: Fantasy, Romantic Comedy Length: 13 Eps. + OVA

One of KyoAni’s most unusual projects was Amagi Brilliant Park – a really off-beat comedy taking place in a theme park similar to Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

It’s a real magic kingdom!

The staff and showmen in the park are actually magical creatures ruled by a petite blonde girl – Queen Latifa. That’s not a typo.

Everyone in this show is named after a famous American rapper for some reason.

The show’s characters are as unique and off-kilter as their names, and it’s a pleasure watching them interact every day at the park. The animation is as good as ever, too.

16. Clannad

Released: 2007 Genre: Romance, Slice-of-Life, Tragedy Length: 47 Eps.

Clannad is a bit of a personal pick for me.

I admit it hasn’t aged too well, and the art-style is questionable (giant eyes and wide faces?), but it’s probably the most emotional story in KyoAni’s repertoire.

Much care was put into crafting lovable and intriguing characters, only to make them suffer one after the other.

There’s a lot of drama in this show, though each arc usually ends on a positive note.

Then you watch the second part, Clannad: After Story, and you’re shown the depths of despair.

I still get teary-eyed whenever this comes up in my shuffle playlist.

Released: 2013 Genre: Sports Length: 37 Eps. + OVA

I love all KyoAni shows about cute girls making friends and having fun.

So when the exact same show came out starring boys, I had to give it a chance.

While the chiseled abs and bulging triceps are one of the show’s main appeals for sure, what I really love about it is the comfy atmosphere and wholesome story about a group of friends supporting each other as they grow as swimmers.

This is the kind of show you’d like to watch on a rainy day, drinking hot cocoa.

14. Tamako Market

Released: 2014 Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life Length: 12 Eps.

Tamako Market was a pretty unique undertaking on the part of KyoAni.

It’s a straight-to-anime show with no source material – and frankly, it shows.

For the most part, the show never feels like it’s going anywhere – and the main cast is remarkably forgettable, except for fat bird extraordinaire Dera Mochimazzi.

So, why is it in this ranking?

Because the show has perfect art direction .

Everything the dialogue doesn’t manage to convey, the beautiful art and animation do.

The characters and the show’s general art-style are a bit like freshly-made mochi – soft, rounded, warm, and squishy.

It’s the epitome of comfy and relaxing anime .

13. Tamako Love Story

Released: 2014 Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life Length: 83 Min.

The gorgeous aesthetic of Tamako Market returns in Tamako Love Story, a story about young love and how hard it can be to choose a direction for your life right after graduating high school.

The human drama of teens maturing and going out into the world is timeless.

KyoAni found a lovely and touching way of handling the subject aided by their gorgeous, fluffy animation.

Honestly, I couldn’t care less about Mochizou or his romance with Tamako while watching the original series – but this movie is still cute and entertaining on its own.

12. Tsurune

Released: 2018 Genre: Sports Length: 13 Eps.+ OVA

I recently picked up archery at a local range. I fell in love with the sport pretty quickly (it makes me feel like Fate/Stay Night’s Archer) and wondered whether there was a good show to accompany this new endeavor.

I eventually found Tsurune – a gravely overlooked sports anime about the members of a Japanese high school’s archery club.

Their archery experience is definitely more traditional than mine.

But it’s still amazing to see them grow in the same sport I’m practicing – and the animation whenever they shoot an important arrow is absolutely gorgeous.

11. Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions

Released: 2011 Genre: Romantic Comedy Length: 24 Eps. + OVAs

At one point, we all wanted to act like our favorite fiction characters.

We wished we had our own special abilities and dark backstories… and then we grew up.

Well, most of us.

Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions is a story about what happens when you cling too hard to your past self – exemplified wonderfully by Rika Takanashi stubbornly clinging to her cringe-worthy chunibyo persona.

Maybe we don’t all go around talking about our “cursed eye” and occult powers. But we can all relate to the growing pains of life, and how hard it can be to learn a new way of interacting with the world.

Also, the girls in this anime are just too adorable to be true.

KyoAni really knows how to do “cute”.

Released: 2012 Genre: Mystery, Slice of Life Length: 22 Eps. + OVA

Hyouka may not be the most exciting show.

But it’s definitely well-written, and an aesthetic pleasure from every angle.

Under the guise of mystery-infused Slice of Life, Hyouka is an in-depth exploration of its main character – Hotarou Oreki – and a showcase of his character development as he interacts with the rest of the cast.

With a main character as calm and detached as Hotarou, and a tranquil setting like the Classic Literature Club, the show’s melancholic aesthetic is the perfect fit.

The main heroine Eru Chitanda is also painfully cute.

9. Sound! Euphonium

Released: 2013 Genre: Drama, Slice of Life Length: 26 Eps. + OVA

After the massive success of K-On!, nobody was surprised to see KyoAni come up with a new musical anime project.

But Sound! Euphonium is a completely different beast .

While both anime focus on a high school band, Euphonium chooses a more serious, dramatic narrative.

Rather than sharing tea and cake, these characters get together to perform music as if their lives depended on it.

This serves as a great backdrop for the show’s characters to develop in wonderful ways. The dialogue can also be pretty clever, and the detail on the music instruments totally blew me away.

8. Violet Evergarden

Released: 2018 Genre: Coming-of-Age Length: 13 Eps. + OVA

One of KyoAni’s most widely appealing anime is Violet Evergarden, a show about a gorgeous cyborg learning about human emotion and love, all through her job ghostwriting letters for other people.

This show’s animation is some of the best KyoAni has ever done.

It’s refined, and more anatomically realistic than most of their projects (if that’s something you care about).

Violet Evergarden is listed as a Netflix Original, meaning virtually anyone anywhere in the world can boot up Netflix and watch this in as little as five minutes.

It’s a very accessible show in more ways than one.

7. Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid

Released: 2017 Genre: Comedy, Fantasy Length: 13 Eps. + OVA

Miss Kobyashi’s Dragon Maid is one of the most well-rounded KyoAni shows.

The animation is fantastic, the comedy is top-notch, and the characters are very relatable.

The various struggles that these dragon girls face just feels fascinating.

It’ll definitely strike an emotional chord with many viewers to watch these girls try to fit into a society where they’re a minority.

Main-dragon protagonist Tohru is among the most lovable characters I’ve ever seen in anime. And Kobayashi-san’s quiet and hard-working nature just makes me want to give her a hug.

6. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya Kyoto Animation anime

Released: 2006 Genre: Comedy, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life Length: 28 Eps.

It’s hard to count the things that make Haruhi such a fantastic anime.

Main character Kyon’s perspective is relatable, the characters in Haruhi’s S.O.S. Brigade are incredibly well-defined and interesting, and the overarching plot about Haruhi’s divinity and the nature of reality is delightfully surreal.

It also had probably the most well-known anime dance of all time, the Hare Hare Yukai .

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya defined a generation of anime-watchers and changed the industry forever.

5. Lucky Star

Released: 2007 Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life Length: 24 Eps. + OVA

Lucky Star made me who I am – which, considering it’s a show with no plot about cute girls doing cute things, probably isn’t what you’d expect to read.

Still, I’m sure I’m not alone in my sentiment.

Lucky Star is the triple-distilled essence of the mid-2000s anime fan experience .

It’s full of references to famous shows, constantly makes fun of common anime tropes , and even pokes fun at the Otaku community surrounding anime like Lucky Star.

And main character Hinata Izumi is a total icon. The youngsters should be required to study her life and work at anime school if they want to call themselves true anime fans.

Released: 2009 Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life, Musical Length: 39 Eps. + 2 OVAs

I extended my enjoyment of Lucky Star for months by watching and rewatching the anime, the dub, reading transcripts of the audio drama, and learning the character CD songs to heart – but everything in life needs to end.

Luckily for me, K-On! was there to pick me up with a brand new group of cute girls doing cute things – and this time, it actually had a plot!

Well, kind of.

K-On! has an overarching coming-of-age plot with the girls maturing as performers and people. But it’s more about you falling in love with the Sakuragaoka Light Music Club and their friends.

The best part about K-On! is that it actually gets better season to season.

KyoAni was clearly putting everything they had into this show, and the results speak for themselves.

3. A Silent Voice

Released: 2016 Genre: Drama Length: 130 Min.

KyoAni does well with relaxing anime like Tamako Market.

And KyoAni also excels at tugging at your heartstrings with dramatic storylines too.

A Silent Voice may strike a chord with viewers who’ve dealt with depression or even suicidal thoughts – and it reminds us that getting better is always possible.

Other than the emotional impact and surprisingly realistic perspective of its masterfully written story, A Silent Voice also draws us in with incredibly high-quality animation. The level of detail in each character’s face, clothes, and even hands is just staggering.

2. The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya

The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya anime

Released: 2010 Genre: Mystery, Drama, Sci-Fi Length: 162 Min.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya was one of the most important anime shows of the mid-2000s, and the hype surrounding the 2010 film since the first trailer’s launch was something else.

KyoAni really stepped-up to the challenge and delivered a beautifully-animated and perfectly paced movie.

It uses its fantastic soundtrack to reproduce the mysterious feeling of trepidation you’d get reading the original light novel.

The switch in focus from Haruhi to the fan-favorite Yuki Nagato was also refreshing. This adorable alien is about 50% of why I like Haruhi so much, and this gorgeous movie does her justice.

1. Nichijou

Released: 2011 Genre: Surreal Comedy, Slice-of-Life Length: 26 Eps. + OVA

As a Lucky Star fan, it was impossible for me not to love Nichijou – a hilarious comedy about nothing.

This light-hearted anime follows a group of middle-school girls’ very normal lives, but turns even the most mundane situations into hilarious sketches.

These incredibly common situations are profoundly relatable .

Which helps the humor hit even harder.

Along with top-notch visual gags, the show has some incredibly fluid action scenes that rival the best battle shounen scenes.

Such high-quality animation applied to normal situations almost constitutes a joke in and of itself.

Nelson Chitty

Nelson Chitty is a Venezuelan expat living in Argentina. He’s a writer and translator passionate about history and foreign cultures. His ideal weekend is spent between leisurely playing games of Civilization VI and looking for the next seinen anime to marathon.

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Visit Kyoto’s real-life locations from the anime Hello World

NAVITIME TRAVEL EDITOR

“HELLO WORLD” is an animated Science Fiction love story, set in Kyoto in 2027, which was released in September 2019, and was a huge hit in Japan. This movie is the latest film directed by Tomohiko Ito, who worked as an assistant director for “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time” and “Summer Wars”, and also worked on the popular anime “Sword Art Online”. The movie is about a shy male high school student living in Kyoto called Naomi Katagaki, who meets his future-self from 10 years in the future and he tries to re-live his younger days in order to find love and correct his life mistakes, with all sorts of complications resulting between the present and the future. Let’s check out the some of the locations in Kyoto that some of the scenes in “HELLO WORLD” were set in.

This elegant bridge is said to be one of the bridge models depicted in the main visual published on the official website of “HELLO WORLD”. The bridge stands out due to its vivid vermilion color, and is a popular photo spot where you can capture images of Kyoto's inspiring ancient scenery.

Kyoto Tower

As with Kisenbashi, Kyoto Tower is another landmark that has found itself being used as a model for the movie’s main visuals. Inspired by a lighthouse, this white tower is the tallest building in Kyoto and is symbolic of the city. Kyoto Tower is also illustrated on the background of the movie’s flyer, as is the temple Toji.

Nidec Kyoto Tower Ticket

Update date：2024/06/15

Kyoto Tower Hotel

721-1,Higashi-Shiokouji,Karasuma-dori,Shimogyo-ku Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha

At the beginning of the story, Naomi Katagaki follows Karasu and appears in a scene set in Fushimi Inari Taisha, where he meets with his future-self (who he calls “teacher”) 10 years later. Fushimi Inari Taisha is the originating shrine of the Inari aspect of the Shinto beliefs, and is famous as one of western Japan's best places to visit during Hatsumode (i.e. Japanese New Year shrine/temple blessing visit). It’s an incredibly busy shrine, which is crowded with many worshippers and tourists throughout the year.

Fushimi Inari-Taisha, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-Dera Day Tour from Kyoto

Kyo-machiya Stay WAKA Fushimiinari

Fushimi ku, Fukakusa, Kaidocho 51 Kyoto

Kamogawa Delta

The Kamogawa Delta, is at the confluence of the Kamo and Takano Rivers, in Demachiyanagi, Kyoto, and is a great viewing spot where you can see Mt. Hiei and the Daimonji fire festival. It is drawn on Hello World's teaser visual, and is also used in many Japanese dramas and movie locations, including the anime “K-On!” set in Kyoto.

The model for the impressive five-storied pagoda that was seen disintegrating into particles in movie’s trailer PV (released on July 16, 2019) is said to be the five-storied pagoda Toji (Kyoogokokuji). This temple is related to Kukai (aka Kobo Daishi), and the 55 meter high, five-storied pagoda is Japan’s tallest wooden structure and is one of the symbols of Kyoto Prefecture.

Asagiri Bridge

Asagiri Bridge is a 74m long vermilion bridge that connects Uji Shrine and Tachibana Island, and is a popular spot representative of the Uji area. There is a scene shown in the trailer PV released on July 16, 2019 where the two main characters are running hand in hand when lightning strikes a bridge, Asagiri Bridge is apparently the model for that bridge.

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Anime Spots in Kyoto – Shops, Locations & More!

Post author By blubbyweb
Post date April 18, 2019
No Comments on Anime Spots in Kyoto – Shops, Locations & More!

Kyoto is filled to the brim with culture and history. With hundreds of shrines and temples, the city has become a hotspot for tourists interested in heritage and culture. But, don’t be fooled – Kyoto is a great place for those searching for a little bit of otaku culture as well!

Kyoto International Manga Museum

This is the perfect place for those who love spending hours reading manga. For an entrance fee of 800 yen, you gain access to hundreds upon hundreds of manga, stacked in shelves that reach the ceiling. There are also shelves with foreign languages right at the entrance (including English!) and also a gift shop selling various merchandise.

There were also some exhibits and facts about the industry, including the history of manga. When i was visiting, they also had a temporary exhibit on Shoujo Manga. On weekends, there are also events, including drawing workshops by visiting mangaka. If you do visit, come early so you have the time to grab a manga and start reading!

The English section had quite a few popular titles, including Naruto, One Piece, and Death Note. It’s definitely worth checking out if you like manga. You can check out my guide to the museum here .

Shopping District Around Kawaramachi Station

This is the best place in Kyoto to find anime merchandise as there are a wide array of hobby shops that cater to anime and manga fans. The most well known of these shops, animate, has a branch in this shopping area.

The Kyoto branches of Lashinbang, Gamers and Kikuya bookstore can also be found in the area, making it a great place if you want to pick up some manga or anime related items.

Besides these hobby shops, you can also find merchandise in a lot of other shops, even if they don’t specifically sell only these items (you can find a snoopy shop in Nishiki food market, for example). So have fun looking around the area! Location

Kyoto Station Shopping Area

There are a ton of shops and malls around Kyoto station. Department stores such as Bic camera and Yodobashi are great to find merchandise and other hobby items, including toys, games and gachapon.

Aeon Mall also has an arcade where you can try the claw machines, gachapons, purikura photo booths, arcade video games and even rental cosplay costumes! There is also a cinema which has a gift shop selling merchandise from the ongoing movies, so when I visited, there was a ton of fantastic beasts and Harry Potter stuff.

You can also find anime soundtracks in music areas or dvd stores in these department shops and malls, so do look out for them! Location .

Sightseeing

There are actually a few anime and manga that are set in Kyoto, such as Uchouten Kazoku, Inari Konkon Koi Iroha and Tatami Galaxy. Much of the actual city is featured in these anime, and it adds an extra layer of enjoyment as you explore. For example, the popular tourist attraction Fushimi inari serves as the inspiration and is featured in Inari Konkon Koi Iroha.

Besides this, Kyoto prefecture is also home to Kyoto Animation, which is based in Uji. As such, several of their extremely popular anime often feature Kyoto city and other parts of Kyoto prefecture. The anime Hibike Euphonium is set in Uji but also features Kyoto city.

Other popular anime from Kyoto Animation such as K-On!! and Lucky Star also feature Kyoto city when the characters go for school trips to some very popular tourist attractions, including Arashiyama, Ginkakuji and Kitano Tenmangu shrine.

Toei Kyoto Studio Park

This one is for those who love J-dramas, or more specifically, period dramas. If you’ve watched an Edo themed drama, there’s a high chance it was filmed in this theme park, and if you’re lucky, they may even be filming on the day you visit!

Inside the park, you can rent kimonos, samurai, ninja and geisha costumes! There are also samurai and ninja shows that display the various fighting styles. You can also try out the ninja mystery house.

For those of you more interested in anime, don’t fret- there’s also an Anime museum that showcases some of Toei animation’s works, including Sailor moon, Dragon Ball and Super Sentai, which although is not an anime, is the source material of the ever so popular Power Rangers. There are a ton of film related attractions. Location .

Kyoto is a beautiful city that has a little something for everyone. Even though the city is famous for the old, I assure you, it has plenty of the new too!

LIVE STREAM TICKETS

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Live Stream Tickets with goods

¥14,300 (tax included)

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¥5,500 (tax included)

For the "Canvas Art", you can enjoy the illustrations such as CD jackets of the opening theme, ending theme, and main theme from the past titles. Easy-to-display size (S3size: W273mm x H273mm) is also a great point.

"Mini Design Tickets" are specially designed using clear material and paper. The front side features a design that expresses the world view of each title, while the back side features the characters that appeared in the event key visual. We hope you will enjoy the world view of our animation.

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Live stream tickets will be available!

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Red columns with black inset wordwork and a red striped roof frame a view out over a cityscape with mountains in the background.

Kyoto Wants You Back, but It Has Some Polite Suggestions

The city, one of Japan’s most-visited before the pandemic, desperately needs tourism’s money, but it would like to avoid the excesses of Instagram-driven itineraries.

Before the pandemic, Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Temple was as famous for its congestion as for its sublime architecture and spectacular view of the city below. Credit... Andrew Faulk for The New York Times

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By Ben Dooley and Hisako Ueno

Published Sept. 25, 2022 Updated Sept. 28, 2022

In the months before March 2020, the food sellers in Kyoto’s Nishiki market often wished for an end to the seemingly endless stream of photo-hungry visitors from abroad who always seemed to be underfoot.

“We weren’t used to foreign tourists,” said Nobuyuki Hatsuda, who leads a business alliance promoting the shopping street in the city center, where vendors sell a dizzying array of traditional Japanese foods, carefully displayed and attractively packaged.

Nishiki has long been a working market, and the parade of visitors — rifling through the meticulously arranged merchandise, haggling with frazzled shopkeepers and blocking storefronts with their luggage — interfered with the flow of daily business, driving away locals who had long done their shopping on the street.

But then the pandemic hit. The tourists — along with their money — evaporated, and sellers had a change of heart, said Mr. Hatsuda, who sells kamaboko, a fish cake often formed into delicate pink and white loaves.

“We realized that we can’t choose our customers,” he said.

Other than China, Japan had maintained the strictest border controls of any major economy. Since the start of 2021, fewer than 800,000 foreign visitors have set foot in the country. As other countries began welcoming tourists back in numbers close to their prepandemic highs, Japan let only a trickle of travelers in. The country eased restrictions on trips for business and study in the spring, but as of September, it was still limiting tourism to travelers on package tours who were willing to negotiate a labyrinth of red tape.

That will soon change, however. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said last week that the country would further ease border controls in October, eliminating a cap on daily entries and allowing tourists to travel independently. (Even after normal travel resumes, however, Chinese visitors, who accounted for more than 30 percent of inbound traffic in 2019, are unlikely to return in large numbers until Beijing relaxes its strict Covid Zero policy.)

As tourism slowly returns, Kyoto, like other famous tourist destinations worldwide, is grappling with how to accommodate the crowds without sacrificing quality of life for those who call the ancient capital home.

In the absence of a clear solution, Kyoto’s government is betting on a change of perspective: After years of promoting “omotenashi” — a Japanese word for meticulous hospitality — it’s trying to take more time for self-care.

“Kyoto isn’t a tourist city, it’s a city that values tourism,” Daisaku Kadokawa, the city’s mayor, said during a recent interview at its city hall, where he wore the formal kimono that has become a trademark during his almost 15 years in office.

A couple in blue traditional Japanese garb take a selfie in front of a building with a curving roof. The woodwork on the roof is intricate and colored bright red.

Growing popularity

Kyoto is home to several globally known companies, like Nintendo and Kyocera, and has produced more Nobel Prize winners in the sciences than any other city in Japan. But in the years leading up to the pandemic, it had become dependent on the flood of tourists that bumped, clattered and pushed through its streets.

Kyoto had always been a popular destination for domestic travelers. Before Japan opened to the world in 1851, pilgrims trekked from around the country to visit its more than 2,000 temples and shrines. Spared from the ravages of World War II, it later became something close to a living museum, a popular destination for school trips and people hoping for a glimpse of the country’s history and tradition.

No one comes to Kyoto looking for a party. Visitors are seeking a particular vision of Japan, one that is found in the koi ponds of meticulously kept temple gardens; the smell of roasting brown tea, known as hojicha, that wafts from the door of ancient storefronts; and the clatter of a geisha’s wooden sandals down a cobbled alleyway.

In the years before the 2020 summer Olympics, however, the realities of the modern travel industry had begun to compromise the city’s anachronistic charms. Japan launched an all-out effort to promote inbound tourism, and Kyoto experienced a surge in popularity among foreign visitors.

Starting from a base of around 10 million in 2013, the number of foreign visitors had more than tripled by the pandemic’s start, according to government data . Nearly a third of them traveled to Kyoto, where the tourism industry employed one of every five workers. Taxes from the sector comprised nearly 13 percent of the city’s revenue.

But locals quickly became fed up with what they called “tourism pollution.” Suitcases jammed the aisles of city buses. Eager visitors harassed geisha’s apprentices, maiko, for photographs on their way to work. And lost tourists stumbled into people’s homes while searching for their Airbnb.

Social media, especially, shaped tourism in the city. And not for the better.

Masutami Kawaguchi, who offers private English tours of the city, said that — before the pandemic — his clients’ itineraries were almost entirely determined by Instagram. Tourism became laser-focused on the city’s famously picturesque areas, with people getting off the train at Kyoto Station and then rushing to the two or three best photo spots — the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, the orange gates winding up the mountain behind Fushimi Inari shrine and the golden pavilion at Kinkakuji temple — creating traffic jams and massive crowding in the surrounding areas.

Kyoto’s famously polite residents began to express their displeasure with uncharacteristic bluntness.

In Nishiki, signs popped up among the stalls admonishing tourists not to eat while walking, a pet peeve in Japan. Neighborhood shoppers, tired of the crowding and commotion, began going to supermarkets, and some long-established sellers closed.

Even Buddhist monks lost their cool.

In autumn and spring, when the streets became clogged with tourists gawping at pyrotechnic bursts of maple leaves and cherry blossoms, “people couldn’t even leave their houses. The city was barely livable,” said Kojo Nagasawa, the secretary general of the Kyoto Buddhist Federation, which includes three of the city’s most famous temples.

The group has long called for moderation in Kyoto’s economic development. In 1991, it took out a full-page ad in The Times opposing the construction of new, high-rise hotels, which it said would destroy the city’s unique character.

“Before we knew it, the economy was nothing but tourism,” Mr. Nagasawa said. “The city didn’t know when enough was enough.”

Looking to curb some of the worst problems, in 2018 the city cracked down on investors who were snatching up traditional houses in residential neighborhoods and converting them into Airbnb rentals.

The pandemic’s damage

In the spring of 2020, Japan slammed its borders shut. The fire hose of foreign money turned off, and Kyoto, which had long struggled with financial problems, found itself on the verge of bankruptcy.

The city got a taste of life without tourists, and the combination of the coronavirus and red ink was “a double punch,” Mr. Kadokawa, the mayor, said.

At the beginning of the pandemic, “people in the city were saying, ‘We’ve returned to the old Kyoto, isn’t that great?’” said Toshinori Tsuchihashi, the director of the city’s tourism department.

But, as the economic damage mounted, residents “have come to recognize tourism’s importance.”

Many businesses have yet to recover. Before the pandemic, it was nearly impossible to get a reservation at one of the many restaurants lining Pontocho, an atmospheric alleyway running parallel to the Kamo River in Kyoto’s city center. But on a recent weekend night, “for lease” signs hung in darkened shop windows, and many of the terraces looking out on the water sat unused.

Hotel The Mitsui Kyoto , a luxury Western-style hotel, opened in late 2020 and has operated well below capacity for most of the pandemic, according to Manabu Kusui, the general manager.

As tourists begin returning to Kyoto, the hotel hopes to differentiate itself by providing guests with exclusive experiences it has negotiated with some of Kyoto’s beautiful but less trafficked destinations. One of the first is a private tour of Nijo Castle, the residence of Japan’s first shogun of the Edo period, Tokugawa Ieyasu, conveniently located next to the hotel.

It’s a style of tourism the city is trying to promote as part of its new strategic plan to address prepandemic crowding.

But Mr. Kusui knows that people come to Kyoto with a certain itinerary in mind, and “we can’t tell them not to go to some place like Kiyomizu Temple,” he said, referring to the famous Buddhist temple perched on a mountain face on Kyoto’s east side.

Some polite suggestions

With no legal options for instituting hard limits on visitors, the government hopes to dilute traffic so it is less concentrated in the same times and places. Planners are also discussing how to fix problems, like crowded city buses, that aggravate residents. So far, however, the initiatives mostly consist of soft measures like trying to educate visitors in Kyoto’s traditional “morals” and hoping for the best.

In that spirit, Nishiki market has decided it will try to encourage tourists instead of admonishing them, exchanging its list of “don’ts” for a list of “pleases.” Visitors who scan a large QR code at the entrance are presented with a list of suggestions for enjoying the market and rewarded with free Wi-Fi for reading it.

At the same time, many in the city are trying to improve the experience for tourists and residents alike by reimagining Kyoto’s overall approach to the industry.

Kiyomizu Temple is among the institutions that have taken up the gauntlet, trying to promote a new kind of tourism that encourages tourists to think of the city as a place to live, not a theme park.

Before the pandemic, the temple was as famous for its congestion as for its sublime architecture and its spectacular view of the city below. In high season, pushing through the crowds clogging the temple’s graceful walkways had become an enervating and dispiriting ordeal that few locals would willingly undergo.

When Covid hit, the temple's abbot, Seigen Mori, was already experimenting with ways to allow visitors to experience it as it was intended — as a tranquil place of worship — but with limited success.

The last two and a half years, however, have given him an opportunity to “press reset,” he said, and explore different ways of interacting with visitors. In recent months he has begun opening the temple at night to small groups, taking the time to personally lead them in prayer and conversation.

Seeing the temple at night fundamentally transforms visitors’ relationship with the space, he believes, as the disorienting press of the usual crowds is replaced with the chirr of cicadas, the rich aroma of incense and the soft flicker of shadows on ancient statuary.

Mr. Mori is eager to welcome guests from abroad, he said, as long as they understand that the experience is focused on contemplation.

Kyoto is anticipating the inevitable return of those guests with a mix of longing and apprehension, said Takeshi Otsuki, a general manager at Japanese travel giant JTB.

“We’re hoping the number of visitors increases gradually, and we have a soft landing,” Mr. Otsuki said.

Some in the city are eager to greet the new tourists.

Fuminari Shinbo is part of a group of retirees who began training ahead of the Tokyo Olympics to give English tours to visitors coming to Kyoto, devoting hours to memorizing English dialogues they never had the chance to use.

In late August, about 20 of the volunteers eagerly gathered in front of Fushimi Inari, a shrine that has become Kyoto’s most popular tourist destination, for a dry run.

Clothed in bright blue bibs with white lettering advertising free help for English-speaking tourists, they introduced the shrine’s most famous feature, a corridor of nearly a thousand bright orange gates that have provided a vibrant punch of color to countless vacation photos.

When the tour was over, Mr. Shinbo said he was excited that he would finally be able to put his hard work to good use.

So far, he said, “I’ve only been able to practice on my grandson.”

52 Places for a Changed World

The 2022 list highlights places around the globe where travelers can be part of the solution.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

An earlier version of this article misidentified Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was the first shogun of the Edo period. He was not the first shogun of Japan. The error was repeated in a photo caption.

An earlier version of this article spelled the name of a tourist site popular on Instagram incorrectly. It is the golden pavilion at Kinkakuji temple, not at Kinkauji temple.

How we handle corrections

Ben Dooley reports on Japan’s business and economy, with a special interest in social issues and the intersections between business and politics. More about Ben Dooley

Hisako Ueno has been reporting on Japanese politics, business, gender, labor and culture for The Times since 2012. She previously worked for the Tokyo bureau of The Los Angeles Times from 1999 to 2009. More about Hisako Ueno

Regarding the decline of the memorial visit on July 18

We sincerely express our gratitude for your continued kindness and support.

It has been almost two years since the incident that took place at our 1st studio. With grief in our hearts, we have been producing animations while supporting each other and have kept moving forward day by day since then.

Although we had been considering holding the memorial ceremony for prayer, in light of the COVID-19 infections, we decided to stream the memorial video on our youtube channel as we had in the past year.

*We respectfully request your kind prohibition of visiting.
*Flowers and monetary condolence gifts are gratefully declined.
*The replay of the memorial video will be available throughout 7/18.
*Streamed in Japanese only.

We sincerely ask for your cooperation in refraining from visiting the site of the 1st studio, including surrounded areas, regardless of the date. Kind attention to the residents in the area is highly appreciated.

We greatly appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

July 2, 2021. Kyoto Animation Co., Ltd.

IMAGES

Here are the Top 10 anime from Kyoto Animation, according to fans
The Impact Of Kyoto Animation: 5 Things You Need To Know
Kyoto Animation Welcome festival : Official poster featuring Chitanda
10 Best Anime From Kyoto Animation (According to IMDb)
Top 115 + Kyoto animation email
Kyoto Animation Wallpapers

VIDEO

【4K】Kyoto walking in spring
Geisha alley ban divides opinion among Kyoto tourists
Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto animation arsonist gets death sentence for killing 36 people
Must see places to visit in Kyoto Japan
Tourists Ban in Kyoto

COMMENTS

Kyoto Animation Website
the 5th Annual Kyoto Animation Thanks Event - Special Extra Offer: We will extend the archive streaming period with [Anime-Focused version ]! Nov. 18, 2021 ... Regarding the decline of the memorial visit on July 18 Jun. 5, 2020. Notice: Temporary closure of " Kyoani&Do Shop!" physical store Apr. 27, 2020 ...
Unlocking the Magic: Discover the Enchanting World of Kyoto Animation
Kyoto Animation, also known as KyoAni, is a renowned animation studio based in Kyoto, Japan. It has left an indelible mark on the world of anime with its captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and unparalleled attention to detail. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the enchanting world of Kyoto Animation, exploring its legacy ...
Kyoto Animation
Kyoto Animation Co., Ltd. (Japanese: 株式会社京都アニメーション, Hepburn: Kabushiki-gaisha Kyōto Animēshon), often abbreviated KyoAni (京アニ, Kyōani), is a Japanese animation studio and light novel publisher located in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture.It was founded in 1985 by husband and wife Hideaki and Yoko Hatta, who remain its president and vice-president respectively.
What Kyoto Animation Means to Us
On the morning of Thursday, July 18th, 2019, a senseless arson attack took place at Kyoto Animation's No. 1 Studio building that took the lives of 35 incredibly talented people. There are no words strong enough to describe the sheer emotional impact of this event both on the industry and its followers: Kyoto Animation is one of the most widely ...
The Evolution Of Kyoto Animation: A Unique Anime Studio And Its
Housewives painting anime cels. Yoko Hatta, a painter with experience on classic titles like Princess Ribbon at Mushi Production, left the studio and moved to Kyoto after marrying Hideaki Hatta. Once she was there, she gathered a few housewives from the neighborhood with time to kill under the name Kyoto Anime Studio, dedicated to painting cels for Tatsunoko Pro and Pierrot productions for the ...
What Makes Kyoto Animation So Special?
Kyoto Animation excels at the little things, at making small moments seem real - and the results of that can feel as emotionally climactic as any device a louder show might offer.
Our Works
Our Works. Sound! Euphonium 3 Apr. 2024 / TV animation. Sound! Euphonium: Special Feature -Ensemble Contest- Aug. 2023 / Special Feature. Sound! Euphonium The Movie-Our Promise: A Brand New Day- Apr. 2019 / Movie. Love, Chunibyo and Other Delusions! -Take On Me- Jan. 2018 / Movie.
Access to Kyoto Animation Headquarters
One can let you quietly read a day comics with a variety of comfortable posture, and outdoor plaza can sunbathe, really comics fans of paradise. Access to Kyoto Animation Headquarters. Kyoto Animation Headquarters Ticket Prices. Free of charge. Kyoto Animation Headquarters opening hours. 9:00~17:00. Kyoto Animation Headquarters Address
Information
We appreciate your consideration of the transportation system and local residents. As a substitute, we are going to stream the memorial video on the day on our official YouTube channel online. *Streamed in Japanese only. Saturday, July 18, 2020 (10:30-10:40) *A moment of silence will be held from 10:35. Streamed on YouTube's KyoaniChannel.
A Journey Through Kyoto Animation
Nick Creamer takes a tour through the incredible work of Kyoto Animation, choosing his 10 favorite works from the blockbuster catalog along the way!
ART
Thank you, Kyoto Animation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Frw73YgNlicOn the final day of our stay in Kyoto, what better place to visit than the "holy land"...
Kyoto Animation: A unique force in Japan's anime industry
Jul 20, 2019. It took Kyoto Animation Co. almost 40 years to establish itself as one of the leading animation production studios in the country. Within a matter of minutes Thursday, dozens of the ...
10 Best Kyoto Animation Anime Series To Watch, From ...
3. Hyouka. Image credit: Kyoto Animation. When Kyoto Animation is mentioned, Hyouka does not immediately spring to mind as their representative work. But it is certainly the pinnacle of the slice of life genre, and an outstanding series that is a testament to the studio's prowess in gorgeous animation and mood-setting.
The Incredible Artists of Kyoto Animation: Part 1
Kyoto Animation reverberated with talent and sincerity that reached millions of fans so that they too felt the studio's unyielding love. ... But when you look across Nishiya's career, you can see ...
Are any animation studios open to the public for tours?
10. Kyoto animation has a shop just below one of its working areas. You don't even have to make an appointment to visit it! It used to offer a dedicated tour which allowed visitors to look at animators paint transparent plastic film but it was sadly discontinued.
20 Best Anime By Kyoto Animation (Series + Movies)
Main-dragon protagonist Tohru is among the most lovable characters I've ever seen in anime. And Kobayashi-san's quiet and hard-working nature just makes me want to give her a hug. 6. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. Released: 2006. Genre: Comedy, Sci-Fi, Slice of Life.
KyoaniChannel
KyoaniChannel is the official channel for Kyoto Animation.
The Impact Of Kyoto Animation: 5 Things You Need To Know
Here are some highlights about the studio that help to explain its international impact on the entertainment industry. 1) A progressive work environment. "Nichijou - My Ordinary Life". Kyoto ...
Visit Kyoto's real-life locations from the anime Hello World
The Kamogawa Delta, is at the confluence of the Kamo and Takano Rivers, in Demachiyanagi, Kyoto, and is a great viewing spot where you can see Mt. Hiei and the Daimonji fire festival. It is drawn on Hello World's teaser visual, and is also used in many Japanese dramas and movie locations, including the anime "K-On!" set in Kyoto.
Anime Spots in Kyoto
Besides this, Kyoto prefecture is also home to Kyoto Animation, which is based in Uji. As such, several of their extremely popular anime often feature Kyoto city and other parts of Kyoto prefecture. ... they may even be filming on the day you visit! Image credits. Inside the park, you can rent kimonos, samurai, ninja and geisha costumes! There ...
THE 5th KYOTO ANIMATION THANKS EVENT KYOANI MUSIC FESTIVAL
The first-ever Kyoto Animation's music festival Blu-ray will be available on 2022.11.24! The first-ever Kyoto Animation's music festival Blu-ray will be available on 2022.11.24! TOP; Blu-ray; ... you can enjoy the illustrations such as CD jackets of the opening theme, ending theme, and main theme from the past titles. Easy-to-display size ...
Information
Any entry into the premises of Kyoto Animation 1st Studio is prohibited without permission. Since the vicinity is a residential area, we ask for your cooperation in not disturbing the residents. In particular, visitors with no relation to the community are asked to refrain from the following acts on or around the premises: -Any other activities ...
Kyoto Wants You Back, but It Has Some Polite Suggestions
Kyoto had always been a popular destination for domestic travelers. Before Japan opened to the world in 1851, pilgrims trekked from around the country to visit its more than 2,000 temples and shrines.
Information
We sincerely ask for your cooperation in refraining from visiting the site of the 1st studio, including surrounded areas, regardless of the date. Kind attention to the residents in the area is highly appreciated. We greatly appreciate your understanding and cooperation. July 2, 2021. Kyoto Animation Co., Ltd. Kyoto Animation Website.