Tokyo, Japan – Anime production company Infinite Co., Ltd. has announced the creation and release of two short animated videos as part of the “Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Project.” The initiative aims to aid the recovery efforts in the Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa Prefecture, which was severely impacted by a powerful earthquake on New Year’s Day 2024. The animated shorts, featuring a high-profile voice cast, will be available on YouTube, with all proceeds dedicated to the region’s reconstruction.
Anime’s Role in Noto’s Recovery
The “Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Project” features two animated videos developed by Infinite, an animation planning company, in collaboration with animation production company EVOLROAR. The project was conceived with the heartfelt wish for the early recovery of the Noto Peninsula and to offer support to the residents affected by the magnitude 7.6 earthquake. The devastating quake, which struck on January 1, 2024, caused widespread damage, casualties, and infrastructure disruptions across the region.
These animated shorts serve as a unique medium to raise awareness and provide continuous support for the long-term rebuilding process. By leveraging the emotional power of animation, the project seeks to inspire hope and encourage wider participation in the reconstruction efforts.
High-Profile Cast and Creative Team Lend Their Voices
The animated videos boast an impressive lineup of voice actors, bringing life to characters designed to resonate with the spirit of the Noto Peninsula. The cast includes:
- Wajima Yuki voiced by Reina Ueda
- Kashima Tsumugi voiced by Marika Kouno
- Wajima Yoko voiced by Mamiko Noto
Behind the scenes, the project is helmed by a talented creative team. Kyohei Yamamoto is responsible for the direction, storyboards, and character design, while Toru Fujimoto penned the script. The music is provided by nano.RIPE, ensuring a compelling audiovisual experience.
A Personal Connection to Ishikawa Prefecture Fuels the Initiative
Takayuki Nagatani, President of Infinite Co., Ltd., expressed a deep personal connection to the affected region. He conveyed his profound sadness over the extensive damage to Ishikawa Prefecture, particularly as the area had been beautifully depicted in “Hanasaku Iroha,” a past anime production Infinite was involved with.
“Through this animation, we hope to give back to the local community even a little,” Nagatani stated, emphasizing the company’s desire to contribute meaningfully to the place that has inspired their work. The production actively incorporated feedback and opinions from local residents, aiming to create content that genuinely reflects the community’s needs and hopes for the future.
Sustained Support Through Animation Revenue
A key aspect of Infinite’s initiative is its commitment to long-term financial support for the Noto Peninsula’s recovery. All revenue generated from the YouTube views of these animated videos will be donated directly to the reconstruction efforts. Donations are scheduled to be made in June and December of 2026, providing a sustained stream of aid as the region embarks on a multi-year recovery journey. This model allows viewers to contribute simply by watching and sharing the inspiring content.
The Broader Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Effort
The animation project by Infinite adds to a multitude of ongoing efforts for the Noto Peninsula’s recovery. The 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake led to extensive damage to infrastructure, including roads, rivers, and coastal areas, with the national government undertaking significant rehabilitation projects on behalf of local authorities. Housing reconstruction, community development, and the restoration of essential services like water supply have been major challenges due to the scale of destruction and geographical complexities.
Organizations like the World Monuments Fund are also actively working to restore historic buildings, recognizing their role in spurring cultural, social, and economic recovery. The reconstruction process is a phased approach, balancing immediate relief with sustainable, long-term development, aiming to build disaster-resilient communities.
Infinite’s animated shorts offer a creative and accessible way for a broader audience to engage with and contribute to this vital reconstruction work, reminding people of the ongoing need for support and the resilience of the Noto Peninsula.
