Kiyotaka Oshiyama, the acclaimed director behind the breakout anime film “Look Back” and known for his work on “Flip Flappers,” has directed a new animated short film to promote Fukushima Prefecture. Titled “Aka no Kioku” (Red Memory), the short is part of the Fukushima Map Tomo no Kai project, an initiative designed to highlight the charm and appeal of Fukushima to a wider audience.
A Fukushima Native Returns
Oshiyama’s connection to Fukushima runs deep. Born in Motomiya, Fukushima, he channeled his feelings about the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and its impact on his home into this project. The film serves as a personal reflection and a message of hope for the region.
A One-Man Show
Beyond directing, Oshiyama took on a multitude of roles in the production of “Aka no Kioku.” He is credited with the script, character designs, animation, and background art. This comprehensive involvement underscores his artistic vision and dedication to the project. The animation was produced by his own studio, Studio Durian.
“Aka no Kioku”: A Synopsis
“Aka no Kioku” centers on a woman working as a graphic designer in Tokyo who reflects on her origins. The short also features Akabeko, a traditional red cow toy from the Aizu region of Fukushima, which is a local symbol of good fortune and resilience. Oshiyama hopes the film will encourage viewers to “reconfirm something crucial that they almost forgot.”
Where to Watch
The short film is available for viewing on the Fukushima Prefectural Government’s official YouTube channel and the website of the Fukushima Map Tomonokai.
Kiyotaka Oshiyama: A Rising Star in Anime
Kiyotaka Oshiyama (born January 3, 1982) is a versatile and highly regarded figure in the Japanese animation industry. He is known for his skills as an animator, director, and character designer.
Early Career and Influences
Oshiyama’s career began at XEBEC. He later joined “Dennou Coil,” directed by Mitsuo Iso, whom Oshiyama admired. His work on “Dennou Coil” gained him recognition for his exceptional drawing skills. Both Mitsuo Iso and Toshiyuki Inoue predicted that Oshiyama would become a major figure in the animation world.
Directorial Debut and Key Works
Oshiyama debuted as a director in 2016 with “Flip Flappers.” Other notable works include:
- Director:
- Flip Flappers (2016)
- Look Back (2024)
- Aka no Kioku (2025)
- Other Roles:
- Space Dandy (Screenplay, Storyboard, Direction, Art Setting, Animation Director, Original Art)
- Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance (Original Picture)
- Trigun Stampede (Special Effects Designer)
- Trigun Stargaze (Character Designer)
Style and Recognition
Oshiyama is known as an “all-round animator” capable of handling diverse drawing styles. He has been praised by Hayao Miyazaki and is known for doing the ending animation for Golden Kamuy all by himself.
Fukushima Prefecture: Recovery and Resilience
Fukushima Prefecture has been actively working to rebuild its image and economy following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent nuclear disaster. Initiatives like the Fukushima Map Tomo no Kai project and collaborations with talented creators like Kiyotaka Oshiyama are vital to these efforts.
Fukushima Map Tomo no Kai
The Fukushima Map Tomo no Kai is an organization dedicated to promoting tourism and awareness of Fukushima Prefecture. They publish the “Fukushima Map,” a colorful publication filled with information about the region. “Aka no Kioku” is a special project produced in conjunction with this publication.
Akabeko: A Symbol of Fukushima
The Akabeko is a traditional red cow toy from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. It is more than just a toy; it is a symbol of resilience, good luck, and protection against illness. The Akabeko’s inclusion in “Aka no Kioku” connects the film to the region’s cultural heritage and reinforces its message of hope.
The Enduring Power of Animation
Animation has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, making it an effective medium for promoting tourism, raising awareness, and conveying heartfelt messages. “Aka no Kioku” exemplifies this power, using beautiful visuals and a compelling narrative to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
By combining Kiyotaka Oshiyama’s artistic talent with the Fukushima Map Tomo no Kai’s mission, “Aka no Kioku” offers a poignant and visually stunning tribute to Fukushima Prefecture. It is a reminder of the region’s beauty, its people’s strength, and the enduring power of art to heal and inspire.
