On January 28, a newly completed anime adaptation of a kappa folktale passed down in Seiyo City was unveiled to the public.
The folktale, titled "The Kappa’s Gratitude" tells the story of a mischievous kappa who attempts to startle a feudal lord but is outwitted instead. As an apology, the kappa vows to protect the sea. This adaptation is part of the "Umi no Minwa no Machi Project" by the Japan Folktale Association, an initiative dedicated to preserving sea-related folklore for future generations. The anime was officially presented at Seiyo City Hall on January 28.
The five-minute anime is created in a charming, endearing style, showcasing the beauty of Seiyo’s coastal scenery while depicting the bond between the kappa and the feudal lord. Seiyo City Mayor Kazuo Suga, who attended the screening, remarked, "The anime makes the story much more accessible. I hope many people will watch and enjoy it."
Shinnosuke Numata, director of the anime and representative director of the Japan Folktale Association, shared his hopes for the project, stating, "I want children to watch this and think about their connection with the sea.".
Following the official screening, the anime was shown to local children in the afternoon. Additionally, it will be made available to a wider audience through YouTube on January 29, 2025 today.
Source: Japan Foundation, NHK news
About the Umi no Minwa no Machi Project
The "Umi no Minwa no Machi Project" is an initiative run by the Japan Folktale Association as part of the "Sea and Japan Project" promoted by The Nippon Foundation. The project aims to uncover and preserve Japanese folktales related to the sea, bringing their embedded messages, warnings, and lessons to life through engaging animations. These stories are passed down to children and future generations, ensuring their continued cultural significance.
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Official Website: Umi no Minwa no Machi Project
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Official X (formerly Twitter): @uminominwa
About the Japan Folktale Association
The Japan Folktale Association is dedicated to preserving traditional Japanese folktales, which contain wisdom and values often forgotten in modern society. These stories emphasize gratitude toward loved ones, kindness to others, and a sense of Japanese identity. By passing these lessons forward, the association strives to create a society where acts of kindness and gratitude are continuously reciprocated.
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Official Website: Japan Folktale Association
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