Ever wondered where anime springs to life? Right here in front of us stands the Tokyo Polytechnic University Suginami Animation Museum. It is a vibrant testament to Japan’s immense contribution to the world of animation. Suginami Ward is the heart of Japanese animation. Over 70 anime studios are located here.
This museum is not just a static display. It is an interactive journey through the history and artistry of anime. Opened in 2005, the Suginami Animation Museum distinguishes itself. It provides visitors a hands-on experience of making anime.
Let’s step inside the Suginami Animation Museum. The third floor is our first stop. Here, we find the wall of fame. It is signed by Japan’s best creators. Take a moment to find your favorite artist’s signature.
The permanent exhibit unveils the history of anime. The first Japanese anime dates back to 1917. It inspired staff at Disney Studios and other animation studios around the world. We will learn about Osamu Tezuka. He is the “God” of Japanese comics. His stories influenced all animation production after him.
Budget and staff shortages changed anime. Artists elaborated a way of making the most of fewer drawings per scene. Engaging stories and economical production became trademarks of Japanese Animation. This influenced even Walt Disney Studios.
Now, let’s head to the “Afureko” section. This is short for “After-recording.” Here, you can step into a sound booth. Practice recording lines from films like “Astro Boy”. There is also a sound effect option. You can practice adding the right sound effects to anime clips.
Aspiring animators can try their hand at the Parapara DIY animation area. Create your own characters. Or choose from stencils. Then, bring your ideas to life. Use the machine to take snapshots. This will turn your creation into a short animation. It is much like a digital flipbook.
The fourth floor houses temporary exhibitions. They feature specific anime or famous artists and directors. These exhibitions last for about 3 to 4 months.
Don’t miss the museum theater. Enjoy exclusive cinema screenings of rare anime films. The museum has a 200-inch screen with surround sound.
The Suginami Animation Museum also has a library. It offers an extensive collection of DVDs and animation books. There are English, French, Mandarin, and Korean subtitled DVDs available.
Before we leave, consider visiting the Inazuma Cafe. Dine while admiring walls full of famous mangaka artwork. The first autographed drawing was by Shinji Hiramatsu. He is the author of Black Angels. You can even borrow manga to read while enjoying your beverage.
The Tokyo Polytechnic University Suginami Animation Museum offers a comprehensive look into anime’s past, present, and future. The Suginami Animation Museum is free to enter. It even offers an audio tour in English. It is a place where fun, dream, and the future of anime come together.