“Passing dreams and passion from one person to the next.” This inscription marks the beginning of our story here at the \u5fd7\u3092\u7e4b\u3050\u7891 Memorial.
This memorial stands in Uji. It is in Kyoto Prefecture where Kyoto Animation is located. The attack on Kyoto Animation took place here as well.
But what is the story behind this monument? What makes it so significant? The \u5fd7\u3092\u7e4b\u3050\u7891 Memorial is not a cenotaph. It serves as a symbol. It commemorates the victims of the tragic arson attack on Kyoto Animation. This occurred on July 18, 2019. Thirty-six employees lost their lives in the fire.
The memorial was erected in July 2024. It remembers each of the thirty-six victims. Each individual’s spirit is represented by a white bird. The monument features thirty-six white birds. They spiral toward the heavens. This design symbolizes dreams. It expresses the animation studio’s passion. The memorial embodies the wish for a future. It is a future where their path is not cut short.
The memorial’s inscriptions reflect its purpose. They convey a message of hope. They express the dedication to animation. One inscription reads, “Limitless dreams, told through animation.” Another says, “In every line drawn, years of cultivated talent and profound sentiment.” It also says, “From here in Uji, Kyoto, they spread out into the world, taking wing toward our uninterrupted future.”
The \u5fd7\u3092\u7e4b\u3050\u7891 Memorial was created with input from Kyoto Animation artists. A production team from Tokyo University of the Arts also helped. This collaboration ensured that the monument reflects the studio’s spirit. It honors those who perished.
Uji City accepted donations for the \u5fd7\u3092\u7e4b\u3050\u7891 Memorial. The city manages its official website. This website details the memorial’s history. The \u5fd7\u3092\u7e4b\u3050\u7891 Memorial is in the Tea and Uji History Park. This park is next to Uji Station. The location offers a peaceful setting for reflection.
Kyoto Animation asks visitors not to leave flowers or offerings. This request respects local residents’ daily lives. It ensures the memorial remains a place for quiet contemplation. The dedication ceremony occurred on July 14. Ninety-three people attended. They included family members of the victims.
As we stand here notice the monument’s design. Consider the dreams and passions. Remember those who dedicated their lives to animation. The \u5fd7\u3092\u7e4b\u3050\u7891 Memorial ensures their memory lives on. It will continue to inspire future generations.