Urashima of the Showa Era: The Appeal and Evaluation of Anime Depicting a Nostalgic Era

Showa no Urashima

■ Public Media

others

■ Original Media

Anime Original

■ First appearance date

January 1, 1929

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 1

■ Production

Azuma Graph Co., Ltd. Kimura Hakusan

■Explanation

Background

"Urashima in the Showa Era" is based on "Nonkinatosan's Visit to the Dragon Palace," which was produced in the Taisho era. From the Taisho era to the early Showa era, Japanese animation developed rapidly. During this period, silent films were mainstream, and animation was produced as part of that. "Urashima in the Showa Era" is a work that depicts the legend of Urashima Taro from a new perspective, reflecting the social situation and culture of the time.

■ Story

The story of "Showa Urashima" is based on the classic legend of Urashima Taro's visit to Ryugu-jo Castle, but contains many elements that reflect the social situation in the early Showa period. Urashima Taro saves a turtle from the sea and is invited to Ryugu-jo Castle as a token of gratitude. A lavish banquet is held in Ryugu-jo Castle, and Urashima Taro is fascinated by its beauty and merriment. However, when it is time for him to return home, the turtle hands him the box, telling him "never to open the box." When Urashima Taro returns to his hometown, time has passed and his family and friends have already died. In despair, Urashima Taro opens the box and becomes a white-haired old man. This story depicts the passage of time and the impermanence of life, and deeply moved viewers at the time.

■ Production process

"Showa no Urashima" was produced by Azumagraph and Kimura Hakusan. Azumagraph was a well-known animation production company at the time and had worked on many productions. Kimura Hakusan was in charge of the script and direction, and determined the overall tone and message of the work. During the production process, hand-drawn animation was mainly used, with a particular attention to color and movement. Music and sound effects were also incorporated as important elements, and were carefully designed to enhance the viewer's emotions.

■ Influence

"Showa no Urashima" had a major impact on the Japanese animation industry at the time. This work is known for depicting the legend of Urashima Taro from a new perspective and deeply moving viewers. In addition, the content reflecting the social situation and culture of the early Showa period resonated with viewers and was loved by many. This work also influenced later animation works, and became the catalyst for the production of many works based on the legend of Urashima Taro.

■ Modern evaluation

"Showa no Urashima" is still highly regarded today. While based on a classic legend, the work is praised for its content that reflects the social situation and culture of the early Showa period. It is also highly praised for its hand-drawn animation, music, and sound effects, and is known as a work that deeply moves viewers. The work has a great influence on the modern animation industry, and many creators draw inspiration from it.

■Recommendation

"Urashima in the Showa Era" is an appealing work based on a classic legend, yet reflects the social situation and culture of the early Showa era. It has been praised for its deeply moving storyline and the ingenious hand-drawn animation, music, and sound effects. This work is loved by many people as a work that depicts a classic legend from a new perspective. We would especially recommend this work to those who are interested in the legend of Urashima Taro and Japan in the early Showa era. It is also a useful reference for those interested in the history and technology of animation. "Urashima in the Showa Era" is highly regarded even today as a work that deeply moves viewers. Please watch this work and feel its charm.