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The Uminominwa no Machi Project: A Journey Through Japan's Coastal Folklore

In a celebrated initiative, the Japan Foundation and the Japan Folklore Association are set to produce 25 new animated tales as part of the 'Uminominwa no Machi Project' for the fiscal year 2025. This project, which originally commenced in 2018, aims to create a total of 92 animations by the end of 2024, with this latest addition bringing the total count to over 100.

These enchanting animations will not only entertain but also serve as educational tools that convey rich maritime traditions to younger audiences. Through official platforms like the project’s website Uminominwa and their YouTube channel, stories will be shared to nurture a deep appreciation for Japan's cultural heritage.

Connection with the Sea: A Cultural Mission

The overarching goal of the 'Uminominwa no Machi Project' is to instill the importance of strong connections between people and the sea. This initiative is part of a broader movement led by the Japan Foundation known as the 'Sea and Japan Project,' which emphasizes the preservation and appreciation of marine environments vital to Japan’s identity. By preserving these folk tales, the project aims to foster a sense of pride among communities and encourage children to embrace their cultural legacies.

Selection Criteria for Folk Tales

The stories chosen for animation adhere to a rigorous selection process based on several criteria:

• - Wisdom: Stories should contain valuable lessons about the sea.
• - Imagination: They should provoke curiosity about the sea's diversity.
• - Heritage: Tales must be those that have been cherished and passed down through generations.
• - Community: The narratives should reflect the unique characteristics of their local environments.
• - Legacy: There should be community interest in passing the stories on to future generations.
• - Storytelling: The stories should have compelling narratives that are adaptable to animation.

A Glimpse of Upcoming Folktales

Among the 25 titles to be produced in 2025, notable tales include:

• - Otamoi Jizo from Otaru, Hokkaido
• - Tenpin-sama from Oma, Aomori
• - Daibuchi no Kai from Nanyo, Yamagata
• - Orihimezuka from Oarai, Ibaraki
• - Koubo Shimizu from Nasushiobara, Tochigi
• - Kami no Hanashi from Minano, Saitama
• - The Origin of Nori from Ota, Tokyo
• - The Red Shoes from Yokohama, Kanagawa

These selected folk tales encapsulate the essence and legacy of the regions they originate from, showcasing the profound bond between local culture and the maritime world.

The Animation Team

At the helm of this ambitious project is Director Shin Nosuke Numata, who has an impressive portfolio including works such as the 'Furusato Restoration Japanese Folktales.' Numata’s expertise ensures that these animations remain true to their roots, while appealing to modern audiences.

Engage with Uminominwa

Educators and community organizers are encouraged to utilize the animations for children's learning sessions, local events, or even product packaging. By applying for access to the resource, they can bring these stories to life in various contexts, promoting the project's goals on a broader scale.

For further details on collaboration and access, please visit here.

About the Japan Folklore Association

Founded on the principles of preserving Japan’s rich cultural heritage, the Japan Folklore Association works tirelessly to archive and promote folk tales. Their official site provides additional resources and insights into their ongoing projects and initiatives: Japan Folklore Association.

As the 'Uminominwa no Machi Project' forges ahead, it promises to create a beautiful tapestry of stories that connect generations to the sea and reinforce the indispensables ties of community and culture, ensuring that the wisdom of the past is passed on to future custodians of Japan’s folklore.