#Japan #Tokyo #AquaStar #Doshisha University #Niijima Jo

Celebrating 150 Years of Doshisha University

In a magnificent tribute to Doshisha University's 150th anniversary, AquaStar, an innovative visual production company based in Tokyo, has crafted a remarkable animation titled "二百年の夢を見た。" ("A Dream of 200 Years"). This animation captures the inspiring life of the university's founder, Niijima Jo, and will be released on a dedicated anniversary website starting December 2025.

The Story Behind the Animation

The animation is divided into three chapters, totaling 30 minutes, reflecting the journey of Niijima Jo during the tumultuous Edo period in Japan. Driven by a fervent desire for freedom, Niijima ventured to America, risking his life in pursuit of knowledge and democratic ideals. Thanks to the support of benevolent individuals he encountered in the United States, he received a modern education in three advanced schools.

During his time abroad, Niijima recognized the crucial role of education in fostering a new generation of autonomous and conscientious citizens necessary for Japan's modernization. Upon returning to Japan, he undertook the monumental task of introducing the American educational model with the ambition of establishing Japan's first private university—an aspiration that, unfortunately, eluded him in his lifetime. However, the ideals he championed continue to resonate through the students, alumni, and faculty of Doshisha University today.

Animation Release and Showings

The first chapter of the animation, titled "立志編" ("The Chapter of Aspirations"), was showcased at the Doshisha 150th Anniversary Festival held at Doshisha Junior & Senior High School on November 29, 2025, along with the commemorative ceremony at the Kyoto International Conference Center. The entire animation will be made available for viewing on the special 150th anniversary website, which can be found at Doshisha 150th Anniversary Website.

Chapter Links:

• - Chapter 1: Aspirations: Watch Now
• - Chapter 2: Ambitions: Watch Now
• - Chapter 3: Fellowship: Watch Now

Voices Behind the Characters

AquaStar has assembled an outstanding voice cast for the animation:

• - Niijima Jo: Kohsuke Kobayashi
• - Niijima Yae: Hitomi Ueda (a graduate of Doshisha University Faculty of Policy Studies)
• - Fukushi Unokichi: Yusuke Ikeda (a fourth-year student at Doshisha University Faculty of Cultural Information Studies)
• - Kano Kakutarou: Tsuyoshi Hashimoto (a fourth-year student at Doshisha University Faculty of Literature, Department of Japanese Literature)

AquaStar's Ambitious Vision

The animation's producer from AquaStar emphasizes that the goal is to create a work that resonates with current students and alumni of Doshisha, ensuring it remains cherished for years to come. The narrative of Niijima Jo's "Dream of 200 Years" is crafted to be both contemporary and broadly appealing.

Founded in 1991, AquaStar has garnered a reputation for innovative visual production, expanding its operations into digital content, marketing, and VR design, addressing promotional challenges across various sectors. The company's mission is to convey complex narratives in clear and engaging ways, touching the hearts of audiences with their creations.

For further details about AquaStar or inquiries regarding their projects, you can visit their official website at AquaStar.