Discover the Lighthouse Personification Project featuring Sato Take on December 26th

Explore the Lighthouse Personification Project

The Lighthouse Personification Project, also known as “Akari no Moribito,” is an innovative initiative by World Eggs Inc., based in Minato-ku, Tokyo. It aims to breathe life into lighthouses across Japan by personifying them and delving into their rich histories and cultural values through captivating storytelling. One of the most engaging components of this project is the voice drama series titled “Gensou Yawa,” which beautifully narrates the historical significance of these lighthouses.

Scheduled for December 26, 2025, the 62nd installment of this series will introduce talented voice actor Sato Take as the guardian of the Buzaki Lighthouse, located in Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. This special event will be broadcasted on Niconico Live, featuring a dialogue between Sato Take and fellow voice actor Hattori Sounosuke, who plays the role of the reporter Nagaoka Kanata. This premiere event, named Touyakai, is set to kick off at 22:00 JST, followed by a YouTube premiere at 23:00 JST on the same date.

A Glimpse into Buzaki Lighthouse

Located at the southeastern tip of Mojiko, the Buzaki Lighthouse stands tall as a stone structure that has been illuminating the entrance of Kanmon Strait since its first lighting on January 22, 1872. Designed by Richard Henry Brunton, known as the “Father of Japanese Lighthouses,” the Buzaki Lighthouse is unique for possessing the only “Composite Immovable Flashing White Light Lens” in Japan. Its dazzling brightness and compelling storytelling are not just characteristics of the lighthouse but also reflect the noble spirit of the monk who resides within its walls.

The lighthouse's significant historical value was recognized in 2020 when it was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Known for its sturdy granite structure, the Buzaki Lighthouse is celebrated as one of Japan’s 50 selected lighthouses, making it a treasure worth discovering.

Detailed Data of Buzaki Lighthouse

- Initial Lighting: January 22, 1872
- Height: 9.7 meters
- Light Range: Approx. 32 km (flashing) / Approx. 19 km (steady light)

The Akari no Moribito Project

“Akari no Moribito” is a multimedia project designed to personify lighthouses across Japan. The project meticulously explores the unique appeal of each lighthouse and transforms them into original characters accompanied by rich narratives. Each character is imbued with stories inspired by their respective lighthouses, making the project an engaging experience for lighthouse enthusiasts and the general public alike.

The series thrives on a voice acting cast that brings each character to life, facilitating a deeper appreciation of these historical structures. Updates about characters and new content can be found on the official project website here and their Twitter.

Activities for 2025

As part of its ongoing efforts, the project has outlined various activities:
1. Voice Drama “Gensou Yawa”: Short stories unraveling the history of lighthouses around Japan.
2. Voice Drama “Gyakkou”: A grand tale depicting the struggles of the lighthouse guardians.
3. 4-Come Manga “Atsumare Moribito-kun”: A whimsical series showcasing the light-hearted daily lives of the guardians.
4. Lighthouse Audio Guides: Insightful audio guides narrated by top voice actors about lighthouses throughout Japan.
5. Community Engagement: Partnerships with local governments and the Japan Coast Guard to promote and utilize character rights.