Overview of the Film “Your Name”
The film “Your Name” is a Japanese anime movie that was released in 2016. Directed and written by Makoto Shinkai, the main cast includes Ryunosuke Kamiki and Mone Kamishiraishi, who provided the voices for the characters.
The story revolves around a boy named Taki, who lives in Tokyo, and a girl named Mitsuha, who resides in a rural town in the Hida region. They suddenly experience a phenomenon where they “swap bodies” in their dreams. Through this body-swapping, the film portrays a bond that transcends distance and time. The themes of the movie are “connection” and “fate,” which deeply moved the audience.
The Charm of “Your Name”
The film “Your Name” captivated many viewers with its beautiful visuals and meticulous storytelling. The realistic landscape depiction and the expressive emotions of the characters are particularly impressive, drawing the audience into the world of the story. Through this film, director Makoto Shinkai showcased new possibilities for animated films, receiving high acclaim both domestically and internationally.
Production Background
Director Makoto Shinkai is a renowned figure in the world of animated films, known for works such as “5 Centimeters per Second” (2007) and “The Garden of Words” (2013). For “Your Name,” he brought in Masashi Ando, known for his work on “Spirited Away,” as the animation director, and Masayoshi Tanaka, known for “The Anthem of the Heart,” as the character designer. Additionally, the music was composed by RADWIMPS, which further enhanced the film’s atmosphere. During the production process, Shinkai handled the storyboarding and editing himself, completing the film over a span of approximately two years.
Impact and Reception
“Your Name” quickly surpassed 25.03 billion yen in box office revenue after its release, generating significant buzz not only in Japan but also overseas. It received particularly high praise in countries like China, South Korea, and Taiwan, and was screened in various nations around the world.
The film won numerous awards and is highly valued for its cultural significance. The music by RADWIMPS also became a major hit, beloved by many as an integral part of the movie.
This film further elevated Makoto Shinkai’s reputation and is remembered as a work that demonstrated new possibilities for animation.
The Setting of “Your Name”
The film “Your Name” features many real-life locations. The beautiful landscapes spanning Tokyo, Nagano, and Gifu serve as the stage, attracting numerous tourists to these places after the film’s release.
Sacred Sites in Tokyo
Shinjuku Station and Basuta Shinjuku(Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal）
- Access: Directly connected to JR Shinjuku Station
- Highlights:
- The scene where Mitsuha, in her first “body swap,” marvels at the cityscape of Tokyo
- The Kabukicho intersection, which is also featured in the movie poster
Suga Shrine
- Access: A 7-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Yotsuya Sanchome Station
- Highlights:
- The stairs where Taki and Mitsuha reunite in the final scene of the movie
Sacred Sites in Nagano
Tateshina Park and Lake Suwa
- Access: 1.5 km northeast of central Suwa City
- Highlights:
- Lake Suwa, said to be the model for “Itomori Lake”
- Beautiful views at sunset and nighttime
Takabotchi Highlands
- Access: About a 30-minute drive from Shiojiri City
- Highlights:
- The highlands with breathtaking sea of clouds
- The landscape overlooking “Itomori Lake”
Sacred Sites in Gifu
Hida Furukawa Station
- Access: JR Takayama Main Line, Hida Furukawa Station
- Highlights:
- The scene where Taki visits to find Mitsuha
- The bus terminal and taxi stand featured in the movie
Keta Wakamiya Shrine
- Access: A 15-minute walk from Hida Furukawa Station
- Highlights:
- The model for the “Miyamizu Shrine” in “Itomori Town” where Mitsuha lives
Hida City Library
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Hida Furukawa Station
- Highlights:
- The scene where Taki researches “Itomori Town”
Bus Stop (Miyagawa-cho Ochiai, Hida City)
- Access: A 10-minute walk from JR Takayama Main Line, Kogawa Station
- Highlights:
- The scene where Taki goes searching for Mitsuha
Enjoy a journey through the world of “Your Name” by visiting these sacred sites. Remember to follow the rules and respect local customs when visiting.
