Anime

Kamekame Dance

Miho Matsuba sings the cheerful pop song "Kamekame Dance" in a music video produced for NHK's long-running program Minna no Uta. The video presents a simple, colorful visual style that matches the song's playful rhythm and catchy melody. A young girl is shown dancing joyfully through various everyday settings, her movements becoming more energetic as the music progresses. As the song continues, the girl's dance becomes a central focus, with the animation emphasizing the fun and freedom of movement. The lyrics encourage listeners to let go and enjoy the moment, creating a lighthearted atmosphere that invites viewers to join in the dance. The video captures the essence of childhood innocence

Kimi wo ugatsu

A young woman lives a quiet, isolated life, spending her days in a small, dimly lit room. She feels a deep sense of emptiness and disconnection from the world around her, unable to find meaning or purpose. Her only solace comes from the music that occasionally fills her space, offering a fleeting escape from her solitude. One day, she discovers a mysterious hole in her wall, which seems to connect her to another person's reality. Through this small opening, she begins to observe fragments of someone else's life, sparking a strange curiosity and a desire to reach out. As she becomes more drawn to this hidden connection, she must confront her own fears and the barriers she has built around he

Kappa

Kappa, water imps, have long been a part of Japanese folklore, believed to inhabit rivers and lakes. They appear in paintings, sculptures, and stories, and some people claimed to have seen them. By the 20th century, Japan's rapid industrialization transformed the natural landscape. Reclaimed lakes, concrete riverbanks, and chemical runoff destroyed the habitats of fish, insects, birds, and animals—including the kappa. This film vividly depicts the waterside scenes of Japan when kappa still lived there, suggesting that if environmental pollution is prevented, there might still be a chance to see them.

36 Characters

The New Doorbell

Amawarashi

On a rainy morning, a child steps out into the wet streets, where the world glistens under the gray sky. The gentle patter of raindrops sets a quiet, reflective mood as the child walks alone, observing puddles and the shimmering reflections of the city. Suddenly, a small, mysterious figure appears—a rain spirit or a being of water—that seems to emerge from the rain itself. This ethereal entity interacts with the child, creating a brief but profound connection that feels both magical and fleeting. The encounter unfolds in a series of delicate, wordless moments, where the child and the spirit share a simple act of kindness or play. The rain becomes a medium for this miracle, washing away the

The Dark

A music video brings to life the song "Kurayami" by Kozue Saito and Dark Ducks, originally broadcast as part of NHK's Minna no Uta program. The visuals accompany the melancholic melody, creating a brief but evocative experience that captures the mood of the music through its imagery. The short film explores the emotional landscape of the song, using animation to convey themes of darkness and longing. It offers a glimpse into a world where sound and image merge, leaving a lasting impression despite its short runtime.

Don Quixote

A lone knight, Don Quixote, rides across the Spanish plains, his mind filled with chivalric ideals. Accompanied by his loyal squire Sancho Panza, he sets out on a quest to right wrongs and defend the helpless, seeing windmills as giants and inns as castles. As Don Quixote's delusions clash with reality, his noble intentions lead to a series of humorous and chaotic encounters. His unwavering belief in his quest challenges the world around him, blurring the line between madness and heroism.

Arigatou

A young girl walks through a serene countryside, observing the beauty of nature and the kindness of people around her. She reflects on the simple joys of life, from the warmth of the sun to the smiles of strangers, as a gentle melody accompanies her journey. The music video, animated by Nanke Kouji, visualizes the song "Arigatou" by Keiko Utsumi, originally featured on NHK's Minna no Uta program. Through soft, hand-drawn animation, it captures a sense of gratitude and nostalgia, portraying everyday moments that evoke a quiet appreciation for the world.

Off Stage

Under the light of a shooting star, birds deliver dreams to those who are sleeping. A song about these birds and their nightly journey unfolds, capturing the quiet magic of the moment as they carry hopes and visions to dreamers below. The story follows the gentle flight of these creatures through the night sky, their mission both mysterious and tender. As the birds traverse the darkness, they encounter the delicate balance between reality and fantasy, bringing comfort and wonder to those who slumber. The narrative explores the connection between dreams and the celestial world, where each dream is a gift from the stars.

Tenka Muteki no Gouyaaman★

In Okinawa, a stop-motion music video features Gouyaaman, a superhero made of bitter melon. He was originally a failed yuru-chara created to promote tourism to a struggling town, often the butt of jokes in the live-action TV series Churasan. Despite his initial failure, the TV series became unexpectedly popular, and Gouyaaman was revived as a real-life mascot. This short anime follows his adventures as a bitter melon hero, showcasing his quirky charm through a music video format.

Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo

In 1962, NHK's Minna no Uta program aired a short music video for the song "Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo" performed by the vocal group Three Graces. The piece was a whimsical, animated interpretation of the classic Disney tune, likely featuring simple, colorful visuals typical of early Japanese television animation. It was one of many short clips produced for the long-running musical segment, designed to accompany popular songs of the era. The video is now considered lost media. No known copies of the original broadcast are believed to survive, as NHK did not systematically archive such segments at the time. Its disappearance has turned it into a minor curiosity among anime historians and lost media

A A B C

Mieko Hirota and the vocal group Vocal Shop perform the upbeat song "A A B C" in a short music video created for NHK's Minna no Uta program. The piece features the artists singing and dancing to a catchy, rhythmic tune, with simple visual effects and colorful backgrounds that capture the playful spirit of 1960s Japanese television. The song's lyrics revolve around the alphabet, turning a basic learning exercise into a lively musical experience. As the performers move through the letters, the video emphasizes repetition and melody, making it both entertaining and educational. The production relies on straightforward camerawork and minimal editing to highlight the performers' energy and the s

Oh Pilseung Korea

A music video for the song "Oh Pilseung Korea" by the Japanese rock band B-DASH. The animation brings the energetic track to life with vibrant visuals and dynamic sequences that capture the spirit of competition and national pride. The video follows a group of athletes from various sports as they train and compete with determination. Through fast-paced cuts and stylized animation, it portrays the highs and lows of athletic pursuit, from intense practice sessions to triumphant moments of victory. As the song builds to its anthemic chorus, the animation shifts to showcase the athletes coming together in a display of unity and perseverance. The music video serves as a celebration of sportsman

Yuuki no Hana ga Hiraku Toki: Yanase Takashi to Anpanman no Monogatari

Takashi Yanase, a struggling artist and poet, finds himself in a difficult period after World War II, burdened by poverty and the loss of his brother. Despite these hardships, he dedicates himself to creating picture books that can bring joy to children. His wife, Chiyo, supports him through these challenging times, believing in his talent and vision. Driven by a desire to create a character that embodies selflessness and courage, Yanase eventually conceives Anpanman, a superhero whose head is made of anpan (a sweet bean-filled bread). The story follows Yanase's journey of perseverance and creativity, exploring how personal tragedy and unwavering hope led to the birth of one of Japan's most

Spring Day

A young woman finds herself in a quiet, everyday moment that feels suspended in time. The soft light of a spring day illuminates her surroundings as she goes about her routine, accompanied by the gentle melody of a song. As the music video unfolds, the boundary between reality and memory begins to blur. The woman reflects on fleeting emotions and the passage of time, capturing the bittersweet beauty of a single day that holds more meaning than it first appears.

Ukare Violin

A boy and a girl work together on a farm, where the boy often takes breaks to play his violin. His music brings joy to the girl and the farm animals, who gather to listen. The melodies lift their spirits and make the hard labor more bearable. One day, the cruel farm owner discovers the boy playing and, in a fit of anger, smashes the violin to pieces. Heartbroken and without his only source of comfort, the boy wanders off in despair. On his way, he encounters a witch disguised as a donkey. With nothing else to offer, he gives her his only food—stale bread. Touched by his kindness, the grateful witch grants him one wish, setting the stage for a magical turn of events.

Shan Shantian Tianjian

In a fantasy world where everyone retains animal features while living as humans, novelist Su Bai visits the terraced mountain village of his good friend Avena Nanxia. There, he meets the lively and lovely Cu Nian Nian. Together, they engage in farming, picking, eating, and fishing, enjoying the simple yet joyful daily life in the mountains and fields. As Su Bai seeks inspiration for his next book, he discovers the charm of this peaceful, half-orc community.

Dreaming White

White is a little creature who lives alone in a quiet atelier. One day, she feels a deep longing for the vivid colors that seem to be missing from her world. Driven by curiosity and a desire for brightness, she decides to leave her familiar home and venture into the unknown. As White explores the world outside, she encounters a series of strange and wonderful landscapes. Her journey becomes a search for the vibrant hues she craves, leading her through dreamlike environments that test her courage and resolve.

goodbye, bicycle

A young woman breaks up with her lover and, the very next day, falls from her bicycle. As she lies on the ground, her bicycle tire spins like a revolving lantern, triggering a flood of memories and emotions. The accident becomes a catalyst for introspection, forcing her to confront the pain of the breakup and the fragments of her past relationship. Through this quiet, psychological journey, she begins to process her loss and find a way to move forward.

Na Nian Na Tu Naxie Shir 2

While the Crows Weeps

In a world shrouded in mist before dawn, crows are said to mourn the dead. A crow, aware of souls and their passing, carries the memories of those who have departed. As the fog deepens, the boundaries between life and death blur, and the crow becomes a witness to the cycle of existence. Through its eyes, we see the inheritance of life and the echoes of loss. The crow's journey intertwines with the fates of others, exploring themes of memory, mortality, and the quiet beauty of transition.

Xing Mao Lixian Ji: Shufa Pian

Star Cat is a curious and adventurous feline who loves exploring the world around him. Together with his loyal friends, he embarks on a journey filled with discovery and excitement, where every corner of their vibrant land holds new secrets to uncover. One day, a mysterious force begins to disrupt the harmony of their home, causing strange events that threaten the balance of nature. Star Cat and his companions must use their courage, intelligence, and the ancient art of calligraphy to unravel the mystery. As they delve deeper into the heart of the conflict, they learn that true strength comes from friendship, perseverance, and understanding the wisdom of the past. Each challenge they face b

Shui Tun Tang Guan

A passionate Aries woman who is also a capybara runs a bathhouse in a cozy corner of the animal world. Her warm and attentive service quickly attracts the surrounding animals, who come to relax and soak in the soothing waters. The bathhouse becomes a place where friendships bloom and everyday troubles seem to melt away. As the twelve zodiac animals gather at the bathhouse, each brings their own quirks and problems. From misunderstandings to small crises, the capybara owner helps her guests overcome their difficulties with patience and kindness. Hilarious and heartwarming moments unfold daily, turning the bathhouse into a haven of laughter and camaraderie.

Konglong Baobei: Longshen Yongshi 3

In a prehistoric world, a group of young warriors bond with ancient dinosaurs to protect the balance of nature. Each warrior is chosen by a dinosaur partner, forming a powerful team known as the Dragon God Warriors. When a dark force threatens to plunge the land into chaos, the Dragon God Warriors must embark on a perilous journey to find the legendary Dragon God artifacts. Along the way, they face fierce battles and uncover secrets that test their courage and friendship.

AOTU Xueyuan 2

Bingxue Zhi Yue

A group of young athletes from diverse backgrounds come together with a shared dream of competing in the Winter Olympics. They train rigorously in various winter sports, facing personal challenges and forging deep bonds along the way. As the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics approach, the athletes must overcome intense competition, injuries, and the pressure of representing their nations. Their journey tests their determination and friendship, pushing them to strive for excellence on the world's biggest stage.

Seer 8

Huaguo Shan Zhuan

The legend of Flower Fruit Mountain has long circulated throughout the Three Realms, telling of how the Great Sage Equaling Heaven, Sun Wukong, fought the world-destroying demon, the Six-Eared Macaque, to protect the peace of the Three Realms, ultimately perishing together. But is this truly the case? Who spread this rumor? What lies behind it? And where did the vanished Sun Wukong go? As questions arise, the truth behind the myth begins to unravel, revealing a deeper conflict and hidden schemes that threaten the very fabric of the realms.

Otousan no Kutsu

Mimi, the youngest of four sisters, eagerly awaits her father's return home for her birthday. He is a fisherman who has been away at sea for a long time, and she is overjoyed at the prospect of celebrating with him. Her excitement turns to despair when she receives a phone call informing her that her father has been in a serious accident. Faced with the sudden crisis, the four sisters are desperate to save their father. A miracle occurs, setting them on an overnight adventure that will test their bonds and courage. Together, they must overcome obstacles to reach him before it is too late.

Mein Family Daily

In a beautiful and strange island far out at sea, there is no division between righteousness and evil, nor thrilling battles. Here lives a group of locals who sometimes help each other and sometimes cause trouble, but each one has a legendary past. This is the peach blossom source of the second dimension world, where the Meiying family resides. As the inhabitants go about their daily lives, their pasts begin to surface, bringing both harmony and chaos to the island. With each character's unique background, the peaceful yet quirky community must navigate the challenges that arise from their intertwined histories.

Gei Wo Lai Ge Xiao Heshang

In a world inhabited by monsters, a little fox lives an unnoticed and monotonous life, going through each day without much excitement. His routine is completely turned upside down when he crosses paths with Mantou, a round-headed little monk with a cheerful and innocent personality. Despite their differences, the two quickly form an unlikely bond, and their friendship becomes the center of their world. Together, the little fox and Mantou embark on a series of heartwarming and hilarious everyday adventures. From sharing simple meals to exploring their magical surroundings, each moment is filled with warmth, laughter, and mutual care. Their bond grows stronger as they face small challenges an

Text Complex

A young girl harbors an intense dislike for the Japanese hiragana character "hee." The mere sight of it fills her with irritation and unease. Her world is turned upside down when she is suddenly transported to a parallel realm where this very syllabary lives a vibrant and spectacular existence. In this strange new world, the hiragana letters are alive, each with its own personality and purpose. The girl must confront her deep-seated aversion and navigate this fantastical society, where music and emotion intertwine with the written word. As she interacts with the living characters, she begins to uncover the hidden beauty and meaning behind the symbol she once despised.

essay in the desert

In a vast desert, a young woman lives alone in a small house, spending her days reading and writing. Her only companion is a mysterious black cat that appears from time to time. She fills notebooks with her thoughts and observations, creating an essay of her solitary existence. One day, she discovers a strange object buried in the sand, which sets her on a journey to uncover the secrets of the desert. As she explores the endless dunes, she encounters surreal landscapes and fleeting memories, blurring the line between reality and imagination.

illuminate

A young girl lives alone in a small house surrounded by a vast, desolate landscape. She spends her days tending to a single flower that blooms in the barren soil, nurturing it with care and attention. The flower's gentle glow provides her with comfort and purpose in an otherwise empty world. One day, a mysterious boy appears, drawn by the light of the flower. As they begin to interact, the girl must decide whether to share her precious bloom or protect it from the unknown. Their encounter brings change to her solitary existence, challenging her understanding of connection and loss.

Picnic

A music video brings the song "Picnic" by The Wells to life. The visuals accompany the cheerful tune as it plays on NHK's Minna no Uta program. The animation creates a lighthearted and whimsical atmosphere, matching the song's playful melody. The video presents a simple, joyful narrative that follows the song's lyrics. It captures a sense of carefree fun and the spirit of a picnic, with characters engaging in activities that evoke happiness and togetherness. The short piece serves as a visual interpretation of the music.

Kanjigram

A video work inspired by the meaning, form, and origin of kanji characters. Using stop-motion animation, it reinterprets and archives the essence of these written symbols, focusing on the likeness drawn out by the imagination. The project began with the realization that the true nature of kanji lies in the imagery they evoke. Through meticulous animation, each character is brought to life, exploring the connection between its visual structure and the concept it represents.

Furimukeba Kaeru

A music video for the song "Furimukeba Kaeru" by Akiko Yano, featured on the NHK program Minna no Uta. The animation, created by Sadao Tsukioka, brings the cheerful tune to life with colorful and whimsical visuals. The video follows a playful frog as it explores a vibrant world, hopping through various scenes that mirror the song's lively rhythm. The frog's adventures are filled with simple joys and unexpected encounters, capturing the lighthearted spirit of the music.

Natsu wa Kinu

A music video accompanies the song "Natsu wa Kinu" performed by the Yurigaoka Children's Chorus. The piece was originally featured on NHK's Minna no Uta program, a long-running series that showcases animated or live-action visuals set to songs. The video presents a visual interpretation of the song's themes, likely evoking the arrival of summer through its imagery. As the chorus sings, the animation illustrates the changing season and the feelings associated with it.

Ichiban Kirei na Hoshi

A young boy gazes up at the night sky and wonders about the most beautiful star. He learns that this star has the power to grant wishes to those who look up and believe in it. The star shines brightly, encouraging everyone to make a wish and hold onto their dreams. As the boy shares this discovery with others, he finds that not everyone believes in the star's magic. Some are too busy or skeptical to stop and look up. The boy must find a way to remind people of the wonder and hope that the star represents, before they forget how to dream.