For anime-aficionados across the nation, a little weekend getaway to Okinawa may be the perfect way to spend this coming Sunday.
The Okinawa International Animation Contents Summit allows visitors to participate in a series of anime-related events, including a museum that features the works of scriptwriter Tetsuo Kinjo, an Okinawa native known for creating the famed "Ultraman" television series. Or if guests want to opt for some academic enlightenment, they can attend a symposium that attempts to tackle various thought-provoking anime discussions.
With an additional ticket purchase, visitors can also enjoy a concert starring some top-ranking voice actresses. These include Rica Matsumoto and Aya Hirano, who are famous for their leading roles in "Pokemon," and "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya" respectively. Other high-profile appearances include pop-singer Yoko Takahashi, whose recognition among anime fans soared after she performed the opening theme song to the series "Neon Genesis Evangelion."
The event is part of a local government-subsidized initiative called "Okinawa Genki Project," which kicked off in 2010 with a view to attracting more tourists.
Okinawa International Animation Contents Summit takes place at Okinawa Kariyushi Urban Resort in Naha on Feb. 19. Tickets cost ¥1,300 (the concert costs an extra ¥4,000). For more information, call (098) 860-2111 or visit www.kariyushi.co.jp/anime_contents_summit/index.html.
