As the fifth anniversary of the Kyoto Animation arson attack approaches, the memorial monument "Kokorozashi wo Tsunagu Hi" (Monument Connecting Aspirations) has been erected in "Ocha to Uji no Machi Rekishi Park" in Uji City, Kyoto. A dedication ceremony was held on the 13th to mark its installation.

On July 18, 2019, Kyoto Animation’s first studio in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City, was set on fire using gasoline in broad daylight, resulting in the tragic loss of 36 lives.

Rather than serving as a simple memorial, the "Kokorozashi wo Tsunagu Hi" symbolizes the continuation of the aspirations of those 36 individuals and all who were affected by the incident. It embodies the prayers and support received from around the world, along with gratitude and hopes for the future.

The design features 36 birds representing the aspirations of the deceased, symbolizing "dreams expanding infinitely through animation" and "our unending flight towards the future." The monument was created by a team from Tokyo University of the Arts.

Uji City, where Kyoto Animation is headquartered, accepted the wishes of those involved and decided to install the monument in "Ocha to Uji no Machi Rekishi Park." The city requests that visitors refrain from placing flowers or offerings to ensure the monument can be enjoyed by all for many years.

Monument Inscription

Dreams and Passion Passed from Person to Person

Dreams expanding infinitely through animation The skill and deep emotions cultivated over many years in drawing a single line Reliable images and stories reaching children and all generations Broadcasting from here in Uji, Kyoto, to the world Our unending flight towards the future

This monument was established in July 2024 by colleagues, families, and supporters to commemorate the aspirations of the 36 individuals who lost their lives in the Kyoto Animation Studio 1 incident on July 18, 2019, symbolized by 36 birds, ensuring their memory endures.

Source : ORICON NEWS