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Japan Anime News Edit by Satoru Shoji

Yoko Asagami Remembers Space Battleship Yamato Creators Leiji Matsumoto & Yoshinobu Nishizaki: "They Must Be Shaking Hands in the Sky"

Voice actress Yoko Asagami, known for portraying Yuki Mori in Space Battleship Yamato, attended the 50th Anniversary Commemorative Exhibition: Space Battleship Yamato Complete Record Exhibition, produced and planned by Hideaki Anno, in Tokyo on the 14th. During the event, she fondly remembered the series' creators, director Leiji Matsumoto and original planner Yoshinobu Nishizaki.


Hideaki Anno

Yoko Asagami at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition (C) ORICON NewS inc.


"It’s Hard to Believe It’s Been 50 Years"

Asagami reflected on the passage of time since the anime’s original broadcast:
“It’s been 50 years since that day, and to see this kind of occasion arrive is truly unbelievable. At the same time, it fills me with joy.”

She expressed her deep emotions about Space Battleship Yamato being revisited decades later and the lasting impact of the series.


Honoring the Legacy of Matsumoto and Nishizaki

Asagami also paid tribute to those who have passed away over the years, particularly the two key figures who were instrumental in bringing Space Battleship Yamato to life.

“If only Leiji Matsumoto-sensei (director) and Yoshinobu Nishizaki-sama (original planner) were here today, able to shake hands with us—how wonderful that would be. But I imagine that they must be shaking hands in the sky right now.”

She also mentioned the beloved characters of Space Battleship Yamato, adding:
“Kodai-kun, Shima-kun, Sanada-san, and even the Captain—I believe they are all watching over us.”


Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition

(From left) Keiichi Kosaka (representative of Tohokushinsha), Hideaki Anno, and Yoko Asagami at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition (C) ORICON NewS inc.


A Tribute from Hideaki Anno

Director Hideaki Anno, who planned and produced the exhibition, also participated in the event. At the end of his speech, he delivered a heartfelt message reminiscent of Space Battleship Yamato’s legendary Captain Okita:
“Thank you. That is all.”

His words deeply resonated with fans and attendees, reinforcing the timeless impact of the Space Battleship Yamato series.


Inside the 'Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition'

The exhibition showcases rare materials from the Anime Tokusatsu Archive Organization (ATAC), including previously unseen production documents, character and mechanical design sheets, original illustrations, and setting materials.

A large chronological timeline revisits the series' evolution, spanning from the original 1974 Yamato to its modern remakes. The exhibit also features nostalgic items such as original records, a 1/100 scale detailed model, and other memorabilia.


Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition

Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition (C) Tohokushinsha / General Supervision: Shoji Nishizaki (C) ORICON NewS inc.


Additionally, the exhibition includes a special section dedicated to the anime’s production process, featuring early concept art, cel animation, and rare behind-the-scenes footage. The event also offers exclusive merchandise and special activities for visitors.


Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition

Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition (C) Tohokushinsha / General Supervision: Shoji Nishizaki (C) ORICON NewS inc.


Event Details

The Space Battleship Yamato Complete Records Exhibition runs until the 31st at Seibu Shibuya in Tokyo.


Source : ORICON NEWS