Animes in Mie Prefecture
Nagi-asu: A Lull in the Sea
“Nagi-Asu: A Lull in the Sea” is a poignant and beautifully animated series that weaves a tale of love, friendship, and the complexities of coexistence between two distinct worlds: the sea village of Shioshishio and the surface. Set in a fictional world, the anime captures the essence of the intricate relationship between sea-dwellers and humans living on the surface. While the specific setting of Shioshishio and the surface town is imaginary, the series evokes the rich cultural and natural beauty reminiscent of coastal areas in the Tokai region, specifically Mie Prefecture. Mie, known for its stunning coastlines, sacred sites, and the deeply revered Ise Grand Shrine, mirrors the anime’s thematic emphasis on tradition, the sacredness of nature, and the bonds that tie communities together. “Nagi-Asu: A Lull in the Sea” beautifully explores themes of change, adaptation, and the bridging of divides, much like the coexistence of the traditional and the modern seen in Mie. The anime’s captivating depiction of underwater and surface worlds, with their breathtaking visuals and emotional depth, resonates with the tranquil beauty and rich cultural tapestry of Mie Prefecture, making it a fitting parallel to the show’s enchanting narrative.
Basilisk
“Basilisk” is a riveting anime series that intricately portrays the intense conflict between two legendary ninja clans: the Iga and the Kouga. Set against the backdrop of the early 17th century, the storyline is ignited by a power struggle to determine the next Shogun, bringing the ancient feud between these clans to the forefront. The Iga clan, central to this tale, is historically rooted in the Iga region, now part of Mie Prefecture in the Tokai region of Japan. This area is celebrated for its significant contributions to the development of ninjutsu and the ninja way of life, making it an integral part of the ninja heritage.
The geographical and historical authenticity of the Iga clan’s connection to Mie Prefecture enriches “Basilisk” with a deep sense of place and tradition. The anime masterfully captures the essence of the era and the ninja culture, set against a landscape reminiscent of the rugged, mountainous terrain of Mie. This setting is not only pivotal for its historical accuracy but also for contributing to the atmospheric depth of the series, with its portrayal of dense forests, misty valleys, and traditional architecture that echo the real-world environment of the Iga region. Through “Basilisk,” viewers are transported into the heart of the ninja legacy, woven into the fabric of Mie Prefecture’s rich historical tapestry, where the saga of the Iga and Kouga clans unfolds with tragic beauty and compelling depth.