Japanese animation maestro Shinichiro Watanabe, renowned for classics like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo, has sung praises for the burgeoning animation scene in the Chinese mainland during his first-ever visit to the country. Watanabe was captivated not only by the rich culinary delights—exclaiming, “Chinese soup is fantastic, truly impressive”—but also by the vibrant energy and creativity permeating China’s animation industry.
“I am deeply impressed by the passion and talent of Chinese animators,” Watanabe shared. “There’s a unique energy here that’s incredibly inspiring.” The director expressed a keen interest in collaborating with Chinese artists, saying he is eager to work together on future projects that can resonate with audiences worldwide.
In an era where 3D technology dominates the animation landscape, Watanabe remains a steadfast advocate for traditional hand-drawn animation. He passionately encouraged aspiring animators to pursue their dreams without hesitation. “If someone has a dream of becoming a hand-drawn animator, or wants to complete a work using hand-drawing, then I highly recommend they pursue this path,” he urged. “Don’t hesitate; take that crucial first step! I firmly believe that hand-drawn animation will not die out.”
Watanabe’s visit highlights the growing ties between Japanese and Chinese animation industries, signaling a promising future for collaborative works that blend the best of both worlds. His enthusiasm has sparked excitement among young animators in the Chinese mainland, who look forward to potential mentorship and partnership opportunities.
The legendary director’s acknowledgment of China’s animation prowess not only boosts the industry’s morale but also encourages a cultural exchange that can lead to groundbreaking achievements in the world of animation.
