by To support recovery efforts following the devastating Noto Peninsula earthquake, animation studio Infinite has released a special charity anime titled Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Project on YouTube. The project consists of two short animated works “Wajima Arc” and “Nanao Arc” both created with the goal of contributing to regional reconstruction and keeping the memories and culture of the area alive.
All profits generated from the YouTube videos will be donated directly to the reconstruction of the Noto Peninsula, making this project not only a creative endeavor but also a meaningful act of social support.
A Project Created to Support Earthquake Recovery
The Noto Peninsula earthquake struck on January 1, 2024, causing widespread damage across Ishikawa Prefecture and deeply affecting local communities. In response, Infinite launched this animation project as a way to contribute through storytelling—an approach that reflects the studio’s belief in the emotional power of animation.
By releasing the anime free to watch on YouTube, the creators aim to reach as many viewers as possible, encouraging both awareness and financial support for ongoing recovery efforts.
Two Stories, One Shared Hope: “Wajima Arc” and “Nanao Arc”
The anime is divided into two connected stories, each focusing on daily life, emotional recovery, and human connections after the disaster.
“Wajima Arc”
The first story follows Wakura Yuki, a high school student who was forced to leave her hometown of Wajima and relocate to Nanao after the earthquake. After a long absence, Yuki finally returns to Wajima, where she reunites with her close friend Kashima Tsumugi during a ride on the Noto Railway.
Through quiet conversations and familiar scenery, the episode gently explores themes of loss, nostalgia, and the courage required to return home after tragedy.
“Nanao Arc”
In the second part, the perspective is reversed. Tsumugi travels from Wajima to Nanao to attend a local festival where Yuki now lives. Against the backdrop of celebration and tradition, the two friends reconnect, sharing hopes for the future while acknowledging the changes brought by the earthquake.
Together, the two arcs present a balanced and heartfelt portrayal of life after disaster—neither overly dramatic nor detached, but grounded in everyday emotions.
Talented Cast Brings the Story to Life
The anime features a notable voice cast that adds emotional depth to the characters:
- Reina Ueda as Wakura Yuki
- Marika Takano as Kashima Tsumugi
- Mamiko Noto as Wakura Yoko
Their performances emphasize subtle emotions such as hesitation, warmth, and quiet determination, making the story accessible even for viewers new to anime.
Direction and Creative Vision
The project is directed by Kyohei Yamamoto, who also handled storyboards and character design. His minimalist yet expressive visual style allows the scenery of Ishikawa Prefecture to speak for itself, highlighting both its beauty and the scars left behind by the disaster.
Original character concepts were created by Fly, with the screenplay written by Toru Fujimoto. Music is provided by nano.RIPE, whose gentle and emotional compositions complement the reflective tone of the anime.
A Message from the Producer
Project planner and producer Takayuki Nagatani of Infinite shared a heartfelt message regarding the initiative:
“We would like to express our deepest condolences to everyone affected by the Noto Peninsula earthquake on January 1, 2024. The scenery of Ishikawa Prefecture that we once depicted in Hanasaku Iroha will never fade from our memories. However, the earthquake dramatically changed that scenery, and reconstruction remains only halfway complete.”
He emphasized that the project was created with support from many individuals, including local residents, and that Infinite intends to continue cooperating with reconstruction efforts moving forward.
“All profits from the YouTube videos will be donated to the reconstruction of the Noto Peninsula. We hope many people will watch and support the project. Above all, we sincerely hope that recovery progresses quickly and peaceful days return to the region.”
Staff and Production Details
Main Staff (titles omitted):
- Director / Storyboard / Character Design: Kyohei Yamamoto
- Original Character Concept: Fly
- Screenplay: Toru Fujimoto
- Color Design: Yurie Matsuura
- Art Director: Creep
- Director of Photography: Takashi Yanagida
- Editor: Akari Saito (Mishima Editing Office)
- Sound Director: Fumihiko Odera
- Sound Effects: Masami Baba
- Music: nano.RIPE
- Producer: Takayuki Nagatani (Infinite)
- Animation Producer: Kazuaki Oji
- Animation Production: ROLL2 × EVOLROAR
Why This Project Matters
For beginners and longtime anime fans alike, Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Project stands out because:
- It can be watched freely and easily on YouTube
- The story is simple, emotional, and grounded in reality
- It directly supports real-world disaster recovery
- It preserves regional culture through animation
Rather than focusing on spectacle, the project uses quiet storytelling to remind viewers that recovery is built on everyday connections and shared memories.
Final Thoughts
With the release of the “Wajima Arc” and “Nanao Arc,” Infinite has demonstrated how animation can serve not only as entertainment but also as a tool for healing and support. By blending heartfelt storytelling with a clear charitable purpose, Noto Peninsula Reconstruction Support Project offers viewers a meaningful way to engage with the ongoing recovery of the Noto Peninsula.
Watching and sharing the anime is a small but powerful step toward helping the region rebuild and ensuring its stories continue to be told.
