by The upcoming animated feature The Keeper of the Camphor Tree, opening nationwide in Japan on January 30, marks a historic milestone: it is the first-ever anime adaptation of a novel by bestselling author Keigo Higashino. Known worldwide for tightly constructed mystery novels and emotionally grounded human dramas, Higashino’s works have long been adapted into live-action films and TV dramas—but never animation.
Why anime, and why now? We spoke with director Tomohiko Ito, known for titles such as Sword Art Online the Movie: Ordinal Scale and HELLO WORLD, to uncover the creative philosophy, challenges, and ambitions behind this bold project.
A Surprising but Natural Choice: Why Higashino, Why Anime?
At first glance, adapting a Keigo Higashino novel into anime may seem unexpected. His stories are often grounded in realism, subtle emotions, and mystery rather than spectacle. However, Ito explains that the idea originated when Aniplex began exploring the possibility of bringing Higashino’s works into animation.
While Ito had been familiar with Higashino primarily through live-action adaptations, his perspective changed when he read “The Keeper of the Camphor Tree.”
“This novel stood out because it already contained elements of fantasy,” Ito explains. “At its core, it’s still a human drama, but the camphor tree itself carries a sense of the mystical. I felt it could be expressed in animation in a way that live action simply couldn’t.”
This balance—fantasy woven delicately into realism—made the novel an ideal candidate for anime.
The Story at a Glance (Beginner-Friendly Overview)
The Keeper of the Camphor Tree is a quiet yet powerful story centered on:
- A sacred camphor tree that has received countless prayers over generations
- A young man who becomes its reluctant guardian
- The human connections, regrets, and hopes that gather around the tree
Rather than focusing on action or conflict, the film explores how memories, grief, and redemption are passed from one generation to another.
The Three Creative Pillars of the Film
Ito reveals that the entire production was guided by three core pillars:
1. A Human Drama with Gentle Fantasy
Fantasy and mystery serve as entry points, but the heart of the story lies in human emotion. The supernatural elements exist to deepen empathy, not distract from it.
2. A Quiet, Artistic Visual Style
Unlike many modern anime films, this work intentionally avoids flashy action. Instead, it leans into artistic animation, atmospheric backgrounds, and carefully paced storytelling.
3. A “Cool Older Woman” as a Central Presence
A key character, Yanagisawa Senshu (voiced by Yuki Amami), embodies calm strength rather than exaggerated toughness—a rarity in anime.
Creating a “Giant Camphor Tree” Only Anime Can Achieve
One of the film’s most striking features is the camphor tree itself.
- In the novel, its size is left ambiguous
- In the anime, it becomes monumental—around 40–50 meters tall
Art director Hiroshi Takiguchi designed the tree to stand alone in an open shrine space, enhancing its symbolic presence.
“In live action, you’re limited by real forests and real trees,” Ito laughs. “In animation, we can remove trees, expand space, and create something mythic.”
The result is a visual centerpiece that feels both sacred and otherworldly.
Breaking from Commercial Anime Norms
To emphasize artistry, Ito brought in independent animators—some better known for art animation than commercial TV anime. Watercolor-style sequences seen in trailers reflect this experimental approach.
“Because it’s a Keigo Higashino work, I didn’t want it to look like a ‘standard anime film,’” Ito says. “I wanted to challenge the boundaries.”
Character Design Inspired by Real Actors
Character design was handled by Tsubasa Yamaguchi (Blue Period). Ito specifically chose Yamaguchi for her ability to portray nuanced, mature characters.
- Senshu was inspired by Tilda Swinton
- Masakazu Yanagisawa by Al Pacino
- Katsushige Yanagisawa by Ma Dong-seok
This cinematic influence gives the characters a grounded, international feel.
Thoughtful Casting Choices
- Fumiya Takahashi as Reito Naoi: chosen for his ability to portray a “pathetic yet lovable” protagonist
- Yuki Amami as Senshu: personally invited by Ito via letter
- Asuka Saito impressed instantly at audition with her natural voice tone
These choices reinforce the film’s commitment to realism and emotional restraint.
Music That Unlocks Memories
Composer Yugo Kanno was asked to first create a simple piano melody—a theme meant to “unlock memories.”
Ito describes it as music that gently lifts emotional barriers, much like a familiar song from one’s past.
The State of Anime Films Today—and Why This One Matters
Ito acknowledges that while franchise films dominate the box office, standalone, original anime films face growing challenges.
“Action-heavy films attract staff easily. But animators who can carefully portray everyday life are becoming rare—and incredibly valuable.”
He believes projects like The Keeper of the Camphor Tree are essential to preserving that craft.
Global Ambitions and Overseas Expansion
The film’s international sales rights have been acquired by French company Charades, signaling strong overseas interest. After pandemic-related limitations affected HELLO WORLD, Ito is eager to bring this film to international audiences.
Why You Should Watch This Film
According to Ito, this is a movie best experienced calmly and attentively.
“I think it will make many people cry. It’s the kind of film that stays with you long after you leave the theater.”
Film Information
Title: The Keeper of the Camphor Tree
Release Date: January 30 (Japan)
Original Novel: Keigo Higashino (Jitsugyo no Nihon Sha Bunko)
Director: Tomohiko Ito
Animation Production: A-1 Pictures / Psyde Kick Studio
Distribution: Aniplex
Theme Song: “By My Side, Moonlit Night” by Uru
Final Thoughts
The Keeper of the Camphor Tree is not just a historic first for Keigo Higashino—it is a statement about what anime can achieve beyond action and spectacle. By focusing on human emotion, artistic expression, and quiet storytelling, this film opens a new path for literary anime adaptations.
For fans of thoughtful cinema, literary fiction, or emotionally resonant animation, this is one anime film you won’t want to miss.
