Studio Ghibli animators reunite for new film 'Ashita no Arika' marking Kobelco’s 120th anniversary

Two veteran Studio Ghibli animators have reunited to create a new film, Ashita no Arika, produced by Trash Studio for Japanese steel manufacturer Kobelco’s 120th anniversary. The 55-minute feature will premiere on the company’s official website on September 2 2025.

The project brings together Akihiko Yamashita, who worked on Howl’s Moving Castle, Spirited Away and The Boy and the Heron, and Yoshiharu Sato, whose credits include My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service and Porco Rosso.

Yamashita serves as storyboard artist and co-writer, while Sato acts as chief animation director and character designer. Yoichiro Kugimiya, founder of Trash Studio, is producing the animation.

Although Trash Studio is relatively new, it has produced recognisable work inspired by the Ghibli style, including the animated trailer for the video game The Wandering Village. Ashita no Arika marks one of the studio’s most ambitious undertakings to date.

The film tells the story of Kobelco’s history through two characters, Kino Asumi and Torasuke, who travel across time to witness pivotal moments in the company’s development.

According to the official trailer description: “Two people who should never have met meet after 120 years. When intersecting feelings connect, a new future begins to move forward.”

The narrative highlights Kobelco’s challenges and transformations, with a focus on the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995, which devastated its Kobe headquarters and steelworks. The event became a turning point for the company, shifting its identity from a steelmaker to a broader manufacturing enterprise.

With its release, Ashita no Arika aims to preserve and convey Kobelco’s legacy for future generations while showcasing the craftsmanship of animators who helped define the Studio Ghibli era.