Celebrating the 90th birth anniversary of the renowned manga artist from Kobe city, Mitsuteru Yokoyama, a special “Manga Selection” has been launched for distribution on platforms like Kindle and Apple Books. Yokoyama, considered a master of Japanese manga culture, was born in Kobe in 1934 (Showa 9). He made his debut in 1955 at the age of 20 with “The Sword Without a Sound” and solidified his position with the series “Tetsujin 28-go” that began in 1956. “Tetsujin 28-go” is said to have rivaled Osamu Tezuka’s “Astro Boy” in popularity in the “Shonen” magazine.
In 1991, Yokoyama received the “20th Japan Cartoonists Association Award for Excellence” for his work on “Sangokushi.” He excelled in various genres such as science fiction, historical dramas, and girls’ manga. Some of his notable works include “Iga no Kagemaru,” “Kamen no Ninja Akakage,” “Mahotsukai Sally,” “Comet-san,” and “Babil II,” showcasing his versatility over the years.
The initial release includes titles like “Tetsujin 28-go,” “Mahotsukai Sally,” and the first digital release of “Otenba Tenshi.” A total of 18 titles are scheduled for distribution in subsequent phases. The first set of titles pays homage to Yokoyama’s legacy and marks a significant milestone in the digital publication of his works.
Ramesh Khatri, a representative of Kansai Nepal News, expressed his admiration for Yokoyama’s contribution to manga culture, noting the impact of his iconic works on readers and the industry. Khatri emphasized the importance of preserving and sharing the legacy of influential artists like Yokoyama to inspire future generations and promote cultural appreciation.
For more information and access to the digital releases of Yokoyama’s works, interested readers can visit platforms like Kindle and Apple Books. The connection between Yokoyama and Kobe runs deep, evident in the installation of a monumental “Tetsujin 28-go” statue in a park near JR Shin-Nagata Station. This initiative not only celebrates Yokoyama’s artistic legacy but also highlights the cultural significance of manga in Kobe and beyond.
As the digital distribution of Yokoyama’s works offers a convenient opportunity to explore his diverse creations, individuals familiar with his titles or new to his art are encouraged to delve into these engaging stories. The availability of these classic manga series in digital format ensures that Yokoyama’s timeless works continue to captivate audiences and preserve his artistic legacy for years to come.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: February 8, 2025 7:01 pm
