Two young manga artists win contest to live in Osamu Tezuka’s old Tokyo neighbourhood

by Chris MaGee

It was only last week that we reported on how the works of manga and anime “god” Osamu Tezuka had inspired a new multi-media dance performance. Now, only a few days later there is word of how Tezuka is still profoundly influencing young manga artists 22-years after his death.

During the early years of his manga career Tezuka shared an apartment in Tokyo’s Toshima Ward with fellow manga artists Shotaro Ishinomori (Kamen Rider) and Fujio Akatsuka (Osomatsu-kun) . This apartment, known as Tokiwa-so, was used by manga artists from 1952 through 1982 as a place to work and exchange ideas. Sadly, this cultural landmark was demolished in ‘82, but now a trio of lucky manga artists have gotten the chance to rekindle those glory days of manga past.

Recently the Toshima Ward office ran a contest for manga artists to live, if not in the original Tokiwa-so, then at least as close as possible. Three winners, 28-year-old Edasaku, 23-year-old Kentaro Fukuda, both aspiring manga artists, have won the chance to live in an apartment across from the original site of the Tokiwa-so with established manga artist Kenichi Kiriki (Chijō Saisoku Seishun Takkyu Pūyan). This trio will see if the same creative spark can be captured again in the apartment that is dubbed the Shiun-so. We wish them the best of luck, and much inspiration, in their new home!

Thanks to Anime News Network for this news.