Wanderlee is a weekly email from Akina Marie about finding the magic in the little things. Feel free to share excerpts from this newsletter with someone you think might enjoy it. Thank you for being here!
Hi Friends!
So, here it is – I FINALLY got into anime. I know, I know.
I’m half Japanese and watched some anime growing up, but I never got into it as much as my friends. Sure, I grew up watching Sailor Moon, Pokemon, and these guys, but I could never commit to the long series and often, complex worlds.
As I am trying to connect more with my roots, I dove into a new series this week – Stein’s;Gate 🪐. It’s still highly regarded as one of the best anime series of the 2010s.
Did you know? 💭
The first serialized Japanese anime is Astro Boy, which aired in 1963.
The anime Sazae-san has over 7,000 episodes and even won the Guinness World Record for the longest running anime🏅
The 31st episode of Space Brothers, real-life astronaut Akihiko Hoshide made a guest appearance and recorded his part in space.
While working at an internet cafe, creator of Attack on Titans, Isayama Hajime encountered a drunk customer who gave him the idea of “titans.”
Miyazaki Hayao’s Spirited Away (2001) won an Academy Award.
On a side note, why does food in anime look so good? 🤤
Anime attractions
👺 Calling all Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan Fans
Although many of these attractions are seasonal, Universal Studios Japan knows how to do it big, especially in 2022. The amusement park offers VR rides, souvenirs, and anime-inspired food from the popular series Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan.
🍥 Naruto Theme Park
Wow, this is a thing? I didn’t know this, but here’s an inside look!
🐱 All things, Hello Kitty
There’s a place in Japan for all things Hello Kitty. Sanrio Puroland first opened in 1990 and features parades, attractions, and meet and greets with all your Sanrio favorites, including Little Twin Stars, Pochacco, and Badtz-Maru.
🌱 Ghibli Museum
The museum is one of the most popular attractions in Japan and tickets sell out pretty quickly. On the exclusive tour, you’ll see the magical elements designed by mastermind Miyazaki Hayao from his original production sketches to a screening of a Ghibli film only released at the museum.
☕️ Cafe Feature: Gundam Cafe – Tokyo, Japan
This restaurant entertainment experience features fun Gundam-inspired meals and of course, latte art. When I went on tour with Guam-based metal band Surrender the Thief, best believe the boys and I visited this cafe about three times.
Until next week, thanks for reading!
Much love,
Akina