A video has been completed of the event held in Taiji on Earth Day, April 22nd.

It's been three years since I started Project ANIMA, and I'm really glad I didn't give up and kept going until now.

Every year, as I watch this video, I feel like my emotions and judgments are being stripped away, and the ceremony is becoming more authentic.

It's not that the energy of "opposition" has completely disappeared from within me,

Something inside me is starting to melt



It's not about what you do, but the energy you use to express and act.

I feel that this is gradually changing how it is reflected in the outside world.

This year, Shu, a Japanese cameraman, took and edited the footage.


Perhaps it's because he's Japanese, but as a foreigner, I felt that this video truly expressed the beauty and depth of Japan since ancient times.

The words of Mr. Okano, who has been supporting the project since last year, resonate with me.


"Prayer means that everything is connected, that we are connected to everything."


I felt that this one phrase expressed what I wanted to express through ANIMA and why I continue to hold this ceremony.

"Hey, let's all start remembering."

Everything is connected. Everything is circulating. The sea, the earth, humans, nature, our lives, and the lives of the sea.


Last week, Paul Watson of Sea Shepard was arrested on charges filed in Japan. He's a warrior of battle.

I have made it my life's mission to protect the life of the sea.

Although Paul Watson is treated as a criminal in Japan, I really respect him.

No matter how different his approach was from mine, I felt the depth of his love for the sea.

He often says, "If the ocean dies, we die too."

The ocean may seem like a distant presence in our daily lives, but it supports all life on this planet.

Mother Ocean, perhaps it's time to remember the majesty and love of her existence.

Artists who supported this year's ceremony, Everyone who participated in the crowdfunding campaign, Grass Boat Weavers who wove the boat of light.
I express my heartfelt gratitude

We look forward to your continued support.