Oishinbo｜Anime

2024.09.20

Oishinbo” is a long-running anime about Japanese food culture that was broadcast from 1988 to 1992. Based on the manga of the same name written by Tetsu Kaiya and drawn by Akira Hanasaki, the series began in 1983. The original story was serialized in “Big Comic Spirits” and has been supported by a wide range of generations. The anime version is also extremely popular and is loved by many anime fans in Japan and abroad.

The animation is directed by Shinji Mizushima, who has worked on a variety of hits. His meticulous direction skillfully expresses the characters’ passion for food. Unlike other anime, this production features a unique theme centered on food, giving viewers a deep understanding of Japanese food culture.

Synopsis

The protagonist of Oishinbo is journalist Shirō Yamaoka. He has a deep knowledge of traditional Japanese food culture, but is a bit sloppy and overbearing. His rival is his strict, perfectionist father, Yūzan Kaibara, and the story centers on their feud.

The story follows Shirō as he explores the ingredients and cuisines of various regions of Japan while working on his “Ultimate Menu” project at a newspaper company. Along the way, he learns deeply about the essence of Japanese cuisine and the passion that goes into food. His interaction with his colleague and partner, Yūko Kurita, also adds warmth to the story.

Oishinbo | Recommendations

The appeal of “Oishinbo” lies in the way it combines the artistic expression of Japanese animation with a deep understanding of Japanese food culture. Through this work, viewers can learn about traditional Japanese ingredients and cuisine, as well as the culture and philosophy behind them. In addition, the food scenes in the story are very realistic and beautifully drawn, making this anime visually pleasing.

Furthermore, this is more than just a cooking anime; it is also about the deeper theme of the father-son relationship between Shirō and his father Yūzan. The process of conflict and reconciliation between the two shows how people can connect with each other through food, which is very moving to the viewer.

Oishinbo” is also very unique among Japanese anime, as there are very few productions that focus on food. While centered on food culture, this work also touches on human drama and social issues, and will resonate with viewers not only in Japan, but around the world.