One can take inspiration from anyone’s life even if you do not know the person personally. Many people are inspired by celebrities who they regularly see on the silver or mini screen. Their journey, from where they have come and where they are now, and their accomplishment so far, have become a source of motivation and inspire people. Some people who have achieved remarkable things in their fields are always seen with respect. Below is the list of some of the most inspirational Japanese celebrities:
1. Hayao Miyazaki – Animation Director
He is a revolutionary director and changed the dimensions of directing in Japan by stepping away from the traditional ways. He started introducing new tricks and methods and gave incredible movies like Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Howl’s Moving Castle, and many more. He is an inspiration for anyone who wants to enter the directing profession.
2. Ken Watanabe – Actor
Ken Watanabe is an actor famous among the international audience. He played tragic roles like Lord Katsumoto, General Tadamichi, etc. He was nominated for the Academy Awards as a supporting actor. He is one of the biggest names in the Japanese acting industry and a role model for many.
3. Akira Kurosawa – Film Director
Another inspiring filmmaker on our list is Akira Kurosawa. He had a career span of 57 years, during which he directed 30 films. He was a very talented painter as well. Born in 1910, he is considered one of the most influential filmmakers in cinema history.
4. Naoko Takeuchi – Manga Artist
Sailor Moon is one of the most popular manga series, and the credit goes to Naoko Takeuchi. This famous manga artist, through her stories, has reached the hearts of the readers, especially females. A lot of people see her as a source of inspiration.
5. Naomi Osaka – Professional Tennis Player
Winner of four grand slams, Naomi Osaka, ranks No 1 in the women’s tennis association, which makes her the first Asian player to achieve this. She and her sister Mari Osaka have paved the way for many young talented players to play this sport. No other Japanese player has achieved this.
6. Yoko Ono – Artist
She is a multi-talented multimedia artist, singer, songwriter, and activist. She can perform in both English and Japanese. Many other female artists also tried their luck in multimedia after being inspired by her.
7. Shinji Kagawa – Professional Footballer
When we talk about football, we usually refer to Western countries, but Shinji Kagawa raises the bar of Japanese football with his excellent football skills. He is the midfielder for the Greek club PAOK. Many young people who want to make their career in football try to follow in his footsteps.
8. Haruki Murakami – Writer
While talking about inspiring Japanese people, missing Haruki Murakami would be a crime. His work- be it short stories, novels, or essays have been a bestseller on both national and international level. His works have been translated into more than 50 languages because people are eager to read his books. He is undoubtedly one of the greatest Japanese authors of all time.
9. Hiroyuki Sanada – Actor
Hiroyuki Sanada is an actor best known for his roles as Ujio and Tasogare Seibei. He is an iconic actor, recognized internationally for his role in a Shakespeare drama. He is famous for his acting skill and charismatic looks.
10. Masami Nagasawa- Voice Artist
Japanese Anime is famous all around the globe and has given well-deserved recognition to voice artists. Masami Nagasawa is a talented voice artist who has given voice to many notable characters like Ash, Miki Okudera, etc. A lot of young and aspiring voice artists see her as an inspiration.
