About the Movie “Suzume no Tojimari”

Overview and Storyline

Basic Information

“Suzume no Tojimari” is a film directed by Makoto Shinkai, released on November 11, 2022. Makoto Shinkai has captivated audiences worldwide with his previous works like “Your Name.” and “Weathering with You.” This film also showcases his meticulous direction and beautiful visual aesthetics. The main cast includes Nanoka Hara, who was chosen from over 1,700 auditions to voice the protagonist, Suzume. Hokuto Matsumura from “SixTONES” makes his voice acting debut as the character Sota.

Storyline

The story follows 17-year-old Suzume, a girl living in a quiet town in Kyushu, as she embarks on an adventure across Japan’s ruins to seal away disasters. One day, she meets a young man named Sota who is “looking for doors,” and follows him to a mountain ruin. There, she finds an ancient door and is drawn to it. However, she soon learns that disasters come from the other side of the door, and she sets off on a journey with Sota to close these doors, known as the “Tojimari Journey.” The adventure takes them across Japan, from Kyushu to Shikoku, Kansai, and eventually Tokyo.

Message of the Movie

“Suzume no Tojimari” is a story of growth and liberation, depicted through the act of closing disaster doors. Suzume’s journey portrays her growth and self-liberation. The movie teaches the importance of moving forward despite facing difficulties.

Character Introduction and Voice Actors

Main Characters

Suzume: The 17-year-old high school girl protagonist who continues her journey to close disaster doors.
Sota: A “Toji-shi” (door closer) who travels with Suzume.
Daijin: A mysterious white cat that speaks human language and appears where doors open.
Tamaki: Suzume’s aunt who watches over her growth.

Voice Actors

Nanoka Hara: Voices Suzume, chosen from over 1,700 auditions.
Hokuto Matsumura: Voices Sota, discovered for his “rich inner world” during the audition.
Eri Fukatsu: Voices Tamaki, Suzume’s aunt.
Ryunosuke Kamiki: Voices Serizawa, a regular in Makoto Shinkai’s works.

Visuals and Music

Visuals and Cinematography

Makoto Shinkai’s works are renowned for their beautiful background depictions. Especially in this film, the ruins and landscapes across Japan are portrayed realistically, drawing the audience into the scenes. The beautiful scenery and intricate details enhance the overall atmosphere of the movie.

Music

The music is composed by RADWIMPS, well-known for their contributions to Shinkai’s films, in collaboration with film music composer Kazuma Jinnouchi. The theme song “Suzume” is performed by the next-generation talent, Toaka. Her unique voice beautifully expresses the emotional climax of the story.

Pilgrimage Guide for the Movie “Suzume no Tojimari”

“Suzume no Tojimari” is a grand story set across various locations in Japan, from Kyushu to Tohoku. Here’s a guide to enjoy the pilgrimage to the film’s locations.

Kyushu Area

Southern Miyazaki Prefecture (Nichinan City)

The protagonist Suzume’s story begins in Nichinan City, southern Miyazaki Prefecture. Based on the novel and scenes from the film, this area is depicted, and the scene where she meets the “handsome man” during her commute is particularly memorable.

Yufuin Onsen (Oita) / Yunotsuru Onsen (Kumamoto)

The hot spring towns modeled are likely Yufuin Onsen in Oita and Yunotsuru Onsen in Kumamoto. The lanterns, stone pavements, and characteristic railing bridges convey the film’s atmosphere.

Former Bungo Mori Roundhouse (Oita)

The former Bungo Mori Roundhouse, which is thought to be the model for the abandoned hotel with an iron skeleton dome, is a must-visit spot.

Shikoku Area (Ehime)

Kushi Orange Ferry

The ferry Suzume and Sota board is identified as the “Orange Shikoku” of the Kushi Orange Ferry, departing from Yawatahama Port in Ehime towards Shikoku.

Yawatahama Station / Iyo-Ozu Station

Stations used by Suzume and Sota after arriving at Yawatahama Port. Iyo-Ozu Station is especially faithfully depicted and is a popular spot among fans.

Hyogo Area (Kobe)

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the Ohnaruto Bridge, which Suzume and Sota hitchhike across, offer grand scenery.

Higashiyama Shopping Street / Ninomiyama Shopping Street

The shopping streets modeled for the snack bar run by Rumi. The polygonal roof of Higashiyama Shopping Street and the alleyways of Ninomiyama Shopping Street allow you to enjoy the movie’s atmosphere.

Tokyo Area (Ochanomizu)

Ochanomizu Station

The area around Ochanomizu Station is an important setting in the film. The view from the platform edge and the “Ochanomizubashi Exit” ticket gate are perfect places to recreate scenes from the movie.

Hijiri Bridge

The key visual for the Tokyo segment, Hijiri Bridge offers an unmissable view.

Tohoku Area

Michi-no-Eki Ooya Kaigan (Miyagi)

The roadside station where Suzume and her companions rest, symbolizing recovery from the earthquake disaster.

Sanriku Railway Rias Line “Orikasa Station” (Iwate)

The station where Suzume and Sota part ways. The current relocated station on higher ground is depicted.