Liz and the Blue Bird
“Liz and the Blue Bird,” a theatrical anime produced by Kyoto Animation, is a spin-off work based on the novel series “Sound! Euphonium” by Ayano Takeda and was released on April 21, 2018. The stage for this work is Uji City in Kyoto Prefecture. This article thoroughly explains the relationship between Uji City and Liz and the Blue Bird, from the appeal of the work to pilgrimage spots and access methods.
What is Liz and the Blue Bird
“Liz and the Blue Bird” is a youth ensemble drama depicting the complex relationship between Mizore Yoroizuka, who plays the flute, and Natsuki Kasaki, who plays the oboe, set in the wind band club of Kita-Uji High School. The delicate direction by director Naoko Yamada and the music by Kensuke Ushio have been highly evaluated, and the anime work has won numerous awards.
Overview of the Work
The original work is “Sound! Euphonium – Kita-Uji High School Wind Band Club, The Turbulent Second Movement” by Ayano Takeda, and it is positioned as a theatrical version of the television anime series. However, this work was produced as a standalone work that can be enjoyed by audiences unfamiliar with the “Sound! Euphonium” series.
At the center of the story is a musical piece called “Liz and the Blue Bird” selected as the free piece for the wind band competition. This piece is based on the fairy tale “Liz and the Blue Bird,” and is depicted as a play within the play with beautiful animation.
Plot Summary
Mizore Yoroizuka and Natsuki Kasaki, third-year students at Kita-Uji High School’s wind band club. For Mizore, Kasaki is a special presence, and she cherishes the time they spend together above all else. Meanwhile, Kasaki acknowledges Mizore’s talent but harbors complex feelings about their relationship.
As practice for the free piece “Liz and the Blue Bird” progresses for the competition, the two take on solo parts. However, Mizore’s oboe solo does not go well, and she receives criticism from their advisor, Hashimoto-sensei. The cause was that Mizore’s musical expression was bound by her feelings for Kasaki.
The fairy tale “Liz and the Blue Bird” is a story of a girl named Liz and a blue bird who has become human. Because Liz loves the blue bird, she gives it freedom, and because the blue bird loves Liz, it flies away—this tale reflects the relationship between Mizore and Kasaki.
In the end, the two face their true feelings for each other and make the determination to walk their own paths. After graduation, Kasaki aims to attend a music university, and Mizore chooses to pursue her own music.
The Deep Connection with Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture
The relationship between “Liz and the Blue Bird” and the “Sound! Euphonium” series with Uji City is very deep, and Uji City was chosen as the venue for the work’s release.
Work Announcement at Uji City Culture Center
On June 4, 2017, the announcement event for the new film “Liz and the Blue Bird” was held at the Uji City Culture Center. This was an event that demonstrated Kyoto Animation’s strong ties with the region by announcing the work directly to fans in the area that became its stage.
The Uji City Culture Center also served as the model for the cultural festival and concert scenes of Kita-Uji High School in the work, making it a place of special significance for fans. The atmosphere of the large hall’s seating and stage have been faithfully recreated in the work, making it an important spot for pilgrimage.
Collaboration with Uji City Regional Revitalization
Uji City has utilized the “Sound! Euphonium” series for regional revitalization, actively undertaking efforts such as creating tourist maps and hosting pilgrimage events. Through the work, the charm of Uji City has been communicated nationwide, and many fans have come to visit.
Complete Guide to Pilgrimage Spots
There are numerous pilgrimage sites from “Liz and the Blue Bird” and the “Sound! Euphonium” series scattered throughout Uji City. Here are the major spots in detail.
Around Kyoto Prefectural Usui High School
Kyoto Prefectural Usui High School (Uji Koto Gakko), the model for Kita-Uji High School, is a prefectural high school that opened in 1985. The exterior of the school building, school gate, stairs, and other elements that appear in the work are faithfully reproduced, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites.
Access Method:
- About 15 minutes on foot from “Okubo Station” on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line
- About 20 minutes on foot from “Nitta Station” on the JR Nara Line
Notes for Pilgrimage:
Usui High School is a current educational facility. Entry onto the school grounds is strictly prohibited, and photography in the surrounding area should not interfere with school operations. Choose holidays or early morning/evening hours and view quietly.
Oyoshiyama Observation Platform
The Oyoshiyama observation platform, which appears in important scenes such as when Mizore and Kasaki have a conversation together, is a scenic viewpoint overlooking Uji. You can fully experience the atmosphere of the work.
Located at the summit of Oyoshiyama, approximately 130 meters above sea level, it offers a panoramic view of the Uji River, Byodoin Temple, and Uji city. The scenery at dusk particularly evokes the emotionally rich scenes in the work.
Access:
- About 30 minutes on foot from JR/Keihan “Uji Station” (via mountain trail)
- If you choose the paved route, you can reach it relatively easily, though sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended
The Happy Ice Cream Scene
The impressive “Happy Ice Cream!!” scene in the film’s ending. This filming location is in a residential area around Usui High School, and many fans visit as it is the symbolic scene where Mizore and Kasaki take their first steps forward.
Since it is located in a residential area, special consideration for nearby residents is necessary during filming. Refrain from speaking loudly or staying for long periods, and practice polite pilgrimage.
Near Autoworks Kyoto
A location that appears in scenes such as Mizore walking. Though situated a little distance from Usui High School, it is a spot where you can feel the everyday scenery depicted in the work.
Uji River Surrounding Area
Along the Uji River, the symbol of Uji City, there are bridges and riverbanks that appear in the work. The areas around Uji Bridge and Asagiri Bridge appear in scenes where club members walk after practice.
The Uji River area has well-maintained walking paths, allowing you to leisurely immerse yourself in the world of the work. Spring brings cherry blossoms, and autumn brings beautiful foliage, offering different scenery to enjoy with each season.
Obaku Area
Obaku (Oubaku) is located in the northern part of Uji City and is an important location in the “Sound! Euphonium” series. The area around Obaku Station and the shopping street are also depicted in the work, showing the everyday lives of the club members.
Access to Uji City
Uji City in Kyoto Prefecture is located between Kyoto City and Nara City, with excellent accessibility from the Kansai region.
Access by Train
From Kyoto Station:
- About 17 minutes to “Uji Station” on the JR Nara Line (using the express train)
- About 25-30 minutes by regular train
From the Osaka area:
- About 50 minutes from “Yodoyabashi Station” on Keihan Electric Railway to “Uji Station” on the Keihan Uji Line
- Via “Okubo Station” on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line is also convenient
From the Nara area:
- About 30 minutes to “Uji Station” on the JR Nara Line
When Using the Shinkansen
For visitors from Tokyo, Nagoya, Hakata, and other areas, getting off at Kyoto Station and transferring to the JR Nara Line is the most convenient. It is a short distance from Kyoto Station to Uji Station, making day-trip pilgrimage perfectly feasible.
Access by Car
The “Uji East IC” or “Uji West IC” on the Kyoto-Shiga Bypass are the nearest. However, since many of the pilgrimage sites are in residential areas with limited parking, public transportation is recommended.
Efficient Routes for Pilgrimage
Since the pilgrimage sites in Uji City are scattered over a relatively wide area, setting an efficient route is important.
Half-Day Course (For Beginners)
- Arrive at JR Uji Station
- Stroll around Uji River (30 minutes)
- Visit Uji City Culture Center (30 minutes)
- Around Usui High School (1 hour)
- Happy Ice Cream scene filming location (30 minutes)
Full-Day Course (For Those Who Want to Take Their Time)
Morning:
- Arrive at JR Uji Station
- Uji River area/Byodoin Temple sightseeing (1 hour)
- Oyoshiyama Observation Platform hike (1.5 hours round trip)
Afternoon:
- Lunch (Uji specialty matcha cuisine)
- Uji City Culture Center (30 minutes)
- Pilgrimage around Usui High School area (2 hours)
- Obaku area (1 hour)
Convenient Tools for Pilgrimage
Map Apps:
- Bookmark pilgrimage sites on Google Maps
- Check in at pilgrimage sites using the Swarm app (other pilgrims’ records are also helpful references)
Pilgrimage Maps:
It is convenient to download pilgrimage maps in advance that are made public by the Uji City Tourism Association and various fan sites.
Appeal of Staff and Cast
The high level of completion of “Liz and the Blue Bird” is supported by excellent staff and cast.
Staff
Director: Naoko Yamada
A representative director of Kyoto Animation who has worked on “K-On!,” “Tamako Love Story,” and “A Silent Voice.” Known for delicate psychological depiction and visual beauty, in this work she demonstrates superior direction that expresses the emotions of the characters through sound and visuals.
Screenplay: Reiko Yoshida
A veteran screenwriter who has worked on numerous animation works. She has also collaborated with Director Yamada on the “K-On!” series, skillfully depicting the delicate emotions of young girls.
Character Design: Taishi Nishiya
A main animator at Kyoto Animation. In this work, he carefully distinguishes the expressions of Mizore and Kasaki with a soft and gentle touch.
Music: Kensuke Ushio
He has worked on Director Yamada’s work following “A Silent Voice.” Beginning with the in-work piece “Liz and the Blue Bird,” he expresses the worldview of the work through music.
Cast
Mizore Yoroizuka (Voice: Toshimi Taneshiro)
A third-year oboe player. Introverted and having difficulty expressing emotions, she harbors deep feelings for Kasaki. Toshimi Taneshiro’s restrained performance skillfully expresses Mizore’s complex emotions.
Natsuki Kasaki (Voice: Nao Higashiyama)
A third-year flute player. Bright and sociable in personality, she is a contrast to Mizore. Nao Higashiyama’s bright yet delicate performance conveys Kasaki’s internal conflict.
Rirka Kenzaki (Voice: Shiori Sugiura)
A first-year euphonium player. An important character serving as another axis of the work, she is a presence that objectively observes the relationship between Mizore and Kasaki.
Other talented voice actors continuing from the “Sound! Euphonium” series perform the members of Kita-Uji High School’s wind band club.
The Charm of Uji City: Enjoying It Along with Pilgrimage
Enjoy Uji City-specific tourism along with pilgrimage.
World Heritage Site Byodoin
Byodoin Fenghuang Hall, also known for its design on the 10-yen coin, is a representative tourist spot in Uji. You can touch Japan’s history and culture while taking a break from pilgrimage.
Uji Tea and Matcha Sweets
Uji is a representative tea-growing region of Japan. After getting tired from walking during pilgrimage, enjoy Uji-exclusive gourmet foods such as matcha parfaits and matcha soba at traditional tea shops. There are many cafes and teahouses along the Uji River, perfect for rest.
Ujigami Shrine
A world heritage site featuring Japan’s oldest shrine architecture. The quiet grounds help calm your mind.
Collaboration Events and Exhibition Information
After its release, “Liz and the Blue Bird” has launched various collaborations.
Kyoto Tower Hotel “Liz and the Blue Bird Room”
Kyoto Tower Hotel offered collaboration rooms themed on “Liz and the Blue Bird” for a limited period. Newly drawn illustrations related to the work, displays associated with the work, books modeled after the picture book “Liz and the Blue Bird,” and viewing the work via projector—fans could experience a special space.
Events in Uji City
The Uji City Culture Center regularly hosts events related to the “Sound! Euphonium” series. Various projects such as voice actor talk shows and wind band concerts allow fans to enjoy the world of the work more deeply.
The latest collaboration information can be found on the official X (formerly Twitter) account @liz_bluebird and the Kyoto Animation official website.
Evaluation and Impact of the Work
“Liz and the Blue Bird” received high evaluation from the time of its release and won numerous film awards.
Awards Won
- 22nd Japan Prize for Media Arts Festival Animation Division Excellence Award
- 42nd Japan Academy Prize Excellent Animation Feature Film Award
- 27th Japan Film Critics Association Award Animation Division Work Award
Among many others, it has been highly evaluated domestically and internationally.
Innovation in Visual Expression
Director Naoko Yamada’s direction is evaluated for expanding the possibilities of animation expression. Particularly meticulous direction such as footage of feet, timing of silence, and sound design elevates the completion level of the work.
The segment of the play-within-the-play depicting the fairy tale “Liz and the Blue Bird” is rendered in a picture-book-like style different from the main story, and this visual contrast adds depth to the narrative.
Influence on the Wind Band World
Following the work, wind bands performing the in-work piece “Liz and the Blue Bird” (composed by Akito Matsuda) increased. Additionally, more young people began playing oboe and flute, contributing to the popularization of wind band culture.
Relationship with the Series
“Liz and the Blue Bird” is part of the “Sound! Euphonium” series, but can also be enjoyed as a standalone work.
Connection with the “Sound! Euphonium” Series
It takes place during the timeline of the television anime second season and depicts the story of third-year students Mizore and Kasaki. Familiarity with the series allows for a deeper understanding of the two’s past and relationships with other members, but the work itself is a complete and moving story even on its own.
Relationship with “Theatrical Edition Sound! Euphonium ~Oath’s Finale~”
In “Oath’s Finale,” released after “Liz and the Blue Bird,” the stories of Mizore and Kasaki afterwards and the Kita-Uji High School wind band club’s challenge for the national tournament are depicted. Watching both works together allows for a deeper understanding of the entire series.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Requests
To enjoy pilgrimage properly, please observe the following etiquette.
Basic Etiquette
- No trespassing on private property or school grounds: Never enter the grounds of active facilities such as Usui High School
- Consideration in residential areas: Do not speak loudly, avoid extended stays, and take all trash with you
- Observing traffic rules: Be careful of cars and bicycles when photographing on roads
- Consideration for residents: Avoid early morning and late night visits, and view quietly
Notes on Photography
- Be considerate so other pilgrims or the general public do not appear in photos
- When using a tripod, choose locations that do not obstruct traffic
- When posting on social media, be careful about sharing location information (especially in residential areas)
Contributing to the Community
Using shops in the area and visiting tourist facilities is a way to express gratitude to the region that has become a pilgrimage site. Discovering the charm of Uji City and loving both the work and the region represents an attitude that supports ongoing pilgrimage culture.
Blu-ray and DVD Information
“Liz and the Blue Bird” Blu-ray & DVD was released on December 5, 2018.
Recording Contents
- Main feature (approximately 90 minutes)
- Special features (making-of, cast interviews, etc.)
- Audio commentary
- Select theatrical limited edition bonuses
The video features allow you to learn about the production process and music recording, revealing the behind-the-scenes aspects of the work.
Distribution Information
The work is also available through various video streaming services. Watching the work before visiting Uji City will make your pilgrimage experience even more enjoyable.
Conclusion: The Special Relationship between Liz and the Blue Bird and Uji City
“Liz and the Blue Bird” and Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, share a special relationship where the work and its setting are deeply connected. With Kyoto Animation’s headquarters in Kyoto Prefecture, the creation of works that value connections with the region has been undertaken.
Uji City is a historic tourist destination with a world heritage site while also captivating many fans as an anime pilgrimage spot. The delicate worldview of the work and the calm atmosphere of Uji City harmonize beautifully, providing visitors with a special experience.
By immersing yourself in the world of the work through pilgrimage while also enjoying Uji City’s history, culture, and cuisine, your trip will become even more fulfilling. Why not embark on a journey retracing the paths walked by Mizore and Kasaki and experiencing the feelings of the two?
You can express your love for the work and community by sharing your pilgrimage experience using the recommended hashtags “#LizandtheBlueBird,” “#SoundEuphonium,” and “#UjiCity.”
Experience the beautiful and poignant story of “Liz and the Blue Bird” in Uji City.
