【Liz and the Blue Bird】Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture
“Liz and the Blue Bird,” a theatrical anime film produced by Kyoto Animation, was released on April 21, 2018, as a spin-off work of the novel series “Sound! Euphonium” by Ayano Takeda. The setting for this work is Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture. This article thoroughly explains the relationship between Uji City and Liz and the Blue Bird, from the charm of the work to pilgrimage sites and access methods.
About Liz and the Blue Bird
“Liz and the Blue Bird” is a coming-of-age ensemble drama set in the Kitauji High School Band Club, depicting the complex relationship between Mizore Yoroizuka, who plays the flute, and Natsuki Kasaki, who plays the oboe. The delicate direction by director Naoko Yamada and the music by Kensuke Ushio received high acclaim, and the animation work won numerous awards.
Overview of the Work
The source material is Ayano Takeda’s “Sound! Euphonium: Kitauji High School Band Club, The Second Movement of Turbulence,” and it is positioned as a theatrical film of the television anime series. However, this work was created as an independent piece that can be enjoyed by audiences unfamiliar with the “Sound! Euphonium” series.
The center of the story is a musical piece called “Liz and the Blue Bird,” selected as the free piece for a 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
Third-year students of Kitauji High School Band Club: Mizore Yoroizuka and Natsuki Kasaki. For Mizore, Kasaki is a special person, and she treasures the time spent together above all else. Meanwhile, while Kasaki recognizes Mizore’s talent, she harbors complex feelings about their relationship.
As practice for the competition’s free piece, “Liz and the Blue Bird,” progresses, the two become responsible for solo parts. However, Mizore’s oboe solo goes poorly, and she receives criticism from their advisor, Teacher Hashimoto. The cause lies in how Mizore’s musical expression is bound by her feelings for Kasaki.
The fairy tale “Liz and the Blue Bird” tells the story of a girl named Liz and a blue bird who became human. Liz grants the blue bird freedom because she loves it, and the blue bird flies away because it loves Liz—this story reflects the relationship between Mizore and Kasaki.
Finally, the two face their true feelings for each other and decide to begin walking their own paths. After graduation, Kasaki aims to enter a music university, and Mizore chooses a path to pursue her own music.
Deep Connection with Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture
The relationship between “Liz and the Blue Bird” and the “Sound! Euphonium” series with Uji City is extremely deep, and the city was chosen as the venue for the work’s announcement.
Work Announcement at Uji City Culture Center
On June 4, 2017, the announcement of the new film “Liz and the Blue Bird” was held at the Uji City Culture Center. This event, announcing the work directly to fans in the region that became its setting, demonstrated Kyoto Animation’s strong ties with the community.
The Uji City Culture Center also served as a model for the Kitauji High School cultural festival and concert scenes in the work, holding special significance for fans. The atmosphere of the large hall’s seating and stage are faithfully reproduced in the work, making it an important pilgrimage spot for fans.
Regional Promotion Partnership with Uji City
Uji City has utilized the “Sound! Euphonium” series for regional revitalization, undertaking active initiatives such as creating tourism maps and holding 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
Uji City has numerous pilgrimage sites related to “Liz and the Blue Bird” and the “Sound! Euphonium” series scattered throughout. Here we introduce the main spots in detail.
Kyoto Prefectural Ujidō High School and Surrounding Area
Kyoto Prefectural Ujidō High School (うじこうとうがっこう), which served as the model for Kitauji High School, is a prefectural high school that opened in 1985. The exterior of the school building, school gate, and stairs that appear in the work are faithfully reproduced, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites.
Access Method:
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from “Okubo Station” on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from “Nitta Station” on the JR Nara Line
Notes for Pilgrimage:
Ujidō High School is a current educational facility. Entry onto school grounds is strictly prohibited, and photography in the surrounding area must be done carefully so as not to hinder school operations. Choose weekends or early morning/evening hours and view quietly.
Oyoshiyama Observation Platform
The Oyoshiyama observation platform appears in important scenes such as when Mizore and Kasaki have a conversation together. It’s a scenic spot offering a panoramic view of Uji city, where you can fully experience the atmosphere of the work.
Located at the summit of Oyoshiyama at approximately 130 meters in elevation, you can see the Uji River, Byōdō-in, and the Uji cityscape. The scenery at dusk particularly evokes the emotionally rich scenes of the work.
Access:
- Approximately 30 minutes on foot from “Uji Station” (JR/Keihan) via hiking trail
- If you choose paved routes, you can climb relatively easily, but sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes are recommended
The Happy Ice Cream Scene
The “Happy Ice Cream!!” scene that makes a strong impression in the film’s final moments. This filming location is in a residential area near Ujidō High School, and many fans visit this symbolic scene where Mizore and Kasaki take a new step forward.
Since it’s located in a residential area, special care for nearby residents is necessary during photography. Avoid speaking loudly or staying for long periods, and be mindful of proper pilgrimage etiquette.
Near Autoworks Kyoto
A location that appears in scenes where Mizore walks. Though situated a bit away from Ujidō High School, it’s a spot where you can feel the everyday scenery of the work.
Uji River Surrounding Area
Along the Uji River, which symbolizes Uji City, there are bridges and riverside areas that appear in the work. The areas around Uji Bridge and Asagiri Bridge are featured in scenes where club members walk after practice.
The Uji River is well-maintained with walking trails, allowing you to walk while slowly immersing yourself in the world of the work. Spring brings cherry blossoms and autumn brings colored leaves, offering different scenery throughout the seasons.
Ōbaku Area
Ōbaku (黄檗), located in the northern part of Uji City, is an important location in the “Sound! Euphonium” series. The area around Ōbaku Station and the shopping district also appear in the work, depicting the daily lives of club members.
How to Access Uji City
Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, is located between Kyoto City and Nara City, with excellent accessibility from the Kansai region.
By Train
From Kyoto Station:
- Approximately 17 minutes to “Uji Station” on the JR Nara Line (when using the express)
- Approximately 25-30 minutes if using local trains
From Osaka Area:
- Approximately 50 minutes from “Yodoyabashi Station” on the Keihan Yodoyabashi Line to “Uji Station” on the Keihan Uji Line
- Via Kintetsu Kyoto Line “Okubo Station” is also convenient
From Nara Area:
- Approximately 30 minutes to “Uji Station” on the JR Nara Line
When Using the Shinkansen
For visitors from Tokyo, Nagoya, or Hakata, get off at Kyoto Station and transfer to the JR Nara Line, which is the most convenient option. It’s a short distance from Kyoto Station to Uji Station, making same-day pilgrimage trips entirely feasible.
By Car
The nearest exits are “Uji East IC” or “Uji West IC” on the Kyoto-Shiga Bypass. However, since most pilgrimage sites are in residential areas with limited parking, public transportation is recommended.
Efficient Routes for Pilgrimage
Since pilgrimage sites in Uji are scattered across a relatively wide area, setting an efficient route is important.
Half-Day Course (For Beginners)
- Arrive at JR Uji Station
- Uji River area exploration (30 minutes)
- Visit Uji City Culture Center (30 minutes)
- Ujidō High School area (1 hour)
- Happy Ice Cream filming location (30 minutes)
Full-Day Course (For Those Who Want to Take Their Time)
Morning:
- Arrive at JR Uji Station
- Uji River area and Byōdō-in sightseeing (1 hour)
- Oyoshiyama observation platform hike (1.5 hours round trip)
Afternoon:
- Lunch (Uji’s famous matcha cuisine)
- Uji City Culture Center (30 minutes)
- Ujidō High School area pilgrimage (2 hours)
- Ōbaku area (1 hour)
Helpful Tools for Pilgrimage
Map Apps:
- Bookmark pilgrimage sites on Google Maps
- Check in at pilgrimage sites using the Swarm app (records from other pilgrims are also helpful)
Pilgrimage Maps:
It’s convenient to download pilgrimage maps beforehand, which are available from the Uji City Tourism Association and various fan sites.
Appeal of Staff and Cast
The high quality of “Liz and the Blue Bird” is supported by excellent staff and cast.
Staff
Director: Naoko Yamada
A director representing Kyoto Animation, known for “K-On!,” “Tamako Love Story,” and “A Silent Voice.” Known for delicate psychological depiction and visual beauty, she demonstrates superior direction in this work, expressing the emotions of characters through sound and visuals.
Screenplay: Reiko Yoshida
A veteran screenwriter who has worked on numerous anime productions. She has collaborated with Director Yamada on the “K-On!” series as well, portraying the delicate emotions of young girls.
Character Design: Taishi Nishiya
A leading animator at Kyoto Animation. In this work, she depicts Mizore and Kasaki’s expressions with gentle touches and careful differentiation.
Music: Kensuke Ushio
Following “A Silent Voice,” she works on Director Yamada’s productions. Beginning with the in-work song “Liz and the Blue Bird,” she expresses the work’s worldview through music.
Cast
Mizore Yoroizuka (Voice): Atsumi Tanezaki
A third-year oboe player. Though introverted and struggling with emotional expression, she harbors deep feelings for Kasaki. Tanezaki’s restrained performance excellently expresses Mizore’s complex emotions.
Natsuki Kasaki (Voice): Nao Higashiyama
A third-year flute player. With a bright and sociable personality, she contrasts with Mizore. Higashiyama’s bright yet delicate performance conveys Kasaki’s inner conflict.
Liririka Kensaki (Voice): Shiori Sugiura
A first-year euphonium player. She becomes another axis of the work, a presence who objectively watches the relationship between Mizore and Kasaki.
Other cast members from the “Sound! Euphonium” series, a star-studded voice acting lineup, play the members of Kitauji High School Band Club.
The Charm of Uji City: Enjoying Alongside Pilgrimage
Enjoy sightseeing unique to Uji City alongside pilgrimage activities.
World Heritage Site Byōdō-in
Byōdō-in Hōō Hall, featured on the 10-yen coin, is Uji’s representative tourist attraction. You can touch Japan’s history and culture while taking breaks during pilgrimage.
Uji Tea and Matcha Sweets
Uji is Japan’s representative tea region. After walking tired from pilgrimage, enjoy matcha parfaits and matcha soba unique to Uji at long-established tea shops. Many cafes and teahouses line the Uji River, perfect for rest stops.
Ujigami Shrine
Japan’s oldest shrine building, registered as a World Heritage Site. Its quiet grounds calm the spirit.
Collaboration Events and Exhibition Information
“Liz and the Blue Bird” has continued various collaborations since its release.
Kyoto Tower Hotel “Liz and the Blue Bird Room”
Kyoto Tower Hotel offered collaboration rooms themed around “Liz and the Blue Bird” for limited periods. Newly drawn illustrations, display items related to the work, a picture book-style version of “Liz and the Blue Bird,” and screenings of the work via projector created a special space for fans.
Events in Uji City
The Uji City Culture Center regularly hosts events related to the “Sound! Euphonium” series. Voice actor talk shows and band concerts are examples of events that allow deeper enjoyment of the work’s world.
The latest collaboration information can be checked on the official X (formerly Twitter) account @liz_bluebird and the Kyoto Animation official website.
Critical Reception and Influence
“Liz and the Blue Bird” received high praise from the beginning of its release and won numerous film awards.
Awards
- 22nd Japan Academy Prize Excellence Award in Animation
- 42nd Japan Academy Prize Excellence Award for Animation of the Year
- 27th Japan Film Critics Awards Animation Category Work Prize
And many other accolades nationally and internationally.
Innovation in Visual Expression
Director Naoko Yamada’s direction is praised for expanding the possibilities of animation expression. In particular, careful direction involving shots of feet, pacing, and sound design elevates the work’s completeness.
The embedded play-within-the-play depicting the fairy tale “Liz and the Blue Bird” is rendered in a picture book-like style distinct from the main story, and this visual contrast adds depth to the narrative.
Influence on the Band World
Following the work’s release, more band clubs began performing “Liz and the Blue Bird” (composed by Akito Matsuda), which appears in the film. Additionally, an increase in young people starting oboe or flute has contributed to the promotion of band culture.
Series Relationships
While “Liz and the Blue Bird” is part of the “Sound! Euphonium” series, it can be enjoyed as an independent work.
Connection with the “Sound! Euphonium” Series
It takes place in the same timeline as Television Anime Season 2 and depicts the story of Mizore and Kasaki as third-year students. Knowing the series allows deeper understanding of the pair’s past and relationships with other members, but the work stands complete as a moving story on its own.
Relationship with “Theatrical Version Sound! Euphonium ~Oath of the Finale~”
In “Oath of the Finale,” released after “Liz and the Blue Bird,” the aftermath of Mizore and Kasaki’s story and Kitauji High School Band Club’s challenge at the national tournament are depicted. Watching both works together allows deeper understanding of the entire series’ narrative.
Pilgrimage Etiquette and Requests
To enjoy pilgrimage, please follow the following etiquette.
Basic Manners
- Prohibition of entry to private property and school grounds: Never enter the grounds of current facilities like Ujidō High School
- Consideration in residential areas: Don’t speak loudly, avoid long stays, take trash with you
- Compliance with traffic rules: Be aware of cars and bicycles when photographing near roads
- Consideration for residents: Avoid early morning and late night visits, view quietly
Photography Notes
- Be considerate so other pilgrims and general people don’t appear in your shots
- When using tripods, choose locations that don’t obstruct foot traffic
- Be cautious about sharing location information on SNS when posting (especially for residential areas)
Contribution to the Community
By patronizing local shops and visiting tourist facilities, you can 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 fosters a culture of sustained pilgrimage.
Blu-ray and DVD Information
“Liz and the Blue Bird” Blu-ray and DVD were released on December 5, 2018.
Included Content
- Main film video (approximately 90 minutes)
- Bonus footage (behind-the-scenes, cast interviews, etc.)
- Audio commentary
- Portions of theatrical limited edition bonuses
The video extras allow you to learn about the production process and music recording sessions, revealing behind-the-scenes aspects of the work.
Distribution Information
The film is viewable on various video streaming services. Watching the work before visiting Uji City makes pilgrimage 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 work and setting are deeply connected. Because Kyoto Animation’s headquarters is in Kyoto Prefecture, the company values its relationship with the region in creating works.
Uji City is a historic tourist destination with World Heritage Sites while also captivating many fans as an anime pilgrimage site. The delicate worldview of the work and the calm atmosphere of Uji City harmonize beautifully, providing visitors with a special experience.
Through pilgrimage, immersing yourself in the work’s world while also enjoying Uji City’s history, culture, and cuisine will make for a more fulfilling journey. Why not embark on a trip tracing the paths walked by Mizore and Kasaki, touching their feelings?
By using recommended hashtags “#LizandtheBlueBird,” “#SoundEuphonium,” and “#UjiCity,” you can share your pilgrimage experience and express your love for the work and community.
In Uji City, relive the beautiful and heartbreaking story of “Liz and the Blue Bird.”
