Farewell, Hayao Miyazaki!

Hayao Miyazaki

Hayao Miyazaki of Studio Ghibli, the "Disney of Japan," has announced his retirement for a variety of very practical reasons. The man behind such Japanese animation classics as "Princess Mononoke," "My Neighbor Totoro," "Kiki's Delivery Service," and "Spirited Away" has earned some years to relax.

It is well known in the industry that Miyazaki is one of the hardest workers in the anime field. He personally reviewed every frame used in his early films, working late into the night. However, the long nights took their toll on Miyazaki's health, and he's not getting any younger. He now has other Ghibli members take care of a lot of the details while he maintains a broad focus.

Below, the famous animator discusses the reasons behind his decision.


As Miyazaki says, it is simply time to go. Anime will be the worse for his departure, but it is time for a new generation to take over.

2020