Inside the World of a Japanese Anime Figure Sculptor: A Day with Sho

The life of a Japanese anime figure sculptor is a fascinating blend of creativity, dedication, and meticulous attention to detail. Meet Sho, a 24-year-old sculptor living in Tokyo who recently shared a glimpse into his daily routine, revealing what it’s like to work in one of the top figure production companies in Japan, Good Smile Company.

Sho begins his day in a modest one-room studio apartment filled with manga, reflective of Japan’s rich culture where over 80 percent of adults read manga regularly. After a simple skincare routine—a common practice for many young Japanese men—he makes his way to the bustling heart of Akihabara, the capital of otaku culture. This area is renowned for anime, manga, and figure enthusiasts, making it an ideal location for someone like Sho.

Having graduated from Musashino Bijutsu University, Sho transitioned into his career as a *genkeishi*, or figure sculptor, focusing on creating intricate prototypes. His commute is efficient, with just a short train ride bringing him to work. Upon arrival, Sho starts with a daily log, a practice rooted in Japanese work culture.

His responsibilities include sculpting figures with nendo, or putty, using precision tools like toothpicks and Q-tips for refinement. Sho’s journey at Good Smile Company has seen him evolve from a supporter of senior staff to a skilled creator capable of developing full prototypes. The company is famed for character figures from popular anime such as Jujutsu Kaisen and Kimetsu no Yaiba, producing over 1,500 figures in 15 years.

Afternoon tasks involve casting silicone molds and producing resin prototypes, essential steps before figures go into mass production. After a quick lunch of convenience store offerings, Sho meets with his team to ensure that his designs align with the original concepts. This rigorous review process emphasizes the high standards in figure creation.

As Sho’s workday comes to a close, he finishes a detailed log of his day’s activities, assuring progress keeps pace with the timeline. A modest dinner awaits him at home while he also indulges in personal sculpting projects, reflecting his passion for craftsmanship.

This look into Sho’s life as a figure sculptor exemplifies not only the intricacies of his profession but also how a deep-seated love for the craft can shape both career and personal life in the vibrant backdrop of Tokyo’s anime culture.