Tue Sep 17 08:00:59 UTC 2024: ## Japan Celebrates Emmy Wins for ‘Shogun’ and ‘Blue Eye Samurai’ as Global Popularity Soars

**TOKYO** – Japan is celebrating a record-breaking Emmy haul for the historical drama “Shogun,” with the series scooping up 19 awards, including Best Drama and acting awards for leads Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai. The win, alongside an Emmy for the animated period piece “Blue Eye Samurai,” is seen as another victory for Japanese history and culture, which are experiencing a surge in global popularity.

“Shogun,” a lavish adaptation of James Clavell’s novel set in 16th century Japan, features 70% Japanese dialogue and was heavily involved in its production by Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada, who played the lead warlord Yoshii Toranaga. “We would like to further encourage Japanese creators to take on the challenges of overseas productions,” said Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Hiroshi Moriya.

The Japanese government has also established a committee to support the entertainment and content industries, recognizing the growing global interest in Japanese culture. This recent success follows the Oscar win for visual effects in the monster movie “Godzilla Minus One” and the critically acclaimed HBO series “Tokyo Vice,” both of which have contributed to Japan’s growing international presence.

The popularity of “Shogun” is seen as stemming from its exploration of values like honor and integrity, which resonate with audiences seeking a contrast to contemporary political cynicism. “When we see, especially in America, a world of double dealing politicians who lie out both sides of their mouth, a culture that values honour, integrity and reciprocity, seems foreign and exotic,” said Jake Adelstein, executive producer of “Tokyo Vice.”

The Emmy wins come at a time when Japan is witnessing a surge in tourism, with visitors eager to experience the country’s rich history and culture. “Many visitors are drawn to experience things as they were in the Edo period of Shogun,” said Naomi Mano, president of travel agency Luxurique. “We are an island country, and in the Edo period, everything was secluded… Now we’re in a phase where we’re actually trying to get people to understand why we do things or the way we did our traditions.”

The success of “Shogun” has sparked online excitement in Japan, with social media buzzing about the show’s impact and celebrating the achievements of the cast and crew, especially lead actor Hiroyuki Sanada. “The Japanese heart, way of life, and soul crossed the seas and touched the hearts of people all over the world. I’m so happy,” wrote one user on X.

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