Exploring Japanese Culture: Matt Alt on Pure Invention

Hello, everyone! I am so thrilled to welcome you to a fascinating look into the world of Japanese pop culture in this very special imaginary conversation. Today, we’re exploring the journey of Japan’s cultural icons, a journey that has captured imaginations worldwide and redefined how we think about entertainment, identity, and joy. This incredible journey is captured in Matt Alt’s insightful book, Pure Invention, where he uncovers how Japan's unique innovations—from karaoke and kawaii characters to anime and beyond—went from local phenomena to global movements, impacting people in every corner of the world.

We have an inspiring lineup of speakers who are true pioneers and creators in their fields. They bring firsthand insight into the ideas and stories behind Japan’s beloved inventions. Today, Marie Kondo will talk about finding joy in the everyday; Akio Morita, the visionary behind the Walkman, shares how personal tech changed everything; Shigeru Miyamoto, the genius of Nintendo, explores how gaming became a personal experience; and Hideo Kojima, master of storytelling in gaming, reveals the deeper meaning in fantasy and connection.

In today’s conversation, we’ll uncover what made these creations so influential and, as Matt Alt says, so essential in our lives. From resilience through creativity to the power of fantasy, Japan’s approach has given us tools for connection, comfort, and self-discovery. So let’s sit back and immerse ourselves in this journey, as these cultural pioneers discuss the stories, dreams, and innovations that brought Japanese pop culture to the world.

The Power of the Inessential

Nick Sasaki (Moderator): Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re diving into an intriguing topic – “The Power of the Inessential.” Joining us are Matt Alt, cultural historian and author of Pure Invention; Marie Kondo, renowned for her philosophy of joyful minimalism; Gabrielle Zevin, author of Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, who explores the meaning behind gaming; and Junya Yamaoka, a designer known for his work on kawaii culture with Sanrio. Let’s start with Matt. Why do you think “inessential” Japanese creations, like Hello Kitty and karaoke, have such global power?

Matt Alt: Thanks, Nick. I believe these creations speak to something deeper within us. Japan has perfected the art of packaging joy and escape into small, seemingly “inessential” objects. Items like Sanrio characters or karaoke aren’t necessary for survival, yet they’re essential for emotional connection. They provide comfort and nostalgia, which, as I discuss in Pure Invention, tap into universal human desires.

Nick Sasaki: Interesting point, Matt. Marie, your philosophy is all about keeping only what “sparks joy.” How do you see the power of these Japanese pop culture items within your concept of joy?

Marie Kondo: I love this question, Nick. I think these items embody a key element of Japanese culture: finding joy in the everyday. Something as simple as a cute sticker or a small character can spark happiness and make life lighter. They may seem trivial, but these small joys accumulate, shaping our experience and helping us connect with who we are and what we value.

Gabrielle Zevin: Marie, I completely agree. My characters in Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow engage deeply with gaming culture, which also seems “inessential” to some. But these games and kawaii items help people explore parts of themselves they might otherwise suppress. There’s a reason people connect with Sanrio characters or Zelda – it’s about creating an identity, finding comfort, and even building resilience.

Junya Yamaoka: That’s beautifully put, Gabrielle. When we design for Sanrio, we think about simplicity and innocence. These designs don’t just appeal to children; they offer a kind of timeless happiness that everyone can connect with, no matter their age. Even adults find relief in the simplicity of kawaii – it’s a reminder that life doesn’t have to be complex or serious all the time.

Nick Sasaki: It’s fascinating how all of you have touched on the emotional aspect. Matt, do you think there’s a cultural element here – something unique to Japan – that makes these creations resonate so universally?

Matt Alt: Absolutely, Nick. Japanese culture has always valued aesthetics, simplicity, and small details. Think of the way a bento box is arranged or the art of wrapping gifts with furoshiki. This cultural tradition of finding beauty in small things naturally extended to pop culture. Japanese creators excel at taking something simple and making it feel profound, and that resonates because it’s something we’re all craving, especially in today’s busy, high-tech world.

Nick Sasaki: Junya, how does Sanrio keep this cultural spirit alive while appealing to such a wide global audience?

Junya Yamaoka: Great question, Nick. We focus on timeless designs that speak to universal emotions. Hello Kitty, for instance, has no mouth so she can reflect any emotion the viewer feels. She’s a companion rather than a character with a set personality, which allows people to project their own feelings onto her. That’s part of her charm.

Marie Kondo: I think there’s a beautiful lesson in that simplicity. When we reduce things to their essence, they often hold more meaning, not less. People feel lighter, freer – I see it all the time with clients.

Nick Sasaki: That’s a wonderful perspective, Marie. Gabrielle, do you see this in the gaming world too?

Gabrielle Zevin: Definitely. Just like kawaii, games let people create an identity or persona. It’s “inessential” to daily life, yet profoundly important for self-exploration and mental well-being. Games allow a sense of mastery and freedom, something that’s highly valued in Japan but also resonates globally.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you all! This conversation beautifully highlights how Japan’s “inessential” creations tap into universal needs for joy, identity, and connection. It’s clear that these aren’t just cultural exports but genuine sources of fulfillment.

Resilience and Recovery through Creativity

Nick Sasaki (Moderator): Hello, everyone! Today, we’re exploring the theme “Resilience and Recovery through Creativity,” with Matt Alt, cultural historian and author; Kenji Ekuan, renowned industrial designer known for his iconic soy sauce bottle; Daisuke Inoue, the innovator of karaoke; and Kengo Kuma, celebrated architect blending Japanese tradition with modern resilience. Welcome, all. To start, Matt, in Pure Invention, you’ve shared how Japan turned to creative, playful exports post-WWII. Can you tell us why creativity became so pivotal for Japan’s economic recovery?

Matt Alt: Thanks, Nick. Japan was completely devastated after WWII. Traditional industries and infrastructure were gone, and the country had to rebuild not only its economy but its spirit. By focusing on toys, entertainment, and consumer-friendly products, Japan found a way to lift spirits domestically and appeal to international markets. Matsuzo Kosuge’s toy jeep is a perfect example—something small yet meaningful, which became an early symbol of resilience and hope.

Nick Sasaki: That’s fascinating, Matt. Kenji, as an industrial designer, you’ve always embraced the concept of “beauty in simplicity.” How did Japan’s postwar period shape your approach to design?

Kenji Ekuan: The destruction after the war was a reminder of how fragile life is, yet how essential beauty remains. The Kikkoman soy sauce bottle I designed is simple and elegant but also accessible and functional. It’s about giving people a small experience of beauty and practicality. When we had so little, this simplicity and usefulness gave us a renewed sense of pride. Japan’s recovery was rooted in making everyday items that lifted spirits and reminded people of beauty in daily life.

Daisuke Inoue: I think Kenji makes a great point. Karaoke, in a way, was born out of a similar spirit. After the war, there was a need for people to connect, to lift each other’s spirits, and music naturally brings people together. When I created the karaoke machine, it wasn’t about high-end technology; it was just about giving people a tool to share joy, to find connection even in hard times.

Kengo Kuma: And that’s something I think we all understand—creating spaces, objects, or experiences that bring people a sense of peace or joy. In architecture, I try to blend traditional materials and spaces that are comforting with modern techniques. After the war, rebuilding wasn’t just about constructing buildings; it was about creating spaces where people could feel safe and find beauty again. That spirit of recovery continues to influence Japanese architecture today.

Nick Sasaki: Daisuke, it’s interesting that karaoke wasn’t patented, yet it became a global phenomenon. Do you think this open approach added to its success?

Daisuke Inoue: Absolutely, Nick. I think that by not holding onto it too tightly, karaoke could evolve naturally. It became a part of many people’s lives, not just in Japan but around the world. The success of karaoke is rooted in simplicity and shared joy, not in perfection or control. I was just happy to see others take it further and spread that joy.

Matt Alt: Daisuke’s story is so symbolic of Japan’s postwar resilience. The idea wasn’t to create something flashy or exclusive but something that could make life a little brighter for everyone. That’s part of why Japanese innovations have had such staying power globally; they meet real, everyday needs in a creative and heartfelt way.

Nick Sasaki: Kengo, your architectural work often emphasizes natural materials and sustainability, values that resonate deeply with the Japanese spirit. How does this connect to Japan’s resilience?

Kengo Kuma: Japan has long had a respect for natural materials, which aligns with our cultural resilience. When I design with wood or other traditional materials, it’s about creating a harmony between past and present. Postwar Japan had to rebuild from almost nothing, but there was always an emphasis on making things that last, that resonate with the environment and our cultural identity. This approach makes our architecture a form of resilience that continues to shape our society.

Nick Sasaki: It’s inspiring to hear how each of you has contributed to Japan’s creative recovery and resilience in such unique ways. Thank you all for sharing your insights into how simplicity, accessibility, and beauty continue to uplift and connect people worldwide.

From Subculture to Mainstream Influence

Nick Sasaki (Moderator): Welcome to today’s discussion on how Japanese subcultures transformed into global mainstream influences. Joining us are Matt Alt, who has researched Japan’s cultural impact in Pure Invention; Osamu Tezuka, often called the “God of Manga”; Christopher Poole, creator of the online platform 4chan inspired by Japanese message boards; and Hayao Miyazaki, the acclaimed animator and director. Matt, let’s start with you. Why do you think Japanese subcultures like manga and anime transitioned so effectively from niche communities to mainstream global phenomena?

Matt Alt: Thanks, Nick. I think Japanese subcultures found global appeal because they offered something unique and sincere. Japan created manga, anime, and online spaces that felt authentic and catered to niche interests that weren’t fully explored elsewhere. Astro Boy was one of the first to show the potential of anime and manga, but AKIRA in the 80s was what opened Western audiences to the darker, more complex storytelling anime could offer. These subcultures became mainstream because they tapped into universal human themes—identity, escapism, resilience—in ways people hadn’t seen before.

Nick Sasaki: Osamu, Astro Boy was a groundbreaking series that introduced many people to Japanese anime. What motivated you to create stories that went beyond traditional comic book tropes?

Osamu Tezuka: Well, I wanted to create something that made people think deeply while being entertained. My style was influenced by Western animations, like Disney, but I wanted my characters to have emotional complexity, even in stories that seemed simple on the surface. Astro Boy and other works touched on themes of humanity, technology, and ethics—topics that resonate universally. I think that’s part of why anime has had such lasting power; it’s not just entertainment but a mirror of society’s dreams and dilemmas.

Hayao Miyazaki: I think Osamu is right. Authenticity is crucial, but so is emotional depth. When I create films, I aim to reach the hearts of people of all ages, not just children. For example, Spirited Away offers an emotional journey that taps into both childhood fears and adult struggles. Japanese subcultures often create rich, layered stories that encourage viewers to see themselves in these worlds. That connection is why people, especially in the West, found something fresh and deeply personal in Japanese anime and manga.

Christopher Poole: I agree with that perspective. Platforms like 2channel, which inspired 4chan, were built around the idea of free expression in niche communities. 4chan became a space for anime fans, but it grew beyond that, tapping into other subcultures. Japan’s anonymous boards allowed people to express themselves without judgment, creating a unique blend of humor, freedom, and, admittedly, sometimes chaos. It’s this raw space for self-expression that many communities in the West hadn’t seen before.

Nick Sasaki: Chris, that’s interesting. Would you say that anonymity was part of what made these communities thrive?

Christopher Poole: Definitely, Nick. Anonymity can be a double-edged sword, but it allows people to share their interests and ideas without fear of judgment. 4chan, for instance, became a space where people could connect over shared loves—like anime—and feel a sense of belonging. It’s a model that borrowed from Japan’s 2channel and quickly gained traction because people wanted that freedom of expression, even if it led to both positive and controversial outcomes.

Matt Alt: Chris makes an excellent point. Japan’s anonymous boards like 2channel allowed fans to share their passions without the constraints of mainstream culture, which resonated with people worldwide. Western culture has always embraced self-expression, but Japanese subcultures brought a new level of inclusivity and freedom, attracting people from all walks of life.

Nick Sasaki: Osamu, your work bridged anime and Western animation styles. Did you imagine anime would have such a global impact?

Osamu Tezuka: In some ways, yes. I believed stories could transcend cultures if they were rooted in universal themes. Manga and anime took time to find their footing globally, but once people connected with these stories, they became a bridge. Japan’s subcultures tapped into the universal language of emotion, which allowed them to go from niche to mainstream.

Hayao Miyazaki: Exactly, Osamu. I think our stories offer a blend of fantasy and reality that appeals to a broad audience. Fantasy gives us the space to explore deeper truths without being restricted by realism. For instance, Princess Mononoke explores environmental concerns and personal duty. When we create these works, we’re not thinking solely about Japanese audiences; we’re thinking about anyone who might resonate with those ideas.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you all. Today’s discussion has shown that Japanese subcultures became mainstream through authenticity, universal themes, and the freedom to explore personal identity. These ideas offer insights into how deeply Japan’s influence is woven into our global cultural fabric.

Innovation Driven by Miniaturization and Individualism

Nick Sasaki (Moderator): Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re exploring “Innovation Driven by Miniaturization and Individualism,” a topic at the heart of Japan’s influence on technology and culture. We have Matt Alt, author and cultural expert; Masayoshi Son, CEO of SoftBank and a leader in technology investments; Akio Morita, co-founder of Sony and the mind behind the Walkman; and Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary game designer at Nintendo. Matt, let’s start with you. Why has miniaturization been such a powerful force in Japanese innovation?

Matt Alt: Thanks, Nick. Japan’s focus on miniaturization is a fascinating combination of cultural and practical motivations. Japanese society has long valued efficiency and craftsmanship, and with limited space, there’s been an emphasis on making the most of what’s available. The Walkman and Game Boy are perfect examples—they’re small, portable, and transform personal space. Miniaturization allowed individuals to carry experiences with them, which changed how people interacted with entertainment and technology.

Nick Sasaki: Akio, as the pioneer of the Walkman, what inspired you to create such a personal audio device?

Akio Morita: The Walkman was born out of a desire to give people a more personal and mobile listening experience. Before that, music was something you shared in a room. We wanted to create something that made listening intimate, a way for people to carry music with them wherever they went. We were surprised by how quickly it became a global phenomenon. It wasn’t just a product—it was a shift toward individual enjoyment of technology, allowing people to create personal soundtracks to their lives.

Masayoshi Son: Akio’s invention influenced not only consumer habits but the tech industry as a whole. At SoftBank, we often look at how Japanese tech leans toward making things accessible, whether through size or functionality. Miniaturization reflects that commitment to user-focused innovation. Even with smartphones today, the core concept is about making technology small yet powerful, so it can seamlessly integrate into personal lives.

Nick Sasaki: That’s a great point, Masayoshi. Shigeru, Nintendo’s Game Boy is another iconic example of miniaturization. What motivated Nintendo to design such a portable gaming device?

Shigeru Miyamoto: With the Game Boy, we wanted to create something that could bring gaming into people’s everyday lives. Prior to that, video games were tied to arcades or home consoles. But we wanted to make gaming portable, affordable, and accessible to everyone. It wasn’t about high-end graphics but about creating an experience that could fit in your pocket and go with you anywhere. This idea of “play anytime, anywhere” allowed people to form a personal connection with gaming.

Matt Alt: Shigeru, the Game Boy really changed the perception of gaming from a communal or arcade setting to a personal, intimate experience. Just as the Walkman transformed music, the Game Boy transformed gaming by making it an individual activity. These devices offered autonomy, a way for people to create their own space within a larger world. And this philosophy is central to Japanese tech innovation—creating products that empower the individual in subtle, meaningful ways.

Nick Sasaki: Masayoshi, with SoftBank, you’ve been involved in a wide range of tech investments. Do you think Japan’s approach to individual-focused technology has influenced global trends?

Masayoshi Son: Definitely, Nick. Japan has always pushed boundaries in tech by focusing on user experience and accessibility. At SoftBank, we invest in technologies that allow people to connect with the world more personally. Whether it’s robotics, IoT, or AI, the goal is to make technology feel like a natural extension of ourselves. Japan’s emphasis on miniaturization and individualism set the foundation for this shift, as we see people now expecting technology to be adaptable to their needs and lifestyles.

Akio Morita: I agree with Masayoshi. When we developed the Walkman, we were focused on giving people control over their own experience. It’s amazing how that simple idea of personal space—whether it’s with music, games, or smartphones—became a driving force in global tech. Miniaturization isn’t just about making things smaller; it’s about creating intimacy, allowing technology to fit into life rather than dominate it.

Nick Sasaki: Shigeru, do you think this individualism in tech has influenced how people relate to gaming today?

Shigeru Miyamoto: Absolutely. Gaming is now a very personal activity. The Game Boy, and later the DS and Switch, allowed people to play on their own terms. Today, gaming is part of people’s identities—portable consoles allow them to bring that with them wherever they go. It’s a form of expression, an individual experience shared with a larger community, which, in some ways, reflects the spirit of Japan’s innovation in creating technology that is both intimate and universal.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you, everyone. Today’s discussion has shed light on how Japan’s focus on miniaturization and individual empowerment reshaped global technology, allowing people to experience entertainment, music, and communication on deeply personal levels.

Fantasy as Cultural and Economic Strategy

Nick Sasaki (Moderator): Hello everyone, and welcome to our discussion on “Fantasy as Cultural and Economic Strategy.” Today we have Matt Alt, cultural historian and author of Pure Invention; Neil Gaiman, celebrated author of fantasy and comics; members of the Hello Kitty design team from Sanrio; and Hideo Kojima, creator of Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding. Matt, let’s start with you. Why do you think fantasy has been such a powerful force in Japanese pop culture, both domestically and globally?

Matt Alt: Thanks, Nick. Japan has a long tradition of creating fantastical worlds that resonate with universal human emotions. Fantasy allows people to escape but also to explore ideas in a safe space. Characters like Hello Kitty or the anime worlds of Studio Ghibli aren’t bound by the usual limitations of reality. In Japan, fantasy is used as a way to process real-world complexities, whether it’s social issues, personal struggles, or philosophical questions. This approach has not only fueled creativity but has become a significant economic force globally.

Nick Sasaki: Neil, your work often explores fantasy as a bridge between worlds. How do you view Japan’s approach to fantasy in comparison to the West?

Neil Gaiman: Japan’s approach to fantasy is fascinating because it often blends the mystical with the mundane. In Spirited Away, for example, everyday situations mix with fantastical elements, making it feel grounded yet otherworldly. This is something I also try to capture in my work—fantasy not as an escape, but as a mirror for reality. Japan’s use of fantasy is universal and personal at the same time, which is why it resonates so widely. Japanese creators aren’t afraid to let the strange and whimsical coexist with darker, existential themes.

Hello Kitty Design Team (Sanrio): For Hello Kitty, fantasy means simplicity. She has no specific backstory or personality because she’s meant to be a canvas for people’s feelings and dreams. That universality allows her to appeal to children and adults alike. She represents innocence and positivity, things people want to connect with. Hello Kitty’s lack of a defined character allows her to be whatever people need her to be, which has contributed to her lasting appeal across cultures.

Hideo Kojima: I agree with what Sanrio said. In video games, fantasy gives us the freedom to create worlds that make players question their beliefs and actions. With Death Stranding, I wanted players to feel isolated yet connected to others through shared struggles. Fantasy in Japanese culture often carries philosophical questions, encouraging players or viewers to reflect on their own lives. This makes Japanese fantasy unique—it’s not about creating a purely idealized world, but one that challenges you.

Nick Sasaki: That’s a fascinating take, Hideo. Matt, how does fantasy as a strategy differ in Japan compared to other cultures?

Matt Alt: Japan’s fantasy often uses familiar symbols with deeper, layered meanings. For instance, kawaii culture presents fantasy as a form of comfort. Characters like Hello Kitty, Pokémon, and Totoro invite us into gentle, appealing worlds where we can feel safe. But Japanese fantasy doesn’t avoid hard truths either. Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke tackles environmental themes, and Kojima’s games explore isolation and human connection. This blend of comfort and confrontation makes Japanese fantasy especially powerful as both cultural expression and global economic influence.

Neil Gaiman: I think Matt is right. Japanese creators often make fantastical worlds that are recognizable but also explore universal themes in new ways. Whether it’s Sanrio’s adorable characters or Kojima’s dystopian landscapes, Japan’s fantasy products become popular because they balance familiarity with a sense of mystery. They invite us to question, to dream, and to feel deeply.

Hello Kitty Design Team (Sanrio): Hello Kitty was designed to be simple, yet her appeal is layered. People find joy in her minimalism because she’s whatever people want her to be. By keeping her story open, we’ve let fans create their own connections with her, turning her into a symbol that’s different for everyone.

Hideo Kojima: That open-endedness is essential. Fantasy doesn’t need to give all the answers; it’s about inspiring people to search within themselves. In games, that sense of choice and consequence allows players to become part of the narrative. Japanese creators use fantasy to tap into people’s subconscious, turning it into an economic force by making these personal experiences available to a global audience.

Nick Sasaki: Thank you all for these insights. It’s clear that Japan’s approach to fantasy not only drives creativity but also builds deep, lasting connections with audiences worldwide. By allowing people to find both comfort and challenge in fantasy, Japanese pop culture has become a universal language that continues to shape our world.

Short Bios:

Matt Alt is a cultural historian and author of Pure Invention, a book that explores how Japanese pop culture innovations like anime, karaoke, and kawaii aesthetics became global phenomena and changed how people experience entertainment and identity.

Marie Kondo is a best-selling author and organizing consultant, famous for her “spark joy” philosophy in decluttering. Her minimalist approach connects deeply with Japanese values of simplicity and finding joy in everyday items, resonating globally with those seeking balance and meaning in their surroundings.

Gabrielle Zevin is an author known for Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, a novel that delves into themes of gaming, creativity, and identity. Zevin’s work explores the power of gaming culture and how it shapes self-expression and relationships, echoing Japanese innovations in making “inessential” pastimes essential to our lives.

Junya Yamaoka is a designer at Sanrio, the company behind Hello Kitty and other kawaii characters. His work reflects the power of simplicity and charm in Japanese design, using kawaii culture to create universal joy that transcends age and cultural boundaries.

Kenji Ekuan was a legendary industrial designer and creator of the iconic Kikkoman soy sauce bottle. Ekuan’s designs emphasize the Japanese ideal of finding beauty in simplicity, bringing aesthetic elegance and functionality to daily life, especially in postwar Japan.

Daisuke Inoue invented the karaoke machine, a phenomenon that became a staple of entertainment worldwide. His creation democratized singing and encouraged social bonding, embodying Japan’s focus on joy, simplicity, and accessibility in cultural innovation.

Kengo Kuma is a renowned Japanese architect who combines traditional Japanese materials with modern design. Known for his philosophy of “anti-monumental” architecture, Kuma designs spaces that emphasize harmony with the environment, reflecting resilience and creativity in postwar Japan.

Osamu Tezuka was a pioneering manga artist and creator of Astro Boy, widely regarded as the father of modern manga and anime. His work introduced complex themes to Japanese comics, setting a new standard for storytelling and transforming Japanese animation into a global cultural force.

Christopher Poole is the creator of 4chan, an online platform inspired by Japan’s 2channel message boards. Poole’s creation allowed for anonymous and open discussions, giving Western fans of anime and subcultures a unique digital space for community and self-expression.

Hayao Miyazaki is a master animator and co-founder of Studio Ghibli, known for acclaimed films like Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke. His films explore environmental and social themes with rich fantasy, embodying Japan’s ability to blend whimsy with deep, universal messages.

Akio Morita was the co-founder of Sony and a visionary behind the creation of the Walkman, which revolutionized personal audio and allowed people to enjoy music on the go. Morita’s innovations in miniaturization and design transformed personal entertainment globally.

Masayoshi Son is the CEO of SoftBank and a major investor in technology startups worldwide. Known for his forward-thinking investments, Son has pushed boundaries in the tech world, particularly in the integration of user-centered design and innovation.

Shigeru Miyamoto is the legendary game designer behind Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda franchises. As a creator at Nintendo, he redefined gaming with a focus on imaginative gameplay, making it accessible and deeply personal for players around the world.

Neil Gaiman is a best-selling author and screenwriter, known for his fantasy and magical realism works. Gaiman’s storytelling bridges Western and Eastern influences, capturing Japan’s fantasy aesthetic that blends the mystical with everyday life, making him a fitting voice on fantasy’s universal appeal.

Hello Kitty Design Team (Sanrio) represents the creators behind Hello Kitty and other kawaii icons. Their design philosophy, centered on simplicity and universal charm, has made Hello Kitty a beloved global figure, illustrating Japan’s success in turning “inessential” into something deeply cherished.

Hideo Kojima is a visionary video game designer known for Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding. His work incorporates complex storytelling and cinematic elements, pushing boundaries in gaming by exploring isolation, connection, and philosophical questions through fantasy worlds.