Japan’s Proud Girls’ Anime! Sailor Moon!

Hello everyone! I’m MIMI.

KONNICHIWAー！（こんにちは😃）

Today, we’re diving into Japan’s beloved anime, ‘Sailor Moon’!

Are you familiar with ‘Sailor Moon’? It’s a rare sight to find a Japanese person who hasn’t heard of it. Many women grew up watching Sailor Moon during their childhood and remain fans into adulthood. I’m one of them!

So, what’s Sailor Moon’s story all about?

1.Timeline:

“Sailor Moon” is a manga written by Naoko Takeuchi, which was later adapted into an anime. The manga’s first volume released in 1992, continuing to sell well with reprints and revisions. The anime aired in 1993, with recent adaptations including live-action series, stage productions, and a renewed anime series, along with new movies. It was also broadcast in the United States in 1995.

The series comprises five installments:

• Sailor Moon (Original)
• Sailor Moon R
• Sailor Moon S
• Sailor Moon SuperS
• Sailor Moon Sailor Stars

2.Story:

Usagi Tsukino, our protagonist, is a slightly clumsy but cheerful middle school student. Informed by a black cat named Luna, she discovers she’s a Sailor Guardian. Alongside her four Guardian friends, Usagi fights demons while unraveling their identities as Sailor Guardians.

But this story isn’t just about battles; it’s filled with elements of romance. The underlying theme is the “forbidden love between the Moon Princess and the Earth Prince,” reincarnated in the present day and bound by fate.

Inspired by Greek mythology, particularly the tragic love story of the Moon Goddess Selene and Endymion, it’s a captivating tale. I started watching Sailor Moon at five years old, learning about love and friendship through its bittersweetness!

3.Characters:

Let’s introduce the main Season 1 characters!

・Usagi Tsukino (Center bottom):

A cheerful and kind-hearted middle school student with distinctive buns on her head. In her past life, she was Princess Serenity. Unable to be with Prince Endymion (Mamoru Chiba) from Earth, she died and reincarnated as a middle school student on Earth. She reunites with Mamoru, her fated connection from her past life, and they develop a mutual love. As one of the Sailor Guardians, her main ability is “purification.”

・Ami Mizuno (Second from the left at the bottom):

Transforms into Sailor Mercury, the guardian of Mercury. She is the brains of the Sailor Guardians, skilled in using water-based techniques for defense rather than offense. Initially shy and studious, she becomes more outgoing after befriending Usagi and the others.

・Rei Hino (Second from the right at the bottom):

Transforms into Sailor Mars, the guardian of Mars. She is a beautiful girl with long black hair, the granddaughter of a Shinto priest. Responsible and passionate, she excels in using fire-based attacks. Despite initially being a rival for Mamoru’s affections, she learns about their past life connection and steps back gracefully.

・Makoto Kino (Far left at the bottom):

Transforms into Sailor Jupiter, the guardian of Jupiter. She is tall and strong, often seen as tomboyish, but she also has a feminine side, enjoying activities like baking. Makoto is prone to falling in love easily and has a strong affinity for lightning-based attacks.

・Minako Aino (Far right at the bottom):

Transforms into Sailor Venus, the guardian of Venus. She dreams of becoming an idol and is athletic, similar to Usagi in her dislike for studying. Interestingly, Minako resembles Usagi from behind with her long blonde hair, leading to theories that she is Usagi’s double. Despite her academic struggles, she surprises others with her ability to speak English, acquired during her time studying in England.

・Mamoru Chiba (No photo):

Also known as Tuxedo Mask. He is often considered the first love of girls all over Japan. In his past life, he was the Prince of Earth and is now a handsome high school student attending a prestigious school. He lost his parents at a young age and lives alone. Although he loses his memory when he transforms into Tuxedo Mask, he gradually regains it as the story progresses, adding to the bittersweetness of his eternal love from their past lives.

4.Setting:

“Sailor Moon” is set in a specific area of Japan, and the anime often features recognizable streets and shops. That location is Azabu-Juban in Minato, Tokyo.

Azabu-Juban is known as a prime location in Tokyo, located next to Roppongi and known for its wealthy residents. The Sailor Guardians, including Usagi Tsukino, are depicted as growing up in Azabu-Juban, known as “celebrity children.” The anime accurately portrays shops from Azabu-Juban’s shopping district as background scenes, which adds an extra layer of excitement for fans.

It’s said that Naoko Takeuchi, the author, once lived in Azabu-Juban, which served as the inspiration for the setting. I hope to write a pilgrimage article to this sacred place someday!

5.Animation:

One of the significant reasons why Sailor Moon has been loved for so many years is undoubtedly its animation! The delicate use of colors is filled with what girls love. It’s a nuanced animation style that’s not often seen in recent anime with bold and vibrant visuals.

There’s so much more to Sailor Moon’s charm! I plan to continue updating about it in multiple parts in the future!

Until we meet again! 

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Thank you very much〜🙏

ARIGATOU GOZAIMASHITAー！（ありがとうございましたー🙏）

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