緑色の体に白い顔の幽霊の絵。

Shigeru Mizuki (1922–2015) was a Japanese manga artist and historian, renowned for his works that blend Japanese folklore, mythology, and horror with real-life social and historical themes. Born in Sakaiminato, Tottori, Japan, Mizuki's fascination with yokai (supernatural monsters, spirits, and demons in Japanese folklore) began in childhood, heavily influenced by stories told by an elderly woman in his neighborhood. This fascination would become a central theme in much of his later work. Mizuki's early life was marked by significant hardships, including losing an arm during World War II, which profoundly impacted his outlook and future works. Despite this, he pursued a career in manga, where his distinctive style and storytelling would come to be celebrated. His most famous creation, "GeGeGe no Kitaro," originally began as "Hakaba Kitaro" (Graveyard Kitaro) in 1960. The series revolves around Kitaro, a yokai boy who fights for peace between humans and yokai. "GeGeGe no Kitaro" has become a cultural icon in Japan, spawning numerous adaptations including animated series, movies, and merchandise, introducing generations of Japanese to traditional folklore through a contemporary medium. Mizuki's work is notable for its rich, detailed illustrations and its blend of humor, horror, and empathy. Beyond his yokai stories, Mizuki was also known for his autobiographical and historical works. "Showa: A History of Japan" is among his critically acclaimed series, depicting the Showa period (1926–1989) in Japan through a mix of personal experiences and historical research. The series is praised for its detailed portrayal of Japanese society during war and peace, highlighting the impacts of historical events on ordinary people. Mizuki's contributions to manga and Japanese culture have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Kodansha Manga Award, the Shogakukan Manga Award, and the prestigious Person of Cultural Merit honor from the Japanese government in 2010. His hometown, Sakaiminato, honors him with a street featuring over 100 bronze statues of his characters, celebrating his legacy. Shigeru Mizuki's influence extends beyond manga; he played a significant role in popularizing yokai in contemporary Japanese media and contributed profoundly to the preservation and dissemination of Japanese folklore. His works continue to be cherished for their storytelling, historical depth, and the unique blend of the supernatural with the mundane.