Twelve Guizhou animation students aged between 12 to 21 years old departed for Japan recently to learn about the development of the country's animation industry. The visit will give the young Chinese animators a chance to showcase their works.

The students came from the animation studio of Xu Xiaoyin, famous animation director, and have at least two years of experience in Guiyang. They will continue studying after the visit and will publish their works not only in China, but also in Weekly Shonen Jump, a comic magazine issued in Japan.

Guizhou animation students pose for a group photo before departing for Japan. [Photo/gog.cn]

The visit includes guidance from experienced anime masters, trips to famous scenic spots such as Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, Sensoji Temple, and finally a visit to the famous Ghibli Museum, which features a wide array of exhibits relating to the films of Studio Ghibli, one of the most well-known animation studios in the country.

According to one of the animation students, the visit is a valuable opportunity for them to learn about the industrialized animation production process in Japan.

The students visit a garage kit store in Japan. [Photo/gog.cn]

As the team leader, Xu was previously employed at Japanese animation studio Gonzo K.K and took part in the production of various anime works such as Detective Conan and NARUTO.

Xu then returned to Guizhou and established his own animation studio to provide professional education for animation enthusiasts and to pave career paths for aspiring young animators in Guizhou.