Yukihiro Shibutani, Art Director of 'Natsume Yuujinchou', Dies at 63

Yukihiro Shibutani, the acclaimed art director behind iconic works such as Natsume Yuujinchou (Natsume's Book of Friends) and Meitantei Conan (Case Closed), died on September 15 at the age of 63. Shibutani died in a Tokyo hospital due to complications from a long-term illness, according to an announcement by his production company Yoyogi Art Planning and GAKIproAstudio. Born in 1960 in Tsuruta, Aomori Prefecture, Shibutani began his career at Ishigaki Production at the age of 20. Over the decades, his artistic touch shaped the visual atmosphere of numerous beloved anime series. His work contributed to the rich aesthetics of Lupin III, Gintama, Akira, and Detective Conan, among many others. Most notably, Shibutani served as a key figure in the art department of Natsume Yuujinchou (Natsume's Book of Friends), lending warmth and beauty to the series' emotional landscapes. Following the news of his death, the official X (formerly Twitter) account of Natsume Yuujinchou (Natsume's Book of Friends) paid tribute, stating, "Shibutani was a pillar of the art team from the very first season of the anime, breathing kindness, warmth, and beauty into the story." Shuka, the animation studio which worked with Shibutani on the anime series, also expressed its condolences, saying, "Though he may have appeared stern, Shibutani had a great sense of humor and was deeply committed to the art and projects he worked on." Shibutani's more recent art director works include Seishun Buta Yarou wa Bunny Girl Senpai no Yume wo Minai (Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai), Tonikaku Kawaii (Tonikawa: Over The Moon For You), and Fumetsu no Anata e (To Your Eternity). In accordance with his wishes, a private funeral was held for close family members. Plans for a memorial service will be shared at a later date. His family and company have respectfully requested that condolences, floral tributes, and visits be refrained until further notice.