Studio Ghibli, is rarely seen outside promotional material for his films. However, a recent photo of the beloved animator has surfaced, offering fans a rare glimpse of him in a casual moment. What makes this image particularly interesting is that it shows Miyazaki without his signature beard, which is an unusual sight for those accustomed to his iconic look. The photo was taken in front of the entrance of Nibaraki, a location with ties to his early career, and was captured by a veteran employee who worked on Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.

The image from @khara_inc2 on X has drawn attention not just because of Miyazaki’s rare public appearance, but also due to the presence of Neon Genesis Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno. Anno, a longtime friend and collaborator of Miyazaki, played a key role in the development of Nausicaä, working as an animator on the film’s climactic scenes. His connection to Studio Ghibli runs deep, making this moment between two of anime’s most influential creators all the more significant for fans of their work.

A Rare Glimpse at Miyazaki’s Everyday Life

Hayao Miyazaki Is a Very Private Person, So Photo's Like This Are Uncommon

Miyazaki's absence from the public eye has always been proof of his private nature. While his films have inspired generations, the director himself prefers to keep a low profile outside his studio. This photo is an unusual and candid look at the man behind some of the most beloved animated films of all time. Fans were particularly surprised to see him without his familiar beard, a staple of his appearances for years. According to Miyazaki, he shaved it off simply because it had become too much of a hassle to maintain.

This unexpected change has sparked discussion among fans, with some joking that the clean-shaven Miyazaki is almost unrecognizable. Others view it as a sign of his changing personality. Despite his reputation for being stubborn in his creative process, he remains open to change in other aspects of life. Regardless of the reason behind his new look, the image offers a rare, unfiltered look at one of the most celebrated figures in animation history.

The Significance of Miyazaki and Anno’s Bond

Hayao Miyazaki and Hideaki Anno Go Way Back

The presence of Hideaki Anno in this moment further emphasizes the deep history between the two creators. Anno’s relationship with Miyazaki began when he was recruited to work on Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, where he animated the film’s iconic God Warrior sequence. Over the years, their mentor-mentee dynamic grew into a mutual respect and friendship, with Anno later voicing the protagonist of Miyazaki’s The Wind Rises. Their collaborations highlight a creative synergy that has shaped modern anime in profound ways.

This photo is an amazing reminder of the lasting friendship between two of anime’s most influential visionaries. As Miyazaki continues to work on his latest projects and Anno expands his creative pursuits beyond Evangelion, their bond remains a testament to the interconnected nature of Japan’s animation industry. For longtime fans, this image is more than just a casual snapshot, it is a moment that symbolizes the shared history and impact of two legendary storytellers.

Source: @khara_inc2/X