A Celebration of Hope and Heroes
When the first One Piece statue of Luffy was unveiled in Kumamoto, Japan, it wasn’t just for anime fans—it was a celebration. The event marked the beginning of a special project honoring recovery, unity, and the spirit of the Straw Hat crew. Over time, more statues followed, each welcomed with excitement by locals and fans alike.
The Earthquake That Shook Kumamoto
In 2016, a powerful earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture, causing major damage across the region. Homes were destroyed, lives were disrupted, and many communities faced a tough road to recovery.
Oda’s Generous Contribution
Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece, is originally from Kumamoto. After the disaster, he donated over 800 million yen to support rebuilding efforts. His love for his hometown played a significant role in helping people during this difficult time.
Statues with Symbolic Power
To thank Oda and inspire the people, the local government placed life-size bronze statues of the Straw Hat Pirates in different towns affected by the quake. Each statue stands for hope, strength, and resilience—just like the characters in the story.
- The statues are spread across different towns in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, each one placed in an area affected by the 2016 earthquake
- There are 10 bronze statues, each featuring a member of the Straw Hat crew.
- It’s the hometown of One Piece creator Eiichiro Oda, who donated to help the area recover from the earthquake.
- Yes! They are public art pieces and have become a popular sightseeing route for One Piece fans and tourists.
- The first statue (Luffy) was installed in 2018. The others followed over the next few years.
More Than Just Fan Art
The Straw Hat Pirate statues represent more than a celebration of anime—they are enduring symbols of hope and recovery for Kumamoto. Following the 2016 earthquake, Eiichiro Oda’s generous donation and the installation of these statues became a source of healing and pride for residents.
For fans, the statues highlight the inspiring values of One Piece—friendship, perseverance, and unity. For locals, they serve as a cherished reminder of their strength in overcoming adversity. These statues stand as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the people and the transformative impact of art and generosity.
