Japanese manga artist Mari Yamazaki has been appointed as honorary director of the children’s library “Children’s Book Forest Sapporo−Hokkaido University” that is scheduled to open in summer 2026 on the Hokkaido University Sapporo Campus, following a donation from architect Tadao Ando. Yamazaki moved to Italy alone at age 17 to study art and is now widely active both domestically and internationally as a manga artist, writer, and painter. Her experience and knowledge will contribute to realizing the concept of “Opening Knowledge to Children” adopted by the library. Furthermore, Yamazaki previously served as an Italian language instructor at Hokkaido University and has worked as a reporter for Sapporo television programs, demonstrating her deep connection to both Hokkaido University and Sapporo City, leading to this appointment.
On January 30, 2026, a letter of appointment ceremony was held at the Global Research Center for Food & Medical Innovation (FMI) on the Sapporo Campus. Receiving her letter of appointment from the Mayor of Sapporo, Yamazaki shared her view of the library’s value: “Libraries provide the most essential nourishment for the human mind. I believe they are the places that teach us the importance of thinking about things and letting our curiosity and imagination expand.” She added, “I find myself imagining opportunities to directly share with children how books have helped me personally.”
Following this, a brief talk session was held featuring Mari Yamazaki, Sapporo Mayor Katsuhiro Akimoto, and Hokkaido University President Kiyohiro Houkin. In the session, Yamazaki shared her experience traveling alone through Europe at age 14. “At the Louvre Museum, I witnessed firsthand how people today crave the works left behind by past generations as a form of nourishment. That moment confirmed my choice to pursue art—though it might involve hardship, it was not a mistake,” she reflected.
Yamazaki credits her childhood library experiences in her works since venturing into the arts. “My ability to translate the imagination needed for manga into language was cultivated in the library,” she explained. “The library was a vital place that supported me as a foundation in my childhood, so I am truly delighted to be offered the position of Honorary Director.” President Houkin responded with high expectations, stating, “I believe everyone now understands how perfectly suited you are for the role of Honorary Director after hearing your words.”
With Mari Yamazaki’s appointment as Honorary Director, anticipation for the opening of the “Children’s Book Forest Sapporo−Hokkaido University” grows even stronger.
Message from Mari Yamazaki to Hokkaido University in celebration of its 150th Anniversary
We received a message and illustration from Mari Yamazaki for Hokkaido University as it approaches its 150th anniversary. The Latin phrase scientia est potentia means “knowledge is power.” The towel on the head of the protagonist in her representative work, Thermae Romae, bears the inscription “HOKUDAI.” (short name for Hokkaido University)
With the cooperation of members both inside and outside the university, Hokkaido University is collecting messages for its 150th anniversary. These messages are posted on the special 150th Anniversary Commemorative Website. Please take a look.
https://150th.hokudai.ac.jp/cheer
[Text and photos provided by PR & Communication Division, Office of PR & Social Collaboration in cooperation with Division of Social Collaboration, Department of Social Engagement]