Makoto Shinkai: Japanese Filmmaker, Animator, and Director of Your Name

Makoto Shinkai (born 1973) is a Japanese filmmaker and animator known for writing, directing and producing visually striking films; he gained worldwide recognition for the animated blockbuster Your Name.

Author: Leandro Alegsa Creation date: November 14, 2022 Last updated: April 10, 2026

Makoto Shinkai (Japanese: 新海誠; Hepburn: Shinkai Makoto) was born Makoto Niitsu (新津誠) on 9 February 1973.

Overview

Originally trained as a graphic designer, Shinkai moved into animation and film production. He is a Japanese filmmaker known for handling many creative roles himself: among others he works as a director, screenwriter, producer, animator, editor, cinematographer, occasional voice actor and manga artist.

He gained major international attention for the animated feature Your Name, which became the highest-grossing anime film at the time of its release.

Questions and Answers

Q: Who is Makoto Shinkai?

A: Makoto Shinkai is a Japanese movie director, writer, producer, animator, editor, cinematographer, voice actor, manga artist and former graphic designer.

Q: What is the name of the highest-earning anime movie directed by Makoto Shinkai?

A: The highest-earning anime movie directed by Makoto Shinkai is called Your Name.

Q: When was Makoto Shinkai born?

A: Makoto Shinkai was born on 9 February 1973.

Q: What other names has he been known as?

A: He has also been known as Makoto Niitsu (新津誠).

Q: What are some of the roles that he has held in his career?

A: He has held roles such as director, writer, producer, animator, editor, cinematographer, voice actor and manga artist.

Q: Is he still working as a graphic designer?

A: No; he used to be a graphic designer but no longer works in this role.

Author

Creation date: November 14, 2022

Last updated: April 10, 2026