Nippon2007, Asia's First WorldCon, Opens

[NewsBot]

Nippon2007, the first WorldCon science-fiction convention held in Asia, opened Thursday with a full schedule for its anime and manga program participants. Artist Yoshitaka Amano (Gatchaman, Mospeada, Final Fantasy), novelist Sakyo Komatsu (Sayonara Jupiter, Japan Sinks!), and magazine editor Takumi Shibano (Uchūjin) appears as Guests of Honor along with the English-speaking guests and program participants. In addition, artist Takami Akai (Princess Maker, Crest of the Stars), author Mizuhito Akiyama (Iriya no Sora, UFO no Natsu), creator Moto Hagio (A,A', There Were 11), artist Ippongi Bang, director Mamoru Oshii (Ghost in the Shell movies), actor George Takei (Star Trek, Heroes), novelist Yoshiki Tanaka (Legend of Galactic Heroes), novelist Tow Ubukata (Le Chevalier D'Eon), are scheduled to appear as program participants. Fans already had opportunities to have tea with Crest of the Stars author Hiroyuki Morioka and Crusher Joe/Dirty Pair author Haruka Takachiho, and hear Yoshikazu Yasuhiko (Gundam, Crusher Joe) and Go Nagai (Cutey Honey) speak.

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