The Eccentric Family Day
OtherWhat Is "The Eccentric Family Day"?
December 26th is "The Eccentric Family Day" (Uchoten Kazoku no Hi) in Japan, an anniversary tied to the TV anime "The Eccentric Family" (Uchoten Kazoku), based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi and animated by P.A. Works. It was registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2024 as part of a crowdfunding project marking the show's 10th anniversary.
Why December 26th?
The story features a pivotal event called the "Nise-emon Election," in which Kyoto's tanuki (raccoon dog) community chooses its leader. Because this election takes place on December 26th within the story, that date was chosen for the anniversary.
What Is "The Eccentric Family"?
"The Eccentric Family" is a story set in Kyoto about the antics of a family of tanuki who live disguised as humans.
- Source material: a novel of the same name by Tomihiko Morimi
- The anime: its first season was produced by P.A. Works in 2013, with a second season airing later
- Its setting: real Kyoto locations and culture appear throughout, including Shimogamo Shrine
Why Was the Anniversary Established at Shimogamo Shrine?
The ceremony establishing the anniversary was held on March 17, 2024, at Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto. The shrine's Tadasu no Mori forest is one of the story's key settings and is considered a cherished pilgrimage site among fans.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Rewatch the anime or reread the original novel of "The Eccentric Family"
- Visit Shimogamo Shrine and other Kyoto locations featured in the story
- Share your thoughts about the series with fellow fans on social media
- Check out other works by author Tomihiko Morimi
A Day Born From Fans' Devotion, Turned Into an Anniversary
The Eccentric Family Day wasn't created by a corporation or a shop — it was born from the passion of fans who loved a single story. Let December 26th be a chance to revisit Kyoto's tale of tanuki caught up in a chaotic, endearing commotion.