Sanji Statue

Sanji (サンジ像), the culinary genius of the Straw Hat Pirates from the beloved anime One Piece, is more than just a cook—he’s a guardian of nourishment and care. His statue stands proudly in Mashiki Sports Park, positioned in front of the running track in a town deeply affected by the 2016 Kumamoto earthquakes. Mashiki was among the hardest-hit areas: its sports hall served as a long-term emergency shelter, and the local school lunch center was completely destroyed. In this context, Sanji’s presence is deeply symbolic—he’s here to provide not only food, but also comfort and compassion to the children of Mashiki. The statue was installed as part of the One Piece Kumamoto Revival Project, a heartfelt collaboration between Kumamoto Prefecture and One Piece creator Eiichiro Oda, who is originally from the region. The project was launched to honor and support the recovery of earthquake-affected communities across the prefecture.

Sanji’s statue is a tribute to the town’s resilience and the vital role of community care in times of crisis. Once marked by devastation, the park is now a space for healing and recovery. With his signature chef’s stance and determined expression, Sanji represents the strength found in everyday kindness—offering warmth, nourishment, and encouragement to young people as they move forward. Visitors to Mashiki will find more than a beloved character; they’ll encounter a powerful reminder that rebuilding begins not just with bricks and mortar, but with shared meals, support, and heart.