Naoko Yamada Discusses Mongolian Research for Jaadugar Anime

Director Naoko Yamada traveled to Mongolia for location scouting to prepare for the upcoming historical anime Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia. She revealed this during an interview at Anime Expo 2026.

Yamada is the executive director for the series, which is based on a manga by Tomato Soup. She described the source material as "really lovely and pretty with charming character design." The story is set in 13th-century Persia and Mongolia and is based on a true story, a historical period Yamada noted most people know little about.

Research and Adaptation

Yamada explained that adapting the manga's unique, somewhat cartoonish style was a key focus. She credited director Abel Góngora with having many ideas on how to make the animation smooth while retaining the original's look. The production team drew inspiration from traditional Iranian and Persian art.

Their research extended beyond books. Yamada and Góngora visited museums of Mongolian history during their trip. They also consulted experts on Mongolian and Persian history, who acted as supervisors on the project.

Experiencing Mongolian Culture

The director shared personal experiences from the research trip. She and Góngora did a homestay in a traditional dwelling and tried horseback riding. Yamada highlighted the value of disconnecting, noting there was no need for Wi-Fi or internet, allowing them to fully immerse in the traditional lifestyle.

She expressed hope that the series would act as a cultural bridge. As a Japanese citizen, Yamada said she did not know much about Mongolia before this project and learned to appreciate the culture through its creation. She believes the anime will offer viewers a chance to understand how interesting Persian, Iranian, and Mongolian history and culture are.

Characters and Creative Vision

The story follows two women, Töregene and Fatima (also called Sitara), who influence politics in a male-dominated society. Yamada described their historical achievements as "somewhat nerve-wracking" for viewers, noting the situation is not as stable as it seems. She said the characters' feelings are a core motivation that strengthens their bond, calling it a very human and natural element that will interest audiences.

On the visual front, Yamada discussed working with art director Yuri Kabasawa. The goal was to present elements that might seem exotic to viewers as perfectly normal, focusing on the whole picture rather than getting lost in excessive detail.

For music, composer Koshiro Hino was selected. Yamada said Hino is good at using electronic sounds with a contemporary tone and likes to play with sound. She felt his sensibility meshed well with her vision, describing the potential music as something Oriental yet rhythmical.

When asked about a scene she is especially proud of, Yamada pointed to the first episode. She highlighted a sequence where Sitara rushes around the town of Tus, saying it draws viewers in and makes them want to see what happens next.

Yamada concluded by sharing a message for fans attending the U.S. Premiere at Anime Expo. She said she feels close to the fans and is looking forward to their reaction and feedback, hoping they love the anime from the bottom of her heart.