How Tite Kubo’s Inspiration from Akira Toriyama Shaped His Career

Tite Kubo, the creator of Bleach, has openly expressed his strong belief that creativity is a way to broaden one’s perspective on life. For him, the ability to confront challenges is as meaningful as the work of Akira Toriyama, a legendary figure in the anime and manga industry. Kubo often approaches his work with a positive mindset, as is customary in his profession.

The Impact of Akira Toriyama on Tite Kubo

Akira Toriyama has played a pivotal role in Kubo’s life, inspiring him from a young age. In fact, after Bleach was initially rejected by Weekly Shonen Jump, Toriyama sent Kubo a letter to encourage him to continue pursuing his passion. Bleach eventually achieved remarkable success, running for 15 years and being adapted into both live-action films and long-running animated series, grossing over 100 million USD.

The “Big Three” of Manga

Kubo, alongside Masashi Kishimoto, the creator of Naruto, and Eiichiro Oda, known for One Piece, forms part of the “Big Three” in manga. These three authors made a significant mark in Weekly Shonen Jump and have been instrumental in defining the genre. Kubo acknowledges Toriyama as one of the most influential figures in the world of artistic expression. Others, like Hideaki Sorachi from Gintama, have also recognized Toriyama’s impact on their work.

Conclusion

Tite Kubo’s journey in the manga industry illustrates the profound influence of mentors like Akira Toriyama. Through their creative legacies, these artists continue to inspire new generations of creators, fostering a vibrant community of storytelling and artistic expression.