Proceeds From Hayao Miyazaki Toy To Benefit Tsunami Relief

Hayao Miyazaki, the seminal artist and animator behind Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro and Princess Monoke, among others, announced his retirement earlier this year, but his presence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, as both an icon animation and Japanese culture. Case in point: designer Martin Hsu, in collaboration with Bigshot Toyworks, has created a limited edition Miyazaki figure, with proceeds from the sales going to Karakuwa-Maru, an organization dedicated to rebuilding Karakuwa in Kesennuma City, Japan, following the events of the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

The 6-inch figure, called "Miya-San," costs $95 U.S. Pre-order are being accepted through January 31, with shipping planned for April.

Though Miyazaki has said he's retiring from animation following the release of his final film, The Wind Rises, he's still keeping busy. The 72-year-old creator is currently writing and illustrating a new manga series about samurai in Japan’s Warring States era.

[Via Anime News Network and Robot 6]