Anime Beneath Your Feet: Overlord in Tokorozawa

As I pointed out yesterday, anime is woven into the fabric of everyday life in Japan. It is here, there, and seemingly everywhere. So, it comes as no surprise that anime even finds its way onto Japan's decorative manhole covers. 'Pokelids' (Pokemon manhole covers) are probably the most famous and sought-after examples, but many other anime series have been immortalized on manhole covers across the country.

As I also mentioned yesterday, manhole covers can serve not only as public art but also as a form of education. I'm not much of an anime viewer myself, so a lot of what I know about anime has come simply from encountering it in daily life in Japan. Decorative manhole covers are one such source, introducing me to characters and series that I might otherwise never have discovered.

This particular cover features Ainz Ooal Gown, the main character of the fantasy anime and light novel series Overlord. Instantly recognizable by his skeletal appearance, flowing robes, and imposing presence. Even for someone unfamiliar with the series, the striking artwork makes this one of the more eye-catching anime manhole covers I've come across. For fans: it's located in Tokorozawa Sakura Town (Saitama Prefecture) just over the border of Tokyo.

Are you familiar with Overlord and this character, Ainz Ooal Gown?