Remember when Ube City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, director Hideaki Anno's hometown, unveiled a massive 7-meter Lance of Longinus at Tokiwa Park back in October 2023 as part of its "Machiju Evangelion Third Installment" project? That epic display drew tons of visitors! Now, this annual collaboration is back for its fifth installment.
Following last year's hugely popular partnership, Ube City is once again teaming up with local J-League professional soccer club, Renofa Yamaguchi FC. This year brings not only a fresh line of collaboration jerseys, but the team will actually wear them during matches throughout August! The goal? To boost local tourism and rally support for the home team.
The "Machiju Evangelion" project celebrates Ube City native director Hideaki Anno, drawing inspiration from the "Neon Genesis Evangelion" series and partnering with the local government. Now in its fifth year, the project features annual festivals that have become a unique cultural highlight for the region. The official announcement also teases more events from November this year through March of next year.
This year's collaboration jerseys are designed with the iconic color schemes of Shinji Ikari and Asuka Shikinami Langley's plug suits, seamlessly integrated with Renofa Yamaguchi FC's original design. The complete kit—jerseys, shorts, and even socks—ensures the team can celebrate this special event alongside Ube City in full Evangelion style.
▼ Players will sport the blue Shinji-inspired kit, while goalkeepers will don the Asuka-themed version.
The front of the jersey features a striking "V" design, which actually symbolizes the "Machiju Evangelion" project's iconic emblem: the Lance of Longinus! On the lower back, you'll find a thoughtful design combining Ube City's skyline with a silhouette of the Lance of Longinus, a truly localized touch.
It's truly impressive how Japanese anime IPs and local governments collaborate. From constructing a Lance of Longinus in the city to partnering with the local soccer team, this kind of soft power is genuinely admirable.
These limited-edition jerseys will be worn by players in five home games, including the "Ube City Home Day" match against Tokushima Vortis on July 12! Fans can grab their own jerseys from the official online store and at home game venues starting May 6, 2025. If you're interested, be sure to find a way to get your hands on them!
via： 山口雷法足球 FC 官方 X