Nintendo Switch Shin chan: Shiro and the Coal Town - A Heartwarming Adventure

Shin chan: Shiro and the Coal Town (Japanese: クレヨンしんちゃん 炭焼きカントリー！夢のナナヒカリ) is a 2023 Japanese animated film based on the popular manga and anime series Crayon Shin-chan. Directed by Takahiro Miyauchi, this movie takes viewers on a touching journey that blends humor, adventure, and environmental themes.


The story follows the Nohara family as they embark on a vacation to a small coal mining town. The adventure kicks off when Shiro, the family's beloved dog, goes missing. As Shin-chan and his family search for their pet, they become entangled in the town's struggle to preserve its traditional way of life in the face of modernization and environmental concerns.


The movie stays true to the beloved characters from the Crayon Shin-chan series. Shin-chan's mischievous antics and innocent yet poignant observations provide the trademark humor fans expect. The voice acting is top-notch, with Akiko Yajima reprising her role as Shin-chan, delivering the character's iconic lines with perfect timing and charm.

The introduction of new characters specific to the coal town adds depth to the narrative. These characters are well-developed, each bringing their own motivations and backstories that intertwine with the main plot.



While maintaining its comedic core, "Shiro and the Coal Town" tackles several mature themes:

1. Environmental Conservation: The movie delves into the balance between traditional industries and environmental protection.
2. Community and Tradition: It explores the value of preserving local culture and community bonds.
3. Family and Loyalty: Shin-chan's quest to find Shiro emphasizes the importance of family and the bond between humans and pets.

These themes are woven seamlessly into the story, making them accessible to younger viewers while providing food for thought for adults.


The animation quality is excellent, showcasing vibrant colors and detailed backgrounds that bring the coal town to life. The character designs remain faithful to the Crayon Shin-chan style while introducing new elements that fit the movie's setting. Particularly noteworthy are the scenes depicting the town's natural beauty and the coal mining process, which are both educational and visually striking.



The soundtrack complements the movie's tone perfectly, shifting between playful tunes for Shin-chan's antics and more emotional pieces for the film's touching moments. The sound design, especially in scenes featuring the town's industrial elements, adds an extra layer of immersion to the viewing experience.


True to the Crayon Shin-chan franchise, the movie is filled with humor that appeals to both children and adults. Shin-chan's irreverent jokes and situations provide plenty of laughs. However, what sets this film apart is its ability to balance this humor with genuinely emotional moments, particularly those centered around Shiro's disappearance and the town's struggles.


"Shin chan: Shiro and the Coal Town" is a delightful addition to the Crayon Shin-chan movie series. It successfully combines the franchise's signature humor with a heartfelt story and important themes. The film manages to entertain while also encouraging viewers to think about environmental issues and the value of community.

While longtime fans of the series will undoubtedly appreciate the movie, it's also accessible to newcomers, making it a great family viewing experience. The blend of comedy, adventure, and touching moments ensures that there's something for everyone in this charming animated feature.


Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Shin chan: Shiro and the Coal Town proves that even after decades, the Crayon Shin-chan franchise can still deliver fresh, relevant, and emotionally resonant stories while staying true to its comedic roots.