Known for Acting
Ayaka Shibutani is a Japanese actress recognized for her roles in two notable films directed by Ryûsuke Hamaguchi. She portrayed Mayuzumi in Evil Does Not Exist (2023), a drama that explores the tension between rural life and encroaching development, which premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival and won the Grand Jury Prize. She also appeared as Yuzuki in Happy Hour (2015), a critically acclaimed film that delves into the lives of four women in Kobe, earning praise for its depth and naturalistic performances. Both films highlight her collaboration with Hamaguchi, showcasing her ability to contribute to introspective and character-driven narratives. Born on December 25, 1991, in Hyogo, Japan, Shibutani has emerged as a talent in contemporary Japanese cinema through these works.
Born
December 25, 1991 (age 34)
Birthplace
Hyogo, Japan
Filmography
6 films


Desert of Namibia
2024 · 2h 17m
country: Japan
A young, temperamental Tokyo beautician struggles to navigate her relationships with lovers, friends, and family.


Evil Does Not Exist
2023 · 1h 46m
country: Japan
Takumi and his daughter Hana live in Mizubiki Village, close to Tokyo. One day, the village inhabitants become aware of a plan to build a camping site near Takumi's house offering city residents a comfortable "escape" to nature.


GIFT
2023 · 1h 14m
country: Japan
We follow Takumi and his daughter who lead a modest life in the village in the middle of nature. One day Takumi receives word that there are plans to build a glamping site near his home. The discovery that wastewater will be piped into the village’s water source not only causes unrest among the residents, but also affects Takumi’s life.


Ten Years + One Day
2023 · 1h 22m
country: Japan
Harasaki, Kikushima, and Morita, who left their hometown to live in the city, reunite for the first time in ten years. Harasaki and Kikushima have been estranged after an incident, but with Morita’s help, the distance between the three gradually closes.


Beyond Happy Hour
2018 · 38m
country: Unknown
Interviews with the cast of Ryusuke Hamaguchi's 'Happy Hour' about the making of the film.


Happy Hour
2015 · 5h 17m
country: Japan
Four women in their thirties reevaluate their relationships, both shared and private, after a startling revelation concerning one's marriage forces each of them to ask one of life's biggest questions: "Am I who I want to be?"