Chiyoko Kawashima, born Chiyoko Shimoyama on June 2, 1954, in Tokyo, Japan, is a former voice actress whose career left a lasting mark on the anime industry during the late 20th century. She retired from voice acting in 2001, bringing an end to a journey that saw her bring numerous characters to life across television and film. Kawashima is perhaps best remembered for her final role, voicing Koron Kusakabe, the mother of Maron Kusakabe, in the supernatural anime series Phantom Thief Jeanne, a fitting conclusion to a career defined by versatility and emotional depth.

Kawashima began her voice acting career in the 1970s, a period when the anime industry in Japan was rapidly expanding. She quickly established herself as a reliable talent, lending her voice to a variety of supporting characters in both television series and animated films. One of her early notable appearances was in the classic series Urusei Yatsura, where she contributed to the show's enduring popularity. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, she became a familiar presence in the industry, often voicing maternal figures, gentle heroines, or comedic side characters that added warmth and authenticity to the stories she helped tell.

Her filmography includes a range of beloved titles. She voiced a character in the iconic anime film My Neighbor Totoro, directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli, a role that connected her to one of the most celebrated works in animation history. She also appeared in The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (the 1983 film), Kiki's Delivery Service, and Only Yesterday, further cementing her association with the golden age of Japanese animation. In television, she was a regular presence in series such as Maison Ikkoku, Ranma ½, and Inuyasha, where her performances often provided a grounding emotional resonance.

Despite her success, Kawashima chose to step away from the industry in 2001, a decision that surprised many fans but was respected as a personal choice. Her retirement marked the end of an era for those who had followed her career, but her body of work continues to be celebrated by anime enthusiasts. Chiyoko Kawashima remains a respected figure in voice acting history, remembered for her gentle tone, professional dedication, and the memorable characters she left behind.