A Japanese voice actress is a performer who provides voices for characters in various media, including anime, video games, and dubbing for foreign films. They play a crucial role in bringing animated characters to life, using their vocal skills to convey emotions and personality traits. Many Japanese voice actresses, such as Maaya Sakamoto and Hikaru Midorikawa, have gained popularity for their work in iconic series like Naruto and My Hero Academia. The industry is known for its competitive nature, with voice actresses often participating in auditions and training to refine their craft.