Sky Mark Collaborates with Ibaraki Prefecture to Promote Local Tourism Through Student Art

Promoting Ibaraki Prefecture through Art and Travel

As part of a collaborative initiative to enhance the appeal of Ibaraki Prefecture, Sky Mark Airlines and Ibaraki Airport have embarked on a promotional campaign celebrating the airport's 16th anniversary. The campaign, titled "Iba16 no Tabi" (The Ibaraki Journey), invites travelers and locals to participate in an engaging digital stamp rally running from February 13 to March 15, 2026.

A Collaborative Project

This unique concept is the fruit of a partnership between Sky Mark and the Ibaraki Airport Utilization Promotion Council, along with contributions from students of Yoani Animation Academy. The project enlisted students from the academy's Illustration Department to create artwork that encapsulates the charm of various Ibaraki tourist destinations.

Originally intended to showcase just ten selected student illustrations, the initiative has grown in scope with a total of 14 artworks being chosen for their creative quality and diverse interpretations. This move not only highlights the talent of young artists but also underscores the academy's commitment to integrating real-world experiences into their educational framework.

The Stamp Rally Experience

Participants in the stamp rally will visit sixteen designated locations around Ibaraki, ranging from train stations to airports and popular tourist spots. As they collect stamps at these locations, they will be entered into a drawing for exciting prizes, including pairs of Sky Mark airline tickets and exclusive Sky Mark merchandise.

This initiative serves as both a fun-filled exploration of Ibaraki and a means to ignite interest in local travel. The illustrations serve as a vibrant backdrop, inviting both tourists and residents to experience Ibaraki’s unique culture and attractions.

Student Involvement and Impact

The excitement around the campaign is palpable. Kenta Nishikori, a representative from Sky Mark, expressed delight at the overwhelming number of submissions from students, noting that their enthusiasm added significant value to the project. He remarked on the ability of the artwork to effectively convey the charm of Ibaraki: the various perspectives shared through these illustrations reflect the area's beauty and cultural richness.

This campaign aims not just to showcase Ibaraki’s attractions but also to nurture the next generation of artists, providing them a platform to gain real-world experience in a collaborative project that connects creativity with community promotion.

Celebrating 16 Years of Ibaraki Airport

On March 11, 2026, Ibaraki Airport will officially turn 16 years old, and this milestone will be marked by several festivities, including influencer-led YouTube content celebrating local travel and temporary exhibitions themed around "Iba16 no Tabi". These events will enhance the celebratory atmosphere while encouraging more visitors to discover the charm of Ibaraki.

More than just a travel campaign, this collaboration echoes a deeper commitment to fostering community, creativity, and cultural engagement, paving the way for exciting future endeavors between Sky Mark and educational institutions.

More Information

To learn more about the stamp rally and stay updated on the campaign, visit the official Sky Mark website.

For insights into the educational pathways offered by Yoani Animation Academy, interested individuals can explore their diverse programs, which span numerous modalities to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in the animation and entertainment industries.