#Japan #Tokyo #Kracie #Kampo Therapy #Suzuko Mimori

Introduction

On January 12, 2026, Kracie Pharmaceutical will unveil its latest television commercial featuring popular voice actor Suzuko Mimori. The campaign is part of the 'Kampo Therapy' series, which aims to make traditional Kampo medicine more accessible and relatable to the public. This new advertisement, titled "But We Are Having Fun, Right?", will be broadcast nationwide, alongside a special edition commercial focusing on the symptom known as 'Hysteria Ball?', which is scheduled for release in April.

Purpose of the Campaign

The overarching goal of this advertising initiative is to help normalize the use of Kampo medicine among consumers. Through the use of charming animal characters in a puppet show format, the commercials humorously illustrate various everyday health issues. By tackling serious health concerns in a light-hearted manner, the commercials present the comforting appeal of Kampo medicine, which has received considerable positive feedback since launching their stop-motion animation series in February 2023. With this release marking the fifth installment, two refreshing new commercials will be introduced, with the first being a recap that ties in characters from the previous installments.

"But We Are Having Fun, Right?" Segment

As the prestigious Kampo Therapy brand celebrates its 20th anniversary in October 2026, this commercial features beloved recurring characters like Shimako, Kanon, and Yuri. The ad delivers a forward-thinking message stating, "Life comes with its ups and downs, but it’s still fun, right?", while also highlighting tailored Kampo solutions for common health issues. In celebration of this milestone, the packaging for nine formulations targeting women's health has been updated with warmer, more inviting colors, facilitating a friendlier brand image. The creative touch in the commercial showcases these new color themes, encouraging audiences to engage with the brand in a more personal way.

"Hysteria Ball?" Segment

The term ‘Hysteria Ball’ refers to a discomfort often described by individuals as a sensation of tightness in the throat extending to the chest. This particular condition can arise due to stress and is identified medically as "pharyngeal globus sensation". In the commercial, viewers are introduced to Kampo product "Hange Kouboku-Tou", effectively addressing this concern. The ad explores a casual yet heartfelt scene between Kiriko and Rinko at a cafe, where a gentle exchange reveals how commonplace such issues are.

Suzuko Mimori's Touch

Suzuko Mimori reprises her role as the voice behind the characters, encouraging viewers to think positively despite life's challenges. One memorable scene in the "But We Are Having Fun, Right?" segment features the animal friends singing "This is My Life’s Path" at karaoke, emphasizing the balance between struggles and joy that Kampo Therapy aims to support. Moreover, Mimori lends her voice to the corporate slogan, "A Future You Can Be Passionate About, Kracie", presented at the commercial's outset.

Engaging with Audiences

In addition to TV broadcasts, the Kampo Therapy’s official X account will also share relatable content, including insights about Kampo medicine and updates from the delightful animal characters' everyday lives. This initiative invites viewers to connect more intimately with the brand by showcasing relatable scenarios surrounding traditional healing methods.

Storyline Overview

The "But We Are Having Fun, Right?" segment nostalgically revisits less complicated times in life - from student days to adulthood, emphasizing that while issues arise, the joy of living prevails. The segment aims to impart the message that Kampo Therapy subtly supports individuals during their daily struggles. Meanwhile, in the "Hysteria Ball?" segment, the simple yet relatable conversation at the cafe reflects a shared awareness and communal experience of discomfort, reinforcing that health concerns are common, and solutions are available.

Director's Comments

Director Sanada remarked on the relatable nature of the friendships amongst the three characters—formed during their school years and evolving through life’s stages. Drawing inspiration from his own youthful experiences, he captures the essence of growing pains intertwined with laughter and support, portraying a slice of life that resonates with many viewers.

Voice Actor Profile: Suzuko Mimori

Suzuko Mimori, born on June 28, 1986, in Tokyo, is known for her roles in popular works, including "Love Live!" as Umi Sonoda and "Healing Good Precure" as Asumi Kazanari/Cure Earth.

Commercial Details

• - Titles and Release Dates:

- "But We Are Having Fun, Right?" - January 12, 2026
- "Hysteria Ball?" - Scheduled for April 2026

• - Broadcast Area: National
• - Video Links: Kracie CM Gallery

Production Insights

Utilizing stop-motion animation, each segment of the commercial involves meticulous photography, resulting in a visually stunning narrative crafted over six days of filming. The studio responsible for character design and execution, Dwarf, has gained acclaim both domestically and internationally, showcasing excellence in their work on character-driven content and collaborative projects.

Campaign Product Overview

Product Name: Kracie Kampo Hange Kouboku-Tou Extract Granules
Classification: Second-Class Pharmaceutical
Retail Price: 2,200 JPY (including tax)
Indications: Aimed at those experiencing a range of symptoms including anxiety neurosis and sensations of tightness in the throat.

About "Kampo Therapy"

Established in 2006, Kampo Therapy is dedicated to providing traditional herbal remedies suited for today’s self-medication approaches. The brand seeks to demystify Kampo, offering easy access to effective solutions for the everyday health concerns that individuals may face without undergoing extensive medical treatment.

About Kracie Pharmaceutical

Kracie Pharmaceutical has been a stalwart in supporting health and wellness for over fifty years, emphasizing a commitment to integrate Kampo practices and modern healthcare strategies for holistic well-being.