#Japan #Japan Post #JSPO #Shiga

Commemorative Stamps for the 79th National Sports Festival

On September 3rd, Japan Post will launch a special commemorative stamp marking the 79th National Sports Festival (also known as Kokumin Sports Taikai), which is set to take place in Shiga Prefecture this year. This year's event, themed "Shiga Shining at National Sports," emphasizes the importance of creating an environment for engaging in, watching, and supporting sports.

The National Sports Festival has a rich history, having been celebrated since 1947. The festival promotes sports among the general public, aiming for improved health and fitness while also boosting local sports development. Over seventy years, these commemorative stamps have become beloved collectibles amidst sports enthusiasts and the general public.

The design of the stamp this year features various sports events and elements that resonate with the rich culture of Shiga Prefecture. The edges of the stamp are adorned with the mascots Caffy and Chaffy, representing the festival's spirit and excitement. These characters are designed to resonate with the local community and the participants in the upcoming celebrations.

Starting from September 3rd, these stamps can be purchased at all post offices across Japan, as well as through the Japan Post online shopping platform, making it easier for collectors and everyday citizens alike to acquire this unique piece of memorabilia.

For those interested in purchasing the stamps online, you can find them at the Japan Post online shop: Japan Post Online Shop

About JSPO (Japan Sports Association)

The Japan Sports Association (JSPO) was founded in July 1911 with the aim of promoting national sports and enhancing international competitiveness. After rebranding and restructuring over the decades, it adopted its current name on April 1, 2018. The organization conducts a wide array of sports events tailored for different generations, including the National Sports Festival and various sports masters competitions. JSPO is dedicated to fostering sports through youth sporting organizations, comprehensive local sports clubs, and training sports instructors, all while utilizing state-of-the-art scientific and medical knowledge to expand sports participation.

JSPO acts as the unified body for sports in Japan, collaborating with over 60 national sports federations, 47 prefectural sports associations, and numerous other organizations and individuals involved in the sporting community. Their commitment is not only to promote ‘doing,’ ‘watching,’ and ‘supporting’ sports but to make sports accessible to all.

For more information about JSPO and its initiatives, visit the official JSPO website or check their brochures detailing the scope of operations: JSPO Business Overview, and their mid-term plan from 2023-2027: JSPO Mid-Term Plan.