#Japan #Tokyo #CCC #Reading Bath

Over 30,000 Visitors Attend 'Yomi no Ichi'

In a vibrant celebration of reading and writing, the large-scale market event 'Yomi no Ichi' successfully attracted a total of 30,556 attendees over three days at the Tokyo Metropolitan Meiji Park. This event, organized by the 'Yomi no Ichi Executive Committee,' which includes Cultural Convenience Club Co., Ltd. and Tokyo Tatemono Co., Ltd., consists of 49 vendors, featuring 36 bookstores and showcasing 12,180 items ranging from books to stationery and miscellaneous goods.

The Mission of 'Yomi no Ichi'

The primary aim of 'Yomi no Ichi' is to highlight the joy of reading and writing while promoting a new experience called 'Dokusho-yoku' or 'Reading Bath.' This term is designed like a play on words, akin to 'forest bathing' or 'sunbathing,' referring to a mental cleanse that comes from immersing oneself in the ambiance created by books and bookstores. The event has gained remarkable attention on social media where participants widely used the hashtag '#Dokusho-yoku', showcasing a growing new lifestyle centered around reading.

A Successful Marketplace

Over three bustling days, 49 vendors engaged participants with a variety of items, creating a joyous atmosphere where visitors mingled with shop owners and engaged in personal book selections. Not only was the event a rich experience for book lovers, but it also turned into a launching pad for forming new connections with literature.

Additionally, the event hosted a diverse range of stage activities, including 12 separate programs such as talks and story-readings, which allowed attendees not just to 'read' but to 'meet' and 'experience' books in exciting new ways. Guests listened intently as bookstore owners from various establishments—like the popular 'Honya Title' from Ogikubo and specialty shop 'Chapters bookstore'—discussed the unique culture surrounding bookstores and the importance of stories.

Engaging Young Readers

A special highlights was a story-reading performed by voice actors affiliated with Across Entertainment, which engaged audiences of all ages, drawing in children and adults alike into the enchanting world of picture books.

In a commendable initiative aimed at families, the event also featured a book collection drive, encouraging attendees to donate unused picture books. During the three days, a total of 657 books were collected to be donated to 12 educational facilities throughout Tokyo, providing children with new opportunities to explore reading.

Connecting with Digital Generations

A notable aspect of 'Yomi no Ichi' was the significant presence of young digital natives in their 20s and 30s, a demographic often associated with declining reading habits. Many young visitors, influenced by social media, experienced a newfound interest in bookstores, Zines, and overall publishing culture, enjoying fresh relationships with literature.

The vendors showcased diverse types of bookstores from large-chain establishments to intimate shops, and even mobile book vendors that influence the distribution of literature across communities. This rich tapestry of literary options inspired conversations about the vast potential of books and reading.

The organizing committee firmly believes that especially in this information-heavy digital era, quiet moments of reflection with books and the chance encounters in bookstores positively contribute to individual well-being and personal growth.

Looking Ahead

Looking to the future, the committee of 'Yomi no Ichi' aims to embed 'Reading Bath' into the lifestyle of communities, fostering connections between books and people, as well as bookstores and their respective neighborhoods.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Yomi no Ichi
• - Dates: February 21-23, 2026
• - Location: Tokyo Metropolitan Meiji Park
• - Total Visitors: 30,556 (over three days)
• - Number of Vendors: 49 (including 36 bookstores, 3 stationery vendors, and 10 food and miscellaneous shops)
• - Total Sales Items: 12,180