#Japan #Gunma #NEXT #Hiragajang #EducationalGame

Innovating Education through Play

In a groundbreaking shift for language education, NEXT Co., Ltd., headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has introduced a unique learning tool called 'Hiragajang'—a hiragana-based version of Mahjong. Initially launched in early 2024, this innovative game has quickly made its way into educational settings, particularly a second-grade language class in a primary school in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture.

What is 'Hiragajang'?

'Hiragajang' is an engaging educational activity that utilizes the traditional game of Mahjong but replaces the conventional tiles with hiragana characters. This special design allows players to draw and discard tiles while aiming to form words with two or more characters. The game eliminates the need for kanji reading and writing, making it accessible for newcomers to Mahjong, while ensuring that participants of all ages can enjoy the game together—a true testament to its 'flat design' approach.

Learning through Play

The game not only entertains but fosters essential skills. As players explore how different hiragana combine to form words, they engage in natural learning processes that enhance vocabulary and cognitive thinking. Moreover, 'Hiragajang' encourages conversations, prompting players to discuss their word choices upon winning, sparking insightful dialogue among participants.

Adoption in Primary Education

In 2025, 'Hiragajang' was officially adopted as a resource for the second-grade language curriculum at a primary school in Gunma Prefecture. This hands-on, enjoyable method enables students to explore and communicate words in a dynamic way, distinguishing it from traditional textbook learning. The immersive experience emphasizes active language engagement, setting the stage for a paradigm shift in educational approaches.

Creating Connections through Play

NEXT's philosophy behind 'Hiragajang' is clear: to connect people through the power of play. In an increasingly digital world, face-to-face communication nurtured through playful interactions is becoming rarer and more valuable. 'Hiragajang' serves not just as a game but as a tool to create environments where individuals of all backgrounds, ages, and experiences can collaborate, think, and laugh together. Its potential reaches from enhancing children's vocabulary development to dementia prevention for the elderly and serving as a Japanese language learning aid for non-native speakers.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, NEXT plans to launch a 'PRO version' in the summer of 2026, which seeks to mimic the tactile experience of traditional Mahjong tiles and will be compatible with home Mahjong tables. This introduction aims to increase accessibility and encourage a wider audience to engage with 'Hiragajang.' Furthermore, NEXT envisions deeper collaborations with domestic and international educational institutions and welfare facilities to promote 'Hiragajang' as a quintessential Japanese language communication tool on a global scale.

Sales Milestone and Social Impact

Since the launch of the card version in 2024, 'Hiragajang' has achieved significant commercial success, surpassing 80,000 units sold. Its applications span homes, schools, corporate training, and care facilities. In April of 2025, the game received notable recognition when featured on TBS's 'Lavit!' program, raising its public profile.
In a bid to address societal challenges, NEXT donated 521 units to Midori City in Gunma Prefecture in December 2025, alongside a project to donate 1,000 units across 100 facilities nationwide.

Product Overview

• - Product Name: Hiragana Mahjong 'Hiragajang'
• - Type: Card Version / Tile Version (Available Now)
• - Age Group: Recommended for ages 7 and up
• - Players: 2 to 4 players
• - Sales URL: hiragajong.com
• - Sales Record: 80,000 units sold (as of April 2026)
• - Media Coverage: Featured on 'Lavit!' (April 2025) and other platforms

Company Overview

• - Company Name: NEXT Co., Ltd.
• - Location: 1-3-8 Shibadaimon, Minato, Tokyo
• - Business Description: Planning and sales of board games and educational content
• - Corporate URL: nextjp.co.jp