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Ibaraki Prefecture and 'Kusuriya no Hitorigoto' Collaboration

This year, Ibaraki Prefecture is once again collaborating with the popular TV anime 'Kusuriya no Hitorigoto' to bring forth an exciting tourism initiative. Following last year's introduction of the tourism branding concept, 'IBARAKI is Blossoming', various promotional activities have showcased the region's diverse attractions as a top travel destination to both domestic and international audiences.

The renewed tourism branding site is set to launch on July 27, 2026, complemented by fresh key visuals and a special movie that encapsulates the essence of Ibaraki throughout the four seasons. The theme for this year’s collaboration is 'A Journey Like a Bouquet, Weaving Seasonal Tales.'

Visitors will experience Ibaraki through the eyes of the show’s characters, Mao Mao and Jinshi, as they travel through the region and discover its unique natural beauty, local cuisine, rich culture, stunning views, and various experiences that change with the seasons.

New Key Visuals and Special Movie

The latest key visuals artistically represent the beauty of Ibaraki across its seasons. These visuals feature breathtaking scenery, such as vibrant spring flowers, grand summer fireworks, bountiful autumn harvests, and the serene natural beauty of winter. Each element aims to illustrate the concept of experiencing a journey akin to reading a book filled with seasonal stories, emphasizing that 'every journey itself becomes a unique tale.'

An Enriching Experience Through Seasonal Exploration

The renewed Ibaraki tourism branding site will not only showcase the new key visuals and special movie, but it will also highlight seasonal attractions and travel tips, ensuring visitors make the most out of their trip. Instead of merely being a site for travel destination searching, it will serve as a platform to engage with the stories and charm Ibaraki has to offer.

In addition, Ibaraki will continue to introduce special experiential content, dubbed 'Jewel Projects', which allows people to immerse themselves in the region’s distinctive offerings, such as:

• - Rose Farm Retreat and Autumn Rose Garden Party (Ishioka City: Ibaraki Flower Park)
• - Botanical Resort Stay at Japan's First Stayable Botanical Garden (Naka City: THE BOTANICAL RESORT Linne)
• - Authentic Weaving Experience with Yuki Tsumugi, a 2000-Year-Old Craft (Yuki City: Tsumugi no Yakata)

Special Movie Launch

Accompanying the site refresh, a new special movie will be released showcasing the adventures of Mao Mao and Jinshi as they explore Ibaraki through its changing seasons. The film promises to thread together stunning natural sights, local delights, cultural insights, and unforgettable experiences, resembling an original story that viewers can enjoy.

Watch the Special Movie: YouTube Link

Future Special Content

Ibaraki Prefecture is committed to enhancing the 'IBARAKI is Blossoming' worldview with a variety of special contents planned for the future. An AR photo spot initiative themed around the four seasons is on the horizon, alongside a second installment of the popular collaboration stamp rally from last year. Visitors can expect a range of activities that merge the anime’s worldview with the allure of Ibaraki, making each visit a chance for discovery and surprise.

About 'IBARAKI is Blossoming'

Ibaraki is home to colorful flower fields along with a plethora of attractions in food, culture, and activities—making it one of Japan's prime tourist destinations. Journeying through Ibaraki is akin to weaving your own 'bouquet' of cherished experiences, where the choices of nature, cuisine, tradition, and activities are limitless and personalized.

About 'Kusuriya no Hitorigoto'

The immensely popular series 'Kusuriya no Hitorigoto' has surpassed 45 million copies sold. Its anime adaptation, which started airing in October 2023, has captured hearts with its thrilling heroine and intricate mysteries set against a richly exotic backdrop. The second anniversary of the TV anime is set for October 22, 2025, with the announcement of its third season and a highly anticipated theatrical release.

With this collaboration, Ibaraki aims to continuously showcase the seasonal beauty and value of the prefecture, inviting everyone to explore and create memorable experiences that blossom anew with every visit.