The Innovative City Promotion Project Utilizing VTubers in Hokota City, Ibaraki

In a dynamic move to enhance regional revitalization, Future Link Network (FLN), based in Chiba, has joined forces with uyet from Tokyo for a groundbreaking initiative. Together, they will execute the 'Machi Supacha Project', which leverages the popularity of Virtual YouTubers (VTubers) to promote Hokota City, Ibaraki Prefecture. This collaboration aims to increase the city’s visibility and foster connections within the community.

Background and Overview

FLN has a rich history of contributing to Hokota City’s engagement efforts. Past initiatives, including VTuber collaborations, have already helped to create a connection between the area and potential visitors. Scheduled for May 2025, FLN has won a bid for a City Promotion Grant to execute a large-scale promotion in Hokota City. This project marks a significant step forward in attracting new relationships and reinforcing existing ones in the community.

To ensure a broader reach, FLN is enlisting the help of uyet, which specializes in supporting and developing businesses in the VTubing market. Through their collaborative efforts, both companies intend to showcase Hokota’s unique attractions to a wider audience.

Project Highlights

The 'Machi Supacha Project' is designed to captivate a larger audience by highlighting the allure of Hokota City through various VTuber engagements. The project includes:

1. VTuber Travel Experience Videos: Creatively showcasing sightseeing spots like 'Sungreen Asahi' and 'Forest Park Melon Forest', featured VTuber will guide viewers through these attractions in engaging video formats. There will even be a special video capturing a live visit to the 'Hokota Melon Festival 2025'.

2. Live Streaming on YouTube: The project plans multiple live broadcasts highlighting the specialty products and attractions of Hokota City. The first stream is set for July 20, where detailed information about the different initiatives will be revealed, inviting everyone to participate.

3. Collaborative Projects with Local Farms: Recognition of Hokota’s agricultural allure is vital, and collaborations with local farmers will introduce VTuber content showing the process of growing sweet potatoes and strawberries. This initiative will depict the local agricultural charm directly through engaging VTuber presentations.

4. Unmanned Sales Stations: Produce harvested under the collaborative initiatives will be made available for sale at unmanned markets throughout the city. Here, VTubers will help promote the vibrant vegetables and fruits unique to Hokota City.

5. Development of VTuber Collaboration Products: Excitingly, the project promises the creation of exclusive products using locally sourced ingredients. Such unique offerings aim to deliver the freshness of Hokota’s produce and share it with fans across various platforms.

Main VTuber for Promotion

Inaba Haneru, a prominent VTuber known for her engaging content, will lead this project in advocating the charms of Hokota City, further enriching her connection with both local tourism and her fan community.

About the 'Machi Supacha Project'

This project is not just about marketing; it creates a platform where users can engage playfully with local culture through manga and video content, bridging the gap between VTuber fandom and regional pride. Launched in December 2023, this initiative marks the beginning of a series of projects across seven municipalities, including Hokota City.

For further insight into the Machi Supacha Project, please visit: Machi Supacha Official Site.

Partner VTuber Agencies

The 'Machi Supacha Project' collaborates with 'Nanashi Ink', the agency representing a roster of 25 VTubers, including Inaba Haneru. This partnership is vital for amplifying Hokota's unique appeal while providing diverse presenting styles.

- Nanashi Ink Official Site

Conclusion

With innovative approaches like the 'Machi Supacha Project', Hokota City aims to craft a new narrative showcasing its cultural and agricultural heritage while embracing modern digital engagement through VTubers. This project signifies a bold step in contemporary community promotion, intertwining technology with regional storytelling, ensuring that Hokota City will flourish in the hearts of many.

For more information, visit the Hokota City official website: Hokota City.