#Japan #Tokyo #Tove Jansson #MOOMIN #Rights and Brands

Celebrate Moomin's 80th Anniversary!

To mark the 80th anniversary of the beloved Moomin series, Rights and Brands, the company managing Moomin's licensing in Japan, has launched a special reading essay and illustration contest, called the “Moomin Story Reading Essay and Illustration Contest.” The grand prize winner will receive round-trip tickets to Finland courtesy of Finnair! Additionally, other winners will be awarded charming Moomin merchandise.

Contest Details

The contest is open for submissions from October 1 to October 15, and it welcomes participants of all ages living in Japan. Participants are encouraged to read any Moomin-related book, including novels, comics, or picture books written by Tove Jansson and express their thoughts through an essay or illustrations. The aim is to convey the enchanting essence of the Moomin stories while promoting the joy of reading and self-expression.

Background of the Contest

Tove Jansson, the creator of Moomin, was known for her heartfelt correspondence with readers around the world, diligently replying to approximately 2,000 letters each year. Her readers often shared their connections with Moomin characters, sought advice about their dreams, and discussed life’s challenges. Jansson cherished every letter and used these interactions to inform the complex emotions and relationships depicted in her narratives. She was an artist who valued self-expression and communication deeply.

This year, the Moomin stories celebrate their 80th anniversary under the theme “The door is always open,” reflecting the inclusive spirit of the Moominhouse, where nobody is turned away. This philosophy resonates with how Jansson interacted sincerely with her readers, bridging human connections through her writing.

The contest aims to celebrate the timeless appeal of Moomin while encouraging people to engage in reading, feeling, and sharing their thoughts, thereby nurturing their own self-expression.

What is Moomin?

Created by artist and author Tove Jansson, the Moomin series, featuring the whimsical adventures of Moomintroll and friends, began with the publication of “The Moomins and the Great Flood” in 1945. Since then, it has been translated into over 50 languages and has captured the hearts of people not only in Finland but also across numerous countries, including Japan, through various adaptations like books, merchandise, animations, and more.

About Tove Jansson

Tove Jansson was born in 1914 in Helsinki, Finland, to a sculptor and commercial artist. She exhibited artistic talent from a young age and published her first Moomin book in 1945. She continued to create until her passing in 2001, leaving behind a diverse body of work that includes novels, mural paintings, and other artistic expressions.

How to Participate in the Contest

To participate, read any Moomin-related book and express your impressions through writing or art on a postcard. The winning entries will not only receive prizes but will also be invited to the award ceremony to be held in Tokyo on November 18.

Eligibility

Anyone residing in Japan, regardless of age, is welcome to participate.

Submission Period

The submission window is from October 1 to October 15, 2025 (postal stamps dated within the range are acceptable).

How to Submit

Fill out the required details on a postcard and mail it in. For detailed rules and submission guidelines, please refer to the special contest page.

Prize List

Every participant stands a chance to win delightful prizes. The grand prize includes round-trip tickets to Finland for two by Finnair, while other awards consist of various Moomin goodies. Winning entries will also be invited to the awards ceremony in Tokyo.

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This event is hosted by Rights and Brands in collaboration with Tuttle Mori Agency, Kodansha, and Chikuma Shobo, supported by Japan Post and sponsored by Finnair and various other companies.

For further information, visit the official Moomin website or follow them on their official social media channels for updates!