#Japan #Tokyo #Mintetsu Contest #Asaba Matsuri #Educational Projects

19th 'Watashi to Mintetsu' Elementary School Newspaper Contest Awards Announced

The 19th edition of the 'Watashi to Mintetsu' elementary school newspaper contest, organized by the Japan Private Railway Association, has recognized the remarkable talents of young students from across Japan. This initiative aims to foster interest and understanding of railways among children through the medium of newspaper creation. After a thorough judging process involving 3,099 entries, the competition announced the awarding of 100 outstanding works from 41 different schools.

The top individual award, the Minister of Education Award, went to 5th grader Matsuri Asaba from Negishi Elementary School in Taito, Tokyo, for her exceptional piece titled 'Know it!! Ride it!! The Great Attractions of the Gakunan Railway Newspaper.' The prestigious award for the best school, the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Award, was given to Rokujō Elementary in Nara City, Nara Prefecture, marking a significant recognition for the school.

This competition has ignited the creative spirit among many young journalists, offering them the platform to express their insights and perspectives on the railway systems, which are a vital aspect of daily life in Japan. Not only do they get to hone their writing skills, but they also learn more about a crucial element of their culture and infrastructure.

Contest Overview

• - Event Name: 19th 'Watashi to Mintetsu' Elementary School Newspaper Contest
• - Organizer: Japan Private Railway Association
• - Supporters: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT)
• - Co-sponsors: Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Transport Ecology & Mobility Foundation, TOPPAN Colore Co., Ltd.
• - Application Period: July 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025
• - Eligibility: All elementary school students across Japan
• - Response: A total of 3,099 entries were submitted by 3,134 students
• - Awards: A total of 100 awards in the individual category, including the MEXT Minister Award, and 41 school awards including the MLIT Minister Award

Award Ceremony

An award ceremony is scheduled to be held on January 10, 2026, at the Otemachi Place Hall & Conference Center. This event will celebrate the top winners, providing them an opportunity to showcase their work and receive well-deserved recognition for their efforts.

Previous Edition Highlights

The 18th contest also saw a variety of awards across different categories, including individual news article awards, diary awards, and special recognition for effort. Details of the winners from previous editions and additional information about the contest will be available on the official website.

The contest has become a hallmark of creativity and educational engagement, inspiring a new generation to appreciate the world of railways and express their views through the written word. The announcement of this year's winners emphasizes the importance of fostering such educational projects, which look to not only encourage literacy but also a deeper understanding of societal structures.

For more details on the contest and to see the full list of winners, visit the official contest website.