#Japan #Sanrio #Kofu #Strawberry King #Tsuji Shintaro

The Yamanashi Strawberry King's Museum: Honoring the Spirit of Togetherness

Scheduled to open in April 2026, the Yamanashi Strawberry King's Museum in Kōfu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, will be a heartfelt tribute to the founder of Sanrio, Tsuji Shintaro. This unique museum, endowed with the spirit of Sanrio's philosophy "everyone living in harmony," aims to showcase the largely untold early history of the company and its beloved characters.

A Legacy of Togetherness

Tsuji Shintaro, born on December 7, 1927, in Kōfu City, experienced the realities of war at a young age, which deeply influenced his perception of peace and the importance of community. In 1960, he established the Yamanashi Silk Center, the precursor to Sanrio, underlining his belief that "people cannot live alone. If that is the case, let’s help each other and live together amicably."

At the heart of Sanrio is the idea that small gifts can create connections among people. This ethos gave rise to iconic characters like Hello Kitty, whose charm embodies this aspiration. The Yamanashi Strawberry King's Museum is envisioned as a space where fans can explore the rich heritage and history of Sanrio through various exhibits.

Exhibits and Features

The museum will feature an array of engaging displays that will help visitors understand Sanrio's evolution, including:

• - Historical documents illustrating Sanrio's journey, character development, merchandise, and the famous "Ichigo Shinbun" (Strawberry Newspaper) that chronicles the brand's progress.
• - Welcome spots and shop furniture inspired by historical materials, creating a unique shopping experience for visitors.
• - A replica of Tsuji Shintaro's office, showcasing personal memorabilia, a personal timeline, and items of significance to the founder, providing insights into his life and work.

The museum's design includes aerial views, interior imagery, gift shop perspectives, and an exterior portrayal, all amplifying its unique character and mission.

Practical Information

The official name of the facility is the Yamanashi Strawberry King's Museum: Tsuji Shintaro Memorial Museum, located at 1860-4 Ryuo Shinmachi, Kōfu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The museum is easily accessible via the Chūō Expressway, approximately five minutes from the Futaba Interchange, with a dedicated parking lot accommodating about 40 vehicles.

Key Details:

• - Site Area: 10,750 sqm
• - Total Floor Space: 568 sqm
• - Opening Date: April 2026 (tentative)
• - Official Website: Yamanashi Strawberry King's Museum

Advance reservations will be required for entry, with additional details on booking and admission fees to be announced in due course.

About Tsuji Shintaro

Background and Vision

Tsuji Shintaro, in addition to being the founder and honorary chairman of Sanrio, has pursued a distinctive career as a businessman and a storyteller. He has authored numerous stories and shows, while also leading Sanrio toward creating an array of iconic characters that resonate with the idea of communication through gifting. Furthermore, he has been a constant presence in the company's publication, "Monthly Ichigo Newspaper," for over fifty years, championing Sanrio's corporate philosophy of "everyone living together harmoniously."

The Yamanashi Strawberry King's Museum is poised to be a landmark establishment that not only celebrates the rich history of Sanrio but also reinforces a timeless message of compassion and community connection, reflecting the enduring legacy of its founder, Tsuji Shintaro.