Walking App 'aruku&' Joins Akita's Community Event
The walking app 'aruku&', managed by ONE COMPATH, has been chosen for an exciting walking competition event organized by Akita Prefecture. This initiative will kick off on December 1, 2025, and continue until January 31, 2026. Open to residents of Akita, this team-based event encourages participants to stay active during the chilly winter months and offers a fantastic chance to win prizes.
Event Overview
The team competition, focusing on enhancing health, invites any resident of Akita Prefecture to participate free of charge. Participants will use the 'aruku&' app to track their daily steps, aiming to achieve an average target of 6,500 steps. Those who accomplish this goal will enter a draw for exciting rewards.
Background of the Initiative
Since 2017, Akita Prefecture has actively promoted public health through various programs, establishing the Akita Health Promotion Council, which collaborates with medical insurance entities and health organizations. In 2022, the prefecture embraced 'aruku&' as a tool to support ongoing health initiatives. Continuing this journey, the upcoming team competition aims to foster greater community participation and enthusiasm for walking.
The integration of 'aruku& for municipalities' ensures easy tracking of Walker’s daily steps, which allows participants to see their performance in real-time via their smartphones. This gamified experience helps foster a friendly competitive atmosphere, facilitating communications among team members and encouraging a sustainable exercise culture among Akita's residents.
Features of 'aruku& for Municipalities'
Designed for local governments aiming to boost community health, the 'aruku&' service allows participants to join the event conveniently using their smartphones. They can monitor their step counts and achievements and participate in various competitions, whether individually or within groups they create themselves. One of the features includes a stamp rally that guides walkers to designated spots throughout the region using a QR code and location services.
Event Details
Event Name: Akita Prefecture Team Walking Event
Duration: December 1, 2025 - January 31, 2026
Entry Period: November 1, 2025 - December 14, 2025
Objective: Teams strive to achieve an average of 6,500 steps daily
Eligibility: Must have three or more team members residing in Akita Prefecture and possess a smartphone capable of running the app.
More information: Interested participants can find additional details on the event’s official website:
Akita Walking 2025.
As the event unfolds, the Akita Prefecture Health and Welfare Department aims not only to motivate residents to embrace an active lifestyle but also to facilitate fun and engaging ways to exercise during the harsh winter months. They will provide information about indoor exercise options on their website to further aid community members.
Future Goals
The vision for 'aruku&' aligns with the philosophy of making daily transportation enjoyable, especially as we embrace a century-long life. By transforming ordinary walking into an engaging daily activity, the app aims to enhance the quality of life of users and those visiting local communities. The service continually enhances its offerings to ensure all participants enjoy healthier and more enjoyable routines.
For further inquiries about aruku& for local governments and enterprises, please visit
aruku& Business Services.
About 'aruku&'
Since its launch in November 2016, 'aruku&' aims to make walking a fun experience filled with engaging features. Users can interact with various character avatars within the app, taking on challenges tied to local specialties and competitions.
About ONE COMPATH
Located in Tokyo, Japan, ONE COMPATH was established on January 20, 1997, and has 134 employees as of April 2025. It operates various services, including the walking app 'aruku&' and the map search service 'Mapion'. For more information about the company, visit
ONE COMPATH.