#Japan #Tokyo #Entrance Exams #Hanako #Yakult

Hanako's Support for Students in Exam Season

The beloved Japanese comedy trio Hanako is back in the spotlight, this time to offer their heartfelt encouragement to students approaching the challenging entrance exams. The initiative, organized by Yakult, aims to support those who are beginning to feel the weight of stress and anxiety in the autumn leading up to the exams. Starting August 31, 2026, Hanako will share their own experiences as students and aim to uplift others who are navigating similar paths.

A Unique Campaign to Boost Morale

Yakult, under the leadership of President Hiroshi Narita, has launched its second support campaign for struggling students. The campaign, titled "Autumn Support for Troubled Students," encourages students and their families by addressing the various concerns they may have during this pivotal time. Hanako will serve as ambassadors, sharing their unique perspectives in a bid to connect with students grappling with self-doubt and apprehension.

Engaging Public Transport Advertisements

As part of the campaign, Hanako will unveil a series of visually imaginative advertising campaigns in trains and stations across the Kanto region, as well as nationwide. The advertisements will feature scenarios depicting students shrouded in a mystical white fog, symbolizing the challenges and uncertainties they face. Interestingly, these visuals will metaphorically illustrate the "roots" of determination that grow quietly yet powerfully, emphasizing how unseen efforts lay the groundwork for future success.

The advertisements aim to resonate with the emotional landscape of students during this trying time and provide gentle encouragement through striking imagery of tenacity and growth. The campaign will run starting from August 31, offering students support just when they need it most.

Original Podcast Content on TBS Podcast

In conjunction with the campaign, Hanako is also launching an original content series on TBS Podcast titled, "Yakult Presents Hanako's Relaxation Broadcasting Club." Beginning September 4, 2026, the show will dive into the realities faced by students and their parents just as summer breaks wrap up. Each episode will see the trio offering their perspectives on various fears and anxieties that students tend to experience at this crucial juncture.

The podcast will air weekly on Fridays at around six PM, consisting of eight episodes filled with humor and sincere advice. Listeners can tune in via platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, and Amazon Music. This endeavor is aimed at fostering a supportive community where students can feel understood and empowered.

A Whimsical Frontline Advertisement

In a theatrical twist, Hanako will also appear in a cheerful storefront advertisement, singing the Swiss folk song "O Vreneli" while dressed in school uniforms. This lighthearted approach is designed to resonate with students and their families, ensuring they are reminded of the joy that comes with perseverance.

Additionally, as part of the campaign, creative short videos featuring popular video creator "Yusa" will be shared on TikTok and other social media platforms starting September 1, ahead of the official arrival of the autumn examination season.

About Hanako

Hanako, comprising members Akihiro Akiyama, Ryudai Kikuta, and Dai Okabe, formed as a trio from the 12th generation of Watanabe Comedy School. They first burst into the comedy scene in 2018 by winning multiple competitions such as the "Watanabe Comedy No. 1 Championship" and "King of Conte 2018." Their captivating performances have since made them regulars on various shows aired on Fuji TV, including "Atarashii Kagi" and "Nariyuki Kaido Tab".

By utilizing their own relatable experiences and charismatic humor, Hanako truly embodies the spirit of resilience that is so vital during exam season, making their support initiative both thoughtful and impactful.