#Japan #E-Sports #Iruma #Iruma City #Kaneko

Community-Driven Crowdfunding for Kaneko e-Sports Event

The Kaneko district in Iruma City is set to host an exciting event called the "Kaneko e(いい) Sports Day" in summer 2026. This initiative, organized by the local resident association, aims to create a unique platform where seniors and children can bond through gaming. To kickstart the project, they launched a crowdfunding campaign on October 27, with a goal of raising ¥350,000.

Project Overview

The Kaneko e-Sports Day is designed not just as a competition but as an opportunity for intergenerational interaction. The event will feature various games that encourage participation and foster a sense of community. The name "Kaneko e(いい) Sports Day" cleverly combines the letter 'e' from e-sports with the Japanese word for 'good' (いい), making it inviting and friendly for all ages. The funds raised will be used to purchase e-sports equipment, establish a gaming corner, and cover event operational costs.

Crowdfunding Details

The fundraising period runs from October 27, 2024, to December 19, 2024 (54 days). The campaign follows the 'All or Nothing' funding method, meaning that if the target is not reached, all donations will be refunded. This approach ensures that the project can proceed only if there is sufficient community support.

More information on the crowdfunding can be found on their campaign page: Kaneko e-Sports Day Crowdfunding.

The Motivation Behind the Project

Over the past decade, the participation rate in local associations in the Kaneko district has declined by nearly 20%. Events organized by these associations have also decreased, highlighting the urgent need for community engagement. In January, a community seminar on "e-sports and urban development" was held, receiving positive feedback from about 90% of participants who expressed interest in hosting e-sports events.

Encouraged by this feedback, the resident association decided to launch the Kaneko e-Sports Day project, which is being recognized as a rare initiative for fostering intergenerational connections using e-sports as a medium.

Project Goals

The primary objective of the Kaneko e-Sports Day is to use gaming as a bridge between generations. By introducing a shared enjoyment of video games, the event aims to facilitate interactions among seniors, children, and everyone in between. It’s not just about competition; instead, the focus is on connecting people through shared experiences. The goal is to create a fun and vibrant atmosphere that energizes the Kaneko district through smiles and camaraderie.

This project aspires to be a pioneering step in addressing the broader issue of diminishing community ties faced by many regions across Japan.

Comments from the Organizers

Miki Toshimasa, the Chair of the Kaneko District Resident Association, expressed his excitement, stating, "I was surprised to see how simple and enjoyable e-sports can be. It promotes physical activity while allowing people of all ages to participate and enjoy together. It creates an atmosphere where even strangers can gather around a screen and cheer each other on. I hope our community can embrace this exciting opportunity!"

About Iruma City

Located just an hour away from the metropolitan area by train, Iruma City is reputed for its lush tea fields amidst a backdrop of seasonal beauty. As the northernmost commercial tea-producing area in Japan, it has a rich history tied to the development of Sayama tea. Today, Iruma is focused on integrating traditional tea culture with contemporary urban development.

The Well-being City Vision

In 2022, Iruma City was designated as an "SDGs Future City" by the Cabinet Office. This accolade prompted the establishment of a vision for a sustainable and healthy community, known as the "Well-being City Iruma." Efforts such as the enactment of the country's first "Delicious Sayama Tea Ordinance" echo the city's commitment to cultural preservation and revitalization.

A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Iruma City prides itself on its unique landscape that harmoniously combines traditional tea culture with American-style attractions like Johnson Town and large commercial complexes. This diverse environment enhances the charm of Iruma as a vibrant community.

The Kaneko e-Sports Day is not just an event; it's part of a larger strategy to engage residents and foster a sense of community in a rapidly changing world. By investing in intergenerational connection through gaming, Iruma City hopes to create new bonds, inspire creativity, and enhance the richness of local culture in the years to come.