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Enjoy a New Habit: 'Mimikatsu Walking' Campaign in 2026

The audiobook platform, audiobook.jp, operated by Otobank Co., Ltd., is set to launch the 'Mimikatsu Walking 2026' campaign from May 8 to June 7, 2026. This initiative encourages participants to enjoy audiobooks while walking, addressing common challenges like maintaining exercise routines and finding time to read.

Campaign Overview

During this campaign, users have the opportunity to earn up to 1000 coins that can be used within the audiobook.jp app, based on the number of days they engage with audiobooks. In addition, a lucky draw will award original merchandise to thirty participants.

What is 'Mimikatsu Walking'?

'Mimikatsu Walking' is a unique habit that combines physical activity with the enjoyment of audiobooks. This innovative practice has garnered attention for its ability to tackle issues such as a lack of exercise and insufficient reading time. Research conducted in collaboration with Kansai University of Welfare Sciences revealed that listening to audiobooks while walking activates brain blood flow, offering benefits comparable to cognitive training for dementia prevention.

First launched in 2023, the campaign received rave reviews, returning for its fourth iteration this year. Participants have shared positive experiences, stating:

• - "I usually listen during my commute, but I've started walking on weekends and found it enjoyable."
• - "This has encouraged me to walk nearly 10,000 steps each day."
• - "Combining regular walking with audiobook listening has helped me maintain a healthy lifestyle."

As spring blooms, we hope this campaign will inspire more people to embrace exercise and reading.

Meet the Official Character: 'Mimikatsu-chan'!

The campaign will introduce 'Mimikatsu-chan', an official character designed to make 'Mimikatsu Walking' even more engaging. Participants can track their audiobook listening progress in a game-like “sugoroku” format, where the character advances based on the days they listen. Walk together with Mimikatsu-chan to aim for 1000 coin rewards!

Mimikatsu-chan Profile:

• - Personality: Kind and curious
• - Hobbies: Mimikatsu Walking, fitness, strolling, and reading
• - Favorite Item: Fully charged headphones
• - Goal: To become knowledgeable while walking!

Expanding the 'Mimikatsu Walking' Circle

In April 2025, audiobook.jp will collaborate with Aeten Lab to launch an official challenge within the 'Min-Challe' habit app. Participants can form teams of five to share their listening and walking achievements, encouraging both exercise and reading.
Additionally, a new campaign titled 'Ear-Active Walking at Home! with CLAS' will be released, providing users with recommendations for comfortable exercise items, making it easy to enjoy auditory content at home.

To stay informed about our official challenge on Min-Challe and the CLAS campaign, please check the 'Mimikatsu Walking 2026' campaign page for updates.

Campaign Details

Participants can earn audiobook.jp coins based on the days they listen to audiobooks during the campaign. The coins are awarded as follows:

• - 5 days: 150 coins
• - 10 days: 300 coins (total)
• - 15 days: 500 coins (total)
• - 20 days: 700 coins (total)
• - 25 days: 1000 coins (total)

Participants who listen for more than five days can also enter a draw for a chance to win an original audiobook.jp tote bag.

Listen on the Go!

Campaign Duration: May 8 – June 7, 2026
Web URL: Mimikatsu Walking 2026 Campaign Page
Participation requires no special entry; simply play your chosen audiobook (including unlimited podcasts like 'Listening Nikkei') to join. Each day of listening for 30 minutes counts as one day of participation, and progress can be tracked through in-app banners.

The app will also feature recommended audiobooks for 'Mimikatsu Walking' at various paces to cater to every preference.

1. 'Kotsukotsu Mimikatsu Walking': Suitable for short walks to nearby stations or stores, ideal for daily integration.
2. 'Nonbiri Mimikatsu Walking': Perfect for longer walks of 1-2 hours on sunny days, featuring tracks of 30-40 minutes.
3. 'Gattsuri Mimikatsu Walking': For dedicated walking sessions, focusing on immersive long-form stories that keep you engaged for extended periods.

Important Notes

When engaging in 'Mimikatsu Walking', ensure that the audiobook volume is set at a level that allows you to hear surrounding sounds. Always obey traffic laws and prioritize safety and courtesy during your walks.

For further insights into the 'Mimikatsu Walking' initiative, please refer to our earlier campaign reports.

What is an Audiobook?

An audiobook is a narrated version of a book, allowing individuals to enjoy reading through listening. Suitable for various situations, from exercising to commuting, audiobooks can be seamlessly integrated into daily routines. With the increasing availability of smartphones and wireless earphones, the market for audiobooks is rapidly expanding.

About audiobook.jp:
Launched in 2007 and rebranded in 2018, audiobook.jp is Japan's largest audiobook distribution service, continuously aiming to expand its platform and increase category reach.

Company Overview:
Otobank Co., Ltd., based in Bunkyo, Tokyo, is the leading audiobook company in Japan, committed to creating an inclusive literature culture.

For more information, visit audiobook.jp.