Ai Nozaki Appointed as First Global Friend Ambassador for Hoppet-chan

Ai Nozaki Named Hoppet-chan Global Friend Ambassador

In a momentous announcement, Sannhōseki Co., Ltd., located in Bunkyo, Tokyo, has appointed Ai Nozaki, the representative of Japan for Miss International 2025, as the first Global Friend Ambassador for their beloved brand character, Hoppet-chan. This collaboration marks a significant opportunity for both Ai and the character, as they aim to promote cultural exchange on an international stage.

A Growing Bond with Hoppet-chan

Ai Nozaki from Ōtsuki City in Yamanashi Prefecture has been a lifelong fan of Hoppet-chan, growing up cherishing the delightful character and its merchandise. Her deep connection with Hoppet-chan blossomed further after she featured her favorite Hoppet-chan goods in her TV segment, "Explore Yamanashi with Ai Nozaki" on Yamanashi Broadcasting Station. This exposure rekindled her relationship with Sannhōseki, leading to the significant appointment.

The company recognized Ai’s passion for her hometown Yamanashi, her delightful personality, and her eagerness to showcase Japan's beauty on a global level. With these qualities, Sannhōseki firmly believes that Ai will effectively promote Hoppet-chan to audiences worldwide.

The Upcoming Miss International Event

Ai will be representing Japan at the 63rd Miss International Global Pageant scheduled for November 27, 2025, at the National Yoyogi Stadium in Tokyo. This year’s event is particularly special as it will feature participants from around 70 countries and regions. Ai has expressed her excitement to not only represent Japan but also assist in hosting delegates from around the globe. Furthermore, she will embark on promotional activities in her home region of Yamanashi, showcasing the local culture to an international audience.

Collaborative Projects Ahead

As part of her role as Global Friend Ambassador, Ai and Sannhōseki have finalized several upcoming projects that will further their initiatives:

- Local PR Events and Workshops: Engaging the community and tourists to spread awareness about Yamanashi.
- Social Media Campaigns: Expanding recognition of Hoppet-chan both domestically and internationally.
- Collaboration with Local Tourism: Implementing regional promotion projects linked to Yamanashi’s natural beauty and tradition.
- International Promotion through the Pageant: Utilizing Miss International as a platform for global outreach to promote Japanese culture and Hoppet-chan.

About Hoppet-chan

Introduced in 2010, Hoppet-chan has captured hearts with its adorable design and handcrafted appeal, seeing a resurgence in popularity among the Z-generation. With an upcoming anime adaptation in 2026, excitement around this character continues to grow, marking it a quintessential icon of Japanese “kawaii” culture.

About Ai Nozaki

- Age: 23
- From: Ōtsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Roles: Active model and TV presenter currently serving as the Yamanashi Ambassador and Ōtsuki Ambassador.
- Achievements: Winner of Miss Beauty Skin for two consecutive years.

Statements from Sannhōseki and Ai Nozaki

Sannhōseki’s Comment: "From the moment we met Ai, her love for her hometown and her aspirations to bring our character to a global stage truly touched our hearts. We are committed to supporting her in this endeavor."

Ai Nozaki's Comment: "I have adored Hoppet-chan since childhood and visiting the store to find new pieces always made me happy! Hoppet-chan represents the kawaii culture of Japan, and as a representative, I feel honored to promote it globally. I believe this culture has the power to uplift spirits."

About Miss International

Established in 1960, the Miss International beauty pageant promotes world peace and international understanding. The event has a rich history in Japan, previously hosting the pageant multiple times, and continues to play a crucial role in bridging cultures through beauty and friendship.