#Japan #Tokyo #Bunkyosha #Totetsu #Railway Safety

A Fun and Educational Guide to Railway Safety for Kids

In a remarkable collaboration, Bunkyosha Co., Ltd., located in Minato, Tokyo, and Totetsu Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, have launched an engaging educational booklet called "TOTETSU × Unko Drill Railway Safety." Targeted towards elementary school students, this initiative aims to convey the importance of railway safety in a fun and accurate manner. The booklet will be distributed to elementary schools across various regions, primarily in eastern Japan, as part of a community effort to educate young minds about the safety protocols and practices that ensure the impeccable functioning of Japan's railway infrastructure.

Highlighting the Unsung Heroes of Railway Safety

Japan's railway system is renowned for its safety, precision, and comfort, standing out as one of the most reliable public transport infrastructures globally. However, behind this celebrated facade lies the unnoticed tireless efforts of the so-called “safety heroes.” These professionals work diligently, often during the night, maintaining tracks, reinforcing train stations against earthquakes, and addressing the wear and tear of bridges and tunnels.

To capture the attention of young readers, Bunkyosha has teamed up with the wildly popular "Unko Drill" series, selling over 10 million copies nationwide. This delightful approach combines serious educational content with engaging visuals and humor, ensuring that children not only learn but also enjoy the process. The booklet adopts a playful tone that is characteristic of the "Unko Drill" brand, allowing children to connect with the idea of social infrastructure and its importance in their daily lives.

A Journey into the World of Railway Safety

The story begins with a character known as the “hero who works in the dark of night.” Guided by the character of Mr. Unko, along with his classmates Unko Cat and Unko Dog, children are taken on an engaging journey where they learn about railway safety. Through a series of quizzes and vivid illustrations, Mr. Unko and his companions ask intriguing questions such as, "Is the track bending every day?" and "Are there heroes active at night?" helping children grasp concepts that they might not often consider.

The last pages of the booklet depict how the safety heroes operate in urban areas, highlighting the unique and invaluable REXS system, a rare Shinkansen (bullet train) rail replacement system, which is one of a kind in the world.

This educational booklet is not just about imparting knowledge, but also aims to foster a connection between children and their community, encouraging future generations to engage with railway and construction technology.

A Commitment to Education and Community

Bunkyosha is dedicated to promoting learning that is essential for children to lead healthy and prosperous lives. By imparting crucial knowledge through this engaging medium, they hope to create opportunities for young learners to discover the significance of safety in transport and beyond.

As this initiative unfolds, schools in the eastern regions of Japan will receive their copies, enabling them to integrate this resource into their educational programs. Whether it’s through community interactions or sparking interest in future careers in railway maintenance and construction, this booklet serves as a vital stepping stone for the next generation.

The collaboration between Bunkyosha and Totetsu exemplifies how educational resources can be creatively developed to inspire and inform, making learning not just essential but enjoyable.

For more information, visit the official websites:
Unko Drill
Bunkyosha
Totetsu