Sumikkogurashi Appointed as Children’s Traffic Safety Ambassador in Tokyo

Sumikkogurashi Takes on a New Role in Tokyo's Road Safety Campaign

In a delightful initiative aimed at promoting traffic safety among children in Tokyo, the popular character Sumikkogurashi has officially been appointed as the Children's Traffic Safety Ambassador by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police for the year 2026. San-X Co., Ltd., the company behind Sumikkogurashi, announced this wonderful news, marking a significant collaboration focused on raising awareness of road safety rules in the city.

As part of this initiative, Sumikkogurashi will help distribute educational materials and traffic safety posters in elementary and junior high schools across Tokyo. The adorable and quirky characters are expected to resonate well with children, making the serious message of road safety more engaging and memorable.

On April 6, a significant event took place at Omori Daiichi Elementary School in Ota City, where Shirokuma, a character from Sumikkogurashi, made a special appearance during a crosswalk training program aimed at new students, directed by the Chief Police Officer, Mr. Hiroki Tsutsui. This event, known as the 2026 Police Chief’s Crosswalk Training for New Students, gathered around 80 new first graders and their parents, highlighting the importance of safe walking to school.

Ceremony Highlights

During the ceremony, the atmosphere was filled with joy as kids were greeted with delightful smiles upon seeing Shirokuma, alongside Pipo-kun, the police’s official mascot. Their presence encouraged positive interactions and created a lively environment, crucial for the awareness campaign. Notable figures, including Ota City Mayor Mr. Akira Suzuki, took the stage to address the children, emphasizing the importance of safe school commutes and raising awareness about road safety.

Following the speeches, commemorative gifts were presented to representatives of the new first graders by the police chief, symbolizing support for their safe journey to school. In an engaging activity, the children split into groups to practice crossing the street under the guidance of the dignitaries, experiencing firsthand the importance of being cautious at crosswalks. This hands-on training not only informed the kids about safety but also reinforced practical skills that would be useful in their daily lives.

About Sumikkogurashi

Sumikkogurashi was born in 2012 under the tagline “this is where we feel at ease,” capturing the hearts of many with its charming yet slightly negative and surreal characters and stories. The characters embody the sentiments of many Japanese, who often prefer sitting in the corner of a train or café, creating a relatable narrative that resonates with diverse audiences. This character connects with fans by portraying a slightly shy personality that many find endearing.

Stay updated on the latest news about Sumikkogurashi through social media for upcoming merchandise and event information. You can visit:

About San-X Co., Ltd.

San-X is renowned for its creativity, continuously producing over 1,000 original characters, such as Rilakkuma and Tarepanda, known for their charm and ability to evoke smiles. Through various products, collaborations, events, promotions, and media, San-X shares its unique and delightful characters around the globe. Each character not only looks cute but also conveys a sense of humor and warmth, making them beloved figures for fans of all ages.

©2026 San-X Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.