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JTB and Onigokko Association Team Up for a Unique Sports Event

In an exciting initiative, JTB, a prominent travel agency based in Tokyo, has joined forces with the Onigokko Association to create a new experience that combines the joy of sports with the relaxing ambiance of hot springs. This collaboration aims not only to engage sports enthusiasts but also to introduce a new wave of visitors to Japan's famed hot spring areas, especially focusing on regions that have faced challenges in boosting their local economies.

The first event, titled "~Onsen Series Volume 1~ Yukemuri Cup Sports Onigokko ENJOY Championship," is set to take place on March 28-29, 2026, in Fukushima Prefecture. This competition will unfold in the scenic locales of Motomiya City and Bandai Atami Onsen. The tournament is expected to attract over 200,000 participants from the growing community of sports onigokko, thus stimulating local tourism and interaction.

Background and Objectives

The recent years have seen several hot spring destinations across Japan grappling with decreased visitor numbers and economic difficulties. Concurrently, a concerning drop in children's physical fitness and reduced opportunities for real-life interactions due to digitalization have emerged as social issues. Addressing these challenges, JTB and the Onigokko Association aim to leverage the popularity of sports onigokko, a game with a participant base exceeding 200,000 nationwide.

By merging this fun and inclusive sport, enjoyed by people of all ages and genders, with the appeal of hot spring tourism, the collaborators intend to create a new flow of visitors distinct from traditional tourist demographics. This strategy is part of JTB's broader vision of fostering sustainable tourism rooted in local communities. The initiative seeks to generate a lasting influx of visitors and create meaningful exchanges between tourists and local residents through organized events during this championship, promoting a sense of community and ongoing relationships.

Highlights of the Yukemuri Cup Sports Onigokko Championship

1. New Experiential Value: Participants will not only compete but also enjoy stays at Bandai Atami Onsen, indulge in local cuisine made from fresh regional ingredients, and partake in various events, including networking parties, allowing them to fully immerse in the local culture. The blend of sports and relaxation will offer a rejuvenating experience for all attendees.

2. Community Engagement: The event will connect competitors from across Japan with local youth and residents of Motomiya and Koriyama through initiation sessions in sports onigokko. Demonstrations by national team players are also planned, fostering intergenerational engagement and community spirit throughout the championship.

3. Sustainable Local Revitalization Model: Supported by JTB's robust network of hotels and ryokans, the event will collaborate closely with local governments, tourism associations, accommodations, and transport services to implement this championship successfully. By establishing a model for future events, the initiative aspires to contribute to the ongoing revitalization of hot spring areas nationwide.

Through their efforts, JTB and the Onigokko Association are committed to unlocking the potential of sports as a means of enhancing health and supporting sustainable community development. The Yukemuri Cup is set to not only be a competitive event but also a celebration of collaboration and revitalization for Japan's cherished hot springs.

Overview of Sports Onigokko

Sports onigokko transforms the nostalgic game of tag into a tactical and competitive format. Each team comprises seven players, striving to capture as many treasures from the opponent's territory within a limited timeframe. This straightforward yet dynamic game is accessible to individuals of all ages, making it a hit in educational settings where children’s fitness is a growing concern.

The sport emphasizes agility, quick decision-making, and teamwork, attributes essential for physical development and social interaction. It is increasingly being integrated into training regimens for junior soccer teams, showcasing its benefits beyond just physical exertion. The collaborative nature of the game makes it a fantastic option for corporate team-building exercises and community engagement events, beneficial for promoting both adult health and social cohesion.

With a competitive base of around 200,000 players and a growing popularity, sports onigokko resonates as a new avenue for nurturing physical and social skills while fostering connections within communities. The occasion promises to be a hallmark of innovative sports tourism, showcasing how play can invigorate both health and local economies.

For further details on sports onigokko, please visit the official website.

Event Link

For more information on the championship, visit here.