#Japan #Northern Territories #Hoppou Friends #Erika-chan #Tokyo, Toyama, Osaka

Explore the Northern Territories: Fun Learning Experience for Youth

The Northern Territories awareness event, titled "Erika Channel of the Northern Four Islands – Learning About the Northern Territories with Hoppou Friends on the 80th Anniversary of Post-War!", is a wonderful initiative organized by the Japan Northern Territories Association. This event aims to raise awareness and understanding of the Northern Territories issue, particularly among young people, including middle and high school students up to those in their 30s. It will take place in three municipalities: Tokyo, Toyama, and Osaka.

Purpose of the Event

According to a recent Cabinet Office survey conducted in October 2023, many young people lack knowledge about the actual state of the Northern Territories. From the respondents aged 18-29, about 47% reported that they had only heard of the term "Northern Territories" but were unaware of the current situation. As we approach the 80th anniversary of the post-war period, the low awareness of this critical issue among younger generations is a major concern.

Historically and legally, the Northern Territories are considered an inherent part of Japan; however, since the end of World War II, these islands have been illegally occupied by Russia. As the original island residents are aging, passing on accurate knowledge to the younger generations has become an urgent task. Therefore, the Association is organizing this event to convey historical facts about the Northern Territories and promote understanding among the public through quizzes, talk shows, and participatory activities.

Special Guests

This event will feature popular personalities as special guests in each city. The Tokyo venue will host the comedy duo Elf, while the Toyama venue will welcome The Touch, and the Osaka venue will be graced by the well-known comedian Cunning Takeyama. These guests will participate in quiz competitions and talk shows that are sure to entertain and educate the audience. Moreover, the mascot characters representing the Northern Territories, Erika-chan and Elio-kun, will also make an appearance to engage with attendees.

Interactive Experience

Each event venue will offer various stage activities where visitors can participate, including the "Northern Four Islands Quiz Challenge" and meet-and-greets with Erika-chan and Elio-kun. There will also be exhibits that allow attendees to delve into the history of the Northern Territories, such as the “Northern Territories Historia – A Photo Exhibition,” as well as fun activities like the “Erika Channel Quiz Rally!” Finally, creativity will flourish in hands-on experiences like the "Color Erika-chan!" coloring activity and the "Create Your Own Hoppou Friends Badge!" workshop. These programs are designed to deepen understanding of the Northern Territories issues in an enjoyable way.

Event Details

The Northern Territories Event will be held as follows:

• - Osaka: Namba City Galleria Court on October 11, 2023 (Saturday) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• - Tokyo: Kameido Clock Kamekuro Court on November 1, 2023 (Saturday) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• - Toyama: Toyama Station Event Space North-South Free Passage on December 13, 2023 (Saturday) from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Main Program Agenda:

• - Stage Content

- Quiz Challenge with Erika-chan

• - Experience Content

- Color Erika-chan (Coloring Activity)
- Create Hoppou Friends Badge

• - Learning Content

- Erika Channel Quiz Rally
- Northern Territories Historia – Historical Photo Exhibition

About Hoppou Friends

The character Erika-chan was created to explain the Northern Territories issue in an engaging manner, modeled after the sea bird, “Etopirika,” which inhabits the coastal waters around the Northern Territories. The Hoppou Friends are a group of friends from each of the four Northern Islands.

• - Erimaru-kun from Etorofu Island: Loves food and excels in cooking with local ingredients.
• - Elio-kun from Kunashiri Island: Erika-chan's boyfriend who enjoys outdoor activities like mountain climbing.
• - Eriyoshi-kun from Shikotan Island: Knowledgeable about nature, plants, and birds, he is an indoor type and a bit sensitive.
• - Erina-chan from Habomai Islands: Erika-chan's lively friend, daughter of a local fisherman.

Special Guest Profiles

• - Elf (Tokyo): A comedy duo gaining attention on variety shows, known for their unique humor.
• - The Touch (Toyama): A twin comedy duo famous for their synchronized act and witty banter.
• - Cunning Takeyama (Osaka): A versatile comedian known for his sharp jokes, hosting events, and wide-ranging appearances on shows.

This event is not only a profound learning opportunity but also a chance to create lasting memories with friends and family. Join us and be part of a community that is passionate about understanding and advocating for Japan's Northern Territories.