#Japan #San-X #Tachikawa #Tachikawa Bus #Nyachikawa-san

The Launch of Nyachikawa-san: Tachikawa Bus's New Official Character

San-X, a leading character design company based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has announced the debut of its first comprehensive character project, "Charapro Friends." This initiative aims to support businesses in creating original characters, and the latest addition is Nyachikawa-san, the official mascot of Tachikawa Bus. The much-anticipated character will officially begin operations on April 1, 2026.

Comprehensive Production for Nyachikawa-san

In a unique move, San-X is diversifying its role by not only creating characters but also fully producing various elements surrounding them. The project encompasses a wide range of tasks, including the design of electric bus models, website development, creation of greeting characters, and promotional planning all coordinated together.

Meet Nyachikawa-san

Nyachikawa-san is a charming, cat-like entity who will join Tachikawa Bus as a new employee. This character will play a crucial role in promoting friendly community interaction. The design of the electric bus is notably refreshed, featuring Nyachikawa-san along with the traditional red and white colors of Tachikawa Bus. This represents the first-time San-X has ventured into bus design.

From the same date, April 1, 2026, the new electric buses will begin operations in the Fussa office with the following specifications:

• - Manufacturer/Model: Isuzu Electric Bus
• - Dimensions: 10,545mm (length) x 2,485mm (width) x 3,330mm (height)
• - Passenger Capacity: 70 people
• - Range: 360 km (at a constant speed of 30 km/h)
• - Battery Capacity: 245.3 kWh

Nyachikawa-san's Website Launch

Coinciding with Nyachikawa-san's debut, a dedicated website was launched on April 1, 2026. Visitors can explore Nyachikawa-san’s character profile and storyline, view the new electric bus design, and learn about the character's creation. The site also provides photo galleries and interview content, allowing fans to dive deeper into Nyachikawa-san's charm and the project's background.

You can check out Nyachikawa-san's official site here.

Visit to San-X Headquarters

Leading up to the character's debut, Nyachikawa-san made a special visit to the San-X headquarters on March 27, 2026, riding in the newly designed electric bus. Upon arrival, Nyachikawa-san was welcomed by Koronya, another character from San-X, who is also the company’s ambassador. The event included a commemorative photo session with employees.

About Nyachikawa-san

Nyachikawa-san is depicted as a mysterious creature resembling a cat, employed in the Passenger Services Department of Tachikawa Bus. With a shy demeanor and a unique feature — a tail that opens to harness electrical energy, Nyachikawa-san’s aspirations include becoming a safe and reliable bus driver. Fun trivia: look closely and you might find "Tachikawa" hidden within its cheeks!

What is Charapro Friends?

The "Charapro Friends" initiative by San-X aims to assist companies in creating original characters. With over a thousand characters developed, San-X offers services that include promotions on social media, creation of original merchandise, and novelty product production. More details are available on the San-X website.

About San-X

Founded in Japan, San-X is renowned for creating adorable characters such as Rilakkuma, Sumikko Gurashi, and Tarē Panda, continuously bringing whimsical yet heartwarming designs to audiences. Their unique approach combines cuteness with humor, drawing people from all walks of life. Explore more about San-X at their official site.

©Tachikawa Bus/San-X.