Experience Ibaraki's Rich Culture and Traditions through the Collaborative Stamp Rally with 'Kusuriya no Hitorigoto'

Discover Ibaraki through the Collaborative Stamp Rally

Ibaraki Prefecture is initiating a charming new tourism campaign dubbed "IBARAKI is Blossoming". This initiative aims to showcase the region's appeal by comparing its natural beauty, cultural heritage, traditional crafts, and culinary delights to a bouquet of flowers, inviting visitors to craft their unique experiences in the area.

As part of this initiative, from October 25, 2025, to January 18, 2026, a special stamp rally titled "IBARAKI is Blossoming: Kusuriya no Hitorigoto" will take place across the prefecture. This collaboration with the popular anime series allows fans to travel through Ibaraki alongside characters Mao Mao and Jinshi. Participants can choose between paths dedicated to each character, collecting stamps at various locations and earning exclusive clear cards based on their achievements.

Voice Actor Takao Otsuka's Experience

On the inaugural day of the stamp rally, esteemed voice actor Takao Otsuka, who portrays Jinshi, eagerly participated in the event. At the Yuki City Tourism and Products Center, he was greeted by a poster announcing the stamp rally and remarked, "It feels like I'm traveling with Jinshi!" With enthusiasm, he pressed the Jinshi-themed stamp onto the rally sheet, commenting on the meticulous details portraying Jinshi holding Yuki Tsuzuki.

Afterward, Otsuka visited "yuinowa," a renovated historic kimono shop turned co-working space, where he borrowed a deep blue haori inspired by Jinshi. "Wearing the haori while walking around Yuki is very atmospheric. I hope not only local people but also international visitors get to experience this," he expressed, appreciating the rich atmosphere of the historical streets lined with Meiji and Taisho-era warehouses.

Otsuka also visited the fine textile craft center "Tsumugi no Yakata," embracing the local tradition of Yuki Tsuzuki. During a weaving workshop, he meticulously maneuvered the shuttle, deeply engaging with the intricate process. "This hands-on experience made me realize how meticulous and delicate weaving truly is. It’s inspiring and fosters a connection to traditional crafts," he reflected, cherishing the coaster he had woven.

Culinary Delights and Cultural Exploration

For lunch, Otsuka headed to a renovated inn called "HOTEL(TEN)," set within a 90-year-old traditional house. He was delighted by a nourishing hot pot featuring local ingredients, including premium "Rose Pork" from Ibaraki and the region's signature cabbage seasoned with Tsumugi miso. As he opened the pot, Otsuka exclaimed, "Wow! This looks delicious!" He enjoyed every bite, relishing the juiciness of the pork and the harmonious blend of flavors from the broth, proudly declaring, "This changed my perception of miso hot pot!"

The next destination was "Tsukuba Mountain Omotenashi-kan," located on Tsukuba's slopes, where he admired a sprawling plum orchard. There, he found a stamp featuring Jinshi holding a maple leaf, alongside a character panel that elicited a delighted reaction from Otsuka. Sipping coffee at the cafe while reflecting on his collected stamps, he noted, "This place is perfect for exploring, and I’m intrigued by the adventure park next door!"

Completing the Adventure

In a fitting conclusion to his journey, Otsuka visited "Tsuchiura Machikado Warehouse Daitoku," where he encountered a character panel dressed as Jinshi. The facility, a repurposed old kimono store, offers tourist information and local souvenirs. Fascinated by the array of products, Otsuka learned about the region's famous lotus root and shared, "I had no idea about this!"

Upon collecting three stamps, Otsuka was thrilled to receive an exclusive Jinshi clear card, beaming with happiness. Reflecting on the memorable experiences throughout the stamp rally, he concluded, "I truly enjoyed discovering the various charms of Ibaraki. I urge everyone to join Mao Mao and Jinshi in collecting the unique attractions that Ibaraki has to offer!" With excitement, he mentioned his plan to explore more spots along both Jinshi and Mao Mao's paths to further understand the region's allure.

Join the Ibaraki Adventure!

For those interested, the collaborative stamp rally "IBARAKI is Blossoming: Kusuriya no Hitorigoto" welcomes everyone to explore this enchanting region while collecting unique stamps and enjoying rich cultural experiences.

Visit the following links for more information:

About Kusuriya no Hitorigoto

This best-selling series has surpassed 40 million copies in circulation and continues to captivate audiences with its upcoming anime adaptations and movie releases. Following the adventures of Mao Mao, a drug seller with a peculiar fascination for poisons and remedies, and Jinshi, the strikingly beautiful eunuch managing the inner palace, this series has gained immense popularity across generations.