#Japan #Tokyo #Earthquake Insurance #Shofukutei Tsurube #Namabe

Shofukutei Tsurube: Embracing Earthquake Insurance Awareness

In a refreshing move to engage the public around disaster preparedness, Shofukutei Tsurube, a well-known Japanese comedian and storyteller, has been appointed as the new public relations character for earthquake insurance. This initiative is spearheaded by the Japan General Insurance Association and is aimed at promoting awareness of earthquake insurance in light of the platform's 60th anniversary in 2026. The campaign launches with a new TV commercial titled "So That's How It Works! Earthquake Insurance," which will begin airing on August 27, 2026.

The Campaign Theme and its Significance

2026 marks a significant milestone as it celebrates the 60th anniversary of the earthquake insurance system in Japan. The overarching theme this year is to clarify that earthquake insurance can cover various expenses to support immediate living needs after a disaster. The new TV commercial features Tsurube as a coffee shop owner named "Tsurube," alongside a quirky character called "Namabe," modeled after the catfish long believed in Japanese folklore to predict earthquakes. Together, the duo will elucidate different uses of earthquake insurance payouts, such as covering living expenses, furniture and appliance replacements, renting temporary accommodation, and more.

A Closer Look at the TV Commercial

The commercial begins with a striking tagline, "So That's How It Works! Earthquake Insurance," as a group of mothers converse in a coffee shop, expressing their misconceptions about earthquake insurance being solely for building repairs. Tsurube, stepping in as the knowledgeable shop owner, promptly debunks those myths, stating, "You can use it for much more than that!" He proceeds to display coasters with various usage scenarios, demonstrating that insurance money can help cover immediate needs post-earthquake.

The segment wraps up with a cheerful collaboration of Tsurube, Namabe, and the mothers, who all resonate with the message that earthquake insurance can indeed offer financial relief beyond structural repairs.

Behind the Scenes: A Glimpse of Filming

Tsurube showcased his charismatic personality during the shoot, diffusing any tension on set by sharing light-hearted anecdotes from his hometown in Kansai. Even amidst the shooting, he remained dedicated, practicing his lines diligently between takes. A humorous moment arose when he playfully expressed his desire to keep a prop mustache, demonstrating his whimsical nature. Throughout the filming, he lifted the spirits of the crew, delivering jokes and maintaining an engaging atmosphere.

Tsurube’s Personal Reflections

In interviews around the campaign, Tsurube shared personal reflections on earthquake preparedness, recalling his own experiences during the great Hanshin-Awaji earthquake. He emphasized the importance of having readily available resources, such as storing water in the bathtub, and the necessity of quick evacuation in case of earthquakes or possible tsunamis. He hopes that this commercial will resonate with viewers, encouraging them to think about earthquake insurance and general disaster preparedness more proactively.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Tsurube encourages everyone to take a moment to watch the new commercial, asserting that it aims to clarify the multiple ways earthquake insurance can support individuals in times of need. He hopes that viewers will walk away saying, "So That's How It Works!" and be motivated to consider insurance options for their peace of mind in uncertain situations.

To see Tsurube in action and to gain insights on the various applications of earthquake insurance, check out the full commercial on various media platforms. This campaign not only sheds light on insurance details but also underlines a critical aspect of disaster preparedness in a relatable manner.

Watch the new commercial here.