Overview
- The Yamanashi Ichigo no Ousama Museum opened in Kai City to showcase Sanrio’s history and celebrate its founder, Shintaro Tsuji.
- The two-building complex pairs a Sanrio History Museum with a Tsuji Memorial Museum that traces his life and work.
- Displays include character goods and a reading corner with back issues of Ichigo Shinbun, Sanrio’s in-house newsletter that began with a first issue now on view.
- The memorial wing recreates Tsuji’s office with his desk and pen, and features a signed tribute from manga artist Takashi Yanase.
- The opening featured a ribbon-cutting with Hello Kitty, and Tsuji linked his wartime Kofu experience to founding the Yamanashi Silk Center in 1960.
- Visits require advance reservations, with tickets priced at ¥1,800 for adults, ¥1,500 for students and seniors, and ¥1,000 for children, and the museum closes on Tuesdays except holidays.
- Local officials expect the museum to pull fans to Kai City, which could boost foot traffic for nearby shops and services.