Response to new coronavirus infections and regulations are easing around the world. The number of tourists visiting Japan is also returning to the pre-2019 momentum. It has also become a hot topic that travel spending by visitors to Japan in 2023 reached a record high, partly due to the weak yen and strong dollar. The number of foreign tourists is increasing on trains and in the streets, and companies are changing their strategies. In the midst of all this, the " Jinrikisha" rickshaw heroes, whom Saiga NAK has interviewed before, were unveiled at an event. The rickshaw industry has been struggling for some time, but this new wind in the industry is sure to be a welcome sight.
TGS取材中の出会い、「人力車ヒーロー」ジンリキシャーのクラウドファンディングを行う高木桂一さんにインタビュー
The unveiling of the rickshaw hero "Gin Rickshaw
Saiga NAK met Keiichi Takagi (@olQ9VLDW8q72985 ) at the Tokyo Game Show 2023, where he worked as a suit actor and a securities company employee before becoming a producer. " Transformation! Jinrikisha Hero [Yumekanae-tai Jinrikisha] Project," which was successful in raising 111% of its goal.
Finally, on April 20, 2024 (Saturday), the unveiling of the rickshaw hero "Jinrikisha" took place at Takara-yu, a public bathhouse in Kitasenju.
Takarayu is a so-called "sacred place" that often appeared as a location for the special effects TV drama " Masked Rider Revise," which was broadcast from 2021 to 2022.
The unveiling of the "Jinrikisha" took place in two parts, from 10:00 am to 2:45 pm and from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Local residents, customers of public bathhouses, special effects fans, and others gathered to interact with the jinrikisha and take commemorative photos. A rickshaw ride was also offered.
The unveiling was a great success, with an unbroken line of people waiting in line. TV and newspaper coverage of the event also attracted attention.
The company plans to offer a wide range of costumes based on the concept of "anyone can become a hero. We look forward to seeing the activities of the heroes who hope to energize Japan through the rickshaw.
ジンリキシャー御披露目イベント終了しました。新聞・テレビと取材うけました。僕よりたっぱがあるアクションの同僚セッキーに変身してもらいました。背が高いと見栄えする! pic.twitter.com/heLGjiMBi6
— ジンリキシャー高木 (@olQ9VLDW8q72985) April 20, 2024