Beyond 1300 Years: The Legendary "Sayohime" Revived with New Art by Akiko Higashimura! Project Launched to Illuminate the Future of Kyuragi Roadside Station, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, as its Official Mascot

Kaze no Furusato Kan Co., Ltd. (Representative Director: Shozo Chikida), which operates the product exhibition hall in Kyuragi-cho, Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, announces the appointment of "Sayohime," newly drawn by popular manga artist Akiko Higashimura, as a new official character symbolizing the "Sayohime of Matsuura Legend" passed down in the town.
This project began with the connection forged when the giant Sayohime statue, a symbol of the roadside station, was depicted in Akiko Higashimura's latest work, "Gintaro-san Otanomi Mosu." In a region facing a declining birthrate and aging population, this "official mascot" aims to connect the 1300-year-old legend to the next generation, disseminating the charm of Kyuragi-cho nationwide.
©Akiko Higashimura / Shueisha

■ Background of Implementation: A Miraculous Connection Forged by the Manga "Gintaro-san Otanomi Mosu"
The "Sayohime statue" is a symbol of Michi no Eki Kyuragi and a source of pride for local residents. The appearance of this statue in Akiko Higashimura's popular manga, "Gintaro-san Otanomi Mosu," became the catalyst for this project. The "devotion" and "earnestness" of Sayohime, who is said to have turned into stone while longing for her beloved, a legend passed down in Kyuragi for 1300 years, deeply resonates with the spirit of Kyuragi residents who live with rich nature despite facing challenges like population decline. This offer was realized from a strong desire to revitalize the local community by welcoming "Sayohime," modernized and attractively drawn by Ms. Higashimura, as an official mascot.

■ Role of "Sayohime"
"Sayohime," created by Akiko Higashimura, will transcend the simple framework of a character and act as an "Official Ambassador" for Kyuragi-cho through the following activities:
・Symbol of "Kyuragi Brand":
Creation of eco-bags using a newly designed logo featuring "Sayohime."
Promotion of "Kyuragi brand" visibility through banners and "Sayohime stickers" affixed to local products, making them instantly recognizable as Kyuragi products.
[Images mentioned: Eco-bag, Product Sticker, Banner, Gelato, Michi no Eki Kyuragi Brochure (6-panel tri-fold)]
・Expansion into regional revitalization events:
Creating opportunities to experience the rich nature and culture of Kyuragi-cho.
・Information dissemination via SNS (Instagram, note): Promoting the town's charm to younger generations and manga fans.

■ Future Outlook
Going forward, we will focus on developing original products utilizing "Sayohime" drawn by Akiko Higashimura and attracting tourists for "pilgrimage" visits. We aim for many people to visit Kyuragi-cho through "Sayohime" and experience the traditions and residents' enthusiasm that thrive in this area.

【Comment from Akiko Higashimura】
During my research visit for my serialized manga "Gintaro-san Otanomi Mosu," I encountered the Sayohime legend.
As if guided by chance, I felt Sayohime's spirit and the sentiments of the local people everywhere I went, and even depicted it in my work.
Through this connection, panels from "Gintaro-san Otanomi Mosu" will now be displayed at Michi no Eki Kaze no Furusato Kan in Kyuragi, Saga Prefecture!

Not only that!
The "Sayohime" stickers I drew will also be used on various products. I would be delighted if you pick them up and cherish them if you see them.

The romanticism of the Sayohime legend, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. I hope many people will learn about the charming town of Kyuragi.
And I hope "Sayohime" will be loved by everyone.
I will visit Kyuragi again!