Asahi Shimbun's Media Platform 'Koshokojitsu' Launches YouTube Channel Series 'The Book That Changed My Life' in June

To the media,

Asahi Shimbun Company (President and CEO: Katsuki Tsunoda) announces the launch of a new video initiative on its book information website, Koshokojitsu, utilizing YouTube. The project features videos in which celebrities and professionals in the literary field discuss their 'favorite books' or 'the book that changed their life,' released in coordination with the evening edition of the Asahi Shimbun newspaper. Videos can be viewed on the YouTube channel 'Koshokojitsu.'

As the first installment, two videos featuring translator Tomoko Kouno discussing various books, including 'Wuthering Heights,' were released in late June. Starting July 4, the second installment will feature film director Yoko Yamanaka, winner of the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes International Film Festival, sharing her two most cherished books.

Subsequently, a diverse lineup of guests active in literature and creative fields will appear, including NATSU (member of idol group WHITE SCORPION), actor Kohei Shoji, and horror writer Seikin. Through multimedia content including video and audio beyond traditional articles, the initiative aims to convey the deeper appeal of books.

YouTube 'Koshokojitsu Channel' https://www.youtube.com/@koshokojitsu

Koshokojitsu, Asahi Shimbun's Book Website https://book.asahi.com/

Koshokojitsu Video Project: Presenting the Multidimensional Appeal of Books

The project unfolds content along two axes: 'the book that changed my life' as shared by celebrities, and reading experiences from those working in book-related professions. It explores which books people have encountered, which words influenced them, and what changes occurred in their lives and careers, delving into their values and thinking through the lens of books.

Beyond readers who love books and are searching for their next read, the project aims to inspire even those who rarely engage with books to think, 'I'd like to read a book recommended by this person.'

Cross-Platform Integration: Print, Website, Video, and Audio

This initiative is linked to two new features launched in April on the Wednesday evening edition of the Asahi Shimbun. 'My Important Books,' where celebrities introduce their two favorite books, and 'Occupational Guidebook for Book Lovers,' which highlights books that influenced professionals in book-related fields. Text articles are published in the Asahi Shimbun print edition, on the Asahi Shimbun-operated book website 'Koshokojitsu,' and on the digital edition of Asahi Shimbun, with professional journalists and editors conveying key points in clear, concise language. Videos convey the charm of speech, facial expressions, and the atmosphere of interviews. The project also plans to collaborate with the podcast 'Lunch Break for Book Lovers' to expand into audio content.

By delivering content across multiple platforms—including print, website, YouTube, and podcast—the initiative broadens opportunities for readers to engage with 'Koshokojitsu' through various entry points.

Asahi Shimbun Company aims to strengthen its outreach through video and audio content, deepen its focus on book recommendations, and expand awareness of the 'Koshokojitsu' brand while fostering a community of book lovers.

Upcoming Release Schedule

[Released on June 27 and 28]

Tomoko Kouno (Translator)

[Planned for July 4 and 5]

Yoko Yamanaka (Film Director)

[To be released sequentially from July onward (in no particular order)]

NATSU (Member of idol group 'WHITE SCORPION')

Kohei Shoji (Actor)

Hiroto Hatahata (Clinical Psychologist) – Interview for Shinsho Taisho 2026 'What Is Counseling? On Change'

Seikin (Horror Writer)

Matsuko Sugie (Book Critic)

Jun Kana (Book Designer)

Noritake Suzuki (Picture Book Author)

About Koshokojitsu

Koshokojitsu is a web media platform for books operated by Asahi Shimbun Company. Starting from a wide range of genres—including fiction, non-fiction, business books, comics, and picture books—it carefully analyzes authors' intentions, the background of works, and their connections to society and daily life, offering each reader 'a starting point for thinking' and 'a broader perspective.'