Japan's First Sustainable Collaborative Platform for Sports Archive Organizations: 'Japan Sports Museum Network' Launched

The Chichibunomiya Memorial Sports Museum of the Japan Sport Council (JSC) launched the 'Japan Sports Museum Network' on February 12, 2026, as a sustainable collaborative platform. The network aims to strengthen cooperation among organizations holding sports archives and contribute to society by preserving sports culture and communicating its significance. As of March 27, 16 organizations have registered to join the network.

This network is the first permanent, nationwide collaborative body involving diverse entities, including universities, regional museums, Olympic-related museums, sports associations, and private companies. It is designed to address common challenges faced by organizations handling sports archives—such as shortages of specialized personnel, stagnant exhibition content, and fragile collection and preservation systems—by providing a mechanism to complement areas that are difficult to manage individually. Participation is free, and the network is currently accepting new members to ensure an open environment for all organizations holding sports archives.

Based on the philosophy of the Basic Act on Sport, the JSC promotes activities that contribute to the development of sports culture. Through this network, the JSC will facilitate the social return of sports archives and knowledge, while strengthening domestic and international partnerships to further promote and disseminate sports culture.

Participating Organizations (in Japanese alphabetical order)

• 1. Mikio Oda Memorial Museum
• 2. ASICS Corporation