Legendary Wrestler Tatsumi Fujinami to Visit Tottori's Mountainous Area for 'MEIJI Fes 2026' at Meiji Elementary School

NPO Meiji Activation Project (Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture) will host the regional exchange event 'MEIJI Fes 2026' on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the Tottori Municipal Meiji Elementary School gymnasium.

The event aims to promote the charm of the Meiji district, a mountainous area facing depopulation, through various activities including a health talk show by pro-wrestling legend Tatsumi Fujinami, pro-wrestling matches, local performing arts, and food stalls.
Centered on the themes of 'health' and 'community exchange,' it also aligns with the spirit of Kihachiro Onitsuka, the founder of ASICS who grew up in the area: 'A sound mind in a sound body.' The event is designed for all generations to enjoy.

A Community Event to Discover the 'Meiji District'

The Meiji district in Tottori City is a mountainous area located about 20 minutes by car from the city center, known for its rich nature and rural landscapes. It features attractions like Anzo Forest Park, ski resorts, and campsites, making it a popular nature getaway near the city.
However, like many areas, it faces challenges such as population decline and aging, making the creation of community vibrancy and relational populations a significant task.
To address this, the NPO Meiji Activation Project has been continuously hosting 'MEIJI Fes' to create opportunities for people from outside the region to visit.
Marking its fourth year, the event utilizes the entertainment of pro-wrestling to foster regional revitalization under the themes of 'health' and 'exchange.'

Health-focused Event at the Birthplace of Kihachiro Onitsuka

The Meiji district is known as the birthplace of Kihachiro Onitsuka, founder of the sports brand ASICS.
Meiji Elementary School and the local community continue educational activities in cooperation with the region, valuing Onitsuka's philosophy: 'A sound mind in a sound body.'
Meiji Elementary School conducts experiential learning such as plum harvesting, potato planting, and peanut cultivation. The school is also known for its small-group education environment and a 'small-school transfer system' that allows enrollment from across Tottori City.
'MEIJI Fes 2026' also aims to broadly share this local culture that values the community and health.

Active Well Beyond the Age of 70: Health Talk Show by Tatsumi Fujinami

The guest for this year is pro-wrestler Tatsumi Fujinami, who remains active in the ring today.
Fujinami, who continues to compete past the age of 70, advocates the importance of daily training and health maintenance, which resonates deeply with the event's theme.
Starting at 11:00 AM, a health talk show open to everyone for free will take place, where he will discuss topics such as maintaining health, physical strength, and the importance of continuous challenge.
Following the talk show, a limited-seating autograph and photo session (paid) is scheduled.
In the afternoon pro-wrestling show, a tag match featuring Fujinami and his son, LEONA, is planned.

Content for All Generations: From Local Arts to Pro-Wrestling

The event day will feature multi-generational activities, including local performing arts like the Kirin Shishimai (kirin lion dance), a children's pro-wrestling class, professional wrestling matches, and food stalls.
The wrestling matches are designed to be enjoyable even for first-time viewers and children, including comedy wrestling and aerial techniques.
Planned participants include wrestlers active across the country, such as HUB, Gainatiger, and Tanabota Hiroshi.
Additionally, food trucks and local agricultural product sales will be available to showcase the region's food culture.

Organizer Comment

Manabu Sakaoka, Director of NPO Meiji Activation Project:
'This is our fourth year hosting an event with a pro-wrestling theme. I hope many people will spend an enjoyable time here, get to know the Meiji district, and get involved. Through the entertainment of pro-wrestling, I want people to feel the importance of health and vitality. We are preparing for this event to boost the Meiji district and become a model for revitalization in mountainous areas.'

Event Outline

[Event Name]
MEIJI Fes 2026

[Date and Time]
Saturday, June 6, 2026
From 11:00 AM to approx. 4:00 PM

[Venue]
Gymnasium of Tottori Municipal Meiji Elementary School
(159 Matsukami, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture)

[Activities]
11:00 AM: Health talk show by Tatsumi Fujinami
11:30 AM: Autograph & Photo Session (Paid)
1:00 PM: Opening & Local Performing Arts (Kirin Shishimai, etc.)
1:30 PM: Children's Pro-Wrestling Class