San-X and Metropolitan Police Department Host "Traffic Safety Training 2026" featuring Sumikko Gurashi at Chiyoda Schools

San-X Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo) donated "Sumikko Gurashi" themed school bag covers to incoming first-graders at Chiyoda Elementary School and Ochanomizu Elementary School. This contribution evolved into a community-wide safety initiative. On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, the Kanda Police Station of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) organized the "Crossing Training with Tokage 2026" event. Notably, Sumikko Gurashi has been appointed as the 2026 MPD Child Traffic Safety Ambassador.

On the day of the event, the character "Tokage" appeared alongside the Chief of Kanda Police Station to conduct crossing drills with first-graders wearing the specially designed bag covers. Additionally, Tokage participated in a bicycle safety class at Seisoku Gakuen High School in Chiyoda-ku, interacting and taking photos with students. This collaboration was realized through the leadership of the Kanda Police Traffic Division, following San-X’s provision of the character designs.

● Training Sessions with "Tokage"
At Chiyoda and Ochanomizu Elementary Schools, officers provided instructions on safety protocols, such as checking "Right-Left-Right" before crossing. Tokage then surprised the children to assist in practical crossing exercises. Following the drills, a mini safety seminar focused on "Three Checks for Crossing":
1. Check if vehicles are approaching.
2. Check if vehicles have stopped.
3. Check for approaching vehicles while in the middle of crossing.

Furthermore, at Seisoku Gakuen High School, the MPD mascot "Pipo-kun" was joined by Tokage to promote bicycle safety among older students.

● Official Comments
Takashi Imai, Chief of Kanda Police Station: "We hope the children follow the correct way to cross the street and commute to school safely every day."

San-X PR Representative: "Based on our corporate purpose 'Always Together,' we have supported children's daily lives through our characters. We are pleased that our design contribution led to this safety activity. We will continue our social contribution efforts through our characters in collaboration with local communities."

■ About Sumikko Gurashi
Launched in 2012 with the keyword "Here is where I settle down," these characters represent the Japanese preference for corners (sumikko). Their slightly negative yet charming personalities have garnered popularity across all age groups.

■ About San-X
San-X creates original characters such as Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi, delivering their unique charm worldwide through merchandise, licensing, and media. Their characters are known for being cute yet surreal, providing emotional support to fans.