In recent years, the potential for "creative work" in the welfare sector has been gaining attention. Now, at the "Genki Shop Iko-ru," an antenna shop that exhibits and sells products from facilities for people with disabilities, collaboration goods featuring Rabbit Yukine, the pet of Hokkaido's cheering character "Snow Miku," will go on sale starting Friday, February 7, 2025.

In this initiative, 24 welfare facilities from across Japan participated, creating original goods that leverage their unique personalities and skills. The fusion of welfare and creativity transcends the mere framework of "support," creating new, inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities.

What is "Genki Shop Iko-ru"?

"Genki Shop Iko-ru" is conveniently located at JR Sapporo Station.

Located in the west concourse of JR Sapporo Station, "Genki Shop Iko-ru" handles heartwarming handmade products from over 170 facilities for people with disabilities in Sapporo, as well as from other parts of Hokkaido and beyond. Here, you'll find a lineup of charming items, including foods like jams and cookies, as well as soap, pottery, leather goods, and fabric products.

24 Facilities from Across Japan Participate! The 2nd "Genki Shop Iko-ru x Rabbit Yukine" Project

From left: "Koronto Yukine" (Round Yukine), Keychain, Mini Cushion

This is the second collaboration between Rabbit Yukine and "Genki Shop Iko-ru," following the first one in 2022. For this project, 24 facilities from all over the country participated by submitting design drawings and project proposals! They utilized their respective creativity to produce a variety of items themed around Yukine.

From left: Sashiko Drawstring Pouch, Cowhide Pass Case, Memo Stand

From left: Cloisonné Brooch, Genuine Leather Coaster, Stationery Set

Various "Umbrella Markers"

Additionally, the popular "Yukine Gacha" from the previous collaboration is making a comeback! Figurines created by members of "JISTO," a 3D printer team of muscular dystrophy patients at Hokkaido Medical Center, and members of "Kids Terrace," a developmental support facility in Otaru, will be available in capsule toy machines for 500 yen per try.

Items available from the "Yukine Gacha"

A New Form of Creativity Gaining Attention

Here are some of the prizes you can win in the "Yukine Kuji" (Yukine Lottery)

There is growing interest in society for "work styles that leverage diverse individualities," and a movement is strengthening to create opportunities for people with disabilities to thrive as "creators" rather than just workers in traditional workshops. Such initiatives not only expand the scope of social participation for people with disabilities but also add a new story to the background of the products we use every day. These collaboration goods are also the result of the ideas and skills of diverse creators taking shape as new, original items.

Various "Sashiko Dishcloths"

Goods Go on Sale Starting Friday, February 7th! Enjoy it Along with "SNOW MIKU 2025"

The sale of the goods starts on February 7, 2025. This coincides with "SNOW MIKU 2025," a festival where Snow Miku cheers for Hokkaido, with its main events held on February 8th (Sat) and 9th (Sun). While enjoying sightseeing and the event, why not stop by "Genki Shop Iko-ru" to experience this new wave of creativity?

Genki Shop Iko-ru

■Location: Inside the "Food and Tourism Information Center," JR Sapporo Station West Concourse (Kita 6-jo Nishi 4-chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo)
■Hours: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
■Closed: New Year holidays (December 31 - January 3)
Click here for the official website of "Genki Shop Iko-ru"

About "Rabbit Yukine"

Rabbit Yukine was born from a public design competition as the pet character for "Snow Miku (Hatsune Miku)," a character that supports Hokkaido, developed by Crypton Future Media, INC. Since its name was decided on November 11, 2013, November 11th has been celebrated as the "Yukine Anniversary." The character is modeled after the Ezo yuki usagi (mountain hare), an animal native to Hokkaido. Currently, Yukine also participates in various initiatives to promote Hokkaido on its own, expanding its role as an ambassador. It is also active as a Sapporo Tourism Ambassador. Rabbit Yukine also serves as the planning department manager for "Domingo," a local project by Crypton, and sometimes participates in events as a yuru-chara (mascot character).
*For more about "Snow Miku," click here