Update Kibiji (Representative: Tetsuji Makino) will renew its Kibiji-origin kibidango 'Kibidango' to a version bundled with a web manga on June 11th. A QR code on the bookmark 'Legendary Viewing Ticket' enclosed with the product allows access to the vertical-scrolling web manga 'Kibio's Prayer.'
Background of the Renewal
After the launch of Kibidango, a tasting survey was conducted with 71 staff members at the Okayama Prefectural Government, with the cooperation of the Okayama Prefectural Government's Industry and Labor Department Marketing Promotion Division. 97% responded that they 'would like to purchase' or 'would purchase under certain conditions,' indicating high evaluations for taste and packaging.
On the other hand, only 2 out of 71 respondents felt 'attracted to the story of the Momotaro legend and Kibiji.' It became clear that the initial goal of 'confectionery that allows you to experience the legend' had not been met. Based on these results, the decision was made to renew the product by bundling it with a web manga.
Web Manga 'Kibio's Prayer'
From the web manga 'Kibio's Prayer.'
Try reading
Click here
'Kibio's Prayer' is an original work depicted from the perspective of Onra, the oni who appears in the Momotaro legend. While the Momotaro legend of Kibiji is certified as a Japan Heritage site, Onra's story has been overshadowed by Momotaro and has not reached many people. It is a smartphone-optimized vertical-reading format using original characters, with an approximate viewing time of 5 minutes. Access is available via the QR code on the 'Legendary Viewing Ticket' bookmark included with Kibidango, and the first few pages are available for free.
The artwork is by Mie Miyana, a manga artist and illustrator based in Okayama Prefecture. Following the packaging and bookmark for Kibidango, she visually embodies the world of Update Kibiji in this web manga as well.
Bookmark 'Legendary Viewing Ticket'
The bookmark 'Legendary Viewing Ticket' enclosed with Kibidango.
The 'Legendary Viewing Ticket' bookmark included with Kibidango features a ticket-like design. The concept is that eating the confectionery becomes an admission ticket to experience the legend. It includes a 4-panel comic depicting famous scenes from the Momotaro legend, a QR code, and a number motif inspired by Yakami Shrine, the site of the legend. From the moment readers hold the bookmark, they are invited to the stage of the Kibiji legend.
Collaboration with Long-Established 'Yamawaki Sangetsudo'
The manufacturing of Kibidango is handled by the long-established 'Yamawaki Sangetsudo Co., Ltd.' (Okayama City), founded in the 14th year of the Meiji era. The soft and elegant kibidango, coated with fragrant kinako (roasted soybean flour), boasts the reliable quality expected from a long-established company. Because it is a confectionery that embodies a new story of the Kibiji legend, an authentic taste was essential for its vessel. Update Kibiji is responsible for planning, design, and sales, infusing the traditional taste with a new narrative.
Kibidango Official Website
Product Overview
Kibidango (with web manga). Now on sale in the Kibiji area.
Product Name: Kibidango (with web manga)
Contents: Kinako Kibidango (6 pieces) - Bookmark 'Legendary Viewing Ticket'
Price: 500 yen (excluding tax)
Sales Start Date: June 11, 2026
Planning & Sales: Update Kibiji (Okayama City)
Manufacturing: Yamawaki Sangetsudo Co., Ltd. (Okayama City)
[Retail Stores]
- Tenmaya Happytown Rive Soja Store (187 Monden, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture) - Kibiji Motenashi no Yakata (418 Shuku, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture) - Kibiji Tourist Information Center (825-1 Misu, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture, within Sunroad Kibiji) - Kokubunji Tourist Information Center Kurohime-tei (1046 Kambayashi, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture, within Bitchu Kokubunji Temple)
About Update Kibiji
The name 'Update Kibiji' embodies the desire to convey the history and stories inherited from ancient times in a form that everyone can easily access. We hope that by embodying its charm in products and content, it will serve as an opportunity for more people to learn about Kibiji.
Official Website: https://www.updatekibiji.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kofun.u_u.chan/
Crowdfunding Underway
Currently, crowdfunding is underway on CAMPFIRE to cover the production costs of the web manga 'Kibio's Prayer.' Kibidango is primarily sold in the Kibiji area, but it can be purchased nationwide as a return for crowdfunding contributions. Returns include Kibidango, as well as Kofun Coffee, Bizen ware miniature haniwa, and a new miniature haniwa vase.
Application Period: Until July 31, 2026
CAMPFIRE here
External site
Keywords:
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: New Product