KHB Mascot 'Guriri' Wins 1st Place in 'Miyagi Local Character GP' by Sendai Town Information S-style

The mascot character 'Guriri' of Higashinippon Broadcasting (KHB), headquartered in Taihaku-ku, Sendai, has won first place in the 'Miyagi Local Character Grand Prix,' a voting initiative conducted by Sendai Town Information S-style.

The 'Miyagi Local Character Grand Prix' is a voting project targeting original characters from various local governments, local companies, and professional sports teams in Miyagi Prefecture. It was held over one month starting from March 25, with 68 characters entering. The results are announced in the June issue of Sendai Town Information S-style, released today.

Guriri garnered 1,843 votes, receiving support from both within and outside Miyagi Prefecture. KHB expressed gratitude to all supporters and plans to feature Guriri in a special page in the July issue of Sendai Town Information S-style, scheduled for release on June 25.

Guriri is involved in activities to deepen connections with the community, including appearances on television programs and events. KHB aims to further strengthen its community-based communication efforts.

◆ KHB Mascot 'Guriri'

Born in 2000 as the mascot for the 'KHB Green Campaign,' which KHB has been running since 1990 to address regional society and environmental issues through programs and events. Guriri is currently active as the official character of KHB. The character design is based on work by Mikio Igarashi, the manga artist of 'Bonobono' who lives in Miyagi.

◆ KHB Green Campaign: Guriri's Forest Play & Guriri's Ocean Project

Since 1990, KHB has promoted the 'KHB Green Campaign.' The station manages 'Guriri's Forest' in Rifu Town, Miyagi Prefecture, and regularly organizes 'Guriri's Forest Play' for forest creation with viewers. In 2025, marking its 50th anniversary, the station launched 'Guriri's Ocean Project' to connect the rich Sanriku coast to the future.

◆ KHB Children's Smile Operation: Guriri Caravan

Since 2022, KHB has been running initiatives to support children and those involved in raising them, connecting children's smiles to the future. As part of efforts beyond the television screen, Guriri and KHB announcers visit kindergartens, nursery schools, children's centers, and hospitals in Miyagi Prefecture, conducting readings of original paper theater and picture books.

◆ Guriri Merchandise

Guriri goods are sold at the 'KHB Web Shop' and the 'Guriri Cafe' on the first floor of the KHB headquarters. Items include 'Guriri plushies,' keychains called 'Mini Guriri,' and, following the 50th anniversary, children's books and blankets for families to enjoy in their daily lives.