Tokyo Metropolitan Government Begins Soliciting 'Ikugyo Thank You Episodes'

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is promoting a mind-shift that views childcare not as a 'break' but as a 'vital job,' working to foster a social climate that supports 'Ikugyo' (parental leave).

Last fiscal year, the parental leave uptake rate for men in Tokyo reached 61.2%, meaning three out of five men now take parental leave, showing steady growth.

To accelerate this trend, we will produce and disseminate manga based on episodes of gratitude related to parental leave to help create a workplace atmosphere that supports it.

We invite you to share the episodes you have experienced.

1. Submission Period From Friday, May 29, 2026, to 17:00 on Friday, July 10, 2026.

2. Eligibility Those who live or work in Tokyo.

3. Submission Details We are looking for messages of gratitude from individuals who took parental leave to the colleagues and superiors who supported them, or memorable episodes of being supported. We also welcome submissions from colleagues or superiors who supported those on leave, sharing new realizations or deepened team bonds experienced through the process.

*Selected episodes will be chosen by a selection committee and through online voting.

4. Prizes (1) Approximately 10 works selected by the selection committee Amazon gift card worth 3,000 yen

(2) A total of 4 works selected through online voting Commemorative trophy and 3 printed copies of the manga produced based on the submitted episode.

5. Manga Production Selected episodes will be used as awareness-raising manga for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Episodes may be edited as necessary.

6. How to Apply Please check the application guidelines on the website and apply via the form. https://kodomo-smile.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/st/ikugyo-thankyouepisode/