Shinto Kogyo Holds First-Ever Climbing Experience Event Featuring Athlete Employees and Top Climbers

Shinto Kogyo Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Nagoya City; President: Atsushi Nagai) held a climbing experience event for employees and their families from its group companies at Play Mountain Okazaki (Okazaki City).

This event, held for the first time with the aim of promoting employee health and enhancing internal communication, was conducted in two sessions—morning and afternoon—with a total of 56 participants. The event featured Natsuko Kura, an athlete-employee from Aichi Prefecture, along with special guests Chinatsu Takao, also from Aichi and winner of the 2023 Lead Youth Japanese Championship, and Kokahana Mugi-shima, 2026 Bouldering Youth Japanese Champion. The three athletes interacted closely with participants, providing guidance on fundamental techniques and introducing the appeal of competitive climbing. As participants climbed the walls, they received personalized advice on hand and foot placement and climbing techniques, experiencing firsthand the unique joy of challenge, the satisfaction of overcoming obstacles, and the sense of achievement that climbing offers.

During the event, the three athletes also delivered a live demonstration in actual competition format, showcasing dynamic movements and bold attempts that drew loud cheers from the audience. This provided a rare opportunity to experience the intensity and excitement of elite-level climbing. Following the demonstration, a Q&A session allowed participants to ask about the athletes’ motivations for starting climbing, pre-competition nerves, and future goals, keeping the venue vibrant and energetic throughout.

Participants shared positive feedback: “I was nervous at first, but with the athletes’ advice, I could feel myself improving gradually,” “Climbing together with my child naturally increased our conversation and created wonderful memories,” and “Watching top athletes up close deepened my interest in the sport.” After the event, several participants approached staff to inquire about lesson details, indicating a heightened interest in climbing.

In addition to climbing, Shinto Kogyo employs athlete-employees in swimming and curling, and will continue promoting initiatives that support employee well-being and engagement, aiming to create a workplace where every individual can fully utilize their abilities.