New Promotional Poster for the Ryomo Line by Nichijou Creator Keiichi Arawi
Keiichi Arawi, the name behind cult works such as Nichijou and CITY, has appeared before his fans with a new illustration prepared to promote the use of the Ryomo Line in Japan. The second poster, prepared as part of this collaboration announced by the Ryomo Line Maintenance and Promotion Association, has begun to be displayed at stations along the line and in surrounding facilities. The artist's unique, absurd, and cute drawing style now invites local residents to use public transportation.
Beyond being just an advertising campaign, this project serves as a tribute to the artist's roots. Born in Gunma prefecture in 1977 and raised in the city of Maebashi, Keiichi Arawi frequently draws inspiration from his hometown in his works. The Ryomo Line runs exactly through this region, between Oyama in Tochigi and Shin-Maebashi station in Gunma. The illustrations Arawi prepared for this line aim to establish a nostalgic and warm connection for local residents and train enthusiasts.
The artist's career has been quite active in recent years. Nichijou, which began in 2006 and was adapted into an anime by Kyoto Animation in 2011, surprised and delighted fans by returning in 2021. Additionally, it was announced in recent months that CITY, another of Arawi's popular series, will also be adapted into an anime by Kyoto Animation in 2025. This new poster work once again proves the artist's influence in both the manga world and local communities.
In Japan, railway companies collaborating with famous mangaka is a frequently used method to revitalize regional tourism and increase awareness of public transportation. Fans visiting stations on the Ryomo Line get the chance to see these special works of art in person while also contributing to the local economy. Whether this series will continue or expand with different products in the coming period is awaited with curiosity.
