Osamu Akimoto, the creator of the beloved manga series Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Koen-mae Hashutsujo, commonly known as Kochikame, shared heartfelt reflections during a press conference held on March 13, 2025, as anticipation builds for the upcoming opening of the Kochikame Memorial Hall on March 22. The memorial hall is set to serve as a tribute to the series’ iconic character, Kankichi Ryotsu, as well as to celebrate the immense popularity of the manga, which spanned several decades, connecting with audiences across generations.
The event took place in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, where Akimoto expressed his gratitude toward the local officials and staff who played pivotal roles in bringing the memorial hall to fruition. "I would like to thank Katsushika Ward and the staff for building such a wonderful structure and planning this project. Thank you very much," Akimoto stated during the press conference, highlighting the collaborative effort involved.
Selecting the memorial hall as part of Katsushika Ward's initiative to promote local tourism, Akimoto noted how discussions began early on about the creation of this unique attraction inspired by Ryotsu's adventures as a police officer. "I was told, 'We're going to build Kochikame Memorial Hall with the idea created by Ryotsu,' and the first thing I asked was, 'Can we really build this?'" he shared, reflecting on his initial concerns about the ambitious design.
The Kochikame Memorial Hall is particularly notable for its interactive components, including quizzes catered to both Japanese and English-speaking visitors. During the press event, Akimoto humorously remarked, "I was only able to score 50 points [on the quiz], and the staff was getting 80 or 100," showcasing the deep fandom and knowledge the staff possess about the series.
Spanning five floors, the memorial hall promises to immerse visitors fully, combining elements of fun and nostalgia. It features recreated aspects of Ryotsu's workspace, providing fans with the opportunity to explore the environment where the character thrived. One of the highlights is the recreation of "Ryotsu's room," where unique artifacts and generational tributes to the manga’s legacy can be observed. This thoughtfully crafted experience aims to resonate with both dedicated fans and newcomers alike.
Akimoto emphasized the celebratory nature of the hall, saying, "Even if you don't know Kochikame, I hope many people can still enjoy it, and I want them to explore Kameari." He articulated his vision of the place not just as a museum, but as a space to engage with the community and the history of the area.
Located just three minutes on foot from JR Kameari Station, the memorial hall is positioned as a convenient tourist destination. Admission prices are set at 700 yen for high school students and older, 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students, with discounts available for residents of Katsushika Ward. Preschool children can enter free of charge, making it accessible for families.
The hall’s operational days are structured to benefit visitors, being closed only on the third Tuesday of each month or the following weekday if it coincides with a national holiday. While advance reservations can be made through the official website, same-day tickets are available when space allows at local tourist information centers.
Set to attract approximately 150,000 visitors annually, the Kochikame Memorial Hall stands not only as homage to Akimoto’s character but also as part of Katsushika Ward’s broader vision of revitalization through culture and creativity. The hall will feature original drawings and illustrations from the series, alongside interactive games connecting to the stories Akimoto crafted over his 40-year tenure with Kochikame.
The manga, serialized from 1976 to 2016, chronicles the humor-filled escapades of Ryotsu as he navigates life and duty as a police officer. Its blend of comedy, social commentary, and relatable experiences gained it acclaim and cemented its place as one of Japan’s cultural treasures.
With the opening of the memorial hall just around the corner, Akimoto’s sentiment resonates: fans one generation to the next will have the opportunity to connect through the stories, laughter, and joy embedded within the pages of Kochikame. The initiative encourages a new generation to discover not just the manga but also the vibrant community of Kameari, reinforcing the importance of local culture in contemporary society.