Tokyo International News Agency

Tsubakuro, the beloved mascot of the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, has finally announced his return to activities after approximately one year on hiatus, sparking an outpouring of joy and emotion across social media. Ahead of his comeback at the Jingu opening day on Tuesday, March 31st, a special video released on the official YouTube channel brought many fans to tears, with some remarking, “Even non-Yakult fans would bawl their eyes out.” The official Tokyo Yakult Swallows account posted, “Tsubakuro will resume activities,” accompanied by a link to the special video. Immediately, messages like “Welcome back, Tsubakuro!!” flooded social media. The video, which depicts Tsubakuro slowly beginning to walk, prompted comments such as “So touching,” and “I cried from the very beginning, genuinely bawling,” underscoring the immense emotional impact of his return. Many fans reportedly spent the past year feeling a “void, as if trying to fill an empty hole,” highlighting just how significant Tsubakuro...

The Tokyo Yakult Swallows' team mascot, Tsubakuro, has announced its return to activity starting from the Jingu Opening Day on March 31st, sending a wave of joy across social media among fans. After nearly a year of silence, many are sending emotional messages like "We've been waiting for you!" and "Welcome back!" to the popular mascot as it prepares to return to the field. During Tsubakuro's hiatus, fans felt a profound sense of loss, deeply realizing the immense void left by its absence. At last year's opening game, fans even formed a human mosaic that seemed to express sorrow for Tsubakuro, highlighting its significant presence. Some social media posts conveyed understanding and appreciation for the team's respect for the beloved mascot's special circumstances, handling the situation discreetly. The long-awaited news of its return made "Tsubakuro" trend on X (formerly Twitter). Following the official team announcement, a video ca...