21/01/2024
40 years and two world wars set apart two events that took place in Kobe: the first marathon held in Japan (1909), and the foundation of the first sports shoes brand in Japan - Ohnitsuka Tiger (1949). Now the latter is known all over the world as ASICS, and supports athletes and teams to achieve outstanding results.
Although many are aware that ASICS is a Japanese brand, it has probably never crossed their minds that the name is actually an acronym for "Anima sana in corpore sano" - the latin for "A sound spirit in sound body".
The philosophy behind which the company operates origins in the post war years when Kihachiro Onitsuka was botherer by the spreading delinquent behavior among youngsters, and was determined to help them in the name of a brighter future for Japan. He was aware that practicing a sport is what was needed to achieve this goal.
This and more interesting facts about the brand ASICS I could learn at he ASICS museum in Port Island, Kobe. This is the place to go to find out about the growth of the brand, the evolving of technology of running shoes, as well as how tall is the tallest Japanese basketball player.
Besides the variety of shoes exhibited, there are also an introductory video with an English explanation, a quiz for sports fans to challenge their knowledge, and a tech aided demonstration on the speed of runners.
I was particularly pleased to hear that ASICS supported the national team of Bulgaria at the Tokyo Olympics, as well as to see the name of the Bulgarian holding the world record in high jump (2.09 meters) for women since 1987.
The museum is free of charge and is open every day (except Mondays) 9am-5pm (last admission 4:30). Photographs are usually not allowed
credit by: kobe PR Ambassadors