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[Kansai Region Local] A compilation of local commercials broadcast in Kansai

For people in Kansai, these commercials are a given, but folks from outside the region often say, “Huh, what’s that?” We’ve rounded up a collection of Kansai-only local commercials.

We’ve gathered lots of Kansai local ads—from nostalgic ones you remember seeing as a kid, to those no longer on air, to refreshed versions that are still beloved today.

Many of them are memorable, featuring catchy tunes you can’t help but hum along to and clever touches that make you chuckle.

As you watch, try counting how many of the commercials we’re about to introduce you already know!

[Kansai Region Local] Compilation of local commercials broadcast in Kansai (91–100)

Akamari Five-Color Dorayaki

Akanemaru Commercial: Five-Color Dorayaki – Flying Akataro Version – [15s A]

Speaking of the commercial with the middle-aged man with purple hair in a red happi coat singing and playing the piano, it has to be Akemaru’s Five-Color Dorayaki, right? That man is actually named Aketarō, and in fact he was Katsuhiko Hōjō, Akemaru’s second president.

And the song featured in the commercial is titled “Aka(ne) no Jinsei Ōenka” (“Akemaru’s Life Fight Song”), which was actually released on CD in 2004! The man called Aketarō, the song, and the children in colorful full-body tights that seem to represent the five colors of the dorayaki—all the elements in that commercial really left an impression.

Minoh Onsen Spa Garden

Nostalgic Minoh Onsen Spa Garden commercial; the now-gone Highland Pool and Highland Skating

Minoh Onsen Spa Garden, located in Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture, opened in the 1960s as a facility where, in addition to hot springs, visitors could enjoy a variety of leisure activities such as a pool, skating, and a bowling alley.

It is currently operated by the Ooedo Onsen Monogatari Group, and features large baths and popular theater performances.

The most memorable aspect of the Spa Garden’s TV commercials is undoubtedly the sound logo.

It has been used in commercials for many years, and many people in the Kansai region—regardless of age—can probably sing it.

[Kansai Region Local] Compilation of Local Commercials Aired in Kansai (101–110)

ABC Housing

ABC Housing Commercial 2005/05

This commercial perfectly matches a genuine country-style jingle with a nostalgic anime vibe.

If you look closely, you’ll notice an unusual, eye-catching scene: taking a cat for a walk on a leash.

In another version of the ad, the CM song was written and composed by Susumu Sugawara of Billy BanBan, showing ABC Housing’s dedication to its background music.

The exceptionally peaceful country music and the cute art style are truly soothing!

Midori Denka

Midori Denka commercial 2007

Midori Denka was a consumer electronics retailer that once operated mainly in the Kansai region.

After a management integration, its stores gradually transitioned into Edion locations.

Among Midori Denka’s commercials, the most memorable were the ones featuring its image character, Midori-chan.

Her catchphrase was “I’ll give it a try,” which conveyed a proactive attitude aligned with meeting customers’ needs.

Another notable point was her singing—not exactly skillful, but striking nonetheless.

It gave the impression that the brand emphasized straightforward sincerity, even to the point of being a little rough around the edges.

Keihan Electric Railway

Keihan Electric Railway Okeihan commercial

The Keihan Railway, an indispensable line in Kansai that mainly links Osaka and Kyoto, runs trains in a light green livery that gives off a somewhat retro vibe.

Speaking of Keihan commercials, the catchphrase “People who ride Keihan are Okeihan” evokes a distinctly Kyoto feel.

“Okeihan” is Keihan’s image character, introduced in 2000.

Characters named “○○ Keiko,” whose surnames come from Keihan station names—such as Yodoya Keiko and Sanjo Keiko—had reached the seventh generation by 2022.

Arctic Popsicle

Arctic Popsicle Commercial (1999)

When it comes to ice pops, people in Kansai are most familiar with 551 Horai, but we mustn’t forget Hokkyoku’s ice pops either! In this commercial, a penguin living at the North Pole appears to a cute, comical melody.

Watching the scene where colorful ice pops are lined up like the aurora in the Arctic sky, you can really feel how strongly they lean into the “Hokkyoku” theme.

And the song—though short—delivers a different kind of impact from 551’s.

The bouncy, upbeat singing style sticks in your head and won’t let go!

Kinosaki Marine World

Kinosaki Marine World Commercial 2015 Edition – Dolphin Version

A very Kansai-style, straight-down-the-middle approach: the Kinosaki Marine World commercial that goes all in on dolphins.

A dolphin pops its head out of the water and, head-on, grabs viewers’ hearts with an irresistibly cute expression.

It’s more than enough to make you think, “I want to go meet this dolphin!” The final shot, filmed with a fisheye lens, shows Marine World as if seen from a sea creature’s perspective, making it a commercial that captivates fans with a clear, easy-to-grasp setup—sea and dolphins.