Discover “Tenipin”: A Fresh Take on Tennis for All Ages
The Japan Tennis Association is set to host a unique “Tenipin” experience event at Aeon Mall Musashimurayama in Tokyo on February 11, 2026 (Wednesday/Holiday), from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This free sports event, held in cooperation with Aeon Mall Musashimurayama, invites individuals of all ages, from children to adults, to discover a new, enjoyable way to engage with tennis.
This marks the second time such an event has been held at an Aeon Mall, following a highly successful two-day event at Aeon Mall Hanyu, which attracted over 1,000 participants, including numerous families, and generated significant enthusiasm.
What is Tenipin?
Tenipin is an innovative tennis-style game that utilizes hand rackets and sponge balls, making it accessible and fun for everyone, regardless of prior sports experience. It has garnered attention in school education and community events for its potential to enhance physical fitness and motor skills, as well as foster cooperation and communication. The game combines elements of tennis and table tennis, using soft equipment that makes it approachable even for children who are not typically keen on sports. Its adoption in elementary schools and local sports classes is growing, highlighting its increasing recognition in educational settings.
Event Highlights at Aeon Mall Musashimurayama
The event will transform the 1st floor Center Court of Aeon Mall Musashimurayama into a special venue where participants can experience the “Tennis Evolution Program,” a new outreach initiative by the Japan Tennis Association.
Expert guidance will be provided by Tenipin developer Mr. Shigeki Imai and members of the Japan Tennis Association’s outreach committee, ensuring a welcoming environment for all participants. The event schedule includes several engaging activities:
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Create your own original hand racket!
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Experience the Tennis Evolution Program!
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Enjoy parent-child Tenipin and challenge yourselves to rallies!
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Test your aim with the strikeout challenge!
This is a prime opportunity to try out the Tenipin game and engage in an active, fun-filled day. For inquiries regarding the event, please contact the Japan Tennis Association’s Outreach Committee at TEL: 03-6812-9271 or Mail: playandstay@jta-tennis.or.jp.
Nyaoha: The Tenis Kids Ambassador for “Tennis Evolution Program”
The “Tennis Evolution Program” aims to prevent children’s lack of exercise and over-specialization in specific sports, encouraging them to acquire diverse movements in a fun way. It’s designed to help children naturally embrace tennis and develop healthy exercise habits while enjoying themselves. As part of this program, “Nyaoha,” the Grass Cat Pokémon, serves as the Tenis Kids Ambassador, supporting children’s “growth and evolution” through ball play, Tenipin, and tennis.
Nyaoha, first introduced in the 2022 game Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, is a capricious and affectionate Grass-type Pokémon. Its role as an ambassador underscores the program’s playful approach to sports education. The collaboration was officially launched during the Tenis Kids Ambassador Inauguration Ceremony on September 23, 2024.
One advocate for the program expressed, “The blend of accessible sport with beloved characters like Nyaoha truly sparks joy and encourages participation, making physical activity less daunting and more exciting for children.”
For more details on Tenipin and the Tennis Evolution Program, please refer to the Japan Tennis Association’s official website:
This event represents a forward-looking step in promoting sports engagement, particularly for younger generations. By making tennis-style games like Tenipin fun and approachable through collaborations with popular characters, the Japan Tennis Association is cultivating a new generation of sports enthusiasts and fostering healthy, active lifestyles across Japan.
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