TV Asahi’s Hakase-chan special explores Japanese manufacturing and firefighting technology

The television program ‘Sandwichman & Mana Ashida no Hakase-chan’ will broadcast a two-and-a-half-hour special titled ‘Japan’s World-Class Skill Factory SP’ on October 3. The episode features guests Haruka Ayase and Hikari Ijuin.

The program includes a ‘Showa Retro Factory Quiz’ segment, where participants attempt to identify products made in traditional factories that have remained long-selling items from the Showa era.

A significant portion of the special provides rare access to a specialized firefighting vehicle manufacturing plant in Sanda City, Hyogo Prefecture. This facility holds over 60% of the domestic market share and exports vehicles to 50 countries. The segment follows 16-year-old emergency vehicle enthusiast Jitsu Atsu Soma and entertainer Chankawai as they observe custom manufacturing lines, ladder testing, and stability inspections.

The broadcast also explores future firefighting technologies in Yao City, Osaka, including firefighting drones and the development of electric vehicle (EV) pump and command vehicles.