Doraemon's Birthday (Dora-emon no Tanjōbi)

What Is Doraemon's Birthday (September 3, 2112)?

September 3rd marks the birthday of Doraemon, one of Japan's most iconic characters. According to the story's setting, Doraemon was manufactured at a robot factory (referred to in some sources as the "Matsushiba Robot Factory") on September 3, 2112. Created by Fujiko F. Fujio, this 22nd-century cat-shaped robot is loved across generations and borders. Around his birthday, a special birthday-themed episode of the TV anime is traditionally broadcast.

The Story of the Series

Doraemon has been enjoyed in both manga and anime form for more than half a century.

• The start of serialization: The manga began running in 1969 in Shogakukan's grade-specific learning magazines and other titles.
• Anime adaptations: The first TV anime aired on Nippon TV in 1973 but ended after about six months. A second adaptation on TV Asahi from 1979 became a huge hit, and in 2005 it was relaunched with a new voice cast and staff, continuing to this day.
• "100 years before his birth": In September 2012, events were held around Japan to celebrate "100 years before Doraemon's birth."

Doraemon's Profile

Here are a few details from the series and related materials.

• Likes and dislikes: His favorite food is dorayaki, and he is afraid of mice. In the 22nd century, a (robot) mouse chewed off his ears while he was napping, which is said to be why he dislikes mice.
• Why he is blue: He was originally yellow; one explanation is that he cried so much after losing his ears that he turned blue.
• "Petari Hand": His round hands, called "Petari Hands," can hold objects as if by suction. Since he has no fingers, he can only throw "rock" in rock-paper-scissors.

Fascinating Facts About Doraemon

• The number "129.3": Doraemon is 129.3 cm tall, weighs 129.3 kg, and even has a 129.3 cm chest. These figures were decided around 1975 and announced in the "Doraemon Encyclopedia" feature in Shogakukan's magazine for fourth graders. A well-known theory holds that they were based on the average height of fourth graders at the time.
• Powered by food: According to the setting, his stomach contains a device that converts whatever he eats into energy, so he eats meals just like a human.
• The "road to Osaka": In the first chapter, Sewashi from the future explains to Nobita why the future can be changed: there are many vehicles and routes to Osaka, but as long as you head in the right direction, you'll get there.
• Anime Ambassador: In 2008, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs appointed Doraemon as an "Anime Ambassador" to introduce Japanese anime culture to the world, where he is especially beloved across Asia.
• Gadgets and today's technology: The "Translation Konjac," which lets you understand any language when you eat it, is often mentioned as a forerunner of today's translation apps.

Ideas for Doraemon's Birthday

• Write down a few things you wish existed — your own "wouldn't it be nice if..." list.
• Pick a favorite secret gadget and look up how close today's technology has come to making it real.
• Revisit a manga volume or movie you loved as a child and enjoy it from an adult's perspective.
• Enjoy a dorayaki (Doraemon's favorite sweet, a pancake sandwich filled with red bean paste) while chatting about Doraemon with family or friends.

A Day to Remember a Pocketful of Dreams

September 3rd is a day to recall the excitement about the future many of us felt as children. Just as Doraemon stands by Nobita's side, tools and technology are meant to make our lives a little more fun and kind. Today, imagine the world of 2112 and think of one thing you'd love to have.