Actively competing in competitive Karuta playing card games and appearing in popular films. Playing Karuta card games has given him increased motivation during his work duties.

Mr. Kukita has been actively playing the Japanese card game "Karuta" for 15 years. He holds the rank of High-Level Class-A 5th-Dan, as defined by the All Japan Karuta Association. After polishing his skills in his high school's Karuta club, he now regularly attends practice sessions and often helps during official tournaments, playing the role of the person who picks up or reads the cards. In addition, he also participates in team competitions with fellow members of the Hitachi Group.

One of the reasons why Mr. Kukita devotes himself to competitive Karuta on his days off from work is that it gives him the opportunity to meet people of various ages and occupations which provides a greater sense of community and inspiration. Recently, he appeared in a film about competitive Karuta. Even though it was a short scene, he was impressed by the professionalism of the actors and staff who maintained the highest standards of production quality over multiple retakes.

Playing Karuta provides Mr. Kukita with a sense of excitement outside of his role in the company and increases his feeling of self-worth. This ultimately leads to a higher level of motivation when he is at work.

Playing competitive Karuta is indeed an important aspect of Mr. Kukita's life.

（The article is as of November 8, 2021）