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News Release (July 1, 2025) 6th floor, Otsuka HT Building, 3-43-1 Minami Otsuka, Toshima-ku, Tokyo Japan Amateur Radio League, Inc. (JARL) https://www.jarl.org/English/0-2.htm |
the 100th Anniversary of Amateur Radio in Japan
“The 100th Anniversary of Amateur Radio in Japan” commemorative logo and message established.
On June 12th, 1926, “Japan Amateur Radio League” was established by 37 members and they sent out the message notifying the establishment to the amateurs worldwide as given below.
“We have the honor of informing that we amateurs in Japan have organized today the Japanese Amateur Radio League. Please QST to all stations.”
In September next year, 1927, the shortwave radio telegraph and telephone experimental station “JXAX” was licensed. This is considered the first amateur radio station in Japan.
Therefore, it will be the 100th Anniversary of JARL in June 2026 and the 100th Anniversary of amateur radio in Japan in September 2027. JARL have decided to celebrate two anniversaries for whole bridging period of 16 months. JARL is not intend to celebrate alone, but invite the radio equipment manufacturers, relevant organizations and radio amateurs nationwide to join the celebration of these important events.
However, the goal is not just to look back and celebrate, but to make this a new starting point towards the future of irreplaceable culture called “Amateur Radio”.

the logo of “100th Anniversary of Amateur Radio in Japan”
Various commemorative events are planned during the celebration period and the logo of “100th Anniversary of Amateur Radio in Japan” is established in addition to already announced “100th Anniversary of JARL” logo.
“Because ‘normal’ is just boring.” This sentence expresses our sincere wish to share the charm of amateur radio which has fascinated us, with new radio amateurs coming into the world of amateur radio.
In the past up to now, many fore runners developed amateur radio without bound by common sense and with inquisitive mind and ingenuity. From now towards the future, we will also doubt the common sense and challenge with free inspiration.
We will continue to cherish these “Amateur Radio spirits”
100th Anniversary commemorative events
(1) Establishment of commemorative logo and message
(2) Establishment of commemorative website
(3) Commemorative ceremony
(4) Issue of commemorative booklet
(5) Operation of commemorative stations
(6) Issue of commemorative awards
(7) Commemorative QSO party
100th Anniversary special site https://100th.jarl.org/en/
About Amateur Radio
Amateur radio is a long-standing global hobby in which licensed individuals use radio waves to communicate across borders.
Before the internet, it was hailed as the "king of hobbies,” connecting enthusiasts around the world. Today, its appeal endures through technical experimentation, space communications, and fostering international friendship. In addition to its depth as a hobby, amateur radio is also characterized by its ability to play a part in contributing to society.
With hundreds of thousands of licensed operators in Japan, amateur radio continues to attract participants of all ages and backgrounds, driven by the unique power of wireless technology to connect people.
About JARL
The Japan Amateur Radio League (JARL) is a general incorporated association promoting the healthy development of amateur radio and the advancement of radio science and culture, both in Japan and worldwide.
JARL will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026, with Japan’s amateur radio licensing system marking its own centennial in 2027. A variety of commemorative events are planned in collaboration with partner organizations.
<Contact for inquiries regarding this matter>
Japan Amateur Radio League
Public Relations bureau, General Affairs Department, JARL
Email: pub@jarl.org
