Why Is "KokoroMoji," Weaving Words and Emotions with a Brush, a Big Hit Now? Exploring Its Appeal.

This time, we introduce Hideki Urakami, an artist active as a KokoroMoji artist.

Through "KokoroMoji," Mr. Urakami weaves various emotions, captivating people worldwide. This article allows you to experience the charm of "KokoroMoji," so please read until the end.

*Information was confirmed and partially updated on March 13, 2026.

1. Who is Hideki Urakami?

KokoroMoji artist. He was diagnosed with a condition called "distal myopathy" at the age of 21 and has been using a wheelchair since around the age of 23. Mr. Urakami, who turns 49 in 2022, currently can only move from the neck up.

"Distal myopathy" is a rare disease where muscles far from the trunk, such as those in the toes and fingers, gradually decrease. The muscles that move the ankles are particularly affected, causing tripping over small steps and difficulty walking.

As the condition progresses, muscles closer to the trunk also decrease, making it difficult to stand up or climb stairs, and it is believed that within ten years, the use of a wheelchair becomes necessary.

(Reference: Rare Disease Information Center)

Mr. Urakami encountered Seiji Sugiura's character art and was captivated by kanji composed of hiragana, leading him to start writing by holding a brush in his mouth.

At the age of 37, he debuted as a "KokoroMoji" artist.

2. What is "KokoroMoji"?

"KokoroMoji" is "an art form that combines kanji with hiragana that have different meanings to create new messages."

Mr. Urakami draws the kanji for "wind" using the seven hiragana characters "yume ni mukatte" (towards the dream). This is "KokoroMoji."

'Wind' ~ Towards the Dream ~
[Explanation (Kokoro)]
In the process of achieving goals and dreams, headwinds and tailwinds appear, but both are necessary for personal growth.
The most important thing is the "trigger" wind that sparked the dream.
Embrace that wind with the sail on your back and have the courage to move forward.

'Happiness' ~ Awareness ~
[Explanation (Kokoro)]
Happiness is not something to acquire.
It is about acquiring the heart that can feel happiness.
Happiness begins with awareness.

'Gratitude' ~ The Wonder of All Encounters and Life ~
[Explanation (Kokoro)]
The word "fate" is written as "carrying life." Sometimes, what went as planned was the beginning of misfortune, while what you didn't want to happen was the most necessary experience for your life.
Considering this, every experience is a treasure. Live with gratitude for the experiences accumulated through encounters.
Perhaps this is what it means to "carry life."

Mr. Urakami draws these "KokoroMoji" by holding a brush in his mouth.

Please watch how he draws with a brush here.

Enjoy the excitement of "finding hiragana" while touching the messages embedded in the works.

Reference: Choose an actual work from here!

You too will surely be captivated by the charm of "KokoroMoji."

3. Bring "KokoroMoji" into Your Life!

Mr. Urakami has held exhibitions and live performances across the country. In January 2022, he also collaborated with UNIQLO Co., Ltd. Here are three products that allow you to enjoy Mr. Urakami's works at home!

3-1. Daruma Stickers (KokoroMoji "Happiness" ~ Ordinary Things ~)

[Contents]
・Red Daruma (Diameter 5cm) × 5 pieces
・Red Daruma (Diameter 2cm) × 5 pieces
・Black Daruma (Diameter 3cm) × 5 pieces
・KokoroMoji "Happiness" (Diameter 2cm) × 5 pieces
Total: 20 pieces

[Price] 500 yen (including tax)

[Attraction Points]
・As stickers, you can easily enjoy them daily by sticking them on personal items or planners!
・You can share KokoroMoji with loved ones by sticking them on letters or gifts!

You can check the product here.

3-2. Zodiac Fortune