Birdman Rally

Yomiuri Television has outlined why long-running programmes including the Birdman Rally (Torininja Contest), 'Kenmin Show' and 'Best Hit Kayosai' remain popular decades after launch, describing the systems it uses to build devoted audiences. The company also discussed its strategy of toning down Ryosuke Yamada's idol-style image. The comments come as the Birdman Contest, the annual human-powered flying competition held over Lake Biwa, continues to draw attention in Japan.