Kojika Jun, the impressive protagonist in the popular Japanese TV series Moero Attack (also known as Women Players of Volleyball) has influenced the growth of several Chinese generations and left them many fond memories.

Yumiko Araki, who played the role, is in town and has been invited to record an episode of the local TV program Old Dreams Re-Flashed, which showcases moments in classic TV series and stories behind the scenes.

Now, 48-year-old Araki enjoys a happy family life with her musician husband and their talented 23-year-old son who wants to become an artist.

Japanese actress Yumiko Araki speaks while taping a talk show for Shanghai Oriental Television on Wednesday, January 30, 2008. (photo: sina.com)

"The secret to happiness is love and appreciation of everything that comes to you," she said. "The character's perseverance and hard working spirit had also inspired me in the past decades."

Araki shares her feelings about life with local TV fans in the episode to be aired on Dragon TV on February 10.

The series was the inspiring dream-come-true story of a girl who struggles to become a talented volleyball player.

When it was screened in China in 1983, her sweet smile and volleyball skills made the character an idol for numerous young people.

Araki is now engaged in promoting her latest autobiography around Japan. She is also looking forward to visiting Beijing in summer for the Olympic Games.

(Shanghai Daily February 2, 2008)