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Hikonyan — the mascot of the city of Hikone — in front of Hikone Castle

148. Mascots

July 14, 2025 by Jason Nieling in Culture

Japan loves its mascots—from cuddly creatures promoting local towns to bizarre characters representing government agencies. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild, whimsical world of yuru-kyara and discover what makes these mascots such a beloved part of Japanese culture!

Topics Covered:

  • What are yuru-kyara?

  • What do mascots do?

  • Why are mascots so popular in Japan?

  • Notable mascots: Hikonyan (Hikone) — Kumamon (Kumamoto) — Funassyi (Funabashi) — Melonkuma (Yubari) — Gajiro (Fukusaki) — Nyango Star (Kuroishi) — Annie (Kumamoto University anisakis research) — Matagi no Momiji-chan (Hokkaido)

  • Controversy: Amazoness (Ama City) — Chiitan (Susaki) — Sento-kun (Nara) — Marimokkori (Hokkaido)

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July 14, 2025 /Jason Nieling
Culture
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