What is YURU-CHARA?

According to Wikipedia; Yuru-chara is a Japanese term for a category of mascot characters; usually created to promote a place or region, event, organisation or business. They are characterized by their kawaii (cute) and unsophisticated designs, often incorporating motifs that represent local culture, history or produce. They may be created by local government or other organizations to stimulate tourism and economic development, or created by a company to build on their corporate identity. They may appear as costumed characters (or kigurumi) at promotional events and festivals. Yuru-chara has become a popular and lucrative business, with character-driven sales reaching nearly $16 billion in Japan in 2012.

 

Yuru-Chara Grand Prix 2018 in Osaka

It’s an annual event where the most popular mascot is determined by public voting. You can actually meet those characters!!

 

↓”HIYA-WAN” is a dog from Nabari city, Mie. I think he is the most entertaining! He played with me a lot. Watch my video below!

↓YAKURUTO-san is a character of a popular drink in Japan. I love Yakuruto! It’s yummy!

↓BONCHI-NEKO represents “Bonchi-age”, super popular rice crackers.

↓This guy is an unofficial character of Lake Biwa, called “BIWAKO-KUN”. He is just a visitor, he isn’t a candidate. Haha!

 

Watch a video!

Can you guess what it is? It’s Udon noodles!

↓This green guy, KAPARU, won the 1st prize this year.  He got over 800,000 votes!! Wow!

↓Raccoon in armor :)

↓This is a fish, KUE. It’s from Wakayama prefecture. I think KUE is the most delicious fish in the world.

 

Meeting Characters in Japan can be a fun attraction when visiting Japan!!!

 

Writer:  Omotena Sushi

omotena sushi

 

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