13. Stunning Rice Paddy Art
“Yuru-kyara” are Japanese mascots used to promote towns, regions, tourist attractions, products, and more. Ranging from cute and funny to downright bizarre, these characters can be found in every corner of the country, adding a playful touch to marketing and community engagement.
Two of the most iconic Yuru-kyara are NHK’s Domo-kun and Kumamon from Kumamoto Prefecture (pictured above), both of whom have gained worldwide recognition. While some mascots are hits and others misses, the influence and economic power behind them is impressive—Kumamon alone generated 124.4 billion extra yen for Kumamoto in just two years!
