Chiba Mascots

Japan has cute mascots for every region of the country, including Chiba prefecture. Souvenirs of Chiba mascots are available for purchase at department stores, and they make great gifts for family and friends living outside of Japan.

*Fukuoka Prefecture Mascot (Not Chiba)*

Chiba Kun
One adorable mascot is the Chiba kun, or Chiba dog. Chiba kun is a red dog, with goofy eyes and a tongue peeping out crookedly to its side. It represents the geographical outline of Chiba prefecture. Chiba kun wins the hearts of adults and children alike with souvenirs such as the Chiba kun tie, stuffed animals, key chains, calendars, notepads, pens, etc. There is even custard bread sold with the Chiba kun logo branded on it.

Chiba Peanut

Another equally adorable Chiba mascot is the Chiba peanut.  This mascot was chosen because Chiba is famous for peanuts. The Chiba peanut is shaped like a peanut, but with cat like features, including, eyes, pointy ears, and a tail. Key chains, notepads, hand towels, stuffed animals and pens are available in the Chiba peanut mascot variety.

Funassyi
Then, there is Funassyi. Funassyi is a yellow blob representing the region of Funabashi, Chiba that is known for pears. It is a blend of the words Funabashi and nashi (pear). It has big, droopy eyes, with elongated eyelashes, a leaf sticking out from its head, and a baby blue colored tunic on. Unlike other Chiba mascots, Funassyi is an unofficial mascot created by a Funabashi resident, and does not win my heart over, as it is mildly annoying with its antics of awkwardly dancing around or on the contrary, lying lazily on its side like a giant pillow. In other words, it reminds me of a giant marshmallow peep gone awry. (No offense to peeps. I think they are adorable). The Funassyi stuffed animal is a popular purchase among children.

Here's another mascot (Just kidding)!

                                               Which Chiba mascot is your favorite? Why?