Mascots, a clever promotional tool

In 2018 I was walking through Ikebukuro station when I was distracted by the site of two colorful mascots. I was on my way somewhere, but I was a little early. Despite having initially walked by the mascots, the curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to do a U-turn and go back and see what the mascots were all about! 

The mascots were there to promote two locations in Chiba Prefecture.  Ottaki from Otaki town, and Isumin from Isumi town, pictured. Isumi wears a pear hat, because the town is known for its pears. Her hair is inspired by the waves and the “sea of Sotobo”.  She wears an accessory of “Ise lobster” and holds an ear of Isumi rice. Right then and there, just by looking at the mascot, I knew she was for a coastal town. And thanks to the decorations on her uniform, I now associate Isumi with pears, lobster and rice. 

I was so glad I went back, because I got a free bag of goodies for my curiosity! To be perfectly honest, if it were not for the mascots I would never have stopped by the promotional stands. Moreover, I probably wouldn't have remembered much about the locations they were promoting. The use of mascots is a very clever promotional tool.