Meet the Mascots of Yamanashi’s Northern Area | Local Yuru-Chara Full of Charm

Japan is home to countless beloved characters, from Hello Kitty to Pikachu. But have you heard of “Yuru-Chara”, Japan’s unique local mascots?

The term “Yuru-Chara” comes from “yurui mascot character”—loosely meaning “laid-back mascots.” These characters have become popular across Japan in recent years, serving as regional PR ambassadors. Their designs often highlight local specialties, traditions, or landmarks, making them both cute and meaningful.

One of the most famous Yuru-Chara is Kumamon from Kumamoto Prefecture. But this time, we’ll shine a spotlight on the mascots of Yamanashi Prefecture, home to the iconic Mt. Fuji.

In particular, we’ll introduce the mascots of the Northern Area of Yamanashi, which includes Kofu City (the prefectural capital), as well as Hokuto City, Kai City, Nirasaki City, Minami-Alps City, Chuo City, and Showa Town. Each has its own mascot full of regional character and charm!

By around 2031, the Linear Chuo Shinkansen (maglev train) is scheduled to open at Yamanashi Station, located between Kofu City and Chuo City. With this exciting development on the horizon, the region is attracting even more attention.

Now, let’s meet the adorable Yuru-Chara mascots of Yamanashi’s Northern Area!

Hokuto City | Yatsugatake Happī

Yatsugatake Happī is the official mascot of Hokuto City, designed as a cheerful bee that flies energetically around the Yatsugatake area. One of its most charming features is that it wears a different regional flower necklace each day, symbolizing the area’s rich nature and seasonal beauty.

Hokuto City is especially famous for its sunflowers, and every year hosts the popular Sunflower Festival, where vast fields of sunflowers bloom in full glory. Happī reflects this vibrant local identity and adds extra charm to the region.

Although updates on its official X account have paused since 2019, many locals and fans continue to support Happī, hoping to see the mascot actively return in the future.

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Kai City | Yahatainu

Yahatainu is the mascot of Kai City, created by combining two local treasures: the Yahataimo taro, a regional specialty known for its sticky texture similar to taro, and the Kai Ken, a traditional Japanese dog breed highly valued in the area.

With its big round eyes and short little legs, Yahatainu has become an adorable local icon beloved not only by residents but also by fans from outside the region.

Every month, Yahatainu makes appearances at Ryuo Station in Kai City, where it interacts with locals and brings smiles to visitors—truly a mascot that acts as a community idol.

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Nirasaki City | Neera

Neera is the official mascot of Nirasaki City—a gentle, frog-like character with magical powers said to grant people’s wishes.

Though originally from the distant planet Miria, Neera now resides at Mt. Amari in Nirasaki City, Yamanashi. According to legend, Mt. Amari shone the brightest when viewed from Miria, which is why Neera chose it as a new home.

As a PR ambassador for Nirasaki, Neera shares local gourmet recommendations, seasonal flower-blooming updates, and more. With a warm personality and adorable design, Neera brings smiles and healing energy to residents and tourists alike.

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Minami-Alps City | Oemushi-kun

The mascot of Minami-Alps City, Oemushi-kun—whose full name is Tanukikoji Saburoku (狸小路三六)—is a quirky character with the head of a tanuki (Japanese raccoon dog) and the body of a human.

Known as a lively “drawing bug” mascot, Oemushi-kun made headlines in 2020 when he won first place at a national sports festival for local mascots, showcasing his playful and energetic personality.

Beyond competitions, he actively participates in regional PR campaigns and fun events, spreading smiles while promoting the unique charm of Minami-Alps City.

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Kofu City | Takeda Haru-kun

Takeda Haru-kun is the mascot of Kofu City, designed as a 9-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a samurai one day. Full of youthful spirit, he especially loves Hōtō, Yamanashi’s signature noodle dish.

His name comes from “Harunobu”, the name once taken by the legendary warlord Takeda Shingen when he came of age. This gives Haru-kun a strong historical connection to Kofu, which is deeply tied to the Takeda clan’s legacy.

Although Haru-kun is a rather low-profile mascot for now, many look forward to seeing him grow into a strong and dependable figure, much like Takeda Shingen himself.

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Chuo City | Tomachu

Tomachu is the official mascot of Chuo City—a playful tomato fairy whose special skill is none other than giving out flying kisses. With a large ribbon on its head, Tomachu’s adorable appearance makes it a fan favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Actively using social media platforms like YouTube and X (formerly Twitter), Tomachu shares updates about the community and promotes local attractions. You can even watch the mascot come to life through fun videos online.

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Showa Town | Hotarun

Hotarun is the official mascot of Showa Town, a place once famous as a natural firefly habitat and even designated as a Natural Monument in Japan.

Designed in the shape of a firefly, Hotarun represents the history and nature of the town. However, much like a real firefly, Hotarun has become a rare and mysterious figure—its activities are currently on hold, and sightings are few.

As a symbol of Showa Town’s heritage and environment, Hotarun remains beloved by locals, who eagerly hope for its return to the spotlight.

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Summary

In this article, we introduced the unique Yuru-Chara mascots of Northern Yamanashi. Who knows—maybe one of these local characters will become a nationwide sensation in just a few years!

We also feature many other Yuru-Chara in our articles, so be sure to explore and share them with others. You might just discover your new favorite mascot along the way.

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