Discover the Yuru-Chara of Yamanashi! Unique Local Mascots and Their Stories

Japan is famous for its adorable characters—think Hello Kitty or Pokémon—but have you heard of Yuru-Chara (local mascots)?

The term “Yuru-Chara” comes from “yurui mascot character,” and these lovable figures serve as regional ambassadors, created to promote the culture, traditions, and specialties of their hometowns.

In this feature, we’ll introduce the charming Yuru-Chara of Yamanashi Prefecture, home to the world-renowned Mt. Fuji.

• Northern Area: Centered around Kofu, the prefectural capital.
• Eastern Area: Known for abundant fruit production and wine culture.
• Southern Area: Yamanashi’s leading agricultural hub with rich nature.
• Fuji Area: Home to Mt. Fuji, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

We’ll also showcase Yamanashi Prefecture’s official mascot itself. By the end of this guide, you’ll be a true Yuru-Chara master!

Yamanashi Prefecture | Hishimaru the Kai Ken

The official mascot of Yamanashi Prefecture is Hishimaru, a spirited boy Kai Ken dog.

The Kai Ken is a rare Japanese dog breed once raised as a loyal hunting dog in the Southern Alps region of Yamanashi. Hishimaru’s name combines three local symbols:

• Takeda: from the legendary warlord Takeda Shingen, a historical hero of Yamanashi.
• Hishi (diamond): referencing the Takeda clan’s crest.
• -maru: a suffix evoking the era of the samurai.

Hishimaru is more than just a mascot—he proudly represents Yamanashi not only at local festivals and events, but also at nationwide fairs across Japan. His warm, playful design highlights the prefecture’s cultural pride.

Fuji Area

The Fuji Area mascots are especially symbolic, as many of them were created in 2013, the year Mt. Fuji was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. These Yuru-Chara actively promote their hometowns at festivals, events, and even nationwide campaigns.

Meet the lovable characters of the Fuji Area:

• Saori-chan (Fujiyoshida City)
• Hiichi Family (Oshino Village)
• Narusika-kun (Narusawa Village)
• Fujipyon (Fujikawaguchiko Town)
• Yamanakako Village mascot

👉 Check out the articles below for full details on each Fuji Area mascot!

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Northern Area

The Northern Area of Yamanashi is home to some of the most well-known and humorous Yuru-Chara, loved for their quirky yet adorable designs. These mascots not only charm locals but also enjoy recognition beyond the region.

Here are the highlights of the Northern Area mascots:

• Yatsugatake Happy (Hokuto City)
• Yahatainu (Kai City)
• Neera (Nirasaki City)
• Oemushi-kun (Minami-Alps City)
• Takeda Haru-kun (Kofu City)
• Toma-Chu (Chuo City)
• Hotarun (Showa Town, Nakakoma District)

Each mascot reflects its hometown’s unique culture, history, or specialty products, and they play an active role in tourism promotion and regional identity.

👉 Check out the articles below for full details on each Northern Area mascot!

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Eastern Area

The Eastern Area of Yamanashi is famous for having produced a Yuru-Chara that once won the national “Yuru-Chara Grand Prix”—proof of just how beloved these mascots are across Japan.

Here are the main mascots representing the Eastern Area:

• Kyosshii the Grape Fairy (Yamanashi City)
• Fukki (Fuefuki City)
• Budo-kun & Momo-chan (Koshu City)
• Otsutarou (Otsuki City)
• Tsurubee (Tsuru City)
• Tamajimaru (Uenohara City)
• Ma-kun (Kosuge Village)
• Tabaskey (Tabayama Village)
• Sui-kun & Sui-chan (Doshi Village)
• Nishikatsura Town

Each of these mascots embodies the local culture, produce, and traditions of their hometowns—whether it’s grapes, peaches, fireworks, or even pure spring water. They serve as lovable ambassadors for their regions, attracting visitors and raising awareness of what makes each place special.

👉 Check out the articles below for full details on each Eastern Area mascot!

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Southern Area

The Southern Area of Yamanashi is known for its mascots inspired by local cuisine—a fun and unique twist that highlights the region’s food culture. Some of these mascots have even collaborated with the hit anime “Laid-Back Camp (Yuru Camp△)”, which is set in Yamanashi.

Here are the mascots representing the Southern Area:

• Mino-Wan (Minobu Town)
• Yuzunyan (Fujikawa Town)
• Ichikawa Misato Rangers (Ichikawa Misato Town)
• Hayakawa Town & Nanbu Town (currently no mascots available)

From yuzu-flavored mascots to teams representing local specialties like fireworks and carrots, these characters embody the spirit of their communities and are beloved by both locals and visitors.

👉 Check out the articles below for full details on each Southern Area mascot!

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Summary

In this article, we’ve introduced a complete roundup of Yamanashi’s beloved mascot characters (Yuru-Chara).

By exploring them area by area, you’ll not only discover their adorable designs but also learn more about each region’s culture, specialties, and traditions.

Let this be your inspiration to fall in love with Yamanashi—and perhaps even plan a trip to meet these charming mascots in person!

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