KUMAMON

Kumamon is a mascot created by the government of Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. It was created in 2010 for a campaign called to draw tourists to the region after the Kyushu Shinkansen line opened.[1] Kumamon subsequently became nationally popular, and in late 2011, was voted top in a nationwide survey of mascots. A large part of Kumamon's success can be attributed to its cuteness.[8] The unusual marketing strategy of free licensing is also behind Kumamon's commercial success,[8] since the Kumamoto prefecture grants usage rights for free to anyone as long as their products promote goods and services from the prefecture.

Brand Awards   

The most popular mascot in Japan.

Kumamon has generated US$1.2 billion in economic benefits.