Wakayama

  • Kii-chan

    Wakayama Prefecture official mascot with orange body and plum blossom nose. Named after former province name 'Kii' and bright 'yellow.'

    Trivia

    • Theme song 'Kii-chan Dance' performed at prefectural kindergarten events.
    • Setting includes backpack filled with Wakayama specialties.
    • Won 2016 National Yuru-chara Grand Prix corporate/other division first place.

  • Tama Station Master

    Calico cat who served as station master at Wakayama Electric Railway Kishi Station. Post-appointment dramatically increased passengers and tourists, world-famous as 'beckoning cat station master.'

    Trivia

    • Estimated to bring 1.1 billion yen annual economic impact.
    • After passing, enshrined in shrine as 'Honorary Eternal Station Master.'
    • Featured in numerous overseas media, contributing to Wakayama name recognition.

  • Umeboshi Prince

    Pickled plum prince wearing Nanko plum crown. Handles Kishu plum PR, conveying balance of sourness and sweetness.

    Trivia

    • Appears annually at Minabe Plum Grove bloom declaration event.
    • Crown stem is lucky star shape.
    • Sometimes serves as judge in sour face contests.