Kumamoto Prefecture is pinning its hopes for a post-pandemic recovery in tourism on its famous mascot ¡ª the wide-eyed black bear called Kumamon.
The cuddly character has gained worldwide fame since he debuted as a promotional mascot for the prefecture in 2010. Now authorities are developing bear-themed attractions across the region, betting they will spur an influx of overseas visitors when some of the world¡¯s strictest border restrictions ease.
¡°We need to focus on the long-term strategy,¡± Shunya Waki, who heads the Kumamon Group in the regional governor¡¯s office, said in an interview. ¡°Now that so many people already know about the character, we want to attract them here with Kumamon and make them explore.¡±
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