Irrelevance Glorified

Not too many people are familiar with Domokun. For a brief overview, look here, and for some video evidence, check this out. Basically, Domo-kun is this odd, brown, furry creature, hatched from an egg, that hangs out with a wise old rabbit, and watches TV. In fact, he is the mascot of NHK, Japan’s PBS. He has large pointy teeth and a mouth that can’t close. What’s not to love? Well, my japanese friends know of my Domo-kun obsession, and enable it. Imagine my surpise and delight when, upon my last visit to Japan, I discovered Domo-kun keychains/phone accessories! Even better, there are many different ones that show him in different costumes. Thanks to Tomoko, I now have a large number of them, and would like to share.

First up, here is the stuffed Domo-kun that Yusuke gave me. He watches over me at night. Actually, he probably just watches TV.

Here, Domo-kun is dressed like the large lantern in Asakusa, underneath the Kaminarimon that leads to Senso-ji Temple. You can see me and Yusuke underneath it here.

This may be my favorite one that Tomoko sent me. Apparently, Gifu prefecture is known for it’s historic buildings.

This is Domo-kun, just as he’s stepped out of a bath. Or an onsen (hot spring), I guess. Luckily, he’s a little bit modest.

This Domo-kun is representing Chiba prefecture, where there are allegedly good loquats. I have never had a loquat, but I do like saying loquat. Loquat.

Tochigi prefecture is apparently known for it’s strawberries. That you eat with a spoon.

Kyoto is known for many things, and as such there are a number of Kyoto Domo-kuns. For example, Kyoto is known for it’s pickled vegetables, so there is an eggplant Domo-kun. However, in this case Domo-kun is playing the part of a samurai, and doing a fantastic job of it.

As we all know, Shinsu prefecture is known for their fantastic apples.

In the words of Tomoko, “…some kind of woodcraft with bobbing head. I dunno. Don’t ask me.” Indeed, a mystery. Whatever, it’s the Akabeko Domo-kun, and it’s representing Fukushima Prefecture.

Imagine taking your kid to the mall to see Santa and then coming across this! Even Domo-kun cannot withstand the holiday spirit.

Whenever I see this, I can’t help but think that Domo-kun is trying to use this Christmas Tree as a disguise. Perhaps he’s trying to infiltrate Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole.

All right, that’s it. If I ever get more, maybe I’ll update this post. Until then, feel free to send me all your Domo-kun paraphenalia.

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