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[ japan.characteradvertising spring.2005 ]

Cute little characters are used to advertise *everything* in Japan.
The're not just used to market to kids - people of all ages seem to respond to them.

Case in point, the funny rabbit in the red circle above is used to promote Nova, a language school.
Prior to creating the rabbit, Nova was going under. After unveiling the rabbit, sales went up 450%.

 



These guys were my favorites. They were everywhere.
 

The angry circle is pretty great too.
listen to him, it's very important!!!
 
 

even bus lines get a character.
 

a delivery service.
 
 

nothing sells tickets like a comma
 

The guy in the condom hat looks suspiciously like stan from southpark.
 
 

The guy on the right is the cutest hitler ever.
 

sad mustached pink bear crying diamonds. wtf?
 
 

another delivery service
 

cute frog girl fairy painting, she appears to be mounted
 

it wouldn't be japan without hello kitty.
 

its a tortoise *and* a hare.
 
 

penguins can't fly.
 

forgiveness. we will return shortly.
 

the toothbrush bear.
 

delivery samurai.
 

Twitchy the dog.
he teaches english on the subway.
he is sooo high.
 

best-umbrella-ever
 


he has something important and non-threatening to tell you.