Is "Chiba-kun" not a dog? That little tongue actually points to a place everyone knows well!

The bright red "Chiba-kun" is definitely not a dog!! Its eyes and tongue have fascinating stories behind them too. When travelers visit Japan for the first time, many choose Tokyo as their destination. In fact, Narita Airport, where you land, is not in Tokyo but in Chiba Prefecture. And the beloved Tokyo Disneyland by both kids and adults is also located in Chiba Prefecture. The adorable appearance of "Chiba-kun" is modeled after the map of Chiba Prefecture — the location of his dog eyes is Narita Airport in Tokyo, and the spot of his tongue on the map is where Tokyo Disneyland is!

●"Chiba-kun" Visits Taiwan to Meet Fans and Promote Tourism

With winter snow falling and the yen plummeting, it’s also nearing the perfect time for Japan’s Christmas and New Year celebrations. Many Japan enthusiasts are already getting excited and planning to fly there for the holidays and beautiful sights. Last week (December 13th–19th), the mascot of Chiba Prefecture in Japan, "Chiba-kun," also came to Taiwan to boost tourism and meet with fans who love him.

Last Wednesday morning, "Chiba-kun" visited the digital newspaper office, allowing the editors to pull out their cameras for fun photo sessions, adding plenty of surprise to the busy workday atmosphere. During the weekend, "Chiba-kun" was non-stop, heading to "Michi Café" in Taipei’s East District to meet fans. There, officials from the Chiba Prefecture Tourism Bureau also revealed many little secrets about "Chiba-kun" during a lecture held at the café.

"Tokyo International Airport" is not actually located in Tokyo, but in Chiba Prefecture. (Photo/Dazi Vision / shutterstock)

●The Super Cute "Chiba-kun" Has Hidden Meanings in His Eyes and Tongue

Many children might think the bright red "Chiba-kun" is a "dog." In fact, he isn’t any kind of animal at all. According to Chiba Prefecture, he is a "mysterious creature" living in Chiba — curious, adventurous, and extremely food-loving because he resides in a warm, naturally pleasant prefecture abundant in fresh seafood and farm produce. So he gets really excited over delicious food. "Chiba-kun" is also mischievous and an incredibly lovable mascot!

Tokyo Disneyland holds its Tanabata (Star Festival) parade, featuring Mickey and Minnie dressed as the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl arriving in a rickshaw. (Photo by Huang Jingjing, this newspaper’s reporter)

There are many hidden stories behind the birth of "Chiba-kun" too. Open up a map and you’ll find that Chiba Prefecture’s shape somewhat resembles a "dog standing with its left face exposed." This is the creation of "Chiba-kun’s Mom," the renowned Japanese illustrator Sakazaki Chiharu from Chiba Prefecture, drawn in 2010. The appearance of "Chiba-kun" is based on the map of Chiba Prefecture, and his eyes and tongue hold special meanings. The eyes, which look out to the world, represent Japan’s gateway — Narita Airport. And Tokyo Disneyland is located right on Chiba-kun’s little tongue. These two spots are also the most famous and popular attractions in Chiba Prefecture.

Cherry blossom scenery at "Motohara Park" in Chiba Prefecture. (Photo/Dazi Vision / shutterstock)

●Chiba Prefecture Is Loads of Fun — Beautiful All Year Round

Besides these two major attractions, Chiba Prefecture, not far from Tokyo, has mountains and sea, offering different scenes throughout the year, along with unique cuisine, making it a great leisure destination. Editors at the "Michi Café" travel lecture recommend family trips to "Mother Farm" to enjoy the vast greenery of the deer hills and get close to calves and lambs. Visit "Duck River Marine World" to see amazing dolphin and sea lion performances, and even challenge your courage with the "killer whale." In spring, go to "Shiro-yama Park" to admire flowers, where cherry blossoms, camellias, and ancient castles create a stunning scene.

The yen is dropping fast. Shopping lovers should also come to Chiba Prefecture. It’s home to outlets like the so-called largest in Kanto, "Mitsui Outlet Park Kisarazu" and "AEON Mall Makuhari New City," where you can find all kinds of trendy outlet fashion.

●Endless Specialty Foods to Try — "Masaki Aiba" Is Also from Chiba!

Foodies, why not take a trip to Chiba Prefecture too? The richly oily "Katsuura Dan Dan Noodles" are packed with ingredients and are a favorite warming dish among local fishermen and fisherwomen. Choshi Fishing Port has the highest catch volume in all of Japan, and the deliciousness of Choshi sushi is legendary. By the way, Masaki Aiba, a member of Japan’s famous idol group "Arashi," is from Chiba, and his family runs a restaurant. Fans often flock to Chiba to visit his hometown and try the specialty foods!

Additionally, Chiba offers a wealth of festivals and experiences — digging for bamboo shoots in spring, picking loquats in summer, harvesting peanuts in autumn, and picking strawberries in winter. From February to March, experience the spectacular dolls at the "Katsuura Grand Doll Festival," in September witness the human tide battle at the "Ohara Naked Festival," and in "Motohara Tanabata" spend a romantic time with your loved one.

●Meet Chiba-kun — Plan Your Own Little Trip

Chiba Prefecture boasts rich historical sites and cultural facilities, as well as natural landscapes such as oceans, rivers, and mountains. It also has well-developed entertainment venues, sports centers, and shopping malls — there are countless spots worth exploring!

In addition, the Japanese government announced that starting April 2018, procedures for tax refunds for tourists will be simplified, with restrictions on duty-free product categories removed. Overseas visitors only need to spend 5,000 yen or more to apply for exemption from the 8% consumption tax. Enjoy beautiful sights, taste delicious food, explore history, and soak in hot springs. If you love traveling, why not follow in the footsteps of "Chiba-kun," cross Tokyo Bay, and embark on a relaxing and carefree trip to Chiba?