In the past few years there has been a craze of regional mascots known as"Yuru-kyara". Among the popular characters is a mascot from Hokkaido that has experience a surge in popularity online.



He is Jin-kun Jingisukan (jingisukan is a Japanese dish consisting of grilled mutton and vegetables) and was designed by Hashiasako in 2012. Nowadays he is based in the center of Hokkaido.

Jin-kun is always shown in pictures right when is he being eaten. Either while being picked up by a pair of chopsticks or atop a metal jingisukan grill. Nevertheless, whatever the situation Jin-kun is always calm and collected: it's all because his woolly coat is wonderfully heat resistant and flame proof!




The media response is not completely positive, but on seeing the cute yet surreal images people get a "moe" feeling and have spread the word on to even more fans.

This year will also see the opening of the "Yuru-Kyara Gran Prix", a competition where Jin-kun may receive a large number of votes. Depending on the situation he may even make it to the top spot...or maybe not.

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Official website: Jin-kun Jingisukan (Written in Japanese)