Speaking of the characters Kumamoto is proud of, who are active and have gained nationwide fame—
The one who needs no introduction: Kumamon.
Bonolon, the protagonist of a picture book story with ties to Aso, which has exceeded 100 million copies in total circulation and marks its 20th anniversary this year.
And the yokai Amabie, whose origins in the seas off Higo are surprisingly little known.
We are introducing these “Three Major Characters” here because we would be delighted if you, who are curious about Kumamoto, would get to know them better.
Kumamon, I Want to Hug You!
You, who are always by my side. I assumed that I knew you. Could you tell me about yourself once again?
Closing in on Kumamon’s True Nature! Profile Introduction
Place of Birth:
Kumamoto Prefecture
Birthday:
March 12th (The day the Kyushu Shinkansen line fully opened)
Job:
Technically a civil servant Sales Manager and Happiness Manager of Kumamoto Prefecture Captain of the Kumamon Squad
Age:
Secret (The idea that he is 5 years old is an urban legend)
Gender:
Boy
Personality:
Mischievous and full of curiosity
Special Talents:
Finding surprises and happiness Dancing
I want to know more about you. 20 Questions for Kumamon.
Q.1 What is the origin of your name?
I am a person (mono) from Kumamoto, so I’m Kumamon!
Q.2 Why are you black?
It comes from the incredibly cool black color of Kumamoto Castle!
Q.3 Why are your cheeks red?
It comes from the “Land of Fire,” a name Kumamoto Prefecture has been called since ancient times!
Q.4 Why is the licensing fee for your image free?
Because I want lots of people to use it so I can become closer to everyone!
Q.5 What are your hobbies and special skills?
Delivering “Surprise & Happy,” and performing my razor-sharp dance moves!
Q.6 Do you have a work routine?
I hold stage performances at Kumamon Square!
Q.7 How do you spend your days off?
I practice dancing and work out! But going around eating delicious Kumamoto food is the most fun!
Q.8 If you had a long vacation, what would you want to do?
Taking a leisurely walking tour around Kumamoto Prefecture sounds like fun!
Q.9 Where would you like to go on a date?
In my future plans, I’d look cool riding a swan boat at Lake Ezu…
Q.10 How many countries have you visited?
I have been to 22 countries and regions so far!
Q.11 Are there other countries or places you want to visit?
I want to travel around the whole world!
Q.12 What is your favorite scenery?
Beautiful scenery spreads out wherever you go in Kumamoto!
Q.13 What are your favorite foods?
Tomatoes, Karashi Renkon (mustard-stuffed lotus root), Akaushi beef, Kumamoto ramen… There are so many, I just can’t decide!
Q.14 What is your specialty dish to cook?
I can fillet a fish into three pieces!
Q.15 What is your favorite phrase?
“You can eat as much as you like!”
Q.16 Do you have someone you admire or a mentor?
Just like that certain character who is popular all over the world, I want to be a presence that is loved even 100 years from now!
Q.17 What is a recommended spot where we can meet Kumamon?
You can meet me at my home base, “Kumamon Square”! You can also find me at the airport, train stations, and bus terminals!
Q.18 What is a recommended spot for children?
At “Kumamon Square,” there are games that both children and adults can enjoy!
Q.19 What excites you the most right now?
Since this year marks my 15th anniversary since debut, there are lots of exciting things happening!
Q.20 What are your future goals?
I want to deliver “Surprise & Happy” to even more people!
Do You Know!? Kumamon’s 4 Secrets
Secret 1 He Trained in Osaka!
In 2010, at the request of the then-Governor of Kumamoto Prefecture, Mr. Ikuo Kabashima, Kumamon carried out promotional activities in Osaka. He handed out 10,000 business cards and appeared suddenly in Dotonbori. Through these activities, he gradually gained popularity in Osaka.
Secret 2 Competed in the M-1 Grand Prix!
Forming a duo with an attendant from the “Kumamon Squad,” he entered the M-1 Grand Prix, a manzai comedy competition, in 2023. With a routine focusing on the differences between Osaka and Kumamoto, they passed the first round. They received the “Jimoto Star Award,” which is given to comedians who enliven their local area.
Secret 3 He Once Lost His Cheeks!
In 2013, the red cheeks that are Kumamon’s trademark went missing. Kumamon visited the Metropolitan Police Department and filed a lost property report. A special investigation headquarters was established. Three days after they were lost, reports that the cheeks had been found came in from various places famous for delicious Kumamoto foods—such as tomato fields, watermelon fields, and the Amakusa area within the prefecture—leading to a resolution.
Secret 4 Took the Podium at Harvard University!
In 2013, he accompanied the then-Governor of Kumamoto, Mr. Ikuo Kabashima, for a lecture and visited Harvard University. It was the first time in the university’s history that a non-human stood on the podium. In a venue packed with over 100 students, he performed the “Kumamon Exercise” and more.
