Funashi - ふなし

Jump, Jump.

Ok so not technically a person, but Funashi certainly has dominated pop culture for the past year. Turn a corner, walk into convenience store or just flick on the TV and you're going to see this mad pear-blob-dude bouncing around.

The Yuru Kara (prefectural character) culture exploded in the past few years. Each prefecture being represented by a unique mascot, to promote tourism of the area. 

Funnashii (pear fairy) him/herself is the unofficial mascot of Funabashi, Chiba. What sets him aside from traditional YuruKara is not just his Eric Cantona kick, but the fact she/he speaks! 

Typically mascots wouldn't speak, partially due to the costume, but also to free up the mascot for multiple appearances around the country. However Funnashii is truly one of a kind.

Enjoy!