Updated at 2022-04-17
Harikotora is a product of Japan's acceptance of tiger worship that originated in China. Hariko is a doll made by applying clay or papier-mâché to a wooden frame. This process is similar to the method used to make popular folk lanterns. In the Japanese countryside, friends and family gift Harikotora ornaments when a baby boy is born to symbolize good fortune. Harikotora was later used to decorate Tango no Sekku and Hassaku Festival events. Businesses also use Harikotora to pray for prosperity.
Alliance Date: July 18, 2016
Language: Japanese
Area: 1,876.72 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 919,000 people
Main Industries/Features: Tourism, industry, commerce, agriculture and fisheries