Updated at 2022-04-16
The CHI-BA+KUN doll is an auspicious gift from Chiba Prefecture. Not only is it in the shape of Chiba, but there are also hidden details in its facial features. Its tongue is the location of Tokyo Disney Resort ®, the center point between its eyes and ears is Narita International Airport, its nose is Noda City, home to Kikkoman Soy Sauce, its forehead is the City of Katori, also known as Little Edo, and its back is surfers' paradise Kujukuri Beach. CHI-BA+KUN is basically an easy-to-understand map of the major attractions in Chiba Prefecture. It officially became Chiba's mascot on January 1, 2011, and it was designed by renowned Japanese animator and Chiba local Chiharu Sakazaki.
Alliance Date: August 9, 2016
Language: Japanese
Area: 5,156 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 6,280,000 people
Main industry: Chiba Prefecture has a strong focus on industrial and commercial development, with the Port of Chiba at the center forming the Keiyo Industrial Zone, a hub for the petroleum and steel industries and a key distributor of raw materials and energy for industry. Narita International Airport located in Chiba attracts industries such as aviation and international logistics, serving as a base for many foreign investments.