“Inunakin” and “Yuru-Nakin”
We are translating articles as we go.
I’m traveling all over Japan to promote Izumisano City, with a lifelong passion for Inunaki!
– The Story Behind Its Creation –
In November 2012, a public design contest was held, attracting 444 submissions. Based on three selected designs, Yudetamago, the famous manga artist known for Kinnikuman, created Izumisano City’s official mascot character.
※This character, Inunakin, has been promoted from an “Image Character” to an Official Mascot!
Profile
Inunakin
Name: Inunakin
Age: Forever 20
Occupation: Descendant of the hero from the Inunaki-san (Mount Inunaki) loyal dog legend, currently training on Inunaki-san to gain supernatural powers.
Outfit: As a hot spring enthusiast, he always wears a Senshu towel wrapped around his waist. He carries a staff called a shakujō (a traditional Buddhist staff), which he received from a yamabushi (mountain ascetic) during his training on Inunaki-san.
Personality: He possesses a strong sense of justice and exceptional loyalty, always teaching children the importance of friendship. He’s willing to travel anywhere across Japan to promote Izumisano City. His unwavering dedication comes from the DNA of the loyal dog from the legendary tale of Inunaki-san.
Weakness: Whenever he spots a hot spring, he can’t resist taking a dip—no matter what!
Catchphrase: Isshoukenmei—a playful twist on the Japanese word for “doing one’s best,” combining it with his love for Inunaki-san. It reflects his dedication to promoting Izumisano City and his lifelong affection for Mount Inunaki.
Favorite Foods: Mizu Nasu eggplant, onions (as a superhuman, Inunakin has no trouble eating them!), cabbage, and Gaccho Karaage (deep-fried goby fish, a local specialty).
– Yuru-Chara Information –
Runner-Up at the Yuru-Chara® Grand Prix 2019!
Proudly placed 2nd out of 427 characters.
The Grand Prix winner that year was Arukuma, the PR mascot from Nagano Prefecture.
Yuru-Nakin
While Inunakin was training hard to master the Art of Cloning, something went hilariously wrong! Instead of a perfect duplicate, a chubby, relaxed-faced clone appeared—and that’s how Yuru-Nakin was born!
Name: Yuru-Nakin
Personality: Unlike the passionate and justice-driven Inunakin, Yuru-Nakin is a laid-back slacker who’s always looking for the easy way out. His true passion? Eating!
Body Type: Chubby, with a relaxed, easygoing expression.
– Yuru-Chara Information –
Runner-Up at the Yuru-Chara® Grand Prix 2020!
Proudly placed 2nd out of 395 characters.
The Grand Prix winner that year was Takata no Yume-chan, the mascot of Rikuzentakata City in Iwate Prefecture.
Runner-Up at Yuruverse 2023!
After a three-year hiatus, the Yuru-Chara® Grand Prix returned as Yuruverse, where Yuru-Nakin proudly secured 2nd place.
The Grand Prix winner that year was Udon Nou, the quirky mascot from Kagawa Prefecture.
Always Together Merchandise Introduction
Inunakin Merchandise Collection
A Song for Everyone to Sing!
original song
“Isshoukenmei! Inunakin!”
Original Theme Song 🎵
『Inunakin Go Fight!』
https://www.city.izumisano.lg.jp/material/files/group/19/inunakin_originalsong01.mp3
Since April 2014, the video series “Isshoukenmei! GO! GO! Inunakin” has been streaming online. To enhance the show, an open call was held for an original theme song for Inunakin. After careful selection, one Grand Prize winner and five Excellence Award winners were chosen!
The Grand Prize winner, selected and officially adopted as the theme song, was “Inunakin Go Fight!” submitted by Tai-cho.
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Let’s Go! ♪ Inunakin is On the Move! 🚀🎵
Contact: Izumisano City Tourism Association (Community Revitalization Division)
Address:
3-11-48 Kamimachi, Izumisano City, Osaka 598-0007, Japan
Phone: 072-469-3131
Fax: 072-463-1827
Inunakin Mascot Costume Rental Information ／ Inunakin Design Usage Guidelines
泉佐野市公式キャラクター紹介