In June, I attended the firm’s interaction session at the Toba International Hotel in Mie Prefecture. At Pearl Ocean Terrace, I was soothed by the view of the sea stretching out before me, the pleasant sea breeze, and the sound of the waves.
Among the attractive souvenirs in the hotel shop, I was captivated by the collaboration products featuring the Pokémon “Mijumaru (Oshawott).”
I vaguely knew that certain Pokémon collaborate with specific prefectures, but I didn’t realize that Mijumaru (Oshawott) (Japanese Registered Trademarks: No.5351424, No.5839685) had been appointed as the “Mie Support Pokémon” for Mie Prefecture. This is part of the “Pokémon Local Acts” initiative, where a “favorite Pokémon” is selected for each region to promote its charm both domestically and internationally. Through this initiative, the goal is to encourage more people to visit the region, thereby increasing the number of fans of both the region and Pokémon.
Additionally, the use of Pokémon in this initiative is free of charge, allowing many collaboration products to be sold as souvenirs, which likely contributes to the promotion of local specialty products. The ability to purchase region-exclusive Pokémon merchandise is also a major attraction.
These are souvenirs I purchased as mementos at hotels and shops in Toba City.
The “Isenomon Hand Towel” on the left is made from “Ise Momen,” a traditional craft designated by Mie Prefecture, and is manufactured by Usui Orimono. The company also holds the registered trademark rights (Japanese Trademark No.4971739) for Ise Momen.
I hope that such traditional crafts will continue to be cherished and preserved in the future.
By the way, the Toba International Hotel has a special “Mijumaru (Oshawott) Room” available in only one room! One of the perks is a “hidden Monster Ball search and gift service,” which is sure to get Pokémon fans excited! (Cacao)
※ “Pokémon” and “Mijumaru” are registered trademarks of Nintendo, Creatures, and Game Freak.