Among the many characters that exist throughout Hokkaido, Iwanai's "Taramaru" has long been a popular figure. In this issue, we will unravel the true identity of "Taramaru!

His appearance is based on the motif of Alaska Pollack, with cod lips and asparagus in his hands. ...... Taramaru's appearance strongly reflects the local specialty. After all, Iwanai Town is the birthplace of longline pollack fishing, and the cod roe from which the pollack roe is processed is of the highest quality. Iwanai is also the birthplace of asparagus in Japan.

The official profile of Taramaru reveals that he is male, his home is 7.8 km off the coast of Iwanai-cho at a depth of 300 m, and that he has a twin sister "Beniko" and a younger brother "Pinsuke. The surprisingly detailed setting is surprising, but what is most eye-opening is the date of birth. What is most surprising is his birth date, which was August 9, 1985.

Taramaru is more mature than he appears. This must be the reason why he has been loved by the locals for so long. If you are attracted to Taramaru, we recommend that you stop by "Michi no Eki Iwanai" (Roadside Station). The tourist information center is also located in the same building, and it is truly named "Taramaru-kan" (Taramaru Museum).

Once inside, you will find a cute Taramaru objet d'art. This is the perfect spot to take a photo of the two of you. The roadside station also sells many goods. Taramaru himself told us about some of the best-selling items.

The most popular item is the "Taramaru Plushie" (1,300 yen including tax). Many people buy it as a set with its twin sister "Beniko Plushie" (1,300 yen including tax). Hmmm...it certainly doubles the cuteness of the set!

The next most popular item is the "Taramaru senbei" (540 yen including tax). This would make a great souvenir. The paper bag printed with Taramaru, Beniko, and Pinsuke's image is so cute that you will want to keep it.

His specialties are sumo wrestling and snowboarding. His hobbies include playing with children, appearing on TV, and relaxing in the town's hot springs (......). Taramaru seems to be quite active.

Taramaru is a character that can be seen in many places in Iwanai Town, so be sure to look for him when you visit the town!

<Cooperation for this report
Iwanai Tourist Association
Location: 47-4 Aza Bandai, Iwanai-cho, Iwanai-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0135-63-1155
Official website: https://www.iwanai-kanko.org

Iwanai Town Hall Tourism and Economy Division, Tourism Section
Location: 134-1 Aza-Takadai, Iwanai-cho, Iwanai-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0135-67-7096
Official website: https://www.iwanai-kanko.jp

Roadside Station Iwanai "Taramaru-kan
Location: 47-4 Bandai, Iwanai-cho, Iwanai-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0135-63-1155
Twitter: https://twitter.com/taramarukan