Video game developers Level-5 have found their true calling - creating local mascots.
Jabow (ジャー坊) is the new official mascot of Ōmuta, Fukuoka, revealed in March 2017 to celebrate the city’s centenary. It was created by Akihiro Hino, Ōmuta native and president of Fukuoka-based Level-5 Inc. - known for game series such as Professor Layton, Yo-kai Watch and Ni no Kuni - along with Level-5 character designer Takuzo Nagano (no surprises that he also worked on Yo-kai Watch).
Jabow is a serpent that has taken a humanoid form - based on the huge snake floats of the Ōmuta’s Daijayama festival. His helmet and pickaxe represent the city’s coal mining heritage. He claims to be a guardian deity of the city.
Jabow has entered this year’s Yuru-Chara Grand Prix, and is currently doing very well in 5th place.
Official site: http://omuta100.com/character/
Image sources: 1, 2
