Meet the Mischievous Cat Stealing Hearts in Shinjuku Tokyo!

Tainan city, located in southern Taiwan, launched a unique promotional campaign in Shinjuku, Tokyo, to raise its international profile and attract more tourists. The debut of its mascot, Hāng-á Niau, a cartoonish black cat with a big smile, immediately captured the attention of passersby in one of Tokyo's busiest districts.

Hāng-á Niau is more than just an adorable mascot. Its name, derived from the Taiwanese Hokkien language, roughly translates to "Black Cat" and represents the rich cultural heritage and local identity of Tainan. The mascot is designed to promote Tainan's history, tourism, and traditions, showcasing the city's unique charm to a global audience.

The promotional event in Shinjuku, Tokyo, kicked off with a grand ceremony featuring Hāng-á Niau's debut performance, traditional Taiwanese dances, and an exhibition of local handicrafts and delicacies. Visitors had a chance to interact with the mascot, learn about Tainan's history and culture, and enjoy the hospitality of the Taiwanese people.

The appearance of Hāng-á Niau in Shinjuku, Tokyo, marked the beginning of a series of promotional campaigns and events scheduled to take place in major cities across Japan, aiming to increase tourism exchanges between Taiwan and Japan. This initiative is also expected to boost business partnerships, education collaborations, and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

The city of Tainan has a long history dating back to the 16th century when it was the capital of Taiwan under Dutch rule. The city boasts numerous historical sites, including ancient temples, traditional shops, and charming old streets, offering an authentic glimpse into Taiwan's rich culture. With the debut of Hāng-á Niau, Tainan is set to become a popular destination for tourists seeking unique experiences and cultural understanding.

Tainan city officials expressed their gratitude to the Tokyo-Shinjuku authorities for their cooperation in hosting the promotional event and expect the campaign to have a positive impact on bilateral relations between the two cities.