Funassyi, the unofficial yuru-chara of Funabashi, Chiba—unofficially cheered by this blog—stole the show on NHK Kohaku New Year's Eve, even outpacing Kumamon; popularity seems set to continue this year.
From the 10th last week, Mynavi Corp. (headquartered in Palaceside) rental site "Mai
navi Chintai" (http://chintai.mynavi.jp) TV CM stars Funassyi with Mynavi Bear and two local mascots—Fukkachan of Fukaya, Saitama, praised for cute looks＝photo upper＝, and Nishikokun, fairy of Musashi no Kuni (Kokubunji/Nishi-Kokubunji, Tokyo), whose unique character and activities draw buzz＝photo lower＝.
Mynavi Chintai targets singles, couples, transferees—three characters dance in a student's room, newlyweds' room, and a salaryman's room on transfer to PR the site; Funassyi goes wild in the last.
Mynavi's news release shares CM episodes. A quote:
＜CM highlights and production episodes＞
Nishikokun, Fukkachan and Mynavi Bear danced to choreography—Funassyi struggled at first but finished under strict direction; the take where he ignored choreography and rampaged got laughs and was adopted. Look for "Hyahha!" rampaging Funassyi.
The fun 15-second CM airs mainly in Kanto and nationwide.