Struggling to attract foreign visitors, Iwate Prefecture has embarked on a charm offensive using quirky signs and other techniques to endear tourists to the far-flung region.
The campaign, titled "Ten ways to make travelers happy," features an illustration of a samurai warrior with a traditional topknot hairstyle, who informs tourists of Japanese etiquette and ways to enjoy local culture.
"We wanted to start with something simple to use," something unique and fun that would spark interest, Takefumi Shimomukai, director of the Iwate Prefectural Government's Morioka Regional Development Bureau said.