Every country has its own symbolic icons that make it well remembered by other populations. Many of them possess unique features and some even come with amazing tales, making them popular beyond the coasts of their land of origin.
Owl piggy bank (3,900 baht).
How could we imagine the cute beckoning cat with a raised paw from Japan could find its way to station itself happily at the entrance of nearly every restaurant and shop in the Kingdom?
It must be the lovely characteristic or the reputedly attracting power of Maneki Neko, also called Fortune/Lucky Cat, that wins the hearts of many Thais. We don't seem to care if the smiling feline has its right or left paw raised and at what height, as long as it is sitting proudly on the desk or accompanying us everywhere as a charm accessory.
The Daruma doll, likewise, is a symbol of good luck and completion in Japan. With no arms and legs but a round face with a moustache and beard, the doll seems to look more sacred to us as it's said to be modelled after an ancient Buddhist monk in a sitting meditating position.
Looking a bit scary due to its horns, bulging eyes and sinister looking smile and sharp teeth, Oni is the demon of Japanese folklore which is, however, widely accepted as a good luck symbol.
Japanese style cloth bags (50-180 baht).
It is also credited with bringing good health, safety, peace and avoiding disaster. That's why having an Oni devil mask decorating your wall should be a good omen.
While Totoro, one of the greatest cartoon characters, is as famous among Japanese children as Winnie the Pooh is among British kids, the thumb-sucking Monchhichi monkey is also well-loved in some European countries. It's affectionately called Kiki in France and Chic-a-boo in England.
Having those little iconic figures here and there around your place and everywhere as a companion should make you give Japan the thumbs-up for coming up with so many cute icons for the world to enjoy.
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