Japan's Kumamon on 1st "business trip" to mainland China since COVID

Kumamon, the popular black bear character and mascot of southwestern Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture, has been on a "business trip" to China for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, sparking excitement for local fans thrilled to have the opportunity to interact with the character once again.With a visit to Shanghai, Kumamon returned to mainland China after a hiatus of some three and a half years. The character, known as "Xiong Ben Xiong" in China, has gained popularity in the country, and some fans took pictures with him while others hugged the mascot at an event in the city…READ FULL ARTICLE