And Japan, as well as being the tournament's host nation, is the home of Hello Kitty and Pokemon - the ultimate market for mascots. Here, nothing's too random or revolting to have a joyful ...

HOKUTO, Hokkaido--Zushihocky, this northern city's bizarre, eerie-looking official character known to induce a double take, was named Japan's most unforgettable local mascot. The ghostly white ...