Photo= "Hikonyan," overjoyed with his Valentine's Day gifts (Hikone City Hall, Shiga Prefecture)

On February 16, "Hikonyan," the popular character mascot of Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, expressed his joy at the chocolates he had received for Valentine's Day by ringing his bell in an announcement at the city hall.

A total of 239 presents arrived from 29 different prefectures, mainly from the Kansai and Kanto regions. As many as 20 more are expected over the next few days, making this the third largest Valentine's Day haul for Hikonyan ever. There were many different kinds, from hand-made chocolates to beautifully wrapped ready-made ones. Messages in Valentine's cards included "You're my favorite!" "I'll visit you soon!" and "Don't catch cold!"

The city will send thank-you messages to those who wrote their addresses on their gifts for White Day, March 14. Mr. Shozo Kitamura, chair of the Hikonyan Fan Club, voiced his expectation that, next year, Hikonyan may receive chocolates from abroad, as this summer he is scheduled to appear at the Black Ships Festival in Newport, Rhode Island, USA.