On March 31st, an apple-shaped object “Bikkingingo” was installed in the west plaza of “Nebuta no Ie Wa Rasse” in front of Aomori Station.

It was established by the Aomori Tourism and Convention Association. It was set up as a new photo spot with the aim of increasing the number of visitors to the bay area around Aomori Station and extending their stay.

Yui Osanai, who is in charge of Bikkuri Apple at the association's planning and business department, said, "We consulted with the designer about an Aomori-esque object and came up with the current design. Against the background of the blue sky and sea, the red apple looks great." talk. The name is a combination of "surprise" and "apple".

The size of "Bikkungo" is 1.2 meters in diameter and 2 meters in height. You can touch it, sit inside it, and take pictures freely. "I'm happy that tourists, junior high and high school students have visited since the day it was installed and have taken pictures with it," says Osanai. "I also see people taking pictures with their pets," he said.

A woman living in Aomori, who was filming with Bikkuri-Kingo, said with a smile, "I happened to pass by and found out about it. It looks like Sazae-san." On SNS, there were reactions such as "I have no choice but to take a picture with that pose" and "The white cat seems to be dancing" (as it is in the original).

In addition to disseminating the latest information on the association's SNS, it is said that posts with the hashtag "#Aomori Bikkuri Apple" will be shared. Mr. Osanai said, "I want not only tourists but also people from Aomori to enjoy the bay area."

"Bikkungo" will be installed until October 31st.