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Published Date: 2016/11/02

Akita Dogs Transform into an Idol Group!? Prefecture PR Video Released Is Natsuko-chan the Center?

The regional collaboration DMO "Akita Inu Tourism," established across four areas in Akita Prefecture—Odate City, Kitaakita City, Kosaka Town, and Kami-Koani Village—released a music video featuring Akita dogs titled "Waiting4U ~Let Me Fluff You~" on November 1st, "Dog Day."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyobqOPGPCI

A DMO (Destination Management Organization) is a corporation that specializes in local tourism resources and collaborates with the region to develop tourism initiatives. This tourism organization aims to promote visitor arrivals and extended stays under the concept "An Invitation to the Akita Dog Kingdom ~ Enjoy Food and Healing in Mysterious Northern Tohoku~".

Amidst increasing inbound tourists, the prefecture is conducting inbound activities to promote the appeal of its northern region, using the internationally popular Akita dog as a hook.

In the video, the anthropomorphized Akita dog idol group "MOFU MOFU☆DOGS" introduces the appeal of four areas, including Odate City, the birthplace of the Akita dog, set to upbeat music.

All singing parts feature actual Akita dog voices, with subtitles in Japanese, Chinese, and English. The group and Akita residents promote the prefecture's proud spots, food, and culture.

The group's center is Natsuko-chan, the top star of the Akita dog world and the mascot of the Akita Dog Preservation Society Headquarters.

On the same day, a special website ( http://letsmofumofuakita.com/) was launched where visitors can experience the "fluffy" feel of an Akita dog. Swiping to touch the fur on the screen gives the sensation of petting a real dog. The site also features behind-the-scenes footage of the video's making and recommendations for must-visit spots.

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