Meet the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Mascots!
Brandon
In case you didn’t know, the 2020 Summer Olympics are being held in Tokyo. The country is gearing up as millions of tourists and Japanese from across all over Japan get set to storm Tokyo for the Summer Olympics.
If you are in Tokyo currently you may have seen the mascots on billboards and merchandise alike. If you are planning to come to Tokyo for the 2020 Olympics, be prepared to have shirts and plushies featuring the mascots shoved in your face. The 2 mascots are named Miraitowa (representing the Olympics) and Someity (representing the Paralympics). They were chosen from a poll taken by more than 75% of Japanese elementary schools and a number of overseas schools.
“Mirai” is the Japanese word for future, and “towa” is the word for eternity; combined Miraitowa promotes a future full of eternal hope in the hearts of people all over the world. Someity is a pun for “so mighty” and also comes from a Cherry Blossom tree called someiyoshin which is shown in the pink color. Someity represents Paralympic athletes who overcome obstacles and redefine the boundaries of what is possible.
You can find more information on the full profiles of Someity and Miraitowa as well as their development process on the Tokyo 2020 website here.
Gear Up!
Image Source
Many stationary stores and local shops are already selling officially licensed 2020 merchandise. However if you want to go big, head over to any Bic Camera department store and you’ll find an assortment of T-shirts, giants plushies, and useless goods ready to be purchased. Of course you can also buy everything from the official 2020 Olympics online store here, however keep in mind they only ship to Japan.
If you want to go big, the online shop is selling pure gold Japanese koban coins for a whopping 12,296,000 Japanese yen (or about $12,000 USD)! If that sounds too expensive don’t worry as you can buy the smaller silver version for 21,600 yen (or about $200 USD). Of course you can always just buy a t-shirt.
Which of the mascots do you like more? Are you excited for the 2020 Olympics? Let us know in the comments.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more news straight from Japan!
Related articles
Sanrio Puroland Guide: Celebrate 35 Years of Hello Kitty
On the outskirts of Tokyo in Tama New Town sits Sanrio Puroland: an indoor theme park dedicated to lovers of Hello Kitty and other Sanrio characters. With colorful attractions, live shows, themed restaurants, and character shops, Puroland is a dream destination for Sanrio lovers. In December 2025, the park celebrated its 35th anniversary, making it...
Gyaru Fashion: One of Japan’s Most Iconic Street Styles
Many street styles have emerged from Japan, from maximalist decora to princess-like lolita fashion. However, likely none of them are as iconic as the Shibuya gyaru. More than just a fashion style, gyaru has developed as an entire cultural movement of its own, leaving its mark both in Japan and internationally. Let’s talk more about...
Japanese Cherry Blossom Travel Guide 2026
Every spring, people across Japan wait for the Japanese cherry blossom season to begin. Streets, parks, and rivers slowly turn pink as sakura trees bloom. Families and friends gather outside to enjoy the warmer air.
PokePark KANTO Arrives in Tokyo
Because it is located inside Yomiuriland, PokéPark is easy to add to a Tokyo itinerary. Let’s check it out.
Hanami Picnics in Japan: What Are They?
Planning the right items turns a basic outing into a smooth experience where everyone focuses on the blossoms rather than last-minute hassles.
Typhoon Season Japan: Best Tips for Safety!
Typhoon season in Japan brings powerful tropical storms every year. These storms bring strong winds, heavy rain, and the risk of flooding or landslides. Coastal and southern regions are hit the hardest. They are similar to hurricanes in other parts of the world.