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“Ponpokopon” Everywhere!
A Complete Guide to Komatsushima's Tanuki Spots!
(“Ponpokopon” is the sound said to be used by raccoons in fairy tales when they hit their own belly!)
Komatsushima is a town that steeped in the Legend of the Awa-Tanuki Gassen a Japanese legend that takes place in the Awa Province (now Tokushima Prefecture).
P.S. Tanuki a Japanese raccoon dog, formerly believed in Japan to be a mischievous animal capable of shapeshifting.
Komatsushima is a city where the folklore of the Awa-Tanuki Gassen still lives on.
And you’ll find countless tanuki figures throughout the town, including Kinchō, the tanuki protagonist of the legend folktale.
Now, let’s set off on a journey to discover these charming tanuki!
What is the “Awa-Tanuki Gassen”?
The Awa-Tanuki Gassen is a legendary tale of a tanuki war said to have taken place in Awa Province during the late Edo period.
The victorious leader, a tanuki named Kinchō, made his way back to his benefactor Moemon after being gravely injured during the battle. However, after expressing his gratitude, Kinchō took his last breath. Deeply moved by Kinchō’s loyalty and spirit, Moemon honored him as "Shoichi-i Kinchō Daimyojin" (a revered deity). Today, Komatsushima is home to numerous tanuki figures, including Kinchō himself.
For more details on the story, please visit:
https://www.city.komatsushima.lg.jp/komatsushima-navi/spots/8102.html
A Shrine Full of Tanuki: The Kincho Shrine
Dedicated to Kinchō Daimyojin, Kinchō Shrine was built in 1956 as a token of appreciation for the success of the movie Awa-Tanuki Gassen. It is believed to bring good fortune and business prosperity.
Additionally, the shrine is said to have inspired the one featured in the 1994 Studio Ghibli film Pom Poko, making it a must-visit for fans!
At the entrance, a stone tanuki statue holding a "Yokoso" (Welcome) sign greets visitors. Inside the shrine, you’ll find numerous tanuki figurines placed as offerings, along with tanuki-themed ema (wooden wishing plaques).
Every spring, the Kinchō Festival is held to honor Kinchō. The highlight? The adorable Tanuki Mikoshi (portable shrine), carried by local children—a sight not to be missed!
Komatsushima Station Park: Home to the Tanuki Army
At “Komatsushima Station Park”, you’ll find a special area called the "Japan Flash Tanuki Plaza." The centerpiece? A massive 5-meter-tall, 5-ton bronze statue of Kinchō—recognized as the world's largest tanuki statue! What’s more, clapping your hands near it activates a waterfall, adding a fun interactive element.
Nearby at the Work Staff SL Memorial Plaza, there's a railway-themed inclusive playground, designed for everyone to enjoy together. Look closely, you might spot hidden tanuki figures in the design!
You can even find them here!
That’s not all—scattered throughout the park are bronze statues of tanuki warriors from the Awa-Tanuki Gassen. If you read the legend beforehand, your visit will be even more exciting!
Tanuki Hunting in in the Streets of Komatsushima
Beyond the shrine and park we just recommended, you can encounter tanuki at many moments while walking through the streets of Komatsushima.
For example, at Minami-Komatsushima Station, you’ll find a tanuki family welcoming passengers. Even bus stops feature tanuki-themed designs!
And don’t forget to look on top of mailboxes! Tanuki figures can be found there too!
At the foot of the bridge, there was an amusing tanuki statue sandwiched between bamboo chikuwa (a local fishcake delicacy)!
Take a stroll through the city and meet the many unique and charming tanuki along the way!
Found a Komatsushima’s tanuki? Share your discovery in the comments on East Tokushima’s social media pages!