What is Fujiya’s Peko-chan?
Peko-chan is the iconic mascot of Fujiya, a long-established Japanese confectionery company. She is a cheerful girl character known for her trademark pose with her tongue playfully sticking out, and she has been loved in Japan for decades as the symbol of Fujiya’s sweets and shops.
Peko-chan’s History (1950~1970)
Peko-chan debuted in the 1950s as a papier-mâché doll, winning hearts with her charming expression and bobbing head. She embraced seasonal and trendy fashions and took part in activities beyond the stores, including traffic safety campaigns and even joining an Antarctic expedition team. Appearing on TV and in magazines, she became a beloved icon for children. Though her materials evolved from paper to plastic, her timeless charm remains unchanged.
Peko-chan’s History (1950~1970)
In the early 1980s, Peko-chan regained popularity as the character boom and growing figure culture attracted fans of all ages. Fujiya introduced a Peko-chan Christmas Year Plate in 1991, broadening her cross-generational appeal. The character “Dog” debuted in 1995, and in 1998 Peko-chan and Poko-chan became two of the first three-dimensional trademarks registered in Japan.
Peko-chan’s History (2000~)
Since 1998, Peko-chan’s bobblehead-style dolls have been produced, but her eyes underwent a subtle change in 2006. They were updated to the so-called “giza eyes,” featuring a distinctive white highlight. In addition, the basic costume—switched to a suspender skirt in the 1990s—received a minor update in 2007, bringing back the nostalgic red overalls that fans remember from earlier years.