Scattered across the intersections and highways of Miyakojima, the life-sized Mamoru-kun patrolman statues stand guard day and night to keep motorists safe. First introduced in the 1990s and each uniquely hand-painted, these once-eerie sentries have transformed into beloved local mascots with official honorary resident status. Visitors can spot nearly twenty of these vigilant officers island-wide, including his lone female colleague, Maruko-chan, stationed outside the local police headquarters. Spotting them all makes for a uniquely charming road-trip scavenger hunt that has spawned popular souvenirs and local lore.
- Statues
- Quirky Attractions
- Pop Culture
- Roadside Attractions
- Mascots
Swipe more in Naha
tryJP is a swipe deck for Japan places — save spots you like and plan a route.
Open tryJP