
Kisarazu Tanuki Monument
A charming tanuki statue in Kisarazu, encouraging visitors to 'look upside down' for new perspectives and ideas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for photos and appreciating details

Kisarazu Tanuki Monument
Best Time
Best for photos and appreciating details
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming tanuki statue in Kisarazu, encouraging visitors to 'look upside down' for new perspectives and ideas.
"This quirky tanuki statue is a fun reminder to change your perspective and embrace new ideas!"

📸 Selfie Spot Alert!
This quirky statue is a popular spot for fun selfies. Try different angles!
🤔 Reflect on the Message
Take a moment to read Kinuta-kun's message about changing perspectives.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kinuta-kun's Upside-Down Stance
Kisarazu Station West Exit Rotary
A charming tanuki statue performing a handstand, symbolizing a fresh perspective and new ideas.

Inspirational Message
Base of the monument
Read the plaque encouraging visitors to change their viewpoint and find new solutions.

Connection to Shojoji Temple
Near Shojoji Temple
Discover the cultural roots of the tanuki theme, inspired by Noguchi Ujo's famous poem.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace a New Perspective
Proximity to Shojoji Temple
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Selfie Spot Alert!
This quirky statue is a popular spot for fun selfies. Try different angles!
🤔 Reflect on the Message
Take a moment to read Kinuta-kun's message about changing perspectives.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with Shojoji Temple for a deeper cultural dive.
💡 Embrace the Quirky
It's not just a statue; it's a symbol of creative thinking!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Selfie Spot Alert!
This quirky statue is a popular spot for fun selfies. Try different angles!
🤔 Reflect on the Message
Take a moment to read Kinuta-kun's message about changing perspectives.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with Shojoji Temple for a deeper cultural dive.
💡 Embrace the Quirky
It's not just a statue; it's a symbol of creative thinking!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Kisarazu Tanuki Monument to be a charming and thought-provoking public art piece. Its unique upside-down stance and inspirational message about changing perspectives are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While small, it's appreciated for its cultural connection to local folklore and its role as a fun photo opportunity.
"Kinuta-kun Statue
1-2-3 Chuo, Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture 292-0067
Visited on August 15, 2025.
I've used Kisarazu Station many times to visit the Kisarazu Fireworks Festival, but I never noticed it.
This time, since I had some time before the fireworks, I noticed this sign and headed to Shoseiji Temple.
I've transcribed the sign below.
Kinuta-kun, the Upside-Down Raccoon
Kinuta-kun's Message
Sometimes, try looking upside down.
You'll see things you couldn't see before.
When each citizen looks at this city with a new perspective,
even if their individual efforts are small, they will become a powerful force.
Only citizens who make an effort can have a city with good fortune.
Let's all try looking upside down!
As in Ujo Noguchi's children's song, the monk and the raccoon dogs dance all night on a moonlit night.
Among them is a raccoon named "Kinuta-kun" who is dancing happily and even doing a handstand.
Shoshosei-ji Temple, the garden at Shoshosei-ji Temple is a moonlit night, come on out everyone, my friends yabonhokoponnopon"
千葉落花生
"Tanuki Kinuta: The name may seem simple, but
It's far more impressive than the abstract art pieces and nude bronze statues that often line train stations.
Kisarazu has many ties to the area, including Shosei-ji Temple and Kirare Yozaburo.
Perhaps the tanuki at Shosei-ji Temple is a historical mascot.
I'm envious of towns with so much to promote."
ともぞう
"Kinuta the Upside-Down Tanuki
Sometimes it's good to look at things upside down.
You'll surely see things you couldn't see before.
When each citizen looks at this city with a new perspective, even their individual contributions, however small, will become a powerful force.
Only citizens who make an effort themselves can have a city full of good fortune.
So, let's all look upside down!"
梅雨咲
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monument is conveniently located at the west exit rotary of Kisarazu Station. It's easily accessible by train, making it a straightforward stop for travelers.
While the monument is at the station's rotary, there are likely parking facilities available at or near Kisarazu Station for those arriving by car. It's best to check local station parking information.
Yes, the monument is situated right at the west exit rotary of Kisarazu Station, so it's a very short walk from the station platforms.
Kisarazu Station is served by various JR lines, making it accessible from major cities in the Kanto region. Check your local train schedules for direct routes or transfers.
Absolutely! As it's located in the main station rotary, it's a prominent landmark and very easy to spot upon exiting the west side of Kisarazu Station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Kisarazu Tanuki Monument is a public art installation located in the station's rotary, so there is no admission fee. You can visit it anytime.
As it's an outdoor monument in a public space, it's accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best viewing experience.
There is no entrance fee. The monument is a free-to-access public artwork.
Yes, the monument is always accessible. However, Kisarazu Station might be busier during major holidays or local events.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but as it's in a public transport hub, please be mindful of ongoing train operations and other travelers.
📸 📸 Photography
Try capturing the tanuki in its upside-down pose from various angles. Getting low or looking up can emphasize its unique stance.
Yes, the station's rotary provides a backdrop, and the monument itself is a fun subject. Consider including the station architecture in your shots.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for selfies, especially with the tanuki's playful pose.
Visiting during off-peak hours, like early morning or late evening, might offer fewer crowds for unobstructed photos.
Any modern smartphone or camera will do. The key is to experiment with angles to capture the monument's charm.
🎫 💡 Inspiration & Meaning
The monument, featuring Kinuta-kun, encourages visitors to adopt a new perspective and think creatively, symbolizing that small individual efforts can lead to significant positive change.
Kinuta-kun is a tanuki character inspired by Noguchi Ujo's poem 'The Tanuki Bayashi of Shojoji Temple.' The statue depicts him doing a handstand, representing a change in viewpoint.
It's tied to the local heritage, particularly Noguchi Ujo's famous poem and the nearby Shojoji Temple, celebrating the tanuki as a cultural symbol.
Yes, it's viewed as a piece of public art that carries a meaningful message, often contrasted favorably with more abstract installations.
It's a well-known children's song by Noguchi Ujo that tells a whimsical story about tanuki dancing at Shojoji Temple, a theme that resonates with this monument.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a short walk to the nearby Shojoji Temple, which has its own connection to tanuki folklore through Noguchi Ujo's famous song. This can turn a quick photo stop into a mini cultural adventure for the whole family. It's a low-key, accessible attraction that adds a unique touch to any family outing in Kisarazu.
💡 Creative Thinkers & Art Lovers
Art enthusiasts will also appreciate its charm, especially when contrasted with more abstract or modern installations. The connection to local folklore and the nearby Shojoji Temple adds another layer of cultural depth. It’s a reminder that art can be found in unexpected places and carry profound, yet accessible, meanings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Symbolism of Kinuta-kun
This concept is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where tanuki are often depicted as mischievous but also wise and capable of transformation. Kinuta-kun's handstand is a playful yet profound representation of this ability to change one's stance and perception. Visitors often find this message particularly resonant when facing personal or professional challenges, seeing the monument as a quirky muse for fresh ideas.
Cultural Connections to Shojoji Temple
Visiting the monument can serve as an excellent introduction to this cultural heritage. Many visitors find that understanding the context of the song enhances their appreciation of Kinuta-kun. The proximity of the monument to the temple allows for a combined excursion, offering a deeper dive into Kisarazu's cultural identity. It's a chance to connect with local folklore and appreciate how art and literature can be celebrated in public spaces.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit