Japan has finally allowed prefectures to display their pride through customized license plates. That for Kumamoto is shown below, the background of which shows the Hosokawa crest (which, you might notice, has also been adapted to the Kumamoto symbol also shown - sort of a Hosokawa crest with a bite taken out of it, which would work better if Kumamoto were spelled “Cumamoto”) with Kumamon peeking out from the side. The plates are available with a donation suggested beginning at 1,000 yen. More info and examples of those of other prefectures are available at the link: https://japantoday.com/category/national/new-stylish-japanese-license-plates-lets-people-show-off-prefecture-pride-on-the-move
Your opinions would be interesting to hear. Is Kumamon being overused? Would some landmark less ephemeral than Kumamon such as the castle or Mt. Aso be more appropriate? Comments and suggestions are welcome below. - William