"When first-time visitors arrive in Japan, a few things they may
notice right off the bat include the juxtaposition of the high-tech
and the ancient, the unfailing politeness of locals, and a curious
fixation with cuteness — to wit, all the cute mascots that promote
regions, historic sites, local specialties and events, the police, you
name it."
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/fs20110303a3.html