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“Tsuzuki Mamoru-kun,” standing at the intersection beside the Yokohama City Tsuzuki Ward History Museum, is a symbolic presence watching over the region’s traffic safety and peace. With its imposing figure, it gives daily passersby a sense of reassurance, almost like a guardian deity of the community.
This giant gorilla statue was originally beloved by many children and visitors at the “Dinosaur Forest” theme park along the Hodogaya Bypass until 1996. After the park closed, the Tsuzuki Traffic Safety Association received the gorilla and installed it with hopes for the future development and traffic safety of Tsuzuki Ward. Later, through a public naming contest among local residents, it was named “Tsuzuki Mamoru-kun,” and an unveiling ceremony was held in Chigasaki Town, Tsuzuki Ward, on February 29, 1996. (city-yokohama-tsuzuki.net)
Afterward, Mamoru-kun was relocated next to the Tsuzuki Branch of the Waterworks Bureau in 2000, and in 2005, it was installed at its current location at the intersection beside the History Museum. This spot, with its heavy traffic, is considered the ideal place for Mamoru-kun to watch over traffic safety. (city-yokohama-tsuzuki.net)
At night, Mamoru-kun is illuminated, making its presence even more striking. Especially in winter, with the cooperation of local businesses, it is decorated with illuminations, providing a dazzling sight for the community. (topics.smt.docomo.ne.jp)
Tsuzuki Mamoru-kun is not just a monument, but a presence imbued with the region’s history and the wishes of its people. With its powerful figure, it will continue to watch over the traffic safety and peace of Tsuzuki Ward.