Here are Chef and Fireball as Hanasaka Neko (the cat who made flowers
blossom) and his friend Lucky Cat. As
you may know, the “Lucky Cat” is a Japanese symbol which is believed to bring
luck. On the right-hand side of the cherry tree branch, Lucky Cat is inviting everyone
to Central Park. Hanasaka Neko is a cat version of
a famous Japanese folk character, “Hanasaka- Jiisan”, an old man who made
withered trees blossom.
100 years ago Japan gave cherry blossom trees to New York as
a symbol of US-Japan friendship. These trees
have made their home in New York, including Central Park and
have blossomed beautifully. Now, Hanasaka
Neko is spreading this blossom with
smiles and happiness to all of New York.
