Japan’s ‘Suica penguin’ mascot to be retired and replaced in public vote after 25 years of service

The public will pick the penguin’s replacement from among 3 candidates by September 23.

Published: 6:02pm, 18 Sep 2026

The beloved penguin mascot of Tokyo’s Suica transport smart card is set to be replaced when it retires early next year. Regarded by many as the most popular mascot in the country and beyond, the Suica penguin will be replaced by a new character. The new mascot will be selected from three contenders by public vote, set to conclude on September 23.