Japanese school children have decided on the mascots for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games --- two futuristic, superhero creatures.
The mascots, which are yet to be named, were chosen by children from over 16,000 elementary schools across Japan and its international schools.
The children voted for their favourite designs from three shortlisted illustrations. The winner was unveiled at a school in the capital on Wednesday, after receiving over 109,000 votes.
The blue and pink digitally designed creatures echo the country's anime obsession and, according to organizers, combine tradition with modern innovation.
"I cannot wait to see these two characters coming to life in the stadiums, on the streets and on TV," Ryohei Miyata, chairperson of the mascot selection panel, said in a statement.
"I believe this is an excellent choice since Tokyo 2020's branding vision is "innovation from harmony", which implies that innovation will occur when the old and the new of Tokyo and Japan come together."
The voting process was part of the country's nationwide education program called "Yoi Don!" which means "Get Set!". The program aims to teach children the values of the Games and allow them to get involved in initiatives linked to Tokyo 2020.
According to organizers, the mascots -- created by character designer and illustrator, Ryo Taniguchi -- have "opposite personalities" but "respect each other and are very good friends."
CNN
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