Emblem

The overall form of the logo represents Hokkaido – the northernmost of Japan’s four main islands – as a whole. It also has design elements echoing the North Star shining in the night sky, a snow crystal and the winter breeze.

The blue of the outer arcs symbolizes the chill of winter, while the bright sun (the symbol of the Olympic Council of Asia) in the middle represents the fiery passion with which the Games will be contested regardless of the bracing winter conditions.

The five blue arcs themselves represent the five sports of the Games (skiing, skating, ice hockey, curling and biathlon), and are inspired by the speed and energy with which the athletes will compete. The five shapes combine to symbolize these concepts.

The arcs also hold extra significance, representing the people from the five Asian regions (Central, Eastern, Southern, Southeastern and Western Asia) who will assemble in the host cities of Sapporo and Obihiro and work together to ensure the success of the Games. They also signify the assembly and collaboration of representatives from the five regions under the OCA symbolized by the sun in the middle.

Although the arcs seem to gravitate towards the centre, they can also be viewed as spreading outward, representing the organisers’ hopes that the influence of this winter sporting event will develop and spread with Hokkaido as a base.

Mascot

Wrapped up in a red scarf and blue cape, Ezomon is a very special flying squirrel that, in Japan, is only found in Hokkaido. Among the children, Ezomon is the winter sports hero that encourages them to dream big. Being an attention seeker, Ezomon pumps up the Games by flying around, wearing the cape with pride!

Profile

Place of Birth: Hokkaido (Ezo)

Characteristics: Red scarf and blue cape

Personality: Attention seeker

Favourite food: Milk

Hobby: Gliding in the air

Favourite sports: Winter sports

Looking for: Friends who want to get pumped for the Games togethe