Noto, a small Japanese town, used COVID-19 relief funds from the government to buy a squid statue that cost around 230,000 USD (Express News, 2021).
In Noto, squid is a delicacy. This was one of the reasons the small coastal city made this questionable investment. However, the real reason for buying the squid statue was to help build a reputation for the region. According to the town officials, they have a plan in mind to help boost tourism in the area after the pandemic with the power of the giant squid statue (Express News, 2021).
Construction of the squid statue began 7 months ago and was moved to Noto in March of this year when it was completed (NBC, News, 2021). Measuring in at about 4 metres in height and almost 9 metres in length, it’s bright red hue is resemblant of the giant squid, making it hard to miss.
While the pandemic rages on everywhere in the world, the people of Noto are thinking a few steps ahead, ready to welcome tourists after the pandemic to explore their culture, and of course, the giant squid statue.
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