Japan's maker of mascots feeds a nation's craving for cuteness

Miyazaki, Japan

FOR some of Japan's most adored celebrities, the journey to fame starts in a converted Internet cafe above a bowling alley in this sunny south-western city.

This is where Hiromi Kano runs her unlikely star factory, an enterprise whose most successful creations are recognised by millions. Some have huge followings on Twitter and earn billions of yen in revenue. At least one has met the emperor.