In a country known for its extraordinary advertising gimmicks, bizarre corporate symbols and positively surreal marketing mascots, Japan Post's misshapen porcelain postbox creature has to be one of the oddest of all.

The poor little animal, offered to the institution's new savers, has its head bent to one side, supported by a clutching hand. It appears to be scratching its head in a gesture of anxious concentration. An explanation comes on the accompanying box, in an exhortation to look after one's physical health, eat well, maintain a smiling face and - just as importantly - build up savings and insurance.