Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on January 2010

Courtesy of Good Smile Company

Alpacas hold a peculiar fascination in Japan. K Company’s Alopaca (sic) range turned the llama-like critter into a popular cuddly toy, while we’re still trying to straighten our brains out after watching those Kuraray commercials in which Riko Narumi is rescued from danger by a giant alpaca. Phat Company has chosen the shaggy camelid to launch its Dokidoki Doubutsu Series, which pays tribute to the lesser-known members of the animal kingdom (coming next month: the shoebill!). The 1/12 scale figure clocks in at just over 4in tall, making it small enough to keep in your pocket and whip out the next time you find yourself caught in a tight spot. Altogether now: “Kuraraaaaay!”

Alpaca, ¥1,050. Available from most toy stores. www.phatcompany.jp