Stop being mean to the new Japanese travel mascots. With the iconic Suica Penguin retiring, the East Japan Railway Company (JR East) has unveiled a trio of contenders to carry on the legacy – a squirrel, a rabbit, and an indistinct mouselike creature. While some fans are tearing their hair out over the change, others find these quirky characters strangely endearing. The public can vote for their favourite, ensuring the new mascot will have the people's backing. The Suica Penguin's 25-year reign has made it more than just an IC card mascot; it's a beloved part of Japanese culture, appearing on merchandise and bringing joy to many. Change, as always, is met with resistance, but perhaps these new mascots will win hearts and minds.

Meanwhile, the internet's reaction to Spotify's disco logo and the Cracker Barrel debacle proves that change is hard. But let's give these new mascots a fair chance. After all, sometimes our most cherished icons need a refresh. Voting is now open on the JR East website. Sign up to Creative Bloq's daily newsletter for the latest in art, design, and technology.