The Animals of “Republic of Air” Have Become Button Hooks
In November last year, we unveiled our new Republic of Air Button Hook series at the TAIWAN DESIGN EXPO in Tainan.
This whimsical collection is a collaboration with Tainan-based illustrator AXXY COOL (Anny).
Republic of Air is an imaginary world created by Anny, where she and the animals who live there can float freely through the sky. For this project, we explored the theme of a collaboration between Sumida, Tokyo and Tainan—animals traveling from Tainan to Sumida.
Since this is a joint project between Tokyo’s Sumida Ward and Tainan City, each animal carries something special—either a beloved symbol from Taiwan/Tainan’s culture or an item connected to the history and charm of Sumida.
Meet the Animals
Penguin
The penguins at Sumida Aquarium—located in Tokyo Skytree Town—are beloved residents of Sumida. Orange Tokyo Co., Ltd. is also the official ambassador for one particular penguin named Kiriko.
In our Republic of Air world, this penguin rides atop a red “Ang Yi Tau” stool—a colorful seat often found in Taiwanese eateries. Perhaps it’s really flying… or maybe just imagining it.
Pheasant-tailed Jacana (Renka-ku in Japanese)
This elegant, long-tailed bird lives in Tainan and attracts birdwatchers from far and wide. On its feet are Taiwan’s famous blue-and-white sandals, or Lan Bai Tuo, whose straps are said to form a smiling face.
Maltese
Based on Anny’s own beloved dog, the Maltese carries a bottle of Taiwan Beer, a favorite local brew often seen in Taiwanese restaurants in Japan. The Jacana’s colors, meanwhile, are inspired by Kototoi Dango, a famous traditional sweet from Sumida Ward.
Hedgehog
A frequent character in the Republic of Air universe, Mr. Hedgehog rides a unicycle while holding a heaping bowl of mango shaved ice (Mangguo Xuehuabing)—a summertime treat loved by many in Taiwan.
Cat
One of the most popular designs in the series pairs a cheerful cat with a fish—specifically milkfish (Sabahi), a staple beloved in Tainan. We learned that milkfish porridge is considered a national comfort food, so it’s definitely on our list for our next trip.
Look closely and you’ll see the cat’s fur markings are actually the shapes of Sumida Ward and Tainan—one of Anny’s clever hidden details.
Fox
The fox flies through the sky with a nylon market bag (Gajia Dai), carrying inside a traditional Tainan sweet called Pong Bing. These market bags are a familiar sight in Taiwan—lightweight, colorful, and perfect for bringing home souvenirs or snacks.
Each of these designs is full of cultural connections and playful charm, making them irresistible accessories to wear and collect.
The Republic of Air Button Hooks celebrate the friendship between Sumida and Tainan—bridging two cities through art, storytelling, and imagination.