Baku-chan, a young tapir from planet baku, arrives on earth and settles with hana, a human girl who has also immigrated from nagoya to tokyo. despite being unfamiliar with everything around him, he embarks on an exciting journey filled with new experiences. however, he faces discrimination as an immigrant, which can be challenging at times. fortunately, baku-chan receives support from hana and other kind earthlings, as well as his fellow immigrants. through masumuras's experience in canada, the story is depicted through vibrant drawings that reflect both heartwarming moments and real-world challenges faced by immigrants, including violence, pressure to conform, and adapting to a new environment. the tale raises important questions about society and its treatment of immigrants.
Baku-chan won the New Face Award at the 21st installment of the Japan Media Arts Festival in 2017.