According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2009 is the Year of the Ox.  Paper models of the Ox are being created in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture.

These Zodiac models from Hirosaki have become an year-end tradition and symbol for 24 years.  These models are handmade by stretching Japanese paper (washi) over a wireframe and then painted.

Work began on November 1 and 3,500 pieces will be completed by January 2009.  Orders are pouring in from all over the country by those who want to collect all twelve of the zodiac signs.