Discovering the World of Hello Kitty
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Welcome to the enchanting world of Hello Kitty! Known affectionately as Kitty-chan in Japan, this adorable feline has captured the hearts of millions around the globe. With her signature red bow and charming personality, Hello Kitty stands as one of Japan’s most beloved icons. Whether you’re wandering through a Sanrio Toy Shop or planning a visit to the magical Sanrio Puroland, you’re bound to be immersed in a whimsical experience filled with color, joy, and a sprinkle of cuteness!
Exploring Sanrio Puroland
Sanrio Puroland, often referred to as Hello Kitty Land in tourist guidebooks, is a must-visit destination for any fan of this delightful character. Nestled just outside Tokyo, it’s a treasure trove of fun and excitement! But fair warning: this isn’t located within the bustling city center. Plan for a delightful adventure that takes about 30 minutes from Shinjuku Station or 60 minutes from Tokyo Station. So, grab your friends and family, and prepare for a day of enchantment!
While it may not boast the polished grandeur of Disneyland, Sanrio Puroland is perfect for hardcore fans and curious visitors alike. Imagine being surrounded by your favorite characters and indulging in themed shopping and adorable food options! The park is entirely indoors, making it a fantastic option regardless of the weather. Rain or shine, the fun never stops!
What to Expect Inside Sanrio Puroland
Inside, you’ll find a variety of engaging shows, delightful rides, interactive areas, themed restaurants, and an array of toy stores. It’s like stepping into a dream where everything is infused with Hello Kitty magic! For families with little ones, there are change tables and a baby center stocked with nappies, baby food, and formula. Plus, there are breastfeeding rooms available for nursing mothers.
One important note for parents: strollers must be left near the entrance, so if you have a tiny tot who isn’t quite walking independently yet, we recommend bringing a baby carrier to keep your hands free for all that shopping and snacking!
Sanrio Puroland can get quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, check out the Japanese version of their website (the English site isn’t as detailed). Look for the calendar icon; days marked with pink flowers indicate high traffic days, while green flags show special events. Plus, character birthdays are marked with an adorable character icon! How fun is that?
Sanrio World – A Retail Paradise
If you’re on the hunt for Sanrio merchandise, make sure to visit SanrioWorld in Ginza. While it isn’t a theme park, it is a treasure trove of gifts and goodies! This expansive store features interactive sections that’ll have your kids giggling with joy as they see characters projected onto their faces. They’ll feel like they’re part of the Sanrio universe!
Need to take a break? You’ll find restrooms equipped with change tables, though keep in mind that there’s no elevator to the second floor—only escalators. So, wear those comfy shoes and get ready to explore! Sanrio stores are scattered throughout Tokyo, with over 20 locations available. Check out HERE for a comprehensive list and details.
Don’t Miss the Sanrio Cafe!
If you’re in Ikebukuro, you can’t miss the delightful Sanrio Cafe located inside Sunshine City. With a menu filled with cute and tasty options, it’s the perfect place to refuel before continuing your Sanrio adventure. Across Japan, you’ll find Sanrio products stocked in various stores, from large department stores to charming Kiddyland toy stores, even at airports and train stations!
Delicious Hello Kitty Treats
Speaking of food, have you tried Hello Kitty Cookies? These beautifully packaged treats are sold for about 250 yen as a single cookie at It’s Demo drug and beauty stores all over Japan. They make for the perfect souvenir or snack! And for a bit of self-care, don’t forget to grab some Hello Kitty Beauty Face Masks—available at Tokyu Hands and most drug and makeup stores. Just be prepared for a look that’s more horror movie than kawaii!
Our Family’s Favorite Hello Kitty Finds
Our family’s Hello Kitty collection has grown over the years, and we’ve stumbled upon some real gems! One of our favorites is the Hello Kitty Pet Clinic, a delightful dollhouse that doubles as a carrying case. We found it on Amazon for about 2000 yen, and it comes with us on every family holiday! It’s a bit messy now, filled with random stickers and toys, but the memories it holds are priceless!
Another big hit in our household is the Hello Kitty Vending Machine Toy. Both my little girl and little boy adore it! It’s filled with small pieces, so we have to keep a close eye on them, but it’s so affordable that we keep replacing the lost cans and coins without breaking the bank!
So, whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the magic of Hello Kitty, Tokyo is bursting with opportunities for fun and exploration. From theme parks to cafes, and delightful treats, the world of Hello Kitty is waiting for you!