Sanrio has finally announced news about the 36th annual Sanrio Character Ranking. This year’s award event, the 2021 Sanrio Character Ranking, will open initial votes on April 9 to May 24 when fans can vote for their favourite character from Sanrio’s roster. As with previous years, the 2021 run will also welcome the “Collaboration Category” of the awards which will feature 27 character entries from those who have collaborated with other companies and businesses over the past year.
Ichigo Shimbun is a monthly magazine published by Sanrio. It not only includes information about the latest character merchandise, but is also the place where the Sanrio Character Ranking first began in 1986. From Sanrio’s long list of over 450 characters, just 80 are entered into the awards each year. Cinnamoroll took first place for the 3rd year in a row at the 2020 Sanrio Character Ranking which we covered in detail, including the initial first round up of winners and second round up.
Normally, the results are announced in-person at a big event. This year’s announcement gathering was originally scheduled for June 8, but was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It will now be hosted online instead, and fans will also be able to vote using the new Sanrio members service Sanrio+.
This year’s 80 entrants are now being rolled out over on the official Sanrio Character Awards Twitter page.
This Year’s Award Theme: “The Witness of a New World – Your Support Will Change the Future”
Every Sanrio Character Awards has a theme, and this year’s is, “The Witness of a New World – Your Support Will Change the Future.” The “new world” refers to the future of Sanrio—which celebrated its 60th anniversary last year—that fans will bear witness to. The key visuals for the 2021 Sanrio Character Awards have the characters holding a magnifying glass with which they are peeking into that new world.
New Entrants Announce Everyday On the Official Twitter Page
The Sanrio Character Rankings’ official Twitter page will post the key visuals and personal messages from all 80 entrants on its official Twitter page between February 26 to March 31. Leading this year’s awards ceremony are the popular characters Kuromi, Badtz-Maru, and Hangyodon. Voting opened on February 25.
How to Cast Your Vote
Votes for the 2021 Sanrio Character Ranking can be cast online, at Sanrio shops, and for the first time, on the new Sanrio members service Sanrio+. Votes for the Collaboration Category however can only be placed online. Last year’s vote was open to all fans worldwide. It is unconfirmed whether this year will be the same, but stay tuned as we follow the event.
- Online Votes (Smartphone Only) *Cannot be cast on computers or tablets
- Sanrio Shops
- Sanrio Online Shop
- Ichigo Shimbun (May 2021 Issue, on sale April 10 / June 2021 Issue, on sale May 10).
*Ichigo Shimbun voting open from April 10
- Sanrio+ Members Smile Vote (Sanrio Shops/Online Votes)
- Sanrio+ Members Ticket Vote (Online Votes) *More info TBA
- Other Voting Methods (TBA)
Vote With Sanrio+
Sanrio+ allows members to exchange 100 Smiles (the currency on the Sanrio Shop) for two voting chips. Members can exchange a maximum of 1,000 smiles for 20 chips in one go. The chips are spent at the voting box on the Sanrio Shop. One chip counts for a total of three votes.
Additionally, when members first log in to Sanrio+ on the voting website, they can used 50 Smiles to cast one vote. Members can vote with a maximum of 500 smiles in one day. One Smile vote counts for a total of two votes.
Stay tuned for the latest news and updates on the 2021 Sanrio Character Ranking.
Information
2021 Sanrio Character Ranking
Running: April 9, 2021 – May 24, 2021 (From April 10 in Ichigo Shimbun)
First Round-Up Announcements: April 14, 2021 at Noon (JST)
Second Round-Up Announcements: May 13, 2021 at Noon (JST)
Winner Announcement: June 8, 2021 (Online event, details TBA)
News Page: https://www.sanrio.co.jp/news/mx-ranking2021-20210225/
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Snow Miku Collaborates with Sanrio’s Kuromi to Promote Hokkaido Tourism
21.December.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
Snow Miku has teamed up with Sanrio’s popular character Kuromi to promote the beautiful prefecture of Hokkaido! A new collection of goods went on sale starting December 14, 2022.
Goods
Clear Folder
Pen with Clip
Mini Sign Board
Mini Towel (Set of 2)
Pin
Framed Magnet with Stand
Sticker
T-Shirt
Tapestry
Acrylic Stand
Acrylic Keychain
Rubber Keychain
Silver Foil 2-Layer Magnet
Snow Miku debuted during the Sapporo Snow Festival in 2010 when an incredible snow sculpture of Hatsune Miku was unveiled. Ever since then, Snow Miku festivals have popped up in Hokkaido each winter, and the character dons costumes designed by popular internet creators.
Kuromi is back this year, with Miku’s outfit dyed black and tons of adorable art featuring the rock ‘n roll character. The life-size version of Miku was designed by illustrator PiPi, and the chibi character was designed by illustrator Yoi. Between Miku’s cute idol energy and Kuromi’s edginess, this is the perfect collab for all audiences!
The items are available in two versions: Day, featuring Hokkaido’s beautiful landscapes covered in snow, and Night, featuring twinkling winter lights.
Don’t miss out on these exclusive items!
Information
Hokkaido Exclusive – Snow Miku x Kuromi Hokkaido
Available: December 14, 2022
Official Site: https://snowmiku.com/
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GOODGLAS Reveals Double-Wall Insulated Cinnamoroll Glasses and Straws
21.December.2022 | FASHION
GOODGLAS released two double-wall insulated glasses featuring the popular Sanrio character Cinnamoroll along with a glass straw and cleaning kit on December 16, 2022.
The items are available from GOODGLAS Japan’s Official Online Store or from Kita-Senju Marui, Ueno Marui, Tokyu Department Store Tama Plaza, and Niigata Isetan.
Cinnamoroll Glass
Due to incredible fan demand, these Cinnamoroll glasses are now available just in time for the holidays!
Each glass is heat-resistant, making them perfect for sipping hot winter drinks. Each product is handmade and can also be used to decorate your home!
The lineup includes two types of Cinnamoroll–one with his mouth open and the other with his mouth closed.
Cinnamoroll Glass Reusable Straw
Silicone Carrying Case and Cleaning Tool for Easy Transport
In addition to these adorable glasses, a reusable glass straw is also available! Sure to make each day more adorable, using these straws will help cut down on plastic waste. Each comes with a silicone case and a cleaning brush.
Like the glasses, the straw comes in two designs.Information
Cinnamoroll Double-Wall Insulated Glass (2 varieties)
Price: ¥4,950 (Tax Included)
Cinnamoroll Glass & Straw Set (2 varieties)
Accessories: Silicone Case, Cleaning Brush
Price: ¥3,300 (Tax Included)
Release Date: December 16, 2022
Where to Buy:
GOODGLAS Japan Official Online Store (https://www.r-kj.com)
Kita-Senju Marui, Ueno Marui, Tokyu Department Store Tama Plaza, Niigata Isetan
Official Site: https://www.r-kj.com -
Are you a fan of Kuromi? A free event highlighting the popular Sanrio character will open at Matsuya Ginza from November 30 until December 5! A photo spot will be set up for fans to snap some cute pics and cute merchandise will be on sale. Visitors can also enter a lottery for a chance to meet Kuromi herself!
The #KuromifyTheWorld Project in Ginza is part of a global initiative to introduce more people to Kuromi. The character has become popular across the world, especially with Gen Z.
The Ginza event will show off images of Kuromi throughout the years, and guests will be able to choose from a huge collection of Kuromi-exclusive goods. Whether you’re a big fan or not, there’s no doubt that this will be a fun event for the whole family!
Enter the Lottery to Meet Kuromi!
Those selected will be able to meet Kuromi, who will be wearing a special outfit just for the event! While the event itself is free, visitors must sign up for the lottery in advance. To be eligible to participate, visitors must purchase a ticket along with a minimum of ¥3,000 (including tax) of merchandise. For more details, see the official website.
Free Sticker with Purchase of Merch
An original sticker will be given to guests spending ¥2,000 (including tax) at the merchandise corner. One sticker per customer will be handed out while supplies last.
© 2022 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP630631
Information
#KuromifyTheWorld Project in Ginza
Running: November 30 – December 5, 2022
Venue: Matsuya Ginza 8F Event Square
Admission: Free
Details: https://www.matsuya.com/ginza/events/2022/1118/kuromi-sanrio/
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Chiikawa and Sanrio Characters Collaborate for Special Merch Collection
19.November.2022 | FASHION
A collection of must-have goods featuring Chiikawa and Sanrio characters has been announced! The items will be available at the Sanrio Online Store on November 24 and Sanrio shops nationwide, including department stores, starting November 25. The popular character Chiikawa, created by illustrator nagano, has been invited into the world of Sanrio, and the results are perfectly adorable. The merch lineup includes 21 items from plush toys to acrylic keychains. Purchase bonuses will also be given to those snagging any of the items on offer.
Goods at a Glance
This marks the second collaboration between Sanrio characters and Chiikawa. Fans will want to grab these limited-edition goods, including fluffy plush toys, a mascot-style brooch set, pouches, tote bags, clear folders, and handy cases perfect for storing small items. These items feature completely original designs. Which one is your favorite?
Information
Available at Sanrio stores, Sanrio corners in department stores, etc. (*Products are not carried at all locations.)
Release Date: November 25, 2022
Sanrio Online Shop
Available: November 24 at 10:00
Sanrio: https://shop.sanrio.co.jp/
Rakuten Marketplace: https://www.rakuten.co.jp/sanrio/
Yahoo! Shopping: https://store.shopping.yahoo.co.jp/sanrio/Official Site: https://www.sanrio.co.jp/
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Sanrio Virtual Festival 2023 in Sanrio Puroland to Bring Fans Into the Metaverse
17.November.2022 | ANIME&GAME / SPOT
The Metaverse event that was a smash hit in 2021 will be returning in 2023! Sanrio Virtual Festival 2023 in Sanrio Puroland, one of the world’s largest music festivals blending both the real and virtual worlds, will be held starting January 13, 2023.
A lineup of high-profile performers has been announced, including Airi Suzuki, SKY-HI, Yabai T-Shirts Yasan, and Aoi Fuji. Popular Sanrio characters such as Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi will also appear, and visitors will be able to experience the virtual Puroland by utilizing unique avatars and taking part in a number of exciting events.
The 2021 event was incredibly popular, and the 2023 version will increase the duration and amount of content available. To do this, Puroland has joined forces with VRChat, a well-known US company and social platform. Artists, VTubers, and Sanrio characters will perform in a massive space on B5 of Virtual Sanrio Puroland, and fans can enjoy live performances while also communicating with other guests!
Highlights of SANRIO Virtual Festival 2023 in Sanrio Puroland
・Inspired by PURO VILLAGE at Sanrio Puroland, VIRTUAL PURO VILLAGE is now available in the Metaverse!
・The popular Sanrio Puroland parade will be performed in the virtual space with an original story!
・Starting January 13, 2023, visitors will be able to chat and play in an open space before the concert, and special events–like radio calisthenics–will be held.
・Guests can enjoy mini concerts featuring Sanrio characters every day from January 14 until January 20 (*Fee required.)
The event can be accessed via smartphone, PC, or other devices. Guests can have fun creating their own unique avatars and immersing themselves in the Sanrio Puroland atmosphere no matter where they are! Come experience this state-of-the-art Metaverse space while you can.
Experience Mini Live Shows Featuring Popular Sanrio Characters Every Day
A daily mini concert will be held daily from January 14 until January 20 with a different Sanrio character appearing each day.
The mini-concert ticket allows guests to watch all seven mini-concerts and also includes digital items to use with your avatar, including a fan and a T-shirt.
17 Artists Announced (So Far) to Perform During Virtual Music Festival!
Artists like Airi Suzuki, SKY-HI, and Yabai T-Shirts Yasan will take to the LUNA STAGE (*fee required), with virtual artists including Aoi Fuji appearing on the FUTURE STAGE (*fee required.)
Hello Kitty and other Sanrio characters will also appear at CHILL PARK, each giving a mini live performance. The second artist lineup and performance timetable will be announced in early December.
Free areas will be open to the public. More details and ticket information is available on the official website.
Information
SANRIO Virtual Festival 2023 in Sanrio Puroland
Running: January 13 – January 22, 2023
Venue: Virtual Sanrio Puroland
Official Site: https://v-fes.sanrio.co.jp
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60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii to Open at Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art in February 2023
The word ‘kawaii’ is now commonly used around the world. Sanrio is largely to thank for this, and the beloved company has announced that the 60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition will open at the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art from February 11 until April 2, 2023. Advance tickets will include a discount and will be available until November 14 online.
“Sanrio celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2020, and the company continues to share Japan’s character culture with fans around the world,” Sanrio said in a comment. “Kawaii is now a universal language, and this is very much thanks to the over 450 characters that are part of Sanrio’s history, from Hello Kitty to My Melody.
This exhibition traces the history of Sanrio and guests can enjoy seeing rare materials including merchandise, publications, and early designs from the company’s founding. We want to continue to grow and develop our characters while valuing communication with our fans, ensuring that our adorable characters are loved by generations to come.”
The Sanrio exhibition is something that generations of fans can enjoy, so come immerse yourself in this kawaii world! For more details, visit the official website.
Information
60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii
Running: February 11 – April 2, 2023
Hours: 9:30 – 17:00 (Last entry at 16:30)
Venue: Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art (17-chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido)
Official Site: https://stv.jp/event/sanrio
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Hello Kitty Autumn Event ‘Apple Halloween 2022’ Running Until October 31
HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX, a theater and restaurant offering Hello Kitty-themed shows and meals on Awaji Island, and HELLO KITTY APPLE HOUSE, an apple-shaped observation theater based on the popular character’s home, are both currently holding the Apple Halloween 2022 event until October 31!
Guests can enjoy a mystery-solving event and some adorable photo spots inspired by apples and the Halloween season. By solving certain riddles, visitors will be rewarded with candy!
Come have fun this Halloween with Hello Kitty, friends, and family!
Started in October, the New Show ‘HELLO KITTY THE PARTIES’ Gets Rave Reviews
HELLO KITTY THE PARTIES, a new show at the theater and restaurant HELLO KITTY SHOW BOX, will run until December 30, 2022. The show features a new theme each month and currently features a jazz band.
October’s theme is Happy Halloween Party, and visitors can listen to a number of famous songs while enjoying tasty and healthy dishes packed with autumn flavors. At the end of the performance, a meet and greet with Hello Kitty will be held. November’s theme will be Hello Kitty’s Birthday Party, while December will focus on a Christmas Party!
Information
Apple Halloween 2022
Running until October 31, 2022
Hours: 11:00-17:00
Venue: Awaji Hello Kitty Apple Land ( 177-5 Nojimahirabayashi, Awaji, Hyogo)
Official Website: https://awaji-resort.com/hellokittyshowbox/
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The #KuromifyTheWorld Project Celebrates First Anniversary with Special Week of Events
06.October.2022 | FASHION
The #KuromifyTheWorld campaign is already one year old! Created to share the adorable Sanrio character Kuromi with the world, fans will be invited to celebrate this milestone from October 20 until October 31 with special events in Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.
Kuromi’s Drink Stand will be open for a limited time in Tokyo and Osaka. Customers will be invited to choose the color of their drink according to their mood, and will also be able to customize it with tags, acrylic stands, and stickers! An original photo spot will also be set up beside each drink stand, and those wanting to attend can enter the lottery to win tickets now.
Sanrio’s first and largest Kuromi ad truck will also be driving through the streets of Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka during the event week.
Kuromi will also be teaming up with (G)I-DLE, a popular five-member global idol group from South Korea. Campaigns are planned to appear in Hangzhou, Suzhou, Taiwan, Korea, North America, and Europe.
Kuromi ranked in the top three in this year’s Sanrio Character Awards, and her popularity is steadily growing with Gen-Z. Keep an eye out for more Kuromi-inspired events in the future!
Information
#KuromifyTheWorld Week
・Kuromi’s Drink Stand:
Running:
Shinjuku, Tokyo: October 20 – October 24, 2022
Shinsaibashi, Osaka: October 29 – October 31, 2022
・#KuromifyTheWorld Ad Truck:
Running:
Tokyo: October 20 – October 24Nagoya: October 26 – October 27
Osaka: October 29 – October 31
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Crayon Shin-chan and Cinnamoroll Collaboration Apparel Available at AEON
28.September.2022 | ANIME&GAME / FASHION
Aeon’s fashion brand DOUBLEFOCUS has announced a unique apparel collection featuring Crayon Shin-chan and Sanrio’s popular character Cinnamoroll! The collection itself will include 14 items and will release on September 29, 2022. Those interested will be able to purchase these items at over 150 AEON and AEON-STYLE locations around Japan, as well as online. Crayon Shin-chan has been a popular series for decades, and Cinnamoroll has won first place for three consecutive years in the Sanrio Character Awards.
Many characters from Crayon Shin-chan will be featured in the collection, including Shinnosuke, Himawari, Shiro, and Buriburizaemon. These unique items can only be purchased at AEON stores, and fans can find everything from cushions and key chains to clothing. Be sure to grab your favorite items before they sell out!
Ⓒ臼井儀人/双葉社・シンエイ・テレビ朝日・ADK
Ⓒ2022 SANRIO CO.,LTD.TOKYO.JAPANⓁ
Information
Crayon Shin-chan x Cinnamoroll Special Collaboration
Release Date: September 29, 2022
Where to Buy: 150 AEON & AEON-STYLE locations (Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu,
and Okinawa)Order Online: https://aeonretail.com/shop/stylefashion/feature/new-releases-17/
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Godiva Cafe Collaborates with Sanrio Characters Badtz-Maru and Keroppi
22.September.2022 | FOOD
Godiva Cafe has collaborated with Sanrio’s character unit Hapidanbui twice since February, and the third collaboration is scheduled to start on September 15! All locations nationwide will sell hot or cold cocoa milk with a special sleeve and sticker featuring everyone’s favorite Sanrio characters.
The third collaboration will focus on Badtz-Maru and Keroppi. The shop’s cocoa milk combines smooth Godiva chocolate with milk and fresh cream, so why not grab one this fall?
Information
Godiva Cafe x Sanrio (Collaboration #3)
Hapidanbui Hot Cocoa Milk / Hapidanbui Cold Cocoa Milk
Available: September 15 while supplies last
Where to Find: All Godiva Cafe locations nationwide
Official Site: https://www.godiva.co.jp/cafe/
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Sanrio Releases New Collection Inspired by Gyaru from the 90s and 2000s
13.September.2022 | FASHION
On September 14, Sanrio will release an adorable new collection of goods inspired by 90s gyaru fashion! Fans of Japanese pop culture may be familiar with the gyaru subculture, and now, you can grab your favorite Sanrio character all dressed up like a fashionable girl on the streets of Tokyo during the Heisei era. These items will be available at Sanrio stores nationwide, Sanrio corners in department stores, and Sanrio online. The lineup includes goods featuring Hello Kitty, My Melody, Kuromi, and Cinnamoroll.
A total of 17 new items will be available, including mascot keychains, accessory cases, and plenty more to show off your gyaru side. Hair clips, which were very popular during the height of gyaru fashion, are perfect to either attach to your head or to your school bag.
Along with the listed goods, secret straps featuring nostalgic 90s motifs will also be sold at random! These are perfect for hanging on your glove compartment, a mirror in your purse, or your bag.
New Products
Mascot Keychain (4 varieties): ¥1,980 each
Each mascot keychain shows a popular Sanrio character dressed in popular Gyaru fashion.
Accessory Case with Hole for Strap (4 varieties): ¥1,100 each
Hair Clip (4 varieties): ¥990 (Set of 2)
Pouch: ¥2,420
Secret Strap (8 varieties): ¥880 each
Each comes with a strap. The Cell phone can be opened and closed.
*Secret Straps are sold in a blind box.
Information
Tokimeki Heisei Kogyaru Design Series
Release Date: September 14, 2022
Limit: From September 14 until September 20, each person is limited to 2 items of each character.
Sanrio Goods Page:
https://www.sanrio.co.jp/news/goods/mx-tokimeki-kogal-202209
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Pochacco and Pekkle Collaboration Donuts Coming Soon
08.September.2022 | FOOD
The handmade donut shop Floresta will be offering some adorable Pochacco and Pekkle donuts from September 10 until September 30, 2022. Customers can snag them at Floresta locations and the online store.
Floresta specializes in donuts made from all-natural ingredients, and these adorable collaboration donuts are sure to put a smile on Sanrio fans’ faces!
These donuts are made with Floresta’s special white chocolate mixed with strawberry powder and pumpkin powder. Not overly sweet, these goodies will suit anyone’s palate.
Although these sweet treats may be colorful, they were made with all-natural ingredients and are free of synthetic colors, fragrances, and preservatives. Many customers have said that the natural taste is totally different from that of standard donuts, so why not give it a try with family or friends?
Information
Pochacco & Pekkle Collaboration Donuts
Available: September 10 – September 30, 2022
Where to Buy: In-store or at the online shop (https://floresta-ec.jp/)
*Preorders begin on September 10 at 10:00 AM
*Items available in limited quantities.