Sanrio Puroland has announced the release of a new Sanrio character face mask and case collection on December 18, 2020.

Original Masks & Cases – Regular Sizes (6 Designs) | ¥1,650 Each (Tax Included)

The face masks and face mask cases feature cute designs of Sanrio characters including Dear Daniel, Badtz-Maru, Kuromi, My Sweet Piano, and Mocha.

Original Masks & Cases – Kids Sizes (3 Designs) | ¥1,320 Each (Tax Included)

There are also kids sizes with My Melody, Kuromi, and a character mix designs so parents and children can look cute together.

Mask Attachments (6 Designs) | ¥1,650 Each (Before Tax)

Sanrio also has a line-up of Hello Kitty, Dear Daniel, My Melody, Kuromi, Pompompurin, and Cinnamoroll attachments for the face masks.

©1976, 2009 SANRIO CO., LTD. ©1976, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1993, 1996, 2001, 2005, 2020 SANRIO CO., LTD.

Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd. has announced the release of three cloth face masks—made from recycled organic cotton obtained from leftover materials during the manufacturing of autumn and winter apparel—which will be released at Muji stores across Japan from mid-October this year.

Face masks have become an essential part of peoples’ daily lives across the globe, with many people now opting for reusable cloth masks over disposable ones due to their reusability by simply washing them, feeling soft on the face, and reducing waste.

Muji too is on board this more environmentally-friendly approach and released reusable three-layered face masks back online in May.

Face Mask (Fleece) – ¥999 (Tax Included)

Face Mask (Flannel) – ¥999 (Tax Included) / Face Mask (Corduroy) | ¥999 (Tax Included)

Muji’s new masks will release in fleece, flannel, and corduroy designs.

All the masks are made from organic cotton leftover from Ryohin Keikaku manufacturing their hoodies, shirts, trousers, and other clothing items for the autumn/winter season.

Pre-sales for Sanrio’s new face mask bags opened on Wednesday (September 9) on Asunarosha’s online shop. There are two bag designs, one with Hello Kitty and another with Cinnamoroll.

Hello Kitty Face Mask Bag ¥700 (Before Tax) / Cinnamoroll Face Mask Bag ¥700 (Before Tax)

Now you can store your masks safely and hygienically wherever you go and make it look cute.

The bags are made from TPU plastic and combines the strength of plastic with the lightweightness of silicone, so your mask won’t get dusty and even if the bag gets wet or dirty, the face mask stays safe and in tact.

The bags also take on an adorable rainbow colour when the light hits them, adding a bit of fun to the face mask routine.

©1976, 2001, 2020 SANRIO CO., LTD.

In an effort to ensure the safety and protect the health of guests and staff, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) introduced strict measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on June 8, 2020, such as limiting the number of people who could enter the park each day and enforcing thorough cleaning routines. This enabled the park to reopen after its temporary closure. It has since been able to deliver its scope of fun and excitement to guests, albeit in a more structured way.

USJ wants to make wearing masks more fun too, and so it is releasing a range of character-inspired face masks, such as Snoopy, Elmo and the Cookie Monster, on August 7. Part of the money made from sales of these masks will be donated to the USJ Wonder Kids Program which helps support children in need.

Universal Studios Japan original design masks

The masks’ unique designs take the mouths of each character. These can be worn together with each respective characters’ headband which are also sold at USJ. Designs include Elmo, Cookie Monster, Snoopy, Tim, Jurassic Park, and Jaws.

Photos provided by Universal Studios Japan.
HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. (s20)
Minions and all related elements and indicia TM & © 2020 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.
TM & © 2020 Universal Studios.
© 2020 Peanuts
© ’76, ’20 SANRIO
© 2020 Sesame Workshop
TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment
TM & © Universal Studios.
TM Universal Studios.

Monosense is set to release the third collection of face masks in the popular Pokémon Cosmetic Series on June 19, 2020.

The Pokemon cosmetic series has been a huge success in Japan since it launched, spanning face masks, hand cream, lip cream, lip gloss, point packs, mirrors, and body gel. The face masks however have proven the most popular, having sold over 600,000 of them. Now, Pokémon Trainers can look forward to the third collection in an all new 2020 version.

Until now, the face masks themselves have had an entire print of a single Pokémon face on them. This time, however, they have a new design with many of that Pokémon on them, along with colours that remind one of that Pokémon.

Skin can get pretty dry when summer rolls around, so these made-in-Japan face masks will keep Trainers’ skin moisturised thanks to the collagen, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter in them.

There are four Pokémon to choose from: Pikachu, Eevee, Psyduck, and Mew. Who will you choose?

Japanese cosmetic brand Lovisia has shipped over 1.1 million products, including the super popular Pokémon Cosmetic Series which we have covered in detail.

Now, to celebrate the 28th anniversary of HAL Laboratory and Nintendo’s video game Kirby’s Dream Land this year, Lovisia has revealed its new “Kirby’s Dram Land Face Masks” which will go on sale at variety shops, online sites like Tokyu Hands and Village Vanguard, and elsewhere in Japan on June 19, 2020.

“Pink Lush” is the concept behind the cute pink-coloured masks. The masks themselves are like the characters from the game. Lovisia previously released eye shadow, lipstick, and a mirror as part of the same series in April which proved popular amongst fans.

There are three designs in total: Kirby, Waddle Dee, and Meta Knight, all of which are Instagram-worthy and great as a treat to yourself or a gift to friends.

The masks are made in Japan, and contain collagen, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter, all for their moisturising effects. Each has a soap scent, which will leave your skin smelling fresh and looking cute and soft. The perfect accompaniment to enjoy at home right now.

©Nintendo / HAL Laboratory, Inc. KB20-P2210

Over 50 manga artists in Japan are coming together for the launch of the new “MANGA Day to Day” project which will depict daily life during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The project is set to roll out for free in mid-June on Twitter and Comic Days. A teaser by famous manga artist Tetsuya Chiba (Ashita no Joe; Notari Matsutarō) was released on May 22, 2020.

A related project entitled “Day to Day” is also taking place over on the Japanese literature news website TREE where over 50 popular authors have penned writings and essays on the restrictions of today’s everyday life. In addition to Japan, both projects have caught the attention of overseas news media and websites too. Like the related “Day to Day” project, “MANGA Day to Day” will have one new manga strip released for free each day on Twitter and Comic Days. A piece entitled Akudama by Tetsuya Chiba is already available to see over on the project’s official Twitter account.

People’s lives have changed drastically as a result of the pandemic. To pass down this time in history to the next 100, or even 200 years, the pieces contributed to the “MANGA Day to Day” project will be compiled into a book that’s scheduled for release in early 2021. A special edition of the book will also be compiled featuring both the manga and writing pieces.

Be sure to follow the Twitter account below to keep up to date.

A BATHING APE® released its new face mask case on Saturday (May 23) for people to hygienically put away their face masks, whether to store away or for on the go. The cases will be given to everyone that purchases something from the BAPE STORE® or BAPE.COM in Japan.

The case features BAPE’s iconic APE HEAD design. It’s made from PVC and so can be hand washed so people can safely and hygienically store their face masks. The case can of course be used to store hand sanitiser or hand wipes too.

Japanese jeans select shop Right-on is now taking pre-orders for their new “Denim Masks” which are made using “wash denim.”

Denim Mask – ¥1,290 (Before Tax)

“Washi Denim” is a material used in Right-on’s private brand “BACK NUMBER” which has sold over 450,00 products. The inside of the mask is antibacterial and odor-resistant, protecting the masks from yellowing as a result of staphylococcus. The fabric is also cool touch and so can be used for the hot weather too. And of course the mask can be washed.

The straps on the side have an adjuster so you can fit it to you face.

The top of the nose part is cut to make the mask fit better so it can be worn comfortable for long periods of time.

Like many institutions around the world now, Mori Art Museum is temporarily closed as a result of COVID-19. But that hasn’t stopped the museum spreading creativity as it recently launched a new page on its website titled “Mori Art Museum Digital.”

The page comes as part of a new agenda by Mori Art Museum which it is calling “MAM @ HOME” which encourages people to “Stay Home, Stay Creative.” The project aims for the museum to stay connected with people even while the building itself is closed by offering a host of free art-related content.

This includes the “Future and the Arts 3D Walkthrough” which had to end in response to the museum’s closure, an online sneak preview of the postponed “MAM Screen 013: Mounira Al Solh,” the “ARTISTS COOKBOOK” which features recipes, photos and stories from artists around the world, and more.

Program #1: Online Sneak Preview of MAM Screen 013: Mounira Al Solh

Mounira Al Solh – Rawane’s Song (2006)

Mounira Al Solh – As If I Don’t Fit There (2006)

Since “MAM Screen 013: Mounira Al Aolh” has been postponed as a measure against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Mori Art Museum is introducing two works online prior to the official screening: Rawane’s Song (2006) and As If I Don’t Fit There (2006).

Mounira Al Solh works internationally and is based in her home country Lebonan and in Europe. Her work offers humorous takes on everyday events and stories, as well as episodes based on the lives of women from a contemporary society where political and religious conflicts as well as issues surrounding refugees occurs.

Program #2: Future and the Arts 3D Walkthrough

Due to the museum’s closure, “Future and the Arts: AI, Robotics, Cities, Life – How Humanity Will Live Tomorrow” was forced to end earlier than scheduled. Since then, the museum has been able to share walkthroughs of the exhibition via Instagram Live, as well as photos. Now people can enjoy the exhibition in a more immersive way as the museum introduces a virtual, 3D walkthrough, which they were able to capture thanks to the galleries being empty. It’s a complete recreation of the exhibition for people to enjoy at home.

Special #1: ARTISTS COOKBOOK by MAM

As a special project during Mori Art Museum’s closure, the museum has introduced “ARTISTS COOKCOOK by MAM,” a collection of recipes, stories, and photographs that artists from around the world have shared with them. The first recipe showcased is the “Kusama Lotus” by Kataoka Mami, the Director of Mori Art Museum. She describes lotus roots as reminiscent of polka dots and white nets, and that it’s a dish we could keep eating forever. She calls it a “dish for infinity.”

More recipes can be found on the museum’s official social media pages, so be sure to check them out.

Learning Online: Enjoy, Play, Learn Art @ HOME

Mori Art Museum hosts various programs and events where people can deepen their knowledge about contemporary art from around the world. The museum has posted an archived list of videos from some of their programs which people can tune in to from the comfort of their homes.

Neco Republic launched online pre-orders of its new face masks, called “SAVE THE CAT MASK,” via its website on May 6, 2020. Neco Republic is a company who pours efforts into helping save cats in Japan; they manage various businesses including the cat cafe Neco Republic which takes in rescue cats, NECOREPA/ which sells a variety of products and items with all proceeds going towards their efforts to taking in stray cats, Neco Ichi Neco Za which is a rescue cat event held in Japan, and more.

The “SAVE THE CAT MASK” series was launched for cat lovers and as a way to help cats in the process. The previous batch of these masks sold out in just two days.

High quality materials and skilful sewing, all made in Japan

SAVE THE CAT MASK – ¥1,980 for one / ¥9,900 for five

The masks are made from high quality natural cotton with all manufacturing carried out in Japan. They are sewed using a Japanese sewing method known as ayaori which ensures elasticity and makes it harder for the masks to wrinkle. The masks can also be washed repeatedly. Maintaining hygiene is of utmost important when it comes to face masks, and so these face masks are made so you can hand wash them lightly with detergent as well as put them in a net before putting them in the washing machine.

The masks are all sewn in Gifu Prefecture which is where Neco Republic is based.

Cute designs inspired by cats

There are five design variations of the masks each inspired by a different cat breed including calico, Russian Blue, tuxedo, white, and black. They are also shaped subtly like a cat which most likely won’t be noticed by other people meaning you can express you love of cats secretly.

Save cats during the process

The masks aren’t only for us humansーthey benefit our cats too. All proceeds from the masks will go towards Neco Republic’s rescue cat cafe as well as be used for the company’s efforts for helping rescue cats.

UNICEF Japan launched a spin-off story of the manga series Left-Handed Ellen on May 1 to help support children from the novel coronavirus. The web series gives tips on how to raise kids.

What is Left-Handed Ellen?

Left-Handed Ellen is a web manga series written by Kappy and illustrated by nifumi. Kappy became popular for his Facebook Police web manga. Left-Handed Ellen was the first full-length manga series to win the Special Prize at the Cakes Creator Content which was organised by Note. The series was made into a televised drama in October 2019.

The new spin-off made in collaboration with UNICEF Japan takes inspiration from UNICEF’s “6 Hints On Raising Kids” which was released on April 10 this year. It was made with parents in mind who are having to stay at home more with their children now due to COVID-19 and gives tips on teaching them about the virus, spending one-on-one time with them, how to stay positive each day, and so on.

Schools in 190 countries and regions are currently closed as a result of the pandemic, with around 60% of the world’s children at home from the lockdown. The sudden change to everyday life where we’re having to stay at home over long periods of time is sure to cause household stress levels to rise. There is also fear of an increase in fights and abuse at home. Kappy, who himself is raising a child at home, made the following comment with regards to this new manga collaboration.

Kappy | Comment

“I have a daughter who is 1-and-a-half years old. Me and my wife are working together to bring her up. But we’re also swamped with work, so when I’m not in tiptop shape there are times I feel like I can’t raise her to the best of my ability. UNICEF release their own message about this, but I think the most important thing in all of this is to lay down a daily routine so you can live a more peaceful life. And it doesn’t have to be something special. It might be something ordinary that you can do which will benefit someone else. Myself, for example, all I can do right now is draw manga. So if me drawing manga as I usually do helps somebody else in some way, I don’t think there’s a more economical way of doing so. If parents can bring back a sense of normality I believe the kids will be able to relax too. When I hear things about fighting at home and domestic violence my mind automatically wants to think that that has no relation to us. But in these times when we can’t even do the things that are the most natural to us, spending time with family is important, and so I hope [this manga] helps people remember that.”

©左ききのエレン