From April 23 until May 5, Rihga Royal Hotel Tokyo will be offering two extremely cute Bear cakes to celebrate Children’s Day!

Customers can choose from the Bear Cake or the Baby Bear Cake. The Bear Cake is layered with praline, orange brulee, and orange-flavored chocolate mousse. With a moderate sweetness, adults will be able to enjoy these treats as much as kids. The Baby Bear Cake combines white chocolate mousse with a hint of vanilla, pistachio, and strawberry jelly. 

Be sure to snap some pictures for social media before you dig in!

From April 2 until April 22, Ginza Tsutaya Books will be holding a 5th-anniversary exhibition featuring art by three young female artists! These creators specialize in drawing girls, and the event will ask one question: what is ‘Kawaii?’ The artists featured are Amane Ishii, Azusa Nozawa, and Yumi Nagata. 

These three artists have captured the spotlight with their unique styles. Ishii prefers oil painting, Nozawa has a style perfect for manga, and Nagata specializes in more Japanese-style paintings. Those who planned the exhibition noted that the reason these three artists have become so popular stems from how they depict cuteness–they don’t try to conform to society’s idea of ‘cute,’ but rather depict what they themselves consider to be cute.

Many motifs in Ishii’s works are based on the artist’s personal experiences, many stemming from childhood. Her unique characters are sure to grab your attention, and although her pieces are two-dimensional, the linework almost makes them seem 3D. 

For Nozawa, ‘cute’ is the most important element found in her works. She often uses pastels, and something about the way she draws her characters is nostalgic, harkening back to purikura filters and manga characters of the early 2000s. Her unique worldview and nostalgic characters amount to truly one-of-a-kind pieces.

The girls appearing in Nagata’s pieces are projections of herself. She draws the clothes she would like to wear and the poses she’d love to strike! Pursuing her idea of ‘cuteness’ with traditional Japanese techniques and paints, she often includes polka dots in her works, which are a feminine symbol. 

The exhibition will feature two of Ishii’s oil paintings and 13 drawings, the first time such a large number of drawings have been shown all at once. In addition, three of Nozawa’s new portrait series will be on display, along with nine of Nagata’s works. 

‘Kawaii’ is one of the most prominent keywords found in contemporary Japanese culture. What does it mean to you?

What does the word ‘kawaii’ mean to you? For most people overseas, it’s a purely Japanese aesthetic combining colorful visuals with cutesy characters to make something so adorable it defies imagination. In recent years, however, ‘kawaii’ has become a kind of philosophy that transcends language, national borders, and even consciousness. It’s a driving force behind people’s lives and something that pulls people out of bed in the morning–it’s something capable of instantly putting a smile on people’s faces. For those wishing to study the philosophy behind the ‘kawaii’ movement, the Godfather of Kawaii Sebastian Masuda is currently holding an exhibition at Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo until December 12, 2021. What is it about ‘kawaii’ that is so capable of inspiring so many different people and cultures around the world? 

A correlation chart welcomes guests to the grounds. The ‘Kawaii Archival Research,’ a project on kawaii culture conducted with students from the Kyoto University of Arts, collected data on ‘kawaii’ trends from the post-war period to the present day. Through interactions with the worldwide ‘kawaii’ community, it’s clear how much of an impact the aesthetic has had on people around the globe. 

In the midst of the pandemic in 2020, Masuda announced #KAWAIITRIBE, a way to encourage those coping with depression during the days of COVID-19. His followers were asked to use ‘color’ to bring the world together, and more and more, the ‘kawaii’ movement became a way to express and love oneself. Using #KAWAIITRIBE, more and more fans of the movements became connected–even if those users were countries apart. 

The hashtag #SPEAKUP was also utilized by Masuda to collect data from ‘kawaii’ lovers around the world, asking about hobbies, interests, and opinions on ‘kawaii’ culture. The data collected over the course of 12 days was incredibly meaningful to Masuda and led to plenty of new discoveries about the community as a whole. 

Masuda explains that each country has different types of ‘kawaii,’ and that the aesthetic is expressed in different ways around the world. One country may have people influenced mainly by ‘kawaii’ expressions in anime and manga, while another expresses it through fashion or music. ‘Kawaii’ is diverse, just as people are diverse. 

Sebastian Masuda has also held a Zoom meeting with people in ‘kawaii’ communities around the globe to discover how they became involved with the aesthetic initially, while also asking how it inspired them and gave them strength during these difficult times. Certain people claimed that ‘kawaii’ helped them in their personal growth, while others say it has brought out some of their potential in new and unexpected ways. While Masuda’s artwork may simply seem visual, ‘kawaii’ has become a tool for new communication and personal healing and growth. Some may even call it a kind of therapy: a place where people can surround themselves with color and joy to heal from the difficulties of life. The bold colors of the ‘kawaii’ movement can inspire people to be bold in their daily lives. Individuality should be celebrated and self-confidence should reign supreme–that is yet another message of the ‘kawaii’ movement. 

Many people involved in the Zoom call had never met, and after the initial meeting, the room was left open to give people a place to communicate. Afterward, the ‘kawaii’ circle only became bigger, with a Facebook group bringing together more and more members of the community. 

The research done during the last year of the COVID-19 pandemic has given ‘kawaii’ lovers a reason to think deeply on how to overcome the many struggles born from the ‘new normal,’ and these forums are perfect places to share colorful messages of hope and strength. 

Inspired by Masuda’s own struggles during his time in Manhatten in 2013, Colorful Rebellion -Seventh Nightmare- is on display at Kanda Myojin. The installation has previously appeared in locations around the world including New York City, Milan, and Amsterdam. This time, the exhibit was inspired by ‘muro,’ a basement room in Omotesando where amazake is fermented. The room was used as an air-raid shelter during the war, and walking along the dimly-lit path leading to Masuda’s brightly-colored room, it’s hard not to wish that those evacuees could have been surrounded by these beautiful colors instead of pitch darkness. 

It is no exaggeration to say that this is Masuda’s representative work. Created in the midst of the artist’s own struggles, it has helped establish the philosophy of ‘kawaii’ culture and continues to help those dealing with their own problems.

The Time After Time Capsule Art Project, starting in 2014 and held in 12 cities around the world, is a massive time capsule filled with messages and wishes for the future. Shaped like the beloved Sanrio character Hello Kitty, the capsule is gradually changing color as it becomes heavier and heavier with wishes for peace and happiness from fans around the world. Originally planned to be exhibited at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, this couldn’t come to fruition due to the current pandemic. This is the first time it is being shown in Japan. 

The WORLD TIME CLOCK, a once-famous landmark of Harajuku, has also been recreated and installed within Kanda Myojin. 

‘Yes, Kawaii Is Art’ at Kanda Myojin is a deeply emotional, personal, and inspiring exhibition allowing visitors to experience firsthand how ‘kawaii’ culture is capturing the hearts of people around the world. Sebastian Masuda isn’t slowing down any time soon, and his works will continue to heal people and bring joy for many years to come. 

Sebastian Masuda’s solo exhibition ‘Primal Pop’ will be held at Roppongi Hills A/D Gallery from December 11, 2021, until January 10, 2022.

TEXT：Natalie（MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON）

The Godfather of Kawaii Sebastian Masuda will open his ‘Yes, Kawaii Is Art’ exhibition at the 1,300-year-old Kanda Myojin Shrine on December 4, 2021. A number of Masuda’s representative works will be on display at the historical site, known as one of the most important shrines during the Edo period. 

Colorful Rebellion -Seventh Nightmare-

Kanda Myojin Shrine

Colorful Rebellion -Seventh Nightmare- has been shown in New York, Milan, and Amsterdam over the past few years, and will now make an appearance as part of this exhibition. Given the magnificence of the venue, the work will be presented in a unique way–in the basement of the shrine. In addition, a part of the research on Kawaii culture conducted in collaboration with Kyoto University of Arts Ultra Factory will be on display as well. Guests will be invited to ponder the nature of Kawaii, and what makes it so beloved by audiences worldwide.

Colorful Rebellion -WORLD TIME CLOCK-

Time After Time Capsule Art Project

Kawaii Archival Research

Near the entrance to the shrine, the Colorful Rebellion -WORLD TIME CLOCK will be on display. Clad in the cutest colors imaginable, it has become a symbol of Harajuku around the world. The Hello Kitty-shaped time capsule, which was on display for five months in New York City in 2015, will also be shown on the temple grounds. The participatory art project has made it to 12 cities around the world so far. 

Kawaii culture will blend with traditional Japanese culture during this exhibition, so keep an eye out for more details coming soon!

What is ‘Yes, Kawaii Is Art?’ 

Sebastian Masuda has been at the helm of the global Kawaii movement for decades. 

 In 2020, Masuda asked a number of questions to fans of Japanese pop culture around the world–what is Kawaii? Why does Kawaii cross borders, generations, and gender? This new exhibition tries to find an answer to those questions while bringing some joy and excitement to the local community. 

Sebastian Masuda, the Godfather of Kawaii, is bringing his ‘Yes, Kawaii is Art’ exhibition to Tokyo. If that isn’t cool enough, the event will be held from December 4 until December 12, 2021, at the 1,300-year-old Kanda Myojin Shrine, known as one of the most important shrines during the Edo period. 

Kanda Myojin, the Tokyo Venue

Work at ‘Yes, Kawaii is Art’ Venue in Osaka

Related Event, 6%DOKIDOKI Fashion Show

Originally scheduled to arrive in Tokyo in September, the exhibition was postponed due to the state of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kanda Myojin is known as the site of the Kanda Festival, one of the three major Shinto festivals in Tokyo started by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1600. The shrine is very close to Akihabara, and has become a place for technophiles to pray for their electronics!

Sebastian Masuda is known as the Godfather of Kawaii, and his colorful and crazy art is known around the world. In 2020, Masuda asked a number of questions to fans of Japanese pop culture around the world–what is Kawaii? Why does Kawaii cross borders, generations, and gender? This new exhibition tries to find an answer to those questions while bringing some joy and excitement to the local community. 

Osaka’s City of Art Kitakagaya has hosted Masuda’s exhibition since October 30, with his works spread out across three different venues. These will be open until November 30, 2021. 

Additionally, on November 13, a street fashion show by Masuda’s popular Harajuku fashion brand 6%DOKIDOKI will be held at the third venue. The brand turns 26 this year. 

Artist Sebastian Masuda is a leading figure in Japan’s culture of KAWAII. The creator of the popular Harajuku brand 6%DOKIDOKI, the creator has worked with Kyary Pamyu Pamyu and a number of other kawaii personalities in the past. Now, his exhibition titled ‘Yes, Kawaii is Art’ is coming to Osaka from October 30 to November 21, 2021. The event will take place in Kitakagaya, an art district located in an old factory area, with three distinct venues opening each week. Each will exhibit a different work. 

Fantastic Voyage Digest Video

Presale tickets for Fantastic Voyage, Prototype II, a performance taking place at the second venue, went on sale on October 21. The prototype was created as a device for ‘imagining the isolated future,’ and shows a transparent capsule traveling through space. The thirty-minute performance will surround viewers with sounds and images and is sure to dig deep into the psyche. 

An exclusive VIP plan will be available on October 30 and 31 and is reserved for only two groups per day. Those who can afford the ¥80,000 per person ticket price can enjoy a luxurious Halloween buffet at the Conrad Osaka hotel. Each scrumptious sweet was designed by Masuda himself, and VIP guests can also tour rooms where his works are displayed. Masuda will accompany visitors to directly explain his works, so the cost might be worth it!

Artist Masuda Sebastian, a leading figure in Japan’s KAWAII culture, is celebrating his 30th year of activities this year. His works express KAWAII from a variety of perspectives, taking the world by storm and creating a new KAWAII culture with new values. His store 6%DOKIDOKI opened in Harajuku in 1995, and Masuda has since been working as an art director, spreading KAWAII culture throughout Japan and across the world. 

He has also been in charge of the art direction and costumes for Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s music videos since her debut in 2011, often featuring 6%DOKIDOKI pieces. The combination of art and music captured the imagination of fans across the globe, inviting them into their world of music.

To commemorate his anniversary, fans will be able to experience his artwork, both past and present, at a variety of special KAWAII events. 

Be sure to check out these unmissable events and exhibitions!

【SPOT】Masuda Sebastian and 6%DOKIDOKI 1995→2021

Duration: Until October 3 2021

Masuda Sebastian opened 6%DOKIDOKI in Harajuku back in 1995. To commemorate the 26th anniversary since it’s opening, a limited pop up shop has opened in Shibuya PARCO to celebrate the brand’s history. Here you can find posters featuring designs from the 90’s alongside modern 6% products. 

Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/498415

【SPOT】MORI ART MUSEUM – Masuda Sebastian Pop Up Store

Duration: Until October 17 2021

A pop up shop from Masuda Sebastian’s art brand, Sebastian Masuda ART. The shop will stock the latest goods from the brand, alongside a selection of art pieces. The store will be opened in TOKYO CITY VIEW on the 52nd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, which is also hosting the ‘Sanrio Exhibition: 60 Years of Japanese Kawaii History,’ where you can view Masuda Sebastian’s ‘Unforgettable Tower’ art piece. 

Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/499990 

【SPOT/FOOD】Masuda Sebastian x Conrad Osaka Second Collaboration

Duration: October 31 2021 

Masuda Sebastian has worked closely with Conrad Osaka’s executive pastry chef Jimmy Boulay to create a limited-time Halloween sweets buffet. Why not treat yourself to a colorful sweets party this Autumn, packed full of seasonal ingredients?

Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/492445 

【SPOT】Yes, Kawaii Is Art

Duration: November 12 ~ November 21 (closed Monday,  Tuesday, Wednesday) 

A Masuda Sebastian art exhibition hosted in Kitakagaya, Osaka’s City of Art. Here you can experience his artwork while discovering the “KAWAII” that has influenced the world and sparked new ideas.

Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/503083

【BOOK】Masuda Sebastian’s Artworks PAINT IT, COLORFUL

 Published in 2020, this is Masuda’s first artbook. It compiles a variety of his works, including those from Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s PONPONPON and Fashion Monster music videos, the KAWAII MONSTER CAFE restaurant, and Sanrio Puroland’s Miracle Gift Parade. Dive into Masuda Sebastian’s world with this colorful book which showcases all his art from around the world. 

 Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/345928 

【SPOT】Future Peace Nursery

Masuda Sebastian was the visual producer for this nursery which opened in Sendagaya in June 2019. The community contribution project was headed by childcare facility developer Edulead and ASOBISYSTEM, which fosters and spreads Japanese culture. Masuda’s colorful design creates a bright and charming space, ideal for nurturing children’s growth. 

Details: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/223582 

TEXT：Natalie（MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON）

Artist Masuda Sebastian will be holding the ‘Yes, Kawaii is Art’ exhibition in Osaka and Kyoto. The exhibition will be starting in Kitakagaya, Osaka’s City of Art, held between October 30 and November 30.

The exhibition explores the current state of ‘Kawaii,’ a keyword which has influenced the world, along with a selection of Masuda Sebastian’s works.

In 2020, Masuda started conversations with Kawaii communities across the globe to light up the world with vivid colors following the pandemic. What is Kawaii? Why does Kawaii surpass borders, generations, and gender, as the community moves onwards? This exhibition investigates the depths and new possibilities that Kawaii offers, through the works of Masuda Sebastian and his activities as an activist. 

Special Focus

Venue 1: Japan’s First Colorful Room Exhibition

The first venue features a full-room installation titled ‘Colorful Rebellion Seventh Nightmare.’ 

The piece was first released in 2014 and was created as a self-portrait representing the seven deadly sins. Following its first exhibition in Chelsea, New York, it has since been exhibited in Florida’s Young at Art Museum, Milano’s Milano Salone, Amsterdam’s Tropenmuseum, and Antwerp’s Museum aan de Stroon. This will be the first exhibition of this work in Japan.

Second Venue: An Experience Based on the Artist’s Memories

The second venue features the experience-type exhibit, ‘Fantastic Voyage.’ The piece, which was originally shown for just three days in Tokyo during February 2021, has been reworked and will be exhibited once more. The art reflects the current world, where everything is rapidly changing due to the Covid pandemic. 

A transparent capsule drifts through space, travelling through a world studded with snippets of sound and words. Both the guest experiencing this world and the person within the capsule are experiencing the same time together without exchanging words. It is the concept and prototype of “a device that imagines the future in an isolated world.” The performance lasts for 30 minutes, reaching deep into the viewer’s senses.

Venue Three: Harajuku’s Famous World Time Clock is Revived in Two New Forms

The third venue features the famous ‘Colorful Rebellion -WORLD TIME CLOCK-,’ a piece which was beloved by the city of Harajuku since its unveiling in 2015, remembered by tourists from all over the world. The original 2015 world clock, which was displayed on the streets of Harajuku, has been reconstructed while retaining the original faded materials. The 2019 version, which was made based on the colors of the original world clock, will also be displayed. 

The Tokyo exhibition was expected to open in September 2021 but was postponed due to Covid-19. Details for the new exhibition dates will be announced in the future. 

“I want to see the future of Kawaii. That is why I cannot stop creating; that is what drives me.” – Masuda Sebastian. 

Sebastian Masuda is a powerhouse of all things cute. From starting the popular Harajuku-based brand 6%DOKIDOKI in 1995 to creating the now-legendary music video for Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s PONPONPON, Masuda is now celebrating 30 years in the industry. An exhibition of the artist’s works will be shown in an upcoming exhibition in both Tokyo and Osaka from Fall 2021 until 2022. Prior to that, a Sebastian Masuda pop-up shop is coming to Roppongi Hills and Shibuya PARCO starting this month!

From September 23 until October 17, the art goods brand Sebastian Masuda ART will hold a pop-up shop within the Mori Art Museum Shop on the third floor of Roppongi Hills West Walk. In addition to the latest art goods, including the brand-new ‘Inner Voyage’ series, a number of Masuda’s colorful art pieces will be on display, with some being for sale. 

When visiting Roppongi Hills, don’t forget to head up to the 52nd floor for the 60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii, running from September 17 until January 10, 2022. Sebastian Masuda’s work ‘Unforgettable Tower’ will be on display when entering the event, while the Tokyo City View store will be selling some of the artist’s products! Basically, both the 3rd and 52nd floors will be nothing but kawaii. 

Mori Art Museum Shop

Stickers: ¥550 – ¥2,860 (Tax Included)

 Inner Voyage T-Shirt: ¥7,480 (Tax Included)

Microcosmos -Tattoo Pink & Me-   

Sebastian Masuda & 6%DOKIDOKI 1995→2021

Mesh Top:  ¥10,450 (Tax Included)

Long Sleeve T-Shirt: ¥8,250 (Tax Included)

DOKI DOKI Earrings: ¥4,290 (Tax Included) / Logo Plate Necklace: ¥7,590 (Tax Included) / 6% Logo Pochette: ¥6,050 (Tax Included)

Charm Pouch – Kawaii Company: ¥2,860 (Tax Included) / Sebastian Masuda STUDIO COLOR PALETTE: ¥4,400 – ¥2,860 (Tax Included) Felissimo

The Sebastian Masuda & 6%DOKIDOKI 1995→2021 event will be held from September 17 to October 3 at Hobonichi CultureN, located inside Shibuya PARCO. Guests will be able to look back at the 26-year history of the 6%DOKIDOKI brand. 

2021, much like 2020, has lost a lot of it’s brightness due to the ongoing pandemic. Why not surround yourself with some kawaii goods to raise your spirits? 

One of the most popular franchises to come out of Japan is celebrating a massive milestone! The Sanrio Exhibition: 60 Years of Kawaii Culture in Japan will be held on the 52nd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower starting September 17. The event will feature over 800 unique character products, the largest number in Sanrio history, and will allow guests to experience the charm and wonder of one of the most well-known parts of Japan’s ‘kawaii’ culture.

Special light effects have been added to the ‘Godfather of Kawaii’ Masuda Sebastian’s unique entrance art, titled “Unforgettable Tower.” Singer and actor Aoi Shouta acts as the audio guide for the exhibition.

Comment from Aoi Shouta / Audio Guide

“I’m excited to experience the history of Sanrio together with you as the audio guide for the exhibition. I’m also incredibly honored to be a part of this project, since I’ve been a fan of Sanrio for as long as I can remember. Please enjoy this time with your favorite characters!”

Comment from Sebastian Masuda / Designer of the “Unforgettable Tower” 

“Sanrio characters and goods exist in a far corner of everyone’s memories. For a long time, this was specifically a Japanese feeling. Now, it’s true of people all over the world. Memory is an odd thing. It can be fuzzy, and difficult to capture. However, sometimes the nostalgia and feelings remain, and I’ve captured this strange balance in the ‘Unforgettable Tower.’ The Sanrio exhibition is a journey to undertake along with your own memories. I invite you to let your thoughts wander as you gaze at this work of art, and pass through the entrance gate of the exhibition.”

Collaboration Menu & Photo Spot

Left: My Melody Curry with Winter Vegetables and Pork Cutlet: ¥1,580 / Middle: Pochakko’s Pumpkin Stew: ¥1,520 / Right: Hello Kitty’s Whole Apple Waffle: ¥1,380

Left: Pochacco’s Hot Strawberry Milk: ¥1,050 / Middle: Pom Pom Pudding in a Pudding Shake: ¥1,080 / Right: Cinnamoroll’s Balloon Trip: ¥1,100

The restaurant and cafe THE SUN AND MOON is located on the same floor as the exhibition, so be sure to get these delicious treats when you visit!

Left: Halloween, September 17 – October 31 / Middle: Christmas, November 1 – December 20 / Right: Anniversary, December 27 – January 10

Seasonal afternoon tea will be available during each special event period.

Restaurant Photo Spot Image

*画像はイメージです
© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376

The walls of this red retro restaurant are covered with images of popular characters, making it the perfect place to snap some commemorative photos. Each photo spot will change depending on the holiday season, so don’t miss the Halloween, Christmas, and Anniversary backgrounds!

Original Merchandise

Left: Square Acrylic Keychain: ¥1,210 (4 designs) / Middle: Triple Acrylic Keychain: ¥1,210 (4 designs) / Right: Bag: ¥1,650 (4 designs)

Guests can grab over 100 original items, with both modern and vintage designs.

kawaii Productions, which premiered its first-generation of VTubers this April, is looking for new talent to join for the groups second-generation. Auditions are open until August 31, and the company is looking to hire five successful candidates. 

According to the official audition page, kawaii is looking for those who want to be a VTuber, have English language skills, and who love singing, games, and chatting. They also mention that it’s a great way to gain popularity. 

Production kawaii is a newly launched VTuber production company aiming to spread the idea of ‘kawaii’ around the globe. 

Comment from kawaii management staff: 

“Production kawaii is now recruiting aspiring Vtubers who will work with both the management team and first-generation members to spread ‘kawaii’ around the world. Currently, we use YouTube as a platform to share Japanese ‘kawaii’ culture with English-speaking countries. If you want to use your talents and chase your dreams, now’s your chance! Don’t miss this chance to challenge yourself!’

Do you think you have what it takes to be a kawaii VTuber? 

From Hello Kitty to Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, My Melody, and more – Sanrio’s internationally adored cast of characters can be universally agreed to be representatives of Japan culture of ‘kawaii.’ In celebration of Sanrio’s 60th anniversary, the company have announced an exhibition centred on the beginning of kawaii culture. The event will take place at TOKYO CITY VIEW from September 17, 2021 to January 10, 2022.

60th Anniversary Sanrio Exhibition: The Beginning of Kawaii recently finished up at the Matsuzakaya Art Gallery in Nagoya on June 12 and is set to move to Ōita Prefectural Art Museum where it will run from July 10 to September 5 before heading to TOKYO CITY VIEW. This exhibition will not only look back over Sanrio’s 60-year history, but will also dive into how Japan’s culture of ‘kawaii’ came about. Fans of Sanrio and Japan’s kawaii can expect product and design showcases, in-depth explanations, and more.

Sebastian Masuda’s iconic artwork is the centrepiece of the exhibition

Entrance exhibit in the daytime

At the entrance of the venue is the Unforgettable Tower, a symbolic art piece by Sebastian Masuda created exclusively for this exhibition which towers 6 meters tall. It’s made up of countless plushies of Sanrio characters such as Hello Kitty.

Entrance exhibit in the evening

The kawaii installation stands gorgeously against the cityscape of Tokyo which makes for an Instagrammable photo in the evenings when the city is lit up. The piece, as its name suggests, hopes to create unforgettable memories. The exhibition is set to run through Halloween, Christmas, and New Year, so visitors are sure to make some memorable ones.

© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376

Shouta Aoi’s voice as the tour guide

Having lent his voice to other Sanrio events, including at Sanrio Puroland and in collaboration with the Little Twin Stars, the Japanese singer, actor, and voice actor Shouta Aoi has recorded announcements for the exhibition which will be played to guide people around the event.

A themed menu created for the Tokyo exhibition

From Left: Anniversary Afternoon Tea / Hello Kitty Daisuki Fried Apple Mille-Feuille / Cinnamoroll’s Balloon Trip

© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376

THE SUN & THE MOON, a cafe and restaurant fusion on the same floor of the exhibition, will serve up food, desserts, and non-alcoholic cocktails inspired by the Sanrio characters. Special seasonal afternoon tea sets will also be sold on Halloween, Christmas, and more too.

Dates
Restaurant: September 17, 2021 – January 10, 2022

Cafe: December 15, 2021 – January 10, 2021

*Closed December 21-26

The main exhibition

The exhibition will be split into six zones with 10 different themes. Over 800 products, documents, and materials related to Sanrio will be presented, many of which will shine a spotlight on some of their most famous characters out of their roster of 400, such as Hello Kitty and My Melody, and other characters that might not be known to those outside Japan such as best friends Patty & Jimmy. It’s a chance to walk through the history of Sanrio and Japan’s culture of kawaii.

© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376

© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376

© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376

One of the six zones will look into secrets of Sanrio through the globally-beloved kawaii icon Hello Kitty. Another will display outfits such as the Hello Kitty dress worn by Lady Gaga.

Original merchandise

A small peek at just some of the items available

© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376

Sanrio fans can also get their hands on a collection of merchandise with designs ranging from the exhibition’s main visual to classic designs. There will be over 100 items to sift through.

Tickets for the exhibition will be available from August 1. A limited number of special tickets that include free merch will also be released.

© 2021 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. SP610376