The Ultimate Travel Guide for Sanrio Lovers Visiting Japan

Discover the ultimate travel guide for Sanrio fans in Japan!

From Hello Kitty trains and themed cafes to Sanrio Puroland and exclusive hotels, explore the cutest destinations with English and Japanese names for easy planning.
Travel

If you're a fan of Hello Kitty and the adorable world of Sanrio, Japan is the ultimate destination to immerse yourself in cuteness overload. From themed parks and unique cafes to adorable trains and exclusive stores, there are plenty of places across Japan

 

that every Sanrio fan should visit. Here's your comprehensive guide to must-visit Sanrio attractions across Japan. All place names are shown in English with Japanese for easy travel planning.

1. Sanrio Puroland (サンリオピューロランド) – Tokyo (Tokyo)


Overview: An indoor Sanrio theme park in Tama City, Tokyo.

  • Access: 5-minute walk from Tama-Center Station (多摩センター駅) on the Keio, Odakyu, and Tama Monorail lines.
  • Opening Hours: Usually 10:00–17:00 (varies by day; check the official website).
  • Ticket Price: ¥3,600–¥4,900 depending on day and age. Discounts available online.
  • Tips: Try to arrive early to enjoy shorter queues. Tickets can be bought online in advance.

Official Website

2. Harmonyland (ハーモニーランド) – Oita Prefecture (大分県)


Overview: An outdoor Sanrio theme park with rides, shows, and character parades.

  • Access: From Beppu Station (別府駅), take a 40-min bus or taxi.
  • Opening Hours: Typically 10:00–17:00 (subject to change seasonally).
  • Ticket Price: Around ¥3,000 for general admission.
  • Tip: It’s a bit off the typical tourist path, so plan your route in advance.

Official Website

3. Hello Kitty Shinkansen (ハローキティ新幹線) – West Japan (Nishi Nihon)

Overview: A themed bullet train running between Shin-Osaka and Hakata.

  • Access: Operates on the Sanyo Shinkansen line.
  • Schedule: Once daily in each direction; check JR West’s website for exact times.
  • Ticket Price: Same as standard Shinkansen fare (no extra fee).
  • Tip: Car 1 is for photos; Car 2 has exclusive goods. Arrive early for the best experience.

Official Website

4. SANRIO CAFE (サンリオカフェ) – Tokyo (Tokyo) & Osaka (大阪)

 

Overview: A character-themed cafe with food and drinks inspired by Sanrio favorites.

  • Access (Tokyo): 3-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station (池袋駅).
  • Access (Osaka): Located inside Shinsaibashi OPA, 5-minute walk from Shinsaibashi Station (心斎橋駅).
  • Opening Hours: Typically 10:00–21:00 (varies by location).
  • Price Range: ¥1,000–¥2,500 per person.
  • Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. These cafes also offer take-out menus.

Official Website (only Japanese language)

5. Sanrio Gift Gate (サンリオギフトゲート) – Nationwide (Zenkoku)

 

Overview: Official Sanrio stores offering character goods and seasonal items.

  • Access: Located in malls and train stations across Japan. Ginza (銀座) store is the largest.
  • Opening Hours: Generally 10:00–20:00, depending on location.
  • Price Range: Small items from ¥300, plushies from ¥1,500 and up.
  • Tip: Look for location-exclusive goods as souvenirs!

 

6. Sanrio Character Hotels – Various Locations

 

Overview: Hotels featuring Sanrio-themed rooms and decor.

 

Keio Plaza Hotel Tama (京王プラザ多摩) – Tokyo: Offers Hello Kitty and My Melody rooms.

  • Access: Near Tama-Center Station.
  • Price Range: ¥20,000–¥35,000 per night (may vary).

 

Tokyo Dome Hotel (東京ドームホテル): Hosts Sanrio collaborations throughout the year.

  • Access: Near Suidobashi Station (水道橋駅).
  • Tip: Book early, especially during Japanese school holidays.

 

7. Sanrio Character Events & Pop-Up Cafes – Seasonal & Nationwide

 

Overview: Temporary cafes and events featuring Sanrio characters.

  • Locations: Often held in Tokyo (Shibuya, Harajuku), Osaka, and Fukuoka.
  • Schedule: Usually announced 1–2 months in advance.
  • Price Range: Entry is usually free; food and goods range from ¥500–¥3,000.
  • Tip: Follow Sanrio’s official website or Instagram for up-to-date event details.

Final Thoughts

Japan offers an unparalleled experience for Sanrio fans of all ages. Whether you're hopping on the Hello Kitty Shinkansen, sipping a themed latte, or shopping for exclusive goods, there's kawaii magic waiting at every stop. Don’t forget to bring an extra suitcase – your heart (and your luggage) will be full of cuteness!

 

Have you visited any of these Sanrio spots in Japan? Share your experiences in the comments below!