In Japan, the affection for characters and mascots transcends mere trend; it is a deeply rooted cultural phenomenon. From local yuru-chara, the charming mascots representing each prefecture, to globally beloved icons like Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and Pompompurin, these figures capture the attention of people of all ages. Among them, Hello Kitty stands as a defining symbol of Japan’s unique kawaii culture. Beyond their irresistible charm, these characters convey Japan’s creativity and cultural identity to the world, influencing global trends and inspiring generations.
Leading this cultural movement is Sanrio, a company whose timeless characters have not only shaped Japan’s kawaiiaesthetic but also made an enduring impact on design, lifestyle, and popular culture worldwide.
Sanrio: Japan’s kawaii Powerhouse
Founded in 1960 by Shintaro Tsuji, Sanrio began as a small silk company and quickly discovered that adding charming designs to everyday items could capture people’s hearts. Today, Sanrio is synonymous with kawaii culture, producing a vast array of character goods, from stationery and accessories to lifestyle items, sold in thousands of locations worldwide.
At the heart of Sanrio’s global success is Hello Kitty, introduced in 1974, whose timeless design has become a symbol of kawaii culture itself. Beyond Hello Kitty, Sanrio has created hundreds of beloved characters, including My Melody, Cinnamoroll, and Aggretsuko, while also managing licensing for Mr. Men and Peanuts in Japan. The company has produced films, TV shows, and digital content, while its theme parks, Sanrio Puroland and Harmonyland, bring characters to life for fans of all ages. Through collaborations, media projects, and an ever-growing collection of character goods, Sanrio continues to define kawaii culture and solidify its role as a global cultural icon.
Today, these beloved characters find a new form through Edo Kimekomi, a traditional Japanese doll-making technique with origins in the 18th century. Distinguished by its method of fitting cloth into carved grooves of wooden or composite bases, Edo Kimekomi transforms fabric into sculpted attire, lending each piece both texture and elegance. At the forefront of this craft is Kakinuma Toko, an atelier known for preserving and modernizing this heritage. By combining Sanrio’s globally cherished characters with Edo Kimekomi, Omakase presents figurines that are more than kawaii, they are handcrafted works of cultural significance.
Hello Kitty
Hello Kitty, also known as Kitty White, is a fictional British white cat created by Yuko Shimizu in 1974 and designed today by Yuko Yamaguchi. Kitty lives in the suburbs of London with her loving family, including her twin sister Mimmy, her parents George and Mary, and her grandparents Anthony and Margaret. Her iconic red bow and lack of a mouth allow people to project their own feelings onto her, making her universally relatable.
Since her debut as a drawing on a vinyl coin purse in 1975, Hello Kitty has become a global cultural icon. Originally aimed at children, her appeal expanded to teens and adults as kawaii culture grew worldwide, and she now appears on everything from stationery and fashion to theme parks, cafes, and even airplanes. Recognized as a symbol of friendship, creativity, and innocence, Hello Kitty has inspired animated series, comics, music, and video games worldwide.
At Omakase, we celebrate Hello Kitty’s cultural impact with the Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty, crafted by master Kakinuma Toko. This figurine blends Hello Kitty’s timeless kawaii appeal with the traditional Japanese Kimekomi technique, turning her into a Maneki-neko or beckoning cat, a symbol of good luck and protection. Each piece is handcrafted and comes in six elegant colors, making it both a decorative treasure and a meaningful good luck charm for any collector.
Cinnamoroll
Cinnamoroll, the adorable white puppy from Cafe Cinnamon, first floated down from the clouds to charm the world with his long ears, pink cheeks, and cinnamon-roll-shaped tail. Since his debut in 2001 by Sanrio, he has starred in manga, anime, and countless adventures alongside his friends Chiffon, Mocha, Espresso, Cappuccino, and Milk. Beloved for his gentle personality and charm, Cinnamoroll quickly became a fan favorite, capturing hearts with his sweet, shy, and playful nature.
Now, Cinnamoroll joins Omakase as an Edo Kimekomi Maneki Cinnamoroll! Crafted with the traditional Kimekomi technique. This elegant figurine comes in wearing two different soft pink or blue Japanese traditional hakama.
Pompompurin
Pompompurin, Sanrio’s beloved Golden Retriever, was first introduced in 1996 and quickly became a fan favorite for his sweet personality, love of pudding, and laid-back character. Known for his signature brown beret, cozy home, and hobbies like collecting shoes, napping, and purin aerobics exercise. Pompompurin embodies warmth, friendship, and simple joys. Over the years, Pompompurin has appeared in various manga, web series, and games, delighting fans with his gentle, cheerful nature and his close friendships with other characters like Muffin, Scone, and Cinnamoroll.
At Omakase, Pompompurin takes on a new form as an Edo Kimekomi Maneki Pompompurin, crafted using the traditional Japanese Kimekomi technique. You can choose between the Pompompurin with a red or blue Japanese traditional winter jacket hanten. This figurine captures his friendly, inviting spirit, aligning with the maneki-neko, making it a charming collectible or gift that brings a touch of luck and cuteness to any home.
Sanrio for Everyone: Joy, Friendship, and Timeless Charm
Sanrio characters are much more than childhood icons; they embody joy, happiness, friendship, and all the little wonders that make life delightful. Their charm transcends age, bringing smiles to fans young and old alike. If you’re looking to celebrate this timeless appeal more decoratively, the Edo Kimekomi figurines are the perfect addition to your home. Each handcrafted piece combines traditional Japanese artistry with the playful spirit of Sanrio, making it a meaningful and stylish way to invite warmth, luck, and kawaii charm into your everyday life.
