Top 10 Kids' Characters in Japan and Where to Find Them
Heading to Japan with kids in tow? You’ll quickly notice some familiar (and not-so-familiar) faces popping up everywhere—from convenience store snacks to entire theme parks. These characters aren’t just there for decoration; they’re a big part of everyday life and culture. Knowing a bit about them might just help your kids feel more at home, and they make easy, fuss-free souvenirs for the children back home. Plus, there are plenty of places to visit if you fancy diving deeper into their world. These are my top ten Japanese characters:
1. Anpanman
Anpanman, the superhero with a red bean bread head, is Japan's most beloved character without a doubt, adored by all toddlers and children across Japan. Perfect for younger children who love simple, cheerful heroes and aren’t yet too fussed about complex plots. If your kids are fans—or you just want them to burn off some energy—check out the Anpanman Museum in Yokohama, Nagoya, or Kobe. You’ll find interactive exhibits, live shows, and, of course, shops brimming with Anpanman gear. If you’re not up for a museum visit, Anpanman merchandise is everywhere, from department stores to corner shops. You can also find Anpanman episodes on YouTube, but they're all in Japanese of course.
2. Doraemon
Doraemon, the time-traveling robotic cat, is another household name in Japan, and popular in many other Asian countries. As much of a cultural icon as Anpanman, in 2008 he was appointed as an "anime ambassador" to promote Japanese anime. Ideal for curious kids with big imaginations who love gadgets and time-travel tales. For a closer look, head to the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum in Kawasaki, where you can wander through exhibits about Doraemon’s creator and grab some themed snacks. Even if you don’t make it to the museum, you’ll spot Doraemon on everything from stationery to train passes. And, if you're travelling to Japan in 2025, you can visit the Doraemon Cafe in Miyashita Park in Shibuya, which will be open until early 2026.
3. Hello Kitty
This bow-wearing feline hardly needs an introduction; she's adored by children and even teenagers and adults around the world. You can visit Sanrio Puroland in Tokyo, a theme park that’s basically Hello Kitty heaven. There are also Hello Kitty Cafés dotted around, if you fancy themed lattes and cakes. You can even catch the Hello Kitty Shinkansen if you're planning to travel in the west side of Japan. For a more low-key experience, Sanrio shops in most malls will have all the Hello Kitty merchandise your suitcase can handle. You might even find some decent items in the 100 Yen shops found all over Japan.
4. Pikachu (Pokémon)
Pikachu, Pokémon’s poster child, is impossible to miss. Pop into a Pokémon Center in Tokyo, Osaka, or Fukuoka for exclusive toys and games. The Pokemon Center in Nihonbashi also has the famous Pokemon Cafe, it's very popular though so getting tickets is a bit of a challenge (at the time of writing). The annual Pokemon in-person Pokémon GO Fest 2025 event will take place in Osaka during May 29, 2025 – June 1. And if you’re in Yokohama during the summer, you might even catch the Pikachu Outbreak, where hundreds of dancing Pikachus take over the streets. It didn't take place last year, and there's no news on 2025 yet, but you never know!
5. Shin-chan (Crayon Shin-chan)
Shin-chan’s cheeky antics have entertained generations of Japanese kids. Perfect for kids with a mischievous streak and a love for toilet humour (you’ve been warned). The show follows Shin-chan, a precocious five-year-old with a knack for getting into trouble, often at the expense of his long-suffering parents and teachers. If your children enjoy slightly irreverent humour, visit the Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park at Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture. You’ll find athletic courses, zip lines, and plenty of Shin-chan’s signature mischief. Kasukabe City in Saitama Prefecture, where the show is set, also features some themed attractions. Shin-chan also pops up on everything from lunchboxes to T-shirts, making for quirky souvenirs.
6. Totoro (My Neighbor Totoro)
Totoro, the cuddly forest spirit from Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro, is an icon. Totoro particularly appeals to gentle, nature-loving kids who enjoy whimsical stories and big, fluffy creatures. The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, offers a whimsical journey through Ghibli’s world, complete with Totoro photo ops. GBL in Shibuya's Miyashita Park is a mecca for all Ghibli fans, stocked with clothes and apparel featuring Ghibli films and characters. For more Totoro-themed items, Donguri Republic stores have everything from plush toys to home goods.
7. Rilakkuma
Rilakkuma, the perpetually relaxed bear, embodies the Japanese art of taking it easy. Great for chilled-out kids who appreciate the art of doing nothing (or everything at their own pace). You’ll find a Rilakkuma Teahouse in Kyoto serving up bear-shaped pancakes and coffee. For souvenirs, Kiddy Land and Rilakkuma shops in department stores carry a good selection of plushies, stationery, and more.
8. Sailor Moon
Sailor Moon, the magical girl fighting for love and justice, has been an icon since the 90s. Perfect for kids who love adventure, friendship, and a touch of sparkle—or for anyone who appreciates a good transformation sequence. The Sailor Moon Store in Harajuku, Tokyo, is packed with exclusive merchandise, from wands to accessories. You can also find themed cafes and pop-up events around Tokyo if you’re lucky with timing.
9. Gudetama
Gudetama, the lazy egg yolk, is oddly relatable for many of us, myself included. Perfect for kids (and adults) with a dry sense of humour who appreciate a character that embodies doing the bare minimum. Unfortunately the Gudetama cafes in Osaka and Ikebukuro closed permanently a few years ago but you’ll find Gudetama merch in Sanrio stores and department stores if you’re after a souvenir that’s a little offbeat. And if you haven't already, check out Gudetama: An Eggcellent Adventure on Netflix!
10. LINE Friends
The LINE Friends—including Brown the bear, Cony the rabbit, and Sally the chick—are beloved mascots from Japan’s most popular messaging app, LINE. While LINE is mainly used in Japan and other parts of Asia for everything from texting to paying bills, the characters have taken on a life of their own, featuring in everything from cartoons to fashion. Perfect for kids who love cute, modern characters and are glued to their screens. You can visit LINE Friends Stores in places like Harajuku, Tokyo, for exclusive merchandise ranging from plushies to tech accessories.
The characters above are everywhere in Japan—not just in theme parks and shops, but on trains, in supermarkets, and even on public service posters. Whether you’re picking up a souvenir or planning a day out, spotting these familiar faces can make exploring Japan with kids that little bit more fun.
Bonus Tip:
If you’re after something to keep the kids occupied while you travel, check out our Little Nomads Japan baby boxes. They’re packed with practical bits and bobs, plus if you send me a message I can even customise your box with a few fun items featuring some of these characters—handy for long train rides or when you need a bit of peace and quiet.