Sanrio Characters: The Ultimate Guide! (Part 1)

Sanrio characters are some of pop culture’s most beloved and recognizable figures! Created by the Japanese company Sanrio, these characters have become global icons with a wide range of merchandise, shows, and fan communities.

Their charm makes them popular in fashion, entertainment, and everyday products! Whether you’re a fan of the classics or the newer characters, Sanrio continues to bring joy to millions worldwide!

What is Sanrio?

Sanrio is a Japanese company famous for creating characters that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. From Hello Kitty to My Melody, Pompompurin, and Cinnamoroll, Sanrio’s characters are known for their unique and lovable personalities. These characters have expanded beyond merchandise to appear in animated shows, video games, and themed cafes! Sanrio’s range of products appeals to all ages, from children to adults.

Hello Kitty

Hello Kitty was created by Sanrio in 1974 and is one of the most famous Japanese characters! She debuted in the U.S. in 1976 and quickly gained international popularity. Although she appears to be a white cat, Hello Kitty is a British girl named Kitty White, and her story features her family in London. Over the years, Hello Kitty merchandise expanded beyond kids’ items to include products for teens and adults.

A key characteristic of Hello Kitty is that she has no mouth, which allows people to project their own emotions onto her. Sanrio explains that Hello Kitty is meant to be a global ambassador, not tied to a single language or emotion. Hello Kitty has also appeared in animated shows. Hello Kitty-themed snacks, such as cookies, candies, and chocolates, are very popular and often feature her signature bow in their designs!

My Melody

My Melody is a sweet white rabbit from Sanrio, known for her pink hood and kind nature. She first appeared 1975 as Little Red Riding Hood and has since become Hello Kitty’s best friend. My Melody loves baking and enjoys fun adventures with her family and friends. Her closest friends include Flat, a shy blue mouse, My Sweet Piano, a pink sheep; and Kuromi, another rabbit, who is considered her rival. They share a “frenemies” relationship.

My Melody has appeared in several TV shows and video games and even hosted a radio show. She first appeared on TV in Hello Kitty’s Furry Tale Theater and later starred in her anime, Onegai My Melody. In 2005, she made her video game debut on the Nintendo DS, and she even featured in Animal Crossing: New Leaf with My Melody-themed items. Her radio show, “My Melo Therapy,” aired in 2019, where she offered advice to listeners.

Pompompurin

Pompompurin is a lovable golden retriever from Sanrio, known for his iconic brown beret and cheerful personality. He debuted in 1996 and has become one of the most popular Sanrio characters. Born April 16th, he enjoys sleeping, collecting shoes, and hanging out with friends. His favorite food is his mother’s cream caramel pudding, and he dreams of becoming even more famous.

Pompompurin has a close friendship with Macaroon and a surprising crush on Snoopy from Peanuts. He’s also inspired various media, including armor worn by anime characters like Alice Zuberg from Sword Art Online. He has also appeared in the Nintendo game Animal Crossing and starred in a Sanrio musical. Fans love Pompompurin for his softness, love of naps, and laid-back personality!

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Cinnamoroll

Cinnamoroll is an adorable white dog with floppy ears and a curly tail, created by Sanrio in 2001. Originally named “Baby Cinnamon,” he quickly became a fan favorite with his cute appearance and friendly personality. Cinnamoroll was born in the clouds and found his way to Cafe Cinnamon, where he became a beloved cafe community member. His charm lies in his big, floppy ears, rosy cheeks, and love for flying around.

Cinnamoroll’s fame continues to grow, and since 2017, he has been voted the most popular Sanrio character, surpassing Hello Kitty and My Melody. His popularity extends to real-life events, such as his appointment as the tourism ambassador of Shinagawa and his appearance at Harajuku Genderless & Free Fashion Week! He has appeared in anime shows, video games, and themed cafes, making him a popular character worldwide!

Little Twin Stars

Kiki and Lala, known as the Little Twin Stars, are a pair of characters from Sanrio, introduced in 1975. They were born on December 24th and traveled to Earth to learn how to become the best stars. Kiki, the younger brother, loves inventing things, while Lala, the older sister, enjoys drawing, writing poems, and cooking. The twins always look out for each other, even though Kiki’s curiosity sometimes lands him in trouble.

Yasuko Matsumoto created their design for a Christmas promotion, and stars were added to emphasize the festive theme. Initially called “the Twin Stars” or “the Charmers,” fans of the Strawberry News eventually chose the names Kiki and Lala. The twins’ backstory includes their journey to Earth, guided by magical items given to them by their parents, including a star that helps Kiki fly and a wand that Lala uses to summon snacks.

Kuromi

Kuromi stands out with her unique black jester’s hat, pink skull, and devilish tail. She is a mischievous yet sweet tomboy, born on Halloween, and enjoys reading romance novels and writing in her diary. Despite her appearance, Kuromi has a soft side and loves cooking. Her rivalry with My Melody started over petty incidents, but over time, their relationship softened. Kuromi is also known for her biker gang, where she rides tricycles with her friends.

Kuromi’s popularity comes from her edgy style, which appeals to goth, scene, and emo fans, earning her a dedicated fanbase called “Kuromies.” In 2021, she launched a campaign called “KUROMIfy the World,” complete with a song and social media presence. Kuromi has starred in shows like Onegai My Melody, where she played a villain, and Kuromi’s Pretty Journal, where she searches for her sister.

Why are these Sanrio Characters important?

Sanrio characters are important because they embody values like kindness, friendship, and joy. Hello Kitty is often used as a symbol of positivity, with her design allowing people to project their emotions onto her. Other characters like My Melody and Kuromi teach lessons about individuality and relationships. By addressing these themes, Sanrio characters appeal to fans of all ages and backgrounds!

These characters have a significant cultural impact, not only in Japan but across the world. Sanrio has created a global fanbase through merchandise, media, and collaborations with other brands! Events like Sanrio Puroland and themed cafes further immerse fans in the Sanrio universe, making the experience more interactive. The company’s adaptability has allowed its characters to continue to be loved by new generations! Do you have a favorite Sanrio Character? Tell us who it is in the comments below!