Plush charms have been accessorising our bags and keys for a long time now, but they have recently boomed in popularity around the world and there are so many super cute options and characters to choose from.
Disney Store Japan (JP – requires forwarding service) has the best selection of plush key holders, especially cute seasonal ones. They currently have a selection of Disney characters as different types of sushi and this Donald one is probably my favourite.
If that got you in the mood for a foodie bag charm, then Jellycat (UK/US) make A LOT. I think these cherries are super cute and perfect for summer. (UK)
The best thing about a plush is when it has another function and Nekohan the Rice Tiger from Riskit Design (US) is also a coin purse shaped like an onigiri. Perfect for storing those coins for playing gachapon…
When I was in Japan last, one of the most popular ‘characters’ on merchandise and gachapon were the shimaenaga or the Japanese long-tailed tit, also known as a snow fairy. These fluffy little birds are only found in Hokkaido, the northernmost prefecture in Japan, but Tofu Cute (UK) have a selection of springtime shimaenaga plushes that mean you can have one with you wherever you are.
Myaku Myaku, the epitome of ugly kawaii, is another one of the most featured characters in Japan right now due to being the mascot of Osaka Expo 2025. Everyone wants to get their hands on some of Myaku Myaku’s merch and especially the collaboration with Sanrio. Meccha Japan (JP) still has some of the keychain plushes in stock, including this Hangyodon one.
This cute little amphibian from Urban Outfitters (UK) could be the perfect companion. After all, who doesn’t want a grumpy frog hanging from their bag?
My friend and I both have these soot sprite charms from Donguri Republic (JP – requires forwarding service) and they are perfect because they’re small enough to hang off any bag, no matter the size. They are a great pick for any Ghibli fan!
My little corduroy style Miffy is my favourite bag charm, but I really want to pick up this teddy Miffy face from De Winkel van Nijntje (EU). It comes in cream, pink, beige, lavender, and cinnamon brown… do I need to collect them all?
Speaking of ‘catching them all’, the Pokemon Center (UK/US) has lots of different Pokemon featured on their plush keychains, including all of the Eeveelutions. Umbreon is my buddy on Pokemon Go, but which would you choose?
Leave a Reply