Kawaii Links Roundup

Did you know we have a free weekly newsletter? You also get a monthly roundup of cute links and videos we’ve saved including character cafes, collabs, crafts and Japan. We’re also sharing the links section here on the blog, though subscribers will still get them first, plus lots of videos too.

• If you’re planning a kawaii Japan trip, Sanrio now have a useful new Hotels & Cafes website (in Japanese), where you can get all the info on themed hotel rooms and character cafes for each region. This seems only to list permanent locations but hopefully they’ll add limited time pop-ups too.
• The takeout locations of the Kirby Cafe in Tokyo & Osaka have a new dessert menu with three flavours of chiffon cake, alongside their usual menu. I hope I get to try the Kirby Car cake some day.
• The ARTBOX Cafe in Brighton have announced their next theme, a My Melody & Kuromi Tea Shop! Keep an eye on their Instagram for updates on the menu and opening dates.
• Miffy has a lovely new collection with Cath Kidston and will also be at their London Westfield store today if you want to run over and give Miffy a hug.
• We finally quit Twitter/X this month and don’t miss it (come to Bluesky!), but the the Japanese ambassador to the UK taking Paddington Bear on a trip to Japan is incredibly sweet. The link it to an article on SoraNews24 if you’ve also quit.
• Fans of Witch Hat Atelier (*raises hand*) will need a copy of The Prismatic Path, a new digital colouring book with new art from over 30 artists + extras, all for $5. Only available until 26th April.
• It’s been horribly depressing to see how the Ghibli-style AI images have gone viral this week. If you see anyone sharing them who says they love Ghibli, Tokyo Weekender have a very clear article you can share that includes Miyazaki’s own very negative opinions on AI. Please support human artists!
• They also have a nice article on How Kumamon Took Over the World.
• Speaking of mascots, the collab we’ve all been waiting for: Hello Kitty x Myakumyaku, the very weird mascot of the Expo 2025 Osaka. You can also buy the plush from Meccha Japan who ship worldwide.
• Love these illustrations of big and small moments from The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker by artist Chris Kotiesen. My favourite Link ever – I love all the faces he makes.
• It’s a new month in Animal Crossing Pocket Camp Complete and if you’re stuck for inspiration for the current themes, have a look at our posts with custom designs for Spring, Bunny Day and more.
• A reminder that SCK’s Emma is in Japan for the next few weeks including Star Wars Celebration. You can follow her on Instagram @thelittleedition and she’ll be working on lots of Japan posts for the rest of the year.

The 40th edition of the Sanrio Character Ranking is happening very soon! Voting opens on the 10th so start thinking about your favourites and we’ll have more info on the blog soon.

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