Sanrio is known globally for its cute characters, interesting stories, and relationships that have evolved over the decades. From its founding back in 1962, Sanrio has created nearly 600-700 or so characters with approximately 450 that are considered “primary,” each with its own story and personality. These include popular household names like Hello Kitty and Badtz-Maru; with each character having its own fan following and capturing the hearts of people around the world.
This list of Sanrio characters is perfect for anyone who wants to explore the full range of adorable mascots that have had a lasting impact on global culture. Sanrio’s diverse cast of characters offers something for everyone. Let’s explore the wonderful world of Sanrio and discover the full list of these charming characters, each with their own unique backstory and personality. Many people recognize Hello Kitty, Sanrio’s most famous character that was created in 1974.
But there are many other characters worth knowing. Keroppi, a cheerful frog, and My Melody, a sweet bunny, are also fan favorites. Sanrio characters often appear on various merchandise like stationery, accessories, and toys, connecting fans with their favorite characters daily. Fans admire Sanrio characters for their cute designs and unique traits. Whether it’s Pompompurin, the golden retriever with a brown beret, or Cinnamoroll, the puppy with long ears, each character has something special. These characters have become part of everyday life for many, reflecting a blend of Japanese culture and universal cuteness.
Popular and Beloved Sanrio Characters
Classic Sanrio Characters
Character Name | Creation Year | Description |
---|---|---|
Hello Kitty | 1974 | A cheerful and kind girl with a red bow, loved globally. |
My Melody | 1975 | A sweet rabbit with a pink hood, known for her gentle nature. |
Little Twin Stars | 1975 | Kiki and Lala, a pair of twins representing the sun and moon. |
Keroppi | 1988 | A playful frog known for his big eyes and happy smile. |
Badtz-Maru | 1993 | A mischievous penguin with a rebellious attitude. |
Pompompurin | 1996 | A golden retriever dog who loves milk and wears a brown beret. |
Chococat | 1996 | A black cat with large, innocent eyes and a playful personality. |
Modern Sanrio Characters
Character Name | Creation Year | Description |
---|---|---|
Cinnamoroll | 2001 | A white puppy with long ears and a curly tail, resembling a cinnamon roll. |
Kuromi | 2005 | A mischievous rabbit with a black hood and a pink skull on her forehead. |
Gudetama | 2013 | A lazy egg yolk known for his apathetic and unmotivated personality. |
Aggretsuko | 2015 | A red panda office worker who releases her frustration through death metal karaoke. |
Other Notable Sanrio Characters
Character Name | Creation Year | Description |
---|---|---|
Tuxedo Sam | 1979 | A chubby penguin who loves to eat and wear tuxedos. |
Minna no Tabo | 1984 | A little boy with a mushroom-shaped head, known for his cheerful personality. |
Hangyodon | 1985 | A fish with a worried expression and a tendency to be misunderstood. |
Pochacco | 1989 | A sporty dog known for his energetic and playful nature. |
Charmmy Kitty | 2004 | Hello Kitty’s pet cat, a white Persian cat with a lace collar. |
Sanrio Characters (Full List)
- Adorozatorumary
- Agemi-kun
- Aggretsuko
- Ai
- Ajimaru
- Alain Allen
- Alex
- ALFREDALOHA
- Alice’s older Sister
- Amelie
- Amy
- Angela
- Anko
- Anzu
- Aousa and Aomimiusa
- Araiguma
- Arie
- Aro
- Atchan ga Ichiban!
- Ayankey
- Ayasa
- Azami
- Azuki
- B. Hills Kid
- Baby Milo
- Badtz-Maru
- Bagel
- Bako
- Baku
- Bambina
- Bearobics
- Beatcats
- Beetroid
- Beezy Riders
- Benjaminbear
- Best friends’ story
- Bibi
- Bibinba
- Big Challenges
- Billy
- Billy Pie
- Bird Stuck On The Minute Hand
- Biscuit
- Bishop
- Black Opal
- Blacky
- Bogo the City Boy
- Bonbonribbon
- Boo Bee
- Boo Gey Woo
- Boo Gie Boo
- Boonchuka
- Bosanimal
- Boy & Girl
- Brownie
- Brownies’ Story
- Brunch & Lunch
- Bubble Cheeks
- Buchiusa and Mintousa
- Bunny and Matty
- Buppy-kun
- Buri-kun
- Butabara-kun
- Button Nose
- Buushka
- Cake-chan
- Candy
- Cappuccino
- Captain Willy
- Caramel Bear
- Caribadix
- Cathy
- Catnip
- Catsbykids
- Chacha
- Chai
- Charmmy Kitty
- Cheery Chums
- Chelsea Stripes
- Cherdé
- Cherinacherine
- Cherri
- Chewing Gum Street
- Chi Chai Monchan
- Chibikuri
- Chibimaru
- Chico
- Chieo
- Chiffon
- Chiko-kun
- Chinjyumin&Gochan
- Chip
- Chippy Mouse
- Chirin
- Chiwapiyon
- CHOBOT
- Chocho
- Chococat
- Chocola
- Chocopanda
- Choppy
- Chowder
- Christopher Kiwinu
- Chu~Chu~Ta~co
- Chumi
- Chunenheroine Ojisan’s
- Chuppies
- Ciel
- Cielo
- Cinnamoangels
- Cinnamon
- Cinnamoroll
- Clock-headed Man
- Coco and Nuts
- Cocoa and Vanilla
- Coconut
- Cogimyon
- Cogimyun
- Collimo
- Cookie
- Cookie-Bau
- Corn
- Cornet
- Coro Chan
- Corocorokuririn
- Cottontails
- Country Fresh Veggies
- Crafty Crew
- Criticrista
- Crybaby
- Culture Shock
- Custard
- D.B.
- Dachomi
- Dachonosuke
- Daikichi
- Dandy
- Darkgrapeman
- Dean The Bean
- Dear Daniel
- Deery-Lou
- Den Den
- DinDonDanny
- Dokidoki Yummychums
- Donjarahoi
- Donragon
- Dopey Demons
- Dora
- Dori
- Dotchi
- Dreamtale Kubear
- Duckadoo
- Ebifurai
- Eddy
- Egbert
- Emerald
- Emily
- Eric
- Espresso
- Espriana
- Fairy Charmer
- Fairy Florence
- Fancy Elephant
- Fangora
- Fenneko
- Fifi
- Flat
- Flight of Fancy
- Flint Hammerhead
- FORMULIXZ
- Framboiloulou
- Frappe
- Fresh Punch
- Friday
- Frido
- Friendly Kokkochan
- Frill
- Frooliemew
- Fujinrainosuke
- Fukuchan
- Fukurou
- Fun Come Alive
- Funnybones
- Fuwafuwa
- Fuzzie’s Family
- Fuzzy
- Ganta
- Gaopowerroo
- Garnet
- Gatorgags
- Geetown Special
- Gentle Bear League
- Gimmefive
- Gindara-san
- Gingersnap
- Giraffe
- Goro
- Goropikadon
- Grandma
- Grandpa
- Granny
- Grinder
- Gudetama
- Gureco
- Gure-Gure Crew
- Guresuke
- Guri
- Gyoza-kun
- Gyutan-kun
- Hagurumanstyle
- Hally
- Hana-Maru
- Hanamaruobake
- Hanatousagi
- Hanausa and Momousa
- Hangyodon
- Hannari Komachi
- Hapidanbui
- Hapiru chan
- Happakids
- Harinezumi
- Haroshee
- Harry
- Hello Kitty
- Hello Kitty to Issho! Project
- Heysuke
- Hikidashi aita
- Hitsuji-san
- Holly’s Bear
- Honey
- Honeycute
- Honeyfield
- Honeymomo
- Hopty Copty
- Hoshinowaguma
- House Train
- Howdy
- Hummingmint
- I.CINNAMOROLL
- Ichigo-chan
- Ichigoman
- Ikkuchan
- Iruka
- Ivy
- Jelly Bean
- Jewelpet
- Jivexpress
- JOCHUM
- Jody
- Joey
- Judy
- Julianna Scott
- Jumbo
- Jump
- JungleBikky
- Just For Fun
- Kabukinyantaro
- Kahme
- Kaitou-roppappu
- Kamaboko-chan
- Kamome
- Kamonyohashi Series
- Kangaroo
- Kappa no Kappy
- Kappa Rumba
- Karubi-kun
- Kashiwankomochi
- Kawau
- Keroleen
- Keroppa
- Keroppe
- Keroppi
- Kimi Kameleen
- Kinderkidz
- King Zou
- Kingyodohonpo
- KIRIMIchan
- Kitsune
- Kobun
- Kokero
- Komachi
- Komugiusa and Pandausa
- Koni
- Konmi
- Koppepan
- Koroppi
- Kuma
- Kumamilen
- Kumao
- Kuromi
- Kurousa and Shirousa
- Kurumi
- Kusuke
- Kyorosuke
- Labra
- Lalalaflora
- Landry
- Latte
- Latteusa and Cappuccinousa
- Laughing Woman
- Leosuke
- Les nounours
- Little Cottonwood Cottage
- Little Twin Stars
- Littleforestfellow
- Littlelovin
- Lloromannic
- Lookyloo
- Lou
- Lovee Days
- Lucy
- Lullaby Lovables
- Lutz
- Maa-kun
- Macaroon
- Macchiato
- Madeleine
- Madonra
- Magical Rion-Chan
- Magical Twin Comets
- Maguro-kun
- Maimai
- Maimaimaigoen
- Mama
- Mameta
- Maple
- Marin
- Marroncream
- Martino
- Marumofubiyori
- Mashu
- Masyumaro
- Mellotune
- Melorina
- Mewkledreamy
- Milk
- Milkeemimi
- Mille-Feuille
- Milly Pixie
- Mime
- Mimicmike
- Mimmy
- MINNA NO TABO
- Minny le Mew
- Mint
- Miss Bear’s Dream
- Mocha
- Mogumogu
- Mogura
- Mokuba
- Moley
- Momochan
- Momouo
- Monday
- Monkichi
- Mon-Mon
- Monsieur Marin
- Monsuke
- Monta
- Mowzer
- Mr. Bear’s Dream
- Mr. Berry
- Mr. Mouse
- Mr. Policeman
- Mr. Robot
- Mrs Lindsey
- Mrs. Berry
- Mrs. Squirrel
- Muffin
- My Melody
- Nako-chan
- Naruto-chan
- Nazoko
- Nemukko Nyago
- Nemurin
- Nene
- Nezumikozou
- Nifty Fifties Comic
- Nina
- Noah
- Noberun
- Noranekoland
- Nori
- Nuts
- Nutz
- Nya Ni Nyu Nye Nyon
- Nyako-chan
- Nyamafuji Anzu
- Nyamamugi Tart
- Nyamashiro Soda
- Nyanmi
- Nyokki & Penne
- Okigaru Friends
- Opart
- Osaketachinonichijo
- Otamaro
- P.I.
- Pajamasclub
- Pandaba
- Pandapple
- Pankunchi
- Pannapitta
- Pannya-chan
- Papa
- Paradise Lives
- Party a la carte
- Pastan
- Pastana
- PataPataPeppy
- Patty & Jimmy
- Paupipo
- Pea
- Pearl
- Pearlusa and Kirausa
- Peek-a-Boo
- Pekkle
- Peko
- PePePePengiin
- Pero
- PETAPETAMINILIAN
- Peter Davis
- Petit Plié
- Petite Ange
- Petitmericco
- Picke Bicke
- Pierrot
- Pikki
- Pink no Corisu
- Pinki Bee Chan
- Pinki Lili
- Pinky
- PinkyLilRose & RioSkyPeace
- Pipi and Popo
- Pippi
- Pippo
- Pi-ru-ru
- Pita
- Pitch
- PIX Press
- Plasmagica
- Playin’ Paradise
- Pochacco
- Pochamii
- Pochi
- Poco
- Podo Pooch
- Pokkyokuten
- Pokopon’s Diary
- Polar Picnic
- Pompompurin
- Pon Pon Hieta
- Ponchi
- Pop’n Berry
- Poponen
- Popple
- Poron
- Powder
- Presso
- Prince Edwin
- Prince Flower
- Prince Miruhi
- Princess Prilipat
- Princess Squirrel
- Professor Kamato
- Puchipuchi Wanko
- Puff & Poff
- Puffin
- Pukapuka Paradise
- Puppie Luv
- Puru
- Pururun Kyupi
- Puwawa
- Qui-Quaks
- Rabbi
- Rachel
- Ramchoppu
- Ranran Puranrou
- Rei
- Rhythm
- Rihanna
- Rilu Rilu Fairilu
- Rin Ling
- Risu
- Risuru
- Robby Rabbit
- Robearta
- Robert
- Robow@n
- Rolé Molé
- Romina
- Roonroonlulu
- Rorry
- Rose and Mary
- Roseanne
- RosiePosie
- Rosu-chan
- Ruby
- Rumi
- Runabouts
- Rururugakuen
- S.N. Ray
- Saba-kun
- Sakura
- Sakuran
- Sally
- Sambo and Hannah
- Sameo
- Samyu
- Sango
- Sapphie
- Sapphire
- Sarah
- Sasamin
- Sassy
- Saturday
- Sawara-kun
- Sayuri
- Scone
- Sengoku Prison
- Sephon
- Seven Silly Dwarfs
- Shakipiyo
- Shatoburian
- Shi
- Shingan Crimsonz
- Shingo
- Shinkaizoku
- Shinkansen
- Shirirapper
- Shirotaro
- Shokupan
- Small People
- Snail
- Socrates
- Sora
- Sora-kun
- Space Saga
- Sporting Bears
- Spottie Dottie
- Spunky Burro
- Stega
- Stillsmall Tales
- Stinky
- Strawberry
- Strawberryusa and Blueberryusa
- Sugar
- Sugar Cream Puff
- Sugarminuet
- Sunday
- Suzumeya
- Sweetcoron
- Swim
- Syrup
- Tabby
- Tabisuke
- Tabitha Dean
- Tai-kun
- Tap
- Tart
- Tata
- Teddy Bear
- Teddy the Teddy
- Tenchou
- Tenorikuma
- Tera
- Terikichi
- Teru
- Teru Teru
- Teruteruporon
- Tess
- Tetsunagikuma
- TGiF
- The Academic Friends
- The Beaver Triplets
- The Chilli Pepper Trio
- The Duck Family
- The Duckies
- The Friendly Club
- The Little Train
- The Mainstream
- The Old Badger
- The Pi-chans
- The Strawberry King
- The Utensils
- The White Family Goldfish
- Thomas
- Thursday
- Ticktackbon
- Ticky
- Tim and Tammy
- Timocha
- Tiny Blue
- Tiny Chum
- Tiny Cream
- Tiny Green
- Tiny Lavender
- Tiny Pink
- Tiny Poem
- Tippy
- Tiramisu
- Tiran
- Toby Trix
- Toffee
- Toffeeroo
- Tommy
- Tonari no kappa-san chi
- Tops
- Tori
- Tracy
- Trend Point
- Trend Setters
- Tric Trap
- Trichronika
- TRIP TO WONDERLAND
- Trix & Trunx
- Tsugumido
- Tsunko
- Tsurezurenaru Ayatsuri Mugenan
- Tuesday
- Tulip Mates
- Turfy
- Tuxedo Sam
- Twee Dee Drops
- Tweedle Dee Dee
- USAHA*NA
- Udon-san
- Umeya Zakkaten
- Uncle Cheshire
- Uncle Scotch
- Unico
- Uribo
- Uriurikoron
- Usagi-san
- Usahana
- Ushi
- Uuken
- Vanilla
- Vanillabean
- Vastus
- Vaudeville Duo
- Veggie Menu
- Vento
- Waffle Kids
- Wanmi
- Wanwa-chan
- Warau Onna
- WeAreDinosaurs
- Wednesday
- Wee Marylou
- Whip
- Whiskers & Paws
- White Bird
- Winkipinki
- Winning Jack
- Wishmemell
- Wookami
- Yachiyo Charmer
- Yeah What
- Yoshikitty
- Yotsuba-chan
- Youkai Kids
- Yudetamago
- Yume Hinata
- Yutakun
- Zashikibuta
- Zing
- Zippyzoo
- Zonty
- Zoozoogang
- Zou
- Zou Jitensha
Key Takeaways
- Sanrio has created over 450 characters since 1962, with Hello Kitty being the most famous.
- Sanrio characters appear on a wide range of products, making them a part of daily life.
- Fans appreciate these characters for their unique designs and charming personalities.
Iconic Sanrio Characters
Sanrio has created many beloved characters over the years. These characters have distinctive traits, appearances, and storylines.
Hello Kitty and Friends
Hello Kitty, also known as Harō Kiti, is a white cat with a red bow. She has no visible mouth, which emphasizes her expression through different ways. Created in 1974 by Yuko Shimizu, Hello Kitty quickly became the face of Sanrio. Charmmy Kitty, her Persian cat, often appears alongside her. Mimmy, her twin sister, wears a yellow bow. Dear Daniel, her childhood friend, is another key figure.
Hello Kitty’s friends include My Melody, a white rabbit who loves baking and wears a red hood, and Little Twin Stars, Kiki and Lala, who travel from another world to learn and share. Their wholesome dynamics add to the charm of Hello Kitty’s universe.
Little Twin Stars and the World of Magic
Little Twin Stars, Kiki and Lala, are iconic figures from 1975. Kiki has blue hair and Lala has pink hair. They travel from their star-filled homeland, always seeking to learn and help others. Their magical adventures capture the imagination.
Kiki is curious and brave, often thinking up brilliant ideas. Lala is gentle and loves poetry and cooking. Together, they balance each other’s strengths. Their dreamy world is filled with stars, clouds, and rainbows, enchanting fans old and new.
Keroppi, Pochacco, and the Adorable Animals
Keroppi, a cheerful green frog, lives in Donut Pond. His upbeat personality and love for adventure make him a fan favorite. Pochacco, a sporty white dog from 1989, always wears gym clothes. He loves sports and making friends.
Other beloved animal characters include Tuxedosam, a clumsy but lovable penguin, and Chococat, a curious black cat with whiskers that can pick up information. These characters add a delightful variety to Sanrio’s lineup.
Cinnamoroll and the Cafe Cinnamon Residents
Cinnamoroll, introduced in 2001, is a white puppy with long ears. He looks like a fluffy cinnamon roll, hence his name. Cinnamoroll is the main resident of Cafe Cinnamon, where he helps all his friends. His flying ability adds a whimsical touch to his stories.
Other residents include Mocha, a brown rabbit who loves fashion, and Chiffon, a golden retriever known for her energy. These characters create heartwarming stories centered around friendship and community.
Bad Badtz-Maru, Gudetama, and the Unique Personalities
Bad Badtz-Maru, a mischievous black penguin, first appeared in 1993. He has a distinct spiky hair style and a rebellious attitude. His antics and clever schemes make him stand out. Gudetama, an egg yolk with a lazy disposition, became an instant hit after his debut in 2013.
Both characters offer a different flavor to the usual sweetness of Sanrio’s other creations. Their unique personalities provide humor and a sense of relatability, appealing to a broader audience.
Sanrio’s Global Influence and Product Range
Sanrio’s success lies in their wide range of products and multimedia presence. They offer items like stationery and accessories and have influential collaborations.
Media, Entertainment, and Fashion
Sanrio’s characters have appeared in various media, including anime series and video games. For example, Show By Rock!! is a popular anime featuring anthropomorphized animals. There are also many books and animations that introduce their characters to younger audiences.
Sanrio has a strong foothold in fashion. They offer clothing lines featuring beloved characters, especially Hello Kitty. These items are popular in Japan and worldwide. Their fashion impact is further solidified through limited edition releases and event-exclusive merchandise. Their products are frequently showcased in fashion shows and exhibitions.
Collaborations and Cultural Impact
Sanrio frequently collaborates with various brands and organizations. They have worked with Sega Toys to create unique toys and games. Collaborations with major retailers result in exclusive products like themed accessories and stationery.
Their cultural impact is vast. The “Sanrio Character Ranking” allows fans to vote for their favorite characters, fostering engagement. Sanrio also participates in charitable events, like those with UNICEF, to promote social good.
Their characters defined the “kawaii” culture globally. Creators like Yuko Shimizu, the mind behind Hello Kitty, have become icons. Sanrio’s influence extends to social media where fans share and celebrate their favorite characters.