Introduction

Many tourist spots in Japan are known as "kawaii," but few bring the word to life as much as Sanrio Puroland in Tama New Town, Tokyo. Sanrio Puroland was founded in 1990, a three-story indoor theme park created to honor all things Sanrio. Think Disneyland for hello kitty fans and friends instead of Mickey Mouse.

Even though it is a tiny theme park, the vibrant colors, kawaii culture, and Sanrio-inspired building give it a lot of impacts. Explore the park's pastel-hued landscape to find a surprising array of characters, rides, shops, cafés, parades, and events. Get to know cute characters like Cinnamoroll, My Melody, Hello Kitty, and more! While planning your trip, be sure to explore Sugoi Mart to stock up on Sanrio merchandise.

Overview of Sanrio Puroland

In Japan, there are only two major theme parks that focus on Hello Kitty: Sanrio Puroland and Harmony Land (an outdoor theme park). These popular theme parks each have their own appeal, with Harmony Land focusing on rides and live shows and the Puroland Sanrio theme park providing a more immersive experience.

Sanrio Puroland Theme Park (サン リオ ピ ュ ー ロランド in Japanese) is a large indoor theme park dedicated to the adorable Sanrio characters (including Hello Kitty). This Sanrio theme park, also known as Hello Kitty Land, Sanrio Puroland, attracts fans of all ages. Because of its indoor location, it's an ideal attraction for visitors year-round, regardless of the weather.

Once inside Sanrio Puroland Japan, visitors will be immersed in the world of Sanrio. You can chat with characters, try Sanrio-themed foods, buy fun, Puroland-exclusive merchandise, and jump on character-inspired rides.

Sanrio Puroland Location and How to Get There

This exciting spot is an indoor theme park located, in Tama New Town, Tokyo Japan. You can access Sanrio World Japan via public transport, and from multiple cities. Shinjuku, Yokohama, Shin-Yurigaoka, and Tachikawa all offer train routes which drop you off within walking distance of the Sanrio Puroland location.

How to Get to Sanrio Puroland

The easiest way to reach Sanrio Puroland is to take the subway to Odakyu Tama Center Station. From Shinjuku Station, board the Express or regular Keio line towards Hashimoto or the Odakyu line towards Karakida, and get off at Tama Center Station. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and you can use your Pasmo or Suica card for the fare.

Once you exit the subway, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the entrance. As you leave the station, you’ll notice Sanrio-themed decor, from platform signage to character-stained glass ceiling art, setting the mood. Head down the stairs, turn left at the small shopping and restaurant area, and follow the signs. A nearby McDonald’s is a good landmark—keep walking straight, and you’ll soon arrive at Puro Land’s entrance.

Tips For Getting to the Park

1. Skip driving to the Hello Kitty amusement park and take the train for the easiest transportation. While you can drive to the park, there is limited space in the parking lot, so you may arrive and realize there's nowhere to leave your car.

2. Be sure to wear comfortable footwear, as you'll need to walk from the train station to the park for a few minutes. It's ideal to wear comfortable shoes either way, as the park also requires walking.

3. Reserve your train tickets early, especially if you plan to visit the park on the weekend (when it's busiest).

Best Time to Visit and Ticket Information

Unlike many other top destinations in Japan, Sanrio Puroland is a great stop year-round. Being an indoor amusement park, it’s ideal for visits regardless of the weather or season. However, summer tends to be busier due to shows, parades, and special events. To avoid crowds, plan your visit outside of summer and holidays.

Weekends are also popular and crowded, leading to longer lines. To minimize wait times, try to arrive as soon as the park opens during the week.

How to Get Tickets to the Hello Kitty Theme Park

There are several ways to obtain a ticket for Hello Kitty Theme Park. It’s recommended to buy tickets online to avoid arriving at a fully booked park. You can purchase tickets directly from the Sanrio Puroland website, choosing between a passport, e-passport, or annual passport.

To buy a ticket, select the type and date of your visit, then sign in or create an account. Complete the purchase by entering your billing information and receive your ticket via email or phone (for e-passports).

Online day passes are priced at 4,900 yen for adults and 3,800 yen for children and seniors. If you plan to visit only in the afternoon, afternoon passes are available for 3,200 yen for adults and 2,900 yen for children/seniors. Annual passes cost 20,000-22,000 yen for adults (depending on e-ticket or physical ticket) and 10,000-12,000 yen for children.

Tips For Getting Discounts/Special Passes

1. Always buy the tickets online and in advance, as they're much cheaper than at the ticket stands.

2. Some third-party websites offer discounted tickets, like Klook. They're well worth exploring.

3. If you live or work in Tama City, Sanrio Puroland offers an additional discount voucher for tickets. Adults receive 1000 yen off, and kids receive 300 yen off tickets purchased at the ticket counter.

4. Students also receive an additional discount of 500 yen with an advance ticket purchase. School IDs will likely need to be presented at the gate for this discount.

Things to Remember Before Going To Sanrio Puroland Theme Park

• Check the online calendar before you go.

Unlike Disneyland or other theme park in tokyo, Sanrio Puroland isn't open daily. Although they are typically closed on Thursdays, they occasionally close for maintenance or other reasons on other days.

• Check the online schedule before going for shows and parades.

Like Disney Sea and Tokyo Disneyland, Sanrio Puroland has regularly scheduled performances and shows, such as the Memory Boys musical or Kawaii Kabuki show. Some of these happen daily, and some are only held on special occasions.

• They do special things for anniversaries and birthdays.

When visiting Puroland on someone's birthday or anniversary, head to the information counter on the third floor. Get a card and see secret special things. Go and be surprised.

• Buying a 'Fastpass' at Puroland.

This JPY500 pass gives priority access to attractions and rides. However, if it's on a weekday, tourists seldom have to wait for a ride other than the Sanrio Character Boat Ride. Unless it's pressed for time, don't bother.

Sanrio Puroland Layout

The park has four floors but is a bit of a maze. Have a map handy at all times. You can download the official floor guide here.

• First Floor: Many shows are held at the Marchen Theater, Entertainment Hall, Fairyland Theater, and Discovery Theater, all centered around the Wisdom Tree. In Sanrio Town, you’ll find a food court, the My Melody & Kuromi ride, and Gudetama Land in Strawberry Hall.

• Second Floor: On this floor, you'll find the Sanrio Characters Boat Ride and Sanrio Town, featuring Lady Kitty's House. Other highlights on the second floor include Magic Fortune Telling Gudetama, Ticktock Castle, and the Game Corner.

• Third Floor: This level serves as the entrance and exit. If you're celebrating a birthday or anniversary, stop by the information counter for a special surprise. You'll also find lockers, a few shops, and a recharge station here.

• Fourth Floor: Go crazy with shopping and restaurants. Explore a seasonal menu in sanrio rainbow world restaurant, and character food court.

Attractions and Shows

Some of the highlights of the kitty theme parks include:

Caragli/Charaguri Residence

Short for “Character Greeting Residence,” this area opened in July 2022 and is Sanrio Puroland’s first new attraction in six years. Here, tourists can explore five themed rooms with the chance to meet and greet your favorite Sanrio characters mascot on rotation to make an appearance at the residence! 

Visit Lady Kitty House

Hello Kitty is an educated and classy lady of refined taste, and her living quarters reflect that. Step into her residence, complete with a rose garden, dress tower, and Japanese tea room. Take a photo inside the Lady Kitty House with Hello Kitty herself.

~My Melody & Kuromi~ Mymeroad Drive

Hop aboard the ~My Melody & Kuromi~ Mymeroad Drive and relish a trip to Maryland. This 5-minute trip is loaded with life-sized statues and paper-like structures.

The Wisdom Tree and Hello Kitty’s Bell of Happiness

On the first floor, don't miss the Wisdom Tree—Sanrio Puroland's iconic symbol. Explore the large atrium around this tree-like structure, where you'll find most of the free performances taking place.

Mini Factories and Photo Spots

Explore Sanrio Puroland to find charming factories and plants featuring candy, chocolates, and ice cream. These delightful exhibitions are perfect for photos, so make sure to visit and capture all the adorable displays.

Bread Factory

Visit the Bread Factory to witness its adorable characters in their daily baking routine. Each figure is molded from combining ingredients to shaping the dough with its respective activity.

Chocolate Factory

The Chocolate Factory is where you can see treats presented more realistically. View the variety of Easter eggs up close while catching a peek of several clowns giggling.

Candy Factory

Behold the animated candy machine at the Candy Factory. Although some people might find this location a little unsettling, the vibrant stick candies come to the rescue!

Kiki & Lala Twinkling Studio

Spend some time in the birthplace of Kiki & Lala (the Little Twin Stars). This dreamy area, with its muted colors, immerses you in the Dream Nebula world.

Navigate the Kaleidoscope maze to reach the studio, adding an extra layer of fun. Once inside, you can enjoy Kiki's boat or the stuffed animal photo wall—perfect spots for capturing memorable photos.

 Juice Factory

Wander inside the Juice Factory, and you'll see several colorful fruits. Watch as some adorable characters convert them into drinks.

Ice Cream Factory

At the Ice Cream Factory, take in a fun demonstration of how ice cream is made. Despite not receiving any genuine treats, this segment is entertaining!

Best Shops and Restaurants in Sanrio Puroland

Below are some of the top shops and eateries in Sanrio Puroland, Japan. When planning a visit, keep these on your to-do list.

Lady Kitty House Shop 

This shop is situated next to the Lady Kitty House and features all things Hello Kitty. From accessories to stationery, you'll find plenty of goodies here.

My Melody Shop

On the fourth floor is a shop dedicated to none other than My Melody. This adorable pink shop has exclusive plushies, accessories, and more.

Entrance Shop

The Entrance Shop found on the third floor is the largest in this themepark, providing the ideal location for souvenirs and gifts. This shop includes clothing, sweets, stationery, plushies, and other exclusive Sanrio Puroland merchandise.

Character Food Court

This Sanrio theme park food court includes everything cute (and tasty)! Featuring curry, ramen, and bento boxes, each menu item is inspired by one of the many Sanrio characters. The Character Food Court also offers options for those with dietary restrictions and allergens.

Cinnamoroll Dream Cafe

Step into the Cinnamoroll Dream Cafe for a taste of Cinnamoroll's world! This cafe offers delicious sweets, drinks, and snacks, all featuring the beloved Cinnamoroll and his friends.

Sweet Parlour

Found on the first floor, the Sweet Parlour is here to satisfy cravings for dessert. With a combination of Miracle Ice Cream (similar to Dippin' Dots) and fun drinks served in light bulbs, it's the perfect spot to regain energy after exploring the park.

Restaurant in the Building

This eatery is a buffet-style offering with a wide range of food options. Its more casual setting makes it an ideal place for families who want a quick bite to eat. While dining, guests can expect character performances to give them an exciting experience.

Helpful Tips for Visitors

1. Avoid visiting Japan Hello Kitty Land on the weekends when possible. Saturdays are especially busy at all Japanese theme parks, so expect large crowds these days. Sunday is also busy but not quite as crowded.

2. If you visit on a weekend, consider buying a PuroPass, which allows you to take advantage of express lines.

3. When planning your visit, avoid buying tickets for the day after a holiday or a park closing. These days are also quite busy and crowded.

4. Always visit Sanrio World Japan first thing in the morning. This way, you can tackle more popular attractions like the rides with a minimal wait time.

5. Upon arrival, grab a map and showtime pamphlet so you can plan your day around your most desired activities.

6. Arriving early at the park means getting to the food court early to avoid the lunchtime crowds. Eat as early as possible to receive your food more quickly. Skip the restaurants and food court at noon, as they will be packed.

7. Make time for the Miracle Gift Parade - it's one of the most exciting attractions at the park! This parade is more similar to a show featuring beloved Sanrio characters.

Sanrio Merchandise on Sugoi Mart

While Sanrio Puroland Theme Park is a once-in-a-lifetime activity, you can still expand your Sanrio collection without flying to Japan. Sugoi Mart has a large array of exclusive and limited-edition Sanrio merchandise. Below are a few of the exciting offerings found on Sugoi Mart; each will help transport you to the Sanrio Theme Park.

Sugoi Mart Sanrio Lucky Bag

You'll surely get lucky with this Sugoi Mart Sanrio Lucky Bag! Featuring a randomized offering of Sanrio-themed items, including plushies, stationery, toys, beauty products, snacks, and more, this mystery bag will keep you on your toes. Each lucky bag contains Japan-exclusive collectibles and goodies that you won't want to miss!

Sanrio Kuromi Gothic Room Blind Box

This fun blind box is just as punk-rock as Kuromi! This Sanrio Kuromi Gothic Room Blind Box includes a spooky bedroom design, along with one of eight figures. See how many figures you can collect by purchasing multiple blind boxes. As you collect figures, you can decorate Kuromi's room with fun, spooky items.

Who Are You Toy: Sanrio Characters

This fluffy Who Are You Toy: Sanrio Characters includes one of three characters (My Melody, Hello Kitty, and Cinnamoroll). You'll need to uncover which character you receive by gently washing the toy with water, letting it dry, and combing out the fur. Expect a fun, interactive event as you unveil your character!

Conclusion

When visiting Japan, Sanrio Puroland is a must-see. Whether you have kids, are a kid at heart, or are simply a Sanrio fanatic, this indoor theme park offers a memorable experience. From rides to a magical parade, character-themed food, the opportunity to shop a large array of Sanrio Co. Ltd. items, and other exciting Sanrio Pyūrorando attractions, the entire family is sure to leave just as excited as they arrived.

If you've had a chance to visit the Sanrio theme park in Japan, share your own experiences and favorite attractions on social media! Then, tag @sugoimart. We love to experience exciting Japanese attractions alongside you!

You can also bring a bit of Puroland magic home by exploring Sugoi Mart's Sanrio Collection. This extensive offering includes the most kawaii items, from accessories to blind boxes, lucky bags, toys, snacks, and more, all featuring popular Sanrio characters!

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