Sanrio Characters are Coming to Melt Your Heart (and Stress Away!)
If you’ve ever wanted to relax in a hot spring surrounded by the absolute cuteness of Sanrio, your dream is about to come true! The legendary Japanese spa chain Gokurakuyu and RAKU SPA have announced their second major collaboration with Sanrio Characters. Titled “Kawaii♡ Bath Time”, this adorable event will run from October 22 to November 10, 2026, across 15 participating locations in Japan.
Featuring beloved characters like Hello Kitty, Kuromi, and Usahana, the collaboration promises custom baths, limited-edition merchandise, themed food, and special events that no fan will want to miss.
Colorful Themed Baths & Cute Photo Spots
The highlight of the event is undoubtedly the five colorful collaborative baths inspired by the Sanrio characters. Each bath is designed to match the signature aesthetic of a specific character, complete with specially illustrated tapestries decorating the bathing areas.
Additionally, the spa interiors will be fully decorated to immerse you in the Sanrio universe, featuring:
- Key visual panels and banners featuring exclusive newly drawn illustrations.
- “Kawaii Profile” posters showcasing the characters’ charms.
- Dedicated “Nui-dori” (plushie photography) spots, allowing you to take adorable photos of your own Sanrio plushies in cute miniature settings!
Exclusive Merch and “Kawaii” Dining
No collaboration is complete without some amazing loot! Visitors who purchase the “Sanrio Characters Plus Set” alongside their spa entry fee will receive an exclusive muffler towel featuring the event’s original artwork.
Other merchandise and food perks include:
- Limited-Edition Goods: Available in-store and online starting October 22. Spending 2,000 yen (tax incl.) on merch in-store earns you a random Japanese-style paper sticker (10 designs total).
- Themed Cafe Menu: Indulge in delicious character-inspired food and drinks. Each order comes with a random heart-shaped coaster (10 designs total).
- SNS Campaign: Follow the official spa account on X (formerly Twitter) and post with the designated hashtag to receive a limited-edition “Member Card-style” clear card on a first-come, first-served basis.
Exclusive Workshops and Nintendo Switch Game Demos at RAKU SPA Tsurumi
For fans visiting the RAKU SPA Tsurumi branch, there are extra-special events lined up:
- October 24–25: Hands-on workshops where you can create your very own original Sanrio goods.
- November 7: A special character greeting event featuring Usahana wearing a unique outfit!
- Game Demo: Playable demos of the upcoming party game, Sanrio Partyland, which is scheduled for release in Autumn 2026 for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
Whether you are looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or want to grab some exclusive Japanese merchandise, this “Kawaii Bath Time” event is the ultimate destination for Sanrio lovers visiting Japan this fall!
Source: Yahoo News Japan
