My favorite Japanese characters

Hello Kitty (Kitty Chan) is probably the most popular from Japan. Kitty chan has conquered the world. But it isn’t my most favorite character.

Kitty chan is sweet and I do like it. But I want to share other characters from Japan that are not as famous as Hello Kitty in other countries. But these are just as lovable as Hello Kitty.

Rilakkuma

Rilakkuma means Bear in relaxed mood. I have various Rilakkuma stationary at home. Rilakkuma is not only cute but we feel relaxed and happy just by looking at him. Don’t you agree?

SumikkoGurashi

This is a new character released by San-X. Literal translation of Sumikkogurashi is “corner living.” it is interesting that the characters for Sumikkogurashi touch upon how shy Japanese people can be. People in Japan tend to hide in corners due to their shyness. I am not quite sure if this is exactly the case but we are pretty shy and reserved. 🙂 But I love Sumikkogurashi.

Brown (the laid-back bear) and Cony (the bunny) by LINE (Japanese smartphone app)

When I went back to Japan last year, I was surprised to see these folks everywhere. They are super popular and cute. These characters are more than just characters but they are pretty much used as Emoji. Whenever I text with my family using Line, we often send “stickers” of these characters and they have different emoji that shows different emotions. We don’t have to say much because I would send a sleepy bear when I am tired.

Miffy  (chan)

I am surprised to learn that Miffy chan was actually created by Dutch artist Dick Bruna. I thought this was a Sanrio’s character. Miffy chan is a small female rabbit and it is very popular in Japan.