Sun-Kissed Sanrio Characters Star in Adorable New Summer Merch Collection
Sanrio is giving several of its most popular characters a sun-kissed summer makeover with a new collection built around pastel swimwear, poolside accessories, and plenty of tropical details.
The “Kirameki Summer Pool Design Series” depicts Hello Kitty and her friends enjoying a day by the water, with the characters sporting noticeably deeper tans alongside colorful swimsuits and accessories inspired by the height of the Japanese summer.
The collection stars Hello Kitty, My Melody, Kuromi, Cinnamoroll and My Sweet Piano, and covers everything from plush mascots and bags to smaller accessories and stationery, with hibiscus flowers, woven textures and sparkling finishes helping connect each piece.
Leading the lineup are seven Mascot Holders, priced at ¥2,596 each (approx. $18 USD / £13 GBP), which transform the tanned characters into small plush companions dressed in pastel summer outfits and fitted with carabiners for attaching them to bags.
The 2-Way Shoulder Bag, priced at ¥2,970 (approx. $20 USD / £15 GBP), uses a summery basket-style finish and includes a removable shoulder strap, allowing it to be carried either by hand or over the shoulder.
A matching Pouch, priced at ¥2,200 (approx. $15 USD / £11 GBP), continues the woven look while adding a hibiscus zipper pull and raised pearl decoration.
A Keychain, priced at ¥1,496 (approx. $10 USD / £8 GBP), shrinks the same idea into a miniature bag that can also hold earbuds or other small items.
Sanrio has also created a Tote Bag, priced at ¥2,497 (approx. $17 USD / £13 GBP), featuring artwork from the summer collection and metal hardware on the handles for attaching charms and other accessories.
Three Face-Shaped Clear Mini Pouches, priced at ¥1,496 each (approx. $10 USD / £8 GBP), provide another way to carry smaller accessories, combining character-shaped designs with transparent sections and attached carabiners.
The Big Towel, priced at ¥3,300 (approx. $22 USD / £17 GBP), is intended for trips to the beach or pool and carries the colorful seasonal artwork across its much larger format.
A Sticker Set, priced at ¥550 (approx. $4 USD / £3 GBP), uses a holographic finish that plays into the collection’s sparkling summer theme and is sized with decorating items such as smartphone cases in mind.
The Folding Mirror, priced at ¥1,496 (approx. $10 USD / £8 GBP), adds raised decorative elements to its exterior along with a strap hole that can be used for attaching another charm or accessory.
Eight Secret Straps, priced at ¥990 each (approx. $7 USD / £5 GBP), pair miniature versions of the tanned characters with hibiscus beads, with each purchase containing a randomly selected design rather than allowing buyers to choose their favorite.
The blind packaged assortment can also be purchased as a complete eight-piece set where stock permits, offering collectors a way to secure every design without relying entirely on individual mystery purchases.
Three sets of Bangs Clips, priced at ¥990 each (approx. $7 USD / £5 GBP), complete the collection with glitter and oversized hibiscus decorations, with each set containing left- and right-facing clips.
Most of the “Kirameki Summer Pool Design Series” will launch through Sanrio stores, participating department-store Sanrio sections, and the Sanrio Japan Online Shop on August 19, 2026, with selected stores in parts of Japan following on August 20.
The Bangs Clips have been delayed from their originally planned August 19 release and will instead arrive on August 26, with some regional stores receiving them from August 27.
If you enjoyed this article, you can see more from us directly in your Google feed by adding us as a preferred source.
This post may contain affiliate links, and Essential Japan may earn a commission if you purchase through them.
