Hello Kitty made its historic debut on November 1, 1974, when she debuted in a vinyl coin purse. Sanrio’s internationally popular character, whose full name is Kitty White, was designed by Yuko Shimizu and is one of the best-selling characters of all time. Yasuki Yoshioka of SMBC Nikko Securities said the Hello Kitty empire occupied nearly Accounts for 76% of Sanrio’s gross profit Through merchandising and licensing.
For nearly 50 years, Hello Kitty has brought smiles to people around the world in the form of toys, stationery, cartoons, clothing, home decoration, cosmetics and more. She was also appointed UNICEF Children’s Ambassador to the United States and Japan in 1983 and 1994 respectively, and in 2004 she was awarded the title of UNICEF Special Friend of Children – a title unique to her. Since 2019, Hello Kitty and United Nations For activities promoting the Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, at the state banquet at Buckingham Palace, king charles Dedicated to praising Katie’s achievements and connections to the London suburbs.
As we countdown to Kitty’s 50th birthday on November 1st, here are the exclusive events, exhibitions and pop-up experiences you don’t want to miss. celebrate this kawaii Icons include limited edition merchandise, theme park events, themed food and special museum displays.
Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Events and Exhibitions
Tokyo National Museum Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Exhibition
A new exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum celebrates Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary, showcasing the largest collection of Hello Kitty merchandise, collaborations and original video content, all of which explores the evolution of Hello Kitty’s design over the decades and its global culture Influence.
date and time | November 1, 2024 to February 24, 2025・09:30-17:00・Open until 19:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, last admission time is 30 minutes before closing |
price | General: 2,000 yen (1,800 yen in advance), college students: 1,800 yen (1,600 yen in advance), junior high and high school students: 1,600 yen (1,400 yen in advance), elementary school students: 1,000 yen (800 yen in advance) |
Place | Tokyo National Museum |
Sanrio Puroland theme park hosts Hello Kitty 50th anniversary celebration
As Sanrio continues its celebration of Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary, there are a number of special updates coming to Puroland theme park.
date and time | October 4th to December 31st・・Please confirm the specific dates of each event |
price | 3700 yen |
Place | Sanrio Puroland |
More information | Some events require additional tickets and advance booking |
Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Pop-up Market Tour
To celebrate Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary, a special pop-up market will be touring across Japan. This massive shopping event features unique products including tote bags, keychains, dorayaki and castella.
date and time | October 2, 2024 to January 5, 2025・・For business hours and holidays, please refer to the website of each department store |
price | free |
Place | Ginza Mitsukoshi |
Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary National Tour
Countdown to Hello Kitty’s 50th birthday, the character will go on a nationwide tour to meet fans across Japan. Each Sanrio store will host Kitty to meet customers.
date and time | October 5th – November 30th・Please check the event website for event times at each location |
price | free |
Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Cafe
Hello Kitty and her sister Mimmy are celebrating their birthdays at limited pop-up cafes in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya. The café offers a colorful menu of entrees, desserts and drinks, with creative touches from Hello Kitty.
date and time | September 13th to October 27th・Please check the website for the time of each venue |
price | ¥605-¥6590 |
Place | Box Cafe and Space |