Explained: Most Popular Sanrio Characters Across The World + (Fun Facts!)

Updated On 16 September 2024 

Previously, I wasn’t aware of Sanrio Characters until my friend told me about it.

Since then it has piqued my interest and made me curious to learn more about these beloved characters made by Sanrio.

In simple terms, these are a collection of adorable characters created by the Japanese company Sanrio.

They are most popular around the globe and used for varying purposes such as animation and video games, theme parks, collaborations, and merchandise.

Sanrio is best known for Hello Kitty, a little white cat who has become a global icon. It was created in 1974 and does not have a mouth, which according to the creators allows people to project their own feelings onto her.

There are many characters being very popular alongside Hello Kitty, with varying hue, virtues, and characteristics.

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The Most Popular Sanrio Characters

Gratifying, fascinating, and enduring most popular characters from the Sanrio world are discussed with fun facts.

Hello Kitty

Designed by: Yuko Shimizu

Sanrio is best known for Hello Kitty, originated in 1974 and made millions of people spellbind with its cute pink bow and button nose. It is also known for cuteness overloaded characters.

It looks like a cat, however, it’s not, despite her feline appearance. The company has started this character as a human girl, ultimately capturing girls’ audience on a global scale.

Hello Kitty fun facts you unheard:

• Hello Kitty was named a Japanese Ambassador for Tourism (for Hong Kong and China) in 2008.
• She also lacks a mouth, allowing people to project their own feelings onto her.

My Melody

Designed by: Yasuko Matsumoto

Its name may intrigue you to remember your crush (haaa!) is another beloved Sanrio character. She looks innocent and sweet little rabbit who loves to bake and make new friends.

Created in 1975 (year after Hello Kitty creation) and has been a staple of Sanrio merchandise ever since. East Asia and Latin America are the heart of My Melody’s sweetness and popularity.

My Melody fun facts you unheard:

• She’s always sporting a bright red or pink hood that covers her ears.
• My Melody is known for her positive personality, honesty, and friendly nature.

Gudetama

Designed by: Emi Nagashima

Often, referring to a lazy egg that is seen lounging around or sleeping. It is a bit of an oddball in the Sanrio universe.

Constantly portrayed with a tired and apathetic expression, combining “gudegude” which means lazy and “tamago” which means egg.

Gudetama fun facts you unheard:

• Gudetama became popular because fans saw the character as relatable.
• Gudetama isn’t as popular as Hello Kitty, but certainly profitable.

Cinnamoroll

Designed by: Miyuki Okumura

Cinnamoroll is an adorable character by its appearance, embodies cuteness, friendship, and a touch of whimsy which makes it a favorite for many.

It was introduced a long time after Hello Kitty and The Melody character success in 2001, providing fans with a new Sanrio characters list. As he loves cinnamon rolls, its name is given after it.

Cinnamoroll fun facts you unheard:

• Cinnamoroll can actually fly by flapping them like wings.
• Cinnamoroll’s favorite food isn’t actually cinnamon rolls! He prefers simple meals like rice balls.

Pompompurin

Designed by: Sanrio’s own talented pool of creators

Pompompurin is observed as a golden retriever dog who loves to eat and nap. Known for his laid-back personality and love of all things soft and sweet.

When it comes to food, he adores milk and especially loves his mama’s homemade cream caramel pudding. Sparkingly, the character’s popularity extends beyond merchandise. He even starred in two short anime features in 2001.

Pompompurin fun facts you unheard:

• Sanrio often uses him as their mascot for international events, showcasing his global appeal.
• Sanrio features him on their social media platforms, allowing fans to connect with this adorable character.

Badtz-Maru

Designed by: Hisato Inoue

Flaunt, mischievous and punk rock penguin from the world of Sanrio characters. Completely covered with his jet black feathers, spiky hair, and a perpetually unimpressed expression.

Disguised as a bad guy, his ultimate goal is to be the boss and being a reason for its popularity. Besides, he was even the official mascot for the 2006 FIBA World Championship of basketball held in Japan.

Badtz-Maru fun facts you unheard:

• Sanrio themselves described him as their first “not nice” character.
• He secretly loves his mama’s cooking and enjoys spending time with his friends.

Kuromi

Designed by: Yuko Yamaguchi

Somewhat similar to Badtz-Maru in terms of rebellious personality. Although, she is a popular Sanrio character known for her dark aesthetic.

She was introduced in the global market in 2005, making her one of the newer Sanrio characters. Speaking of his story, she was once a prisoner who escaped from Maryland, the place where My Melody lives.

Kuromi fun facts you unheard:

• Kuromi’s unique blend of sweetness, rebellion, and a touch of mystery.
• Forget carrots, Kuromi’s favorite food is actually shallots, a type of onion.

Tuxedo Sam

Designed by: Minoru Tsunoda

Well observed and known for his refined style and sophisticated air. He from Tuxedo Sam hails from Tuxedo Island in Antarctica, well-educated and even studied abroad in England.

People love him because of his friendly personality and getting along with everyone he meets. Tuxedo Sam debuted in 1979, making him one of Sanrio’s older characters.

Tuxedo Sam facts you unheard:

• Tuxedo Sam is said to have a hidden artistic talent.
• His sophisticated style and friendly demeanor resonate with fans around the world.

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How Old Are Sanrio Characters In Their Stories?

I couldn’t able to known for all but here some details on the popular sanrio characters age based on their stories mentioned below:

• In Hello Kitty’s Paradise (1993-2011), her and Mimmy are about 8 years old.
• In Hello Kitty’s Furry Tale Theater (1987), they all observed to be adult-type characters.
• In Hello Kitty Superstyle (2022-Present), she seems to be in her 30’s.
• In Onegai, I believe My Melody is older, being around 10 years old, and Kuromi I think is supposed to be around 7.

Other Sanrio Characters (But Known Lessly)

Regardless of popular Sanrio characters, underneath are relevant companion Sanrio characters’ names with their unique skills.

FAQs About Sanrio Characters

Still have questions? Read the following answers to eliminate your doubts on all sanrio characters.

Who is Hello Kitty's crush?

Based on fan made content, she has a crush on Dear Daniel and Melody is her best friend.

Who is Hello Kitty's boyfriend?

Speaking straightforwardly, Dear Daniel is a childhood friend of Hello Kitty and her boyfriend.

Who is Kuromi's boyfriend?

Kuromi doesn't have an official boyfriend in the Sanrio universe. Sanrio characters typically avoid romantic relationships.

Where are sanrio characters from?

Sanrio characters are created by the Sanrio company, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.