Sanrio Puroland, located in Tama City, Tokyo, is an indoor theme park where you can meet world-famous Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and My Melody. It has been certified as one of “88 Anime Sacred Sites in Japan Worth Visiting (2018 edition)” by the General Incorporated Association Anime Tourism Association, making it an important sacred site pilgrimage spot for anime fans and character enthusiasts.
This article provides a thorough explanation of Sanrio Puroland’s attractions from the perspective of sacred site pilgrimage and introduces detailed information you should know before your visit.
Why Sanrio Puroland Was Selected as an “Anime Sacred Site 88”
Background of Anime Sacred Site Certification
The General Incorporated Association Anime Tourism Association selects places related to anime and manga throughout Japan as “88 Anime Sacred Sites in Japan Worth Visiting.” Sanrio Puroland received this honorable certification in the 2018 edition.
Sanrio characters transcend the scope of mere character merchandise, with numerous video content anime productions created featuring them. Characters like Hello Kitty have been developed in various forms including television anime, theatrical anime films, and OVAs, and continue to be loved across generations.
Characteristics as a Sacred Site
Sanrio Puroland is a unique facility where you can experience character worlds in three dimensions. Characters you’ve seen in anime actually appear before you, allowing you to take photos together and experience stories through shows and parades.
Additionally, it has been certified as a “Lovers’ Sacred Site” by the NPO Regional Revitalization Center and is known as a romantic spot. The unique atmosphere where character culture and romance converge captivates many fans.
Must-See for Sacred Site Pilgrims: Oshuin (Temple Seal) Information
How to Obtain Anime Sacred Site 88 Oshuin
At Sanrio Puroland, you can obtain a special oshuin as proof of visiting Anime Sacred Site 88. The oshuin is displayed at 1F Entertainment Hall.
As a memento of sacred site pilgrimage, this oshuin becomes a valuable collectible item for many fans. As evidence of your visit, it’s definitely worth obtaining.
Oshuin Collection Tips
When collecting oshuins, it is recommended to bring a dedicated oshuin collection book. As part of your journey visiting all 88 Anime Sacred Sites nationwide, Sanrio Puroland’s oshuin will hold a special position.
It is generally obtainable during business hours, but waiting times may occur during busy periods. Visiting shortly after opening or during weekday mornings when it’s relatively quiet allows for smooth acquisition.
Sanrio Puroland Basic Information
Facility Overview
Location: 1-31 Ochiai, Tama City, Tokyo
Phone Number: 042-339-1111
Operating Company: Sanrio Co., Ltd.
Sanrio Puroland opened on December 7, 1990, as Japan’s first indoor Sanrio character theme park. The all-indoor facility feature has made it popular as a comfortable year-round destination unaffected by weather.
Visit Reservation System
Currently, advance reservation is required to enter Sanrio Puroland. You must make a reservation by specifying your desired date and time on the official website. Particularly during weekends, holidays, and event periods, reservations may fill up quickly, so we recommend planning your reservation strategically.
Access Methods: How to Reach the Sacred Site
Access by Train
Access to Sanrio Puroland is convenient via public transportation.
Nearest Station:
- Approximately 5 minutes walk from “Tama Center Station” (Keio Line, Odakyu Line, Tama Monorail)
Tama Center Station has multiple rail lines, making it easily accessible from various parts of Tokyo. Following the directional signs from the station will lead you to the facility without getting lost.
Access by Car
When using car navigation, search for either:
- Facility Name: “Puroland”
- Address: “1-31 Ochiai, Tama City, Tokyo”
- Phone Number: “042-339-1111”
Parking is available, but congestion is expected on weekends and busy periods. We also recommend considering public transportation.
Access from Airports
When visiting the sacred site from distant locations, access from Haneda or Narita airports is also possible. Routes connecting airport shuttle buses and trains to Tama Center Station are available. For details, please check the access information on the official website.
Attractions and Shows Experienced on Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Popular Attractions
Sanrio Puroland offers diverse attractions where you can experience character worlds.
Ride-Type Attractions:
- Sanrio Character Boat Ride: A popular attraction where you ride a boat through the characters’ world
- My Melody & Kuromi ~ My Melodie Drive ~: Adventure through My Melody’s world by car
- Gudetama Land: An interactive experience area of Gudetama’s world
These attractions offer the valuable experience of actually entering the worlds of characters you’ve seen in anime and picture books.
Professional Musical Shows
One of Sanrio Puroland’s major attractions is professional musicals performed by skilled casts.
Regularly performed shows feature Sanrio characters unfolding stories through song and dance. Praised as high-quality entertainment enjoyable by children and adults alike, there are new discoveries with each visit.
Character Parade
A spectacular parade held in the facility is one of Sanrio Puroland’s highlights. Popular characters gather in one place and appear to music in impressive fashion.
You can check parade times on the official website in advance, so plan accordingly not to miss it.
Character Greetings: Encounters with Your Favorite Characters
Appeal of Greetings
Sanrio Puroland offers character greetings where you can directly meet popular characters including Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi.
For sacred site pilgrims, the experience of directly interacting with characters previously seen only in anime and merchandise becomes an irreplaceable memory.
Greeting Tips
Character greetings may have specified times and locations. Check the latest information via the official app or interior information boards.
Photography is available, so prepare a camera or smartphone. Numbered tickets may be distributed during busy times, so early action is important.
Photo Spots: Recording Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots
Numerous photo spots themed around characters are set up throughout the facility. Colorful and adorable decorations are perfect for sharing on social media.
As evidence of your sacred site pilgrimage, don’t forget to take commemorative photos at these spots as well as obtaining the oshuin.
Photography Tips
Weekdays and times shortly after opening are relatively quiet, allowing leisurely photography. During crowded times, be considerate of other visitors and photograph smoothly.
Limited Merchandise and Shop Information
Sacred Site-Exclusive Goods
Limited merchandise available only at Sanrio Puroland is an important collection item for sacred site pilgrims.
Featured Limited Products:
- Puroland-exclusive design plushies
- Facility-exclusive stationery
- Event-limited collaboration goods
- Japanese style goods combining Sanrio characters with traditional aesthetics
These products make excellent souvenirs and gifts and are popular as visit mementos.
Shop Characteristics
Multiple shops are operated throughout the facility, each specializing in different themes and characters. We recommend allowing adequate time to leisurely enjoy shopping.
Food and Restaurant Experience
Character Cafes & Restaurants
Sanrio Puroland has restaurants and cafes offering food menus themed around characters.
Features of Popular Menus:
- Adorable plates designed after characters
- Instagram-worthy desserts and beverages
- Limited-time collaboration menus
Dining is also part of the entertainment, offering a unique theme park charm.
Restaurant Usage Tips
Lunch and dinner times are expected to be crowded. Consider visiting during off-peak hours, or make advance reservations if available for smooth service.
Event and Collaboration Information
Regularly Held Events
Sanrio Puroland hosts various events by season.
Main Events:
- Halloween Event
- Christmas Event
- Valentine’s Day & White Day Event
- Summer Limited Event
During these event periods, limited shows, exclusive merchandise, and special food menus appear, offering experiences different from usual.
Collaboration Events
Collaboration events with popular anime and games are held periodically. As rare opportunities for Sanrio characters to star alongside other popular characters, many fans visit.
Latest event information is updated regularly on the official website and social media, so checking before your visit is recommended.
Passport (Admission Ticket) Types and Pricing
Passport Types
Sanrio Puroland offers multiple types of passports.
Main Passports:
- Day Passport: Basic ticket allowing all-day enjoyment
- Afternoon Passport: Budget-friendly ticket for afternoon entry
- Annual Passport: Recommended for frequent visitors
Pricing varies by age and day of the week. Check the official website for the latest pricing information.
Ticket Purchase Methods
Tickets can be purchased through:
- Online purchase on the official website
- Ticket sales sites like Lawson Ticket (Lo-Ket)
- Convenience stores
Online purchase allows simultaneous advance visit reservation, which is convenient.
Tips for Maximizing Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage Experience
How to Plan Your Visit
- Secure advance reservations: Complete visit reservations and passport purchases early
- Confirm event schedules: Know show and parade times beforehand
- Set priorities: List shows you want to see, characters you want to meet, and merchandise you want to purchase
- Allow ample time: Taking a full day to leisurely enjoy is recommended
Crowd Avoidance Tips
- Weekday visits are relatively quiet
- Shortly after opening allows smooth movement
- Large holidays and summer vacation periods expect crowds
- Bad weather days can be unexpectedly less crowded due to the indoor facility
Packing Checklist
- Passport (ticket) and reservation confirmation email
- Camera/smartphone (and charger)
- Oshuin collection book (for sacred site pilgrimage)
- Eco-bag (for merchandise purchases)
- Comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes
History of Sanrio Puroland
From Opening to Present
Sanrio Puroland opened on December 7, 1990. Operating by Sanrio Co., Ltd., it was Japan’s first indoor theme park of its kind.
Since opening, it has continually undergone renovations and introduced new attractions to provide fresh experiences suited to the times. The character lineup has also expanded with the era, becoming a facility loved by fans across generations.
Path to Sacred Site Certification
Certified as one of the Anime Sacred Sites 88 in 2018, Sanrio Puroland came to be recognized not only as a character theme park but also as an important center of anime culture.
This certification is also evidence of the achievements of Sanrio characters developed as anime works over many years and the proof of being loved by fans.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Points of Interest Around Tama City
Visiting nearby areas when at Sanrio Puroland allows you to enjoy a more fulfilling trip through Tokyo’s Tama region.
Nearby Spots:
- Shopping malls around Tama Center Station
- Tama Central Park
- Parthenon Tama (cultural facility)
Planning a day spent in the Tama area as part of sacred site pilgrimage is also recommended.
How to Check Official Information
Sources for Latest Information
Be sure to check the official website for the latest information before your visit.
Information to Confirm:
- Business hours (may vary by day)
- Closed days
- Event schedule
- Show and parade times
- Information about temporary closures or facility maintenance
Official social media accounts also distribute real-time information and news. Following them is convenient.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Sacred Site Pilgrimage at Sanrio Puroland
Sanrio Puroland in Tama City, Tokyo, certified as one of “88 Anime Sacred Sites in Japan Worth Visiting,” is a must-visit destination for character and anime fans.
Featuring the comfort of an indoor theme park, professional shows, diverse attractions, character greetings, and exclusive merchandise, it contains elements to satisfy sacred site pilgrims.
By remembering advance reservations and visiting strategically, you can enjoy a fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage experience. Definitely experience special moments with popular Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty at Sanrio Puroland.
Fully savor sacred site pilgrimage-specific enjoyments such as obtaining oshuins, purchasing limited merchandise, and taking commemorative photos at photo spots, creating unforgettable memories.
