【Sanrio Puroland】Tokyo
Sanrio Puroland, located in Tama City, Tokyo, is an indoor theme park where you can meet globally popular Sanrio characters such as Hello Kitty and My Melody. It has been certified as one of the “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting (2018 edition)” by the General Incorporated Association Anime Tourism Association, making it an important pilgrimage destination for anime fans and character fans.
In this article, we will thoroughly explain the charm of Sanrio Puroland from the perspective of holy site pilgrimage and introduce detailed information you should know before visiting.
Why Sanrio Puroland Was Selected as One of the “88 Anime Holy Sites”
Background of Anime Holy Site Certification
The General Incorporated Association Anime Tourism Association selects places related to anime and manga throughout Japan as the “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting.” Sanrio Puroland received this prestigious certification in the 2018 edition.
Sanrio characters have transcended the scope of character merchandise, with numerous video content works produced as anime. Characters like Hello Kitty have been developed in various forms including TV anime, theatrical films, and OVAs, and continue to be loved across generations.
Characteristics as a Holy Site
Sanrio Puroland is a one-of-a-kind facility where you can experience the world of characters in three dimensions. Characters you saw in anime appear right in front of you, allowing you to take photos with them and experience stories through shows and parades.
Additionally, it has been certified as a “Lovers’ Holy Site” by the NPO Regional Revitalization Center and is known as a romantic spot. The unique atmosphere where character culture and romance merge fascinates many fans.
Must-See for Holy Site Pilgrims: Goshuin (Sacred Seal) Information
How to Obtain Anime Holy Site 88 Goshuin
At Sanrio Puroland, you can obtain a special goshuin as proof of being one of the Anime Holy Sites 88. The goshuin is located at 1F Entertainment Hall.
As a souvenir of holy site pilgrimage, this goshuin becomes a valuable collectible item for many fans. As proof of your visit, it’s definitely something you’ll want to obtain.
Points for Collecting Goshuin
When collecting goshuin, we recommend bringing a dedicated goshuin collection book. As part of a journey visiting all 88 Anime Holy Sites nationwide, Sanrio Puroland’s goshuin holds a special position.
Generally available during business hours, but wait times may occur during busy periods. Visiting early after opening or during weekday mornings will allow for smoother collection.
Basic Information about Sanrio Puroland
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-type Sanrio character theme park. Thanks to its all-indoor format, it has become popular as a facility where you can enjoy yourself comfortably year-round regardless of weather.
Advance Reservation System
Currently, advance reservation is required to enter Sanrio Puroland. You must make reservations by specifying your desired date and time on the official website. Especially on weekends, holidays, and during events, reservations may fill up early, so we recommend making reservations with planning in mind.
Access Methods: How to Reach the Holy Site
Access by Train
Sanrio Puroland is easily accessible by public transportation.
Nearest Station:
- Approximately 5-minute walk from “Tama Center Station” on the Keio Line, Odakyu Line, and Tama Monorail
Tama Center Station has multiple lines, making it easily accessible from various locations within Tokyo. Following the signage from the station, you can reach the facility without getting lost.
Access by Car
If using car navigation, search for one of the following:
- Facility Name: “Puroland”
- Address: “1-31 Ochiai, Tama City, Tokyo”
- Phone Number: “042-339-1111”
Parking is also available, but congestion is expected on weekends and busy periods. Consider using public transportation as well.
Access from Airport
If traveling from distant areas for holy site pilgrimage, access from Haneda or Narita Airport is also possible. There are routes connecting via airport shuttle buses and trains to Tama Center Station. Please check the official website for detailed access information.
Attractions and Shows You Can Experience on Your Holy Site Pilgrimage
Popular Attractions
Sanrio Puroland offers a variety of attractions where you can experience the world of characters.
Ride-Type Attractions:
- Sanrio Character Boat Ride: A popular attraction where you travel through the characters’ world by boat
- My Melody & Kuromi ~My Melody Road Drive~: Adventure through My Melody’s world by car
- Gudetama Land: An interactive area to enjoy Gudetama’s world
These attractions offer a precious experience of actually entering the worlds of characters you see in anime and picture books.
Full-Scale Musical Shows
One of the major attractions of Sanrio Puroland is full-scale musical shows performed by professional cast members.
Regular shows feature Sanrio characters developing stories through song and dance. Praised as high-quality entertainment enjoyed by children and adults alike, there are always new discoveries with each visit.
Character Parades
The spectacular parades held inside the facility are one of the highlights of Sanrio Puroland. Popular characters appear together with music, creating an impressive sight.
Parade times can be confirmed on the official website in advance, so plan accordingly not to miss them.
Character Greetings: Meeting Your Favorite Characters
Appeal of Character Greetings
At Sanrio Puroland, character greetings are held where you can meet popular characters in person, including Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi.
For holy site pilgrims, meeting characters in person that you’ve only seen in anime or merchandise becomes a treasured memory beyond compare.
Points for Character Greetings
Character greetings may have designated times and locations. Check the official app or facility information boards for the latest information.
Photography is also possible, so prepare a camera or smartphone. During busy times, raffle tickets may be distributed, so early action is important.
Photo Spots: Record Your Holy Site Pilgrimage
SNS-Worthy Photo Spots
Throughout the facility, numerous photo spots themed around characters are set up. The colorful and adorable decorations are perfect for sharing on social media.
As proof of your holy site pilgrimage, don’t forget to take commemorative photos at these photo spots in addition to collecting the goshuin.
Photography Tips
Weekdays and early opening hours are relatively uncrowded, allowing for leisurely photography. During busy times, be considerate of other visitors and aim for smooth photography.
Limited Edition Merchandise and Shop Information
Holy Site Exclusive Merchandise
Limited edition merchandise available only at Sanrio Puroland is an important collection item for holy site pilgrims.
Notable Limited Products:
- Puroland exclusive design plushies
- Facility exclusive stationery
- Event limited collaboration merchandise
- Japanese-style merchandise combining Sanrio characters with traditional aesthetics
These products are popular as souvenirs and gifts, and are cherished as mementos of the visit.
Shop Characteristics
Multiple shops are operated throughout the facility, each specializing in different themes and characters. We recommend allowing time to leisurely shop and browse.
Food and Restaurant Experience
Character Cafes & Restaurants
Sanrio Puroland has restaurants and cafes that offer food menus themed around characters.
Characteristics of Popular Menu Items:
- Cute plates designed after characters
- Desserts and drinks that look great on social media
- Limited-time collaboration menus
Dining is also part of the entertainment experience, a unique appeal of theme parks.
Points for Restaurant Use
Lunch and dinner times are expected to be crowded. Consider visiting at off-peak hours or make reservations if available for smooth service.
Event and Collaboration Information
Regularly Held Events
Sanrio Puroland hosts various events throughout the year.
Main Events:
- Halloween Event
- Christmas Event
- Valentine’s Day and White Day Event
- Summer Limited Event
During these event periods, limited shows, limited merchandise, and limited food menus appear, offering special experiences different from usual.
Collaboration Events
Collaboration events with popular anime and games are also held regularly. As a rare opportunity for Sanrio characters to appear alongside other popular characters, many fans visit.
The latest event information is updated regularly on the official website and social media, so check before visiting.
Passport (Admission Ticket) Types and Fees
Types of Passports
Sanrio Puroland offers multiple types of passports.
Main Passports:
- Day Passport: Basic ticket to enjoy the facility all day
- Afternoon Passport: Affordable ticket for afternoon entry
- Annual Passport: Recommended for frequent visitors
Fees vary depending on age and day of the week. Check the official website for the latest pricing information.
Ticket Purchase Methods
Tickets can be purchased through the following methods:
- Online purchase on the official website
- Ticket sales sites such as Lawson Ticket (Loticket)
- Convenience stores
When purchasing online, advance reservations can be made simultaneously, which is convenient.
Tips for Maximizing Your Holy Site Pilgrimage Experience
How to Plan Your Visit
- Secure Advance Reservations Early: Complete your advance reservation and passport purchase as early as possible
- Confirm Event Schedule: Learn about show and parade times in advance
- Set Priorities: Make a list of shows you want to see, characters you want to meet, and merchandise you want to buy
- Allow Ample Time: Spending a full day and enjoying at a leisurely pace is recommended
Tricks to Avoid Crowds
- Visiting on weekdays is relatively less crowded
- Early after opening allows for relatively smooth movement
- Large holidays and summer vacation periods are expected to be crowded
- Rainy days may actually be less busy since it’s an indoor facility
Packing Checklist
- Passport (ticket) and reservation confirmation email
- Camera and smartphone (including charger)
- Goshuin collection book (for holy site pilgrimage)
- Eco-bag (for merchandise purchases)
- Comfortable clothing and easy-to-walk-in shoes
History of Sanrio Puroland
From Opening to Present
Sanrio Puroland opened on December 7, 1990. As an indoor-type theme park operated by Sanrio Co., Ltd., it was a first-of-its-kind attempt in Japan.
Since opening, it has undergone various renovations and introduced new attractions adapted to the times, continuously providing new experiences. The character lineup has also expanded over time, becoming a facility loved by a wide range of generations of fans.
Path to Holy Site Certification
With its certification as one of the 88 Anime Holy Sites in 2018, Sanrio Puroland came to be recognized not only as a character theme park but also as an important hub of anime culture.
This certification is also evidence of Sanrio characters’ track record of being developed as anime works over many years and their enduring love among fans.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Things to See Around Tama City
When visiting Sanrio Puroland, you can enjoy a more enriched trip through the Tama region of Tokyo by also sightseeing nearby areas.
Nearby Spots:
- Shopping malls around Tama Center Station
- Tama Central Park
- Parthenon Tama (cultural facility)
As part of your holy site pilgrimage, a plan to spend a day in the Tama area is also recommended.
How to Check Official Information
Where to Find the Latest Information
Be sure to check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
Information to Confirm:
- Business hours (may vary by day)
- Closed days
- Event schedule
- Show and parade times
- Emergency closures and facility maintenance information
Official social media accounts also share real-time information and news. It’s convenient to follow them.
Conclusion: Enjoy Holy Site Pilgrimage at Sanrio Puroland
Sanrio Puroland in Tama City, Tokyo, is a must-visit destination for character fans and anime fans, certified as one of the “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting.”
It is packed with elements to satisfy holy site pilgrims, including the comfort unique to indoor theme parks, full-scale shows, diverse attractions, character greetings, and limited merchandise.
By making reservations in advance and visiting with planning, you can have a fulfilling holy site pilgrimage experience. Be sure to experience special time with popular Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty at Sanrio Puroland.
Collect goshuin, purchase limited merchandise, take commemorative photos at photo spots, and fully enjoy the unique pleasures of holy site pilgrimage to create unforgettable memories.
