Sanrio Puroland Tokyo Complete Pilgrimage Guide: Visitor Information for Anime Fans
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. Certified as one of the “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting (2018 Edition)” by the Anime Tourism Association, it has become an important pilgrimage destination for anime fans and character enthusiasts.
This article thoroughly explains the appeal of Sanrio Puroland from a pilgrimage perspective and provides detailed information you should know before visiting.
Why Sanrio Puroland Was Selected for “Anime Holy Sites 88”
Background of Anime Holy Site Certification
The Anime Tourism Association selects locations across Japan related to anime and manga as the “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting.” Sanrio Puroland received this prestigious certification in the 2018 edition.
Sanrio characters have transcended mere character merchandise, with numerous video content produced as anime works. Characters including Hello Kitty have been developed in various forms such as TV anime, theatrical anime, 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’ve seen in anime appear before your eyes, allowing you to take photos together and experience stories through shows and parades.
It is also certified as a “Lover’s Sanctuary” by the NPO Regional Revitalization Center and is known as a romantic spot. The unique atmosphere where character culture and romance merge attracts many fans.
Must-See for Pilgrims: Goshuin Information
How to Obtain the Anime Holy Sites 88 Goshuin
At Sanrio Puroland, you can obtain a special goshuin as proof of visiting Anime Holy Sites 88. The goshuin is located at the 1F Entertainment Hall.
As a memento of your pilgrimage, this goshuin becomes a precious collectible item for many fans. It’s an item you definitely want to obtain as proof of your visit.
Tips for Collecting Goshuin
When collecting goshuin, we recommend bringing a dedicated goshuin book. As part of your journey to visit all 88 anime holy sites across Japan, the Sanrio Puroland goshuin will hold special significance.
It is generally available during operating hours, but waiting times may occur during busy periods. Visiting during relatively quiet times such as right after opening or on weekday mornings will be smoother.
Basic Information About Sanrio Puroland
Facility Overview
Address: 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. With the feature of being entirely indoors, it has gained popularity as a facility that can be enjoyed comfortably year-round regardless of weather.
Visitor Reservation System
Currently, advance reservations are required to enter Sanrio Puroland. You need to make a reservation specifying your desired date and time through the official website. Reservations can fill up early, especially on weekends, holidays, and during events, so we recommend planning ahead.
Access Methods: How to Reach the Holy Site
Access by Train
Public transportation is convenient for accessing Sanrio Puroland.
Nearest Station:
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from “Tama-Center Station” on the Keio Line, Odakyu Line, and Tama Monorail
Tama-Center Station is served by multiple lines, making it easily accessible from various parts of Tokyo. Following the directional signs from the station, you can arrive without getting lost.
Access by Car
If using a car navigation system, please search using one of the following:
- 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
For those visiting on a pilgrimage from afar, access from Haneda Airport or Narita Airport is possible. There are routes to Tama-Center Station via airport shuttle buses or trains with transfers. Please check the official website’s access information for details.
Attractions and Shows to Experience on Your Pilgrimage
Popular Attractions
Sanrio Puroland offers diverse attractions where you can experience the world of characters.
Ride-Type Attractions:
- Sanrio Character Boat Ride: A popular attraction where you ride a boat through the characters’ world
- My Melody & Kuromi ~My Melo Road Drive~: Adventure through My Melody’s world by car
- Gudetama Land: An experiential area where you can enjoy Gudetama’s world
These attractions offer the precious experience of actually entering the world of characters you’ve seen in anime and picture books.
Authentic Musical Shows
One of the major attractions of Sanrio Puroland is the authentic musical shows performed by professional cast members.
Regularly performed shows feature Sanrio characters developing stories through song and dance. Highly rated as quality entertainment enjoyable for children and adults alike, there are new discoveries no matter how many times you visit.
Character Parades
The spectacular parades held inside the facility are one of Sanrio Puroland’s highlights. The sight of popular characters gathering together and appearing with music is magnificent.
Parade times can be checked in advance on the official website, so plan accordingly to not miss them.
Character Greetings: Meeting Your Favorite Characters
Appeal of Greetings
At Sanrio Puroland, character greetings are held where you can directly meet popular characters such as Hello Kitty, My Melody, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi.
For pilgrims, the experience of actually interacting with characters you could only see in anime or merchandise becomes an irreplaceable memory.
Greeting Tips
Character greetings may have designated times and locations. Check the latest information on the official app or facility information boards.
Photography is allowed, so we recommend preparing cameras or smartphones. During busy times, numbered tickets may be distributed, so early action is important.
Photo Spots: Record Your Pilgrimage
Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots
Numerous photo spots themed around characters are set up throughout the facility. The colorful and adorable decorations are perfect for sharing on social media.
As proof of your pilgrimage, don’t forget to take commemorative photos at these photo spots in addition to the goshuin.
Photography Tips
Weekdays and times right after opening are relatively uncrowded, allowing for leisurely photography. During busy times, be considerate of other visitors and aim for smooth photography.
Limited Goods and Shop Information
Holy Site Exclusive Goods
Limited goods that can only be purchased at Sanrio Puroland are important collectible items for pilgrims.
Featured Limited Products:
- Puroland-exclusive design plushies
- Facility-exclusive stationery
- Event-limited collaboration goods
- Japanese-style goods fusing Japanese style with Sanrio characters
These products are popular as souvenirs or gifts and as mementos of your visit.
Shop Characteristics
Multiple shops are located throughout the facility, each handling products specialized in different themes and characters. We recommend taking your time to enjoy shopping leisurely.
Food & Restaurant Experience
Character Cafes & Restaurants
Sanrio Puroland has restaurants and cafes offering food menus themed around characters.
Popular Menu Features:
- Adorable plates motifed after characters
- Instagram-worthy desserts and drinks
- Limited-time collaboration menus
Being able to enjoy meals as part of the entertainment is a unique charm of theme parks.
Restaurant Usage Tips
Congestion is expected during lunch and dinner times. Using the facilities at off-peak times or making advance reservations when possible will be smoother.
Events & Collaboration Information
Regularly Held Events
Various events are held seasonally at Sanrio Puroland.
Main Events:
- Halloween events
- Christmas events
- Valentine’s/White Day events
- Summer limited events
During these event periods, limited shows, limited goods, and limited food menus appear, offering special experiences different from usual.
Collaboration Events
Collaboration events with popular anime and games are also held regularly. These are valuable opportunities where Sanrio characters co-star with other popular characters, attracting many fans.
The latest event information is continuously updated on the official website and social media, so we recommend checking before visiting.
Passport (Admission Ticket) Types and Fees
Passport Types
Multiple types of passports are available at Sanrio Puroland.
Main Passports:
- Day Passport: Basic ticket for all-day enjoyment
- Afternoon Passport: Discounted ticket for afternoon entry
- Annual Passport: Recommended for frequent visitors
Fees may vary by 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 through the official website
- Ticket sales sites such as Lawson Ticket
- Convenience stores
When purchasing online, you can also make visitor reservations simultaneously, which is convenient.
Tips for Maximizing Your Pilgrimage Experience
How to Plan Your Visit
- Secure advance reservations: Complete visitor reservations and passport purchases early
- Check event schedules: Know show and parade times in advance
- Set priorities: List shows you want to see, characters you want to meet, and goods you want to purchase
- Allow ample time: Spending a full day enjoying leisurely is recommended
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
- Weekday visits are relatively uncrowded
- Right after opening allows for relatively smooth movement
- Large holiday periods and summer vacation periods expect congestion
- Rainy days can be hidden gems for indoor facilities
Checklist of Items to Bring
- Passport (ticket) and reservation confirmation email
- Camera/smartphone (charger too)
- Goshuin book (for pilgrimages)
- Eco bag (for goods purchases)
- Comfortable clothing and easy-to-walk-in shoes
History of Sanrio Puroland
From Opening to Present
Sanrio Puroland opened on December 7, 1990. It was Japan’s first attempt as an indoor theme park operated by Sanrio Co., Ltd.
Since opening, it has undergone various renewals and introduced new attractions to match the times, continuously providing new experiences. The character lineup has also expanded over time, becoming a facility loved by fans of all generations.
Path to Holy Site Certification
With the 2018 certification as one of the Anime Holy Sites 88, Sanrio Puroland came to be recognized not only as a character theme park but also as an important base for anime culture.
This certification is proof of the achievements of Sanrio characters being developed as anime works over many years and being continuously loved by fans.
Surrounding Tourist Spots
Attractions Around Tama City
When visiting Sanrio Puroland, you can enjoy a more fulfilling trip to the Tama area of Tokyo by touring surrounding areas as well.
Nearby Spots:
- Shopping malls around Tama-Center Station
- Tama Central Park
- Parthenon Tama (cultural facility)
A plan to spend the day in the Tama area as part of your 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 visiting.
Information to Check:
- Operating hours (may vary by day)
- Closed days
- Event schedules
- Show and parade times
- Temporary closures and facility maintenance information
Real-time information and news are also distributed on official social media accounts. Following them is convenient.
Summary: Enjoy Your Pilgrimage at Sanrio Puroland
Sanrio Puroland in Tama City, Tokyo, certified as one of the “88 Anime Holy Sites in Japan Worth Visiting,” is a must-visit spot for character fans and anime fans.
It is packed with elements to satisfy pilgrims, including the comfort unique to indoor theme parks, authentic shows, diverse attractions, character greetings, and limited goods.
By not forgetting advance reservations and visiting with a plan, you can have a fulfilling pilgrimage experience. Please experience special time with popular Sanrio characters including Hello Kitty at Sanrio Puroland.
Fully enjoy pilgrimage-specific pleasures such as obtaining goshuin, purchasing limited goods, and taking commemorative photos at photo spots, and create irreplaceable memories.
