Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Exhibition—The largest Kitty display in history! A 50-year journey of transformation.

Hello Kitty, who has accompanied many of us through our childhood, is already 50 years old! Sanrio is currently holding a special Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary exhibition across Japan, themed "Kitty and Me," showcasing an unprecedented wealth of commemorative items. These include decades-old Kitty figurines, past regionally exclusive items, Kitty appearances from collaboration projects, and artwork prepared specifically for this exhibition! Of course, there are also exquisite limited-edition merchandise items! The exhibition's first stop was Tokyo, and the second stop is Okinawa, the southernmost point of Japan. For those planning a trip to Okinawa from March to May, don't miss this Hello Kitty exhibition and come explore Kitty's secrets!

Hello Kitty Exhibition  -When I change, Kitty changes too-

The 50th anniversary exhibition, themed "Kitty and Me," revolves around Kitty's adorable and unique charm, and is a brand-new exhibition specially created by Sanrio! This little girl, beloved worldwide for half a century, is considered one of the iconic Sanrio characters. This exhibition showcases the largest collection of Kitty merchandise ever, unique artist collaborations, original animated videos, and plenty of photo spots for everyone to capture memorable moments!

Hello! Memories

Hello Kitty, born from merchandise, doesn't have a strictly defined backstory. This is precisely why her encounters and experiences with each of us are unique. This exhibition area showcases Hello Kitty merchandise from the past 50 years, with each display wall representing a generation's memories. Whether it's 80s tote bags, 90s household goods and appliances, or anniversary figurines, you can find them all here! What was Kitty like when you first met her? Perhaps this will awaken various memories of Kitty!

(One of the first Kitty dolls produced in 1975 was reportedly very popular and sold out quickly.)

Hello! Style

Hello Kitty, targeting the female market, naturally incorporates popular fashion elements. Kitty's outfits over the past 50 years also reflect the rapid changes in fashion trends! The exhibition area features several zones showcasing adorable Hello Kitty-themed fashion shows!

(The image on the right shows a pink school-themed display filled with exquisite Kitty merchandise.)

Hello! Evolution

This section features original video works being shown for the first time, produced by Mr. Atsushi Makino, a veteran film director specializing in advertising and music videos. Hello Kitty's unique design has brought her much charm, and Kitty evolves with the times. Here, you'll delve into the changes in Kitty's various designs and discover the secrets that belong only to Kitty!

Hello! Collaboration

When traveling to Japan, many people have likely seen Hello Kitty in souvenir shops. As the "originator of transformation," Hello Kitty has a long history of collaborations. Her ability to seamlessly blend into different worldviews, adding even more cuteness to her collaborators and bringing endless surprises, is a hallmark of Hello Kitty. Here, you can see Kitty transformed into various forms, including different prefectures in Japan, Gundam, Chiikawa, Funassyi, and more. Let's explore her different worlds!

Hello! Friends

Stepping into this exhibition area, you'll see a series of exquisite illustrations. These are meticulously drawn by 30 illustrators under the theme "Me and Kitty." Each of the 30 works showcases a different style, revealing 30 different impressions and feelings towards Hello Kitty, and even offering glimpses of Kitty in everyday life! Which piece is your favorite?

Exclusive merchandise for the special exhibition!

Since it's a rare opportunity to visit, of course you have to take some souvenirs home! There are over 300 specially made merchandise items for this exhibition, a dazzling array of goods, many of which are exhibition exclusives. Among the most valuable souvenirs are the 50th Anniversary Exhibition Catalogue and the original plush toys. The 50th Anniversary Exhibition Catalogue includes 176 pages of Kitty designs from the past 50 years! The original plush toys feature adorable Kitty designs in paper bags, available in medium and small sizes. There are also a variety of miniature Sanrio character keychains to choose from—absolutely adorable! Other merchandise, stationery, food, and other cute gifts are also available on-site.

The Hello Kitty exhibition in Okinawa will be held from March 7th to May 11th at the Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Gallery. Kitty fans shouldn't miss it! Furthermore, the Hello Kitty exhibition is scheduled to tour throughout Japan, including Fukuoka from June to August this year, Kyoto from September to December, and Nagoya from December to February next year, promoting Kitty's adorable charm nationwide!

Special Recommendation: HOTEL OKINAWA with SANRIO CHARACTERS

Attention all Hello Kitty and Sanrio fans! For a truly unique stay, we recommend this hotel! Located in Okinawa, this hotel is special because it's filled with Sanrio characters everywhere! Each room is unique, featuring designs dedicated to different characters like Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Cinnamoroll. With 66 rooms boasting diverse themes such as "Pastel," "Denim," "Monochrome," and "Ryukyu," you can choose your favorite! In addition, there's a shop in the lobby and a beautifully prepared themed breakfast. Relaxing with so many adorable characters is truly a supreme experience!

Exhibition Information

Hello Kitty Exhibition  -When I change, Kitty changes too-
Okinawa Exhibition

date:
March 7 (Fri) – May 11 (Sun), 2025

address:
Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum
Okinawa Prefectural Museum & Art Museum
( 3-1-1 OMOROMACHI, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture

Opening hours:
9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Friday and Saturday 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM)

Rest days:
Every Monday (except May 5th) and May 7th (Wednesday)

Admission fee:
[General] 1,800 yen [Age 3 and above] 300 yen

The Hello Kitty exhibition is also planned to be held in the following locations!

Fukuoka Exhibition:
June 24 (Tue) – August 31 (Sun), 2025

Kyoto Exhibition:
September 25 (Thursday) to December 7 (Sunday), 2025

Nagoya Exhibition:
Reservations will be scheduled from December 2025 to February 2026