The Heart of Kawaii: Perfect World Tokyo Announces Its “Oshi Character Grand Prize 2025” Winners
Which character became your ultimate “oshi”—a term of endearment in Japanese culture for a beloved idol or character, akin to a cherished best friend—in 2025? Perfect World Tokyo has unveiled the results of its unique “Oshi Character Grand Prize 2025,” celebrating the characters that truly resonated with fans throughout the year.
This isn’t just a simple popularity contest. The selection process was a deep dive into the real-world impact of these characters, incorporating fervent fan engagement, their pervasive presence in daily life, the buzz they generated across social media and real-world events, and the extensive development of merchandise and collaborative projects. It’s a testament to the genuine connection between characters and their audience, reflecting the vibrant pulse of Japan’s character culture.
Rather than ranking, Perfect World Tokyo chose to honor all seven selected characters with a “Grand Prize” title. This approach acknowledges that each character, in its own unique way, moved the hearts of many. “The sheer passion from fans, the chatter on social media, and the vibrant merchandise displays truly spoke volumes about these characters,” stated a representative from Perfect World Tokyo. These seven icons are indispensable when looking back at 2025.
The Seven Grand Prize Winners of 2025
Here are the characters that earned the prestigious “Oshi Character Grand Prize 2025,” along with the reasons for their selection:
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Puppet Susun: The year 2025 was undeniably “Susun’s year.” With the launch of its anime, TV appearances, a singing debut, and numerous corporate collaborations, Puppet Susun saw explosive growth. Collaborations with brands like GU and convenience stores consistently sold out, making it a character seen everywhere and garnering overwhelming support from both fans and businesses.
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Miffy: Celebrating its 70th anniversary, Miffy was the center of events, exhibitions, and limited-edition merchandise across various locations. Its timeless, simple, and perfectly designed aesthetic, beloved across generations and borders, received renewed attention throughout this commemorative year.
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Snoopy: Marking the 75th anniversary of the PEANUTS comic, Snoopy saw a continuous stream of commemorative goods and diverse collaborations. Its enduring charm and profound quotes resonated deeply with contemporary audiences, earning it re-evaluation as a source of both comfort and meaningful messages.
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Hello Kitty: Even after her 50th anniversary, Hello Kitty’s momentum showed no signs of slowing. New products were instant sell-outs, and “Heisei revival” and “sun-tanned Kitty” trends sparked widespread conversation. She successfully balanced nostalgia with modern appeal, captivating fans across generations and countries.
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Monchhichi: Following its 50th anniversary last year, Monchhichi experienced a resurgence in popularity. Many were seen sporting Monchhichi merchandise in public, solidifying its role as a companion for both long-time devotees and new fans alike. This demonstrated the enduring power of a Japanese-born character with roots stretching back to the Showa era.
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Chiikawa: Chiikawa continued its dominant run in 2025, achieving overwhelming sales and constant buzz. From pop-up shops to large-scale facility collaborations and surging international popularity, Chiikawa maintained an undeniable presence every single day. Its “strength that isn’t fleeting” was a key factor in its selection.
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Myakumyaku: As the official character of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, Myakumyaku became a symbol of 2025. Its distinctive visual style and the message of “being passed down through generations” left a lasting impression on many, making it an essential character to discuss when reflecting on the year.
Looking Ahead: The Enduring Power of “Oshi” Culture
Did any of these characters become your “oshi” in 2025? The “Oshi Character Grand Prize” not only celebrates individual characters but also highlights the deep, personal connections fans form. This unique bond, a cornerstone of Kawaii culture, continues to evolve and thrive globally, demonstrating how characters transcend mere entertainment to become integral parts of people’s lives.
Perfect World Tokyo expresses its gratitude for the overwhelming participation and hopes that 2026 brings even more wonderful encounters with character merchandise for everyone. The future of Kawaii culture abroad will surely be shaped by these deeply cherished characters, as they continue to inspire joy and connection across the world.
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