Familiar x Kobe Oji Zoo Collaboration Unveils Adorable Animal-Themed Collection

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Familiar and Kobe Oji Zoo Unite for a “Kawaii” Animal Collection

Starting January 8, 2026, a delightful collaboration between the popular children’s brand Familiar and the cherished Kobe Oji Zoo will bring an exclusive line of four original items to fans. This partnership promises to blend Familiar’s signature charm with the beloved animals of Oji Zoo, creating a collection that captures the hearts of both children and adults.

Familiar x Oji Zoo Collaboration Items

The collaboration features designs where Familiar’s iconic bear character is depicted alongside the adorable residents of Kobe Oji Zoo. This fusion creates a heartwarming aesthetic, reminiscent of a playful visit to the zoo, perfect for everyday use or as cherished keepsakes. The collection will be available at select retail locations and online, making these unique items accessible to a wider audience.

A Closer Look at the Exclusive Collection

Each item in the collection showcases a unique aspect of the Familiar and Oji Zoo collaboration, blending practicality with irresistible cuteness.

Denim Bag

Familiar’s highly popular and classic denim bag receives a special Oji Zoo makeover. The artwork features the Familiar bear introducing various animals from the zoo, creating a scene unique to this collaboration. The interior of the bag mirrors the bear’s outfit with a white and blue stripe fabric, adding a subtle touch of Familiar’s identity.

Familiar x Oji Zoo Denim Bag

  • Price: 27,500 yen (tax included)

  • Size: Approximately 32cm (height) x 43cm (width), handle length approximately 29.5cm

  • Material: Outer: 100% cotton, Lining: 100% cotton, Leather parts: Synthetic leather

Sacoche

The popular sacoche, a compact shoulder bag, is crafted from the same denim fabric as the bag, allowing for a coordinated look. It features a snap button closure to keep contents secure and an outer pocket for quick access to essentials like smartphones or pass cases. The design portrays the Familiar bear happily dining with Oji Zoo’s popular orangutan and koala, embodying a sense of camaraderie.

Familiar x Oji Zoo Sacoche

  • Price: 13,200 yen (tax included)

  • Size: Approximately 20cm (height) x 17cm (width), shoulder strap length approximately 125cm

  • Material: Outer: 100% cotton, Lining: 100% cotton, Leather parts: Synthetic leather, Piping: 100% polyester

Towel Handkerchief

This towel handkerchief offers a soft and fluffy yet durable texture. Its simple green and black design, adorned with various zoo animals, makes it suitable for all ages and genders. The vibrant illustrations of giraffes, koalas, bears, and lions bring a touch of the zoo to daily life.

Familiar x Oji Zoo Towel Handkerchief

  • Price: 2,200 yen (tax included)

  • Size: Approximately 25cm (height) x 25cm (width)

  • Material: 100% cotton

Pass Case

The pass case features charming appliqués of the Familiar bear and Oji Zoo’s popular koala. This item is perfect for holding commuter passes or ID cards. The strap can be interchanged with other neck straps, allowing it to double as a name holder for school or office use.

Familiar x Oji Zoo Pass Case

  • Price: 5,500 yen (tax included)

  • Size: Approximately 7.5cm (height) x 10cm (width), strap length approximately 15cm

  • Material: Synthetic leather

Where to Purchase

The collaboration items will be available from January 8, 2026, at various physical stores, with online sales commencing in late January 2026.

Physical Stores:

  • ZOOQLE Oji Zoo Store (Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture)

  • GOTO-CHI Namba Store (Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture)

  • GOTO-CHI Kyoto Store (Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture)

  • irodori kintetsu Abenobashi Store (Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture)

  • THROBBING. cosme+ Uehonmachi Store (Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture)

Online Shop:

The Impact on Kawaii Culture

This collaboration exemplifies the enduring appeal of “kawaii” culture, a uniquely Japanese aesthetic of cuteness that transcends age and borders. The partnership between a beloved children’s brand and a local zoo not only offers charming merchandise but also fosters a deeper connection between people and wildlife, often a hallmark of Japanese character collaborations. As one fan enthusiastically shared, “These designs are just too precious! I can’t wait to get the denim bag to show my love for both Familiar and the adorable Oji Zoo animals!” This kind of cross-industry collaboration, integrating local attractions with iconic brands, will likely continue to thrive, expanding the global reach of Japanese “kawaii” culture and its heartfelt messaging.

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