A Swashbuckling Shopping Spree at Tokyo Solamachi
From March 4 to March 29, 2026, the Tokyo Solamachi East Yard will transform into a vibrant hub for SpongeBob enthusiasts. This special pop-up store will feature a wide array of movie-themed limited-edition goods and pre-release items that capture the adventurous spirit of the film. Visitors can look forward to unique collectibles that celebrate SpongeBob’s latest journey.
Among the highlights are exclusive merchandise that brings the film’s pirate theme to life. Imagine sipping your favorite beverage from a Hydro Flask adorned with pirate-costumed SpongeBob and Gary, or carrying your essentials in colorful pouches featuring the whole Bikini Bottom crew in their adventurous gear. These items are designed to extend the cinematic joy into everyday life.
The Thrill of Mystery: Blind Box Bonanza
The pop-up store is also a haven for fans of blind box items, a popular trend in character merchandise that adds an element of surprise and excitement. These mystery items, which keep their contents hidden until opened, encourage social media sharing and fan interaction. The SpongeBob pop-up will offer a diverse collection of blind merchandise, including unique figures and keychains, promising a delightful discovery with every purchase. Additionally, a variety of capsule toys will be available, intensifying the thrill of finding your favorite character.
Exclusive Perks and Interactive Fun
Visitors to the pop-up store can also enjoy special purchase benefits. Every customer making a purchase will receive a limited-edition shopper bag featuring an exclusive design that immerses them further into SpongeBob’s world.
Furthermore, for those who present a receipt from a purchase at PLAZA Tokyo Solamachi store, a special limited-edition sticker will be gifted, adding another layer of collectibility for dedicated fans.
For purchases totaling 5,000 yen (including tax) or more, a next-generation acrylic keychain called “KazaSuki” will be given as a limited-quantity present (300 pieces available on a first-come, first-served basis). This innovative keychain allows users to bring SpongeBob to life on their smartphones by simply holding it over the device, enabling unique photo opportunities and interactive content. “It’s truly magical to see SpongeBob move right on your phone!” exclaimed one fan, anticipating the new feature.
Meet and Greet with SpongeBob and Patrick
The excitement doesn’t stop at merchandise. Fans will have the special opportunity to meet SpongeBob and Patrick in their pirate attire at the Tokyo Solamachi pop-up store during select dates in March. This greeting event offers a chance for memorable photos and direct interaction with the beloved characters.
For those in the Akasaka area, a special event commemorating “The SpongeBob Movie” will also take place at Akasaka Sacas Sacas Plaza from March 19 to March 22, 2026. This includes a limited-participant greeting event with pirate-styled SpongeBob and Patrick for those who purchase SpongeBob goods.
Event Details:
SpongeBob Pop-up Store at Tokyo Solamachi
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Location: Tokyo Solamachi East Yard 2F, Block 11 Special Venue
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Address: 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 131-0045
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Period: March 4, 2026 (Wed) – March 29, 2026 (Sun)
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Hours: 10:00 – 21:00
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Greeting Event Dates: March 4 (Wed), 7 (Sat), 15 (Sun), 20 (Fri/Holiday)
SpongeBob Special Event at Akasaka Sacas Sacas Plaza
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Location: Akasaka Sacas Sacas Plaza and other locations
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Period: March 19, 2026 (Thu) – March 22, 2026 (Sun)
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Details: Exclusive greeting event for SpongeBob goods purchasers. For participation rules and times, please check the official website: PLAZA STYLE Character Plaza
PLAZA NEWSSTAND Akasaka Store “SpongeBob” Pop-up Store
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Period: March 19, 2026 (Thu) – April 2, 2026 (Thu)
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Store URL: PLAZA NEWSSTAND Akasaka
The Enduring Appeal of SpongeBob SquarePants
SpongeBob SquarePants, created by Stephen Hillenburg, has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut on July 17, 1999. The series, depicting the humorous daily life of SpongeBob and his friends in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom, has grown into a global phenomenon. It is broadcast in over 180 countries and translated into more than 30 languages, reaching an average of over 100 million viewers quarterly. In Japan, the series is broadcast on NHK E-tele.
This new film and accompanying pop-up events underscore SpongeBob’s lasting impact on popular culture. As “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants” prepares to enchant audiences, these special events in Tokyo offer a unique opportunity for fans to dive deep into the world of Bikini Bottom and collect exclusive memorabilia, further cementing SpongeBob’s place in the global kawaii landscape for years to come.
