The 41st Special Award: A Nod to the Underrated
In a special tribute to the 41st iteration of the Sanrio Character Award, a “41st Special Award” will be presented to the character ranking 41st. In these initial preliminary results, Little Forest Fellow, My Melody’s male cousin, has earned this unique distinction. This award adds another layer of excitement, celebrating characters beyond the very top.
Global Appeal: Cinnamoroll’s Worldwide Reign
Cinnamoroll’s popularity extends far beyond Japan, securing the provisional first place in 7 out of 14 surveyed countries and regions. This global success underscores the universal charm of Sanrio characters. The diverse top 5 rankings across different regions, from Pompompurin in mainland China to Ahirunopekkle in Hong Kong, demonstrate the unique connections each character builds with fans across cultures.
Sanrio Fes 2026 in Minatomirai: The Grand Finale
The grand finale of the “2026 Sanrio Character Award” will culminate at “Sanrio Fes 2026 in Minatomirai,” held on June 27 and 28. The final results for all 90 characters will be announced on June 28, featuring appearances by the top-ranked characters. The official event website, which opened today, provides detailed information on stage appearances and ticket lottery applications. For more details on the event, visit the Sanrio Fes 2026 official website.
Exclusive Commemorative Items Launched
To commemorate the event, a series of special merchandise is being released in four waves at Sanrio stores, department store Sanrio corners, and the Sanrio Online Shop. The first wave launched on April 9 and has been met with enthusiasm.
Key items from upcoming waves include:
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2nd Wave (April 22): Plush toys (37 items, ¥2,794 each) featuring character logo ribbons, and Secret Pins (3 items, 24 types, ¥880 each) designed as three-dimensional character badges. For product details, visit: Sanrio News
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3rd Wave (April 30): The “I want you to love me a lot” design series. This collection includes Mascot Holders (8 items, ¥2,200 each), Character Silicone Mini Pouches (8 items, ¥1,100 each), Mini Tote Bags (8 items, ¥1,650 each), and Secret Sticker Sets (¥660). The series features characters with sparkling, dewy eyes in an inviting pose.
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4th Wave (May 13): The “Sanrio Coordinate Collection” series. This line offers Mascot Holders (8 items, ¥2,596 each), Character Appliqué Shoulder Bags (6 items, ¥4,400 each), Secret Mascot Charms (1 item, 8 types, ¥990), Sticker Sets (¥550), Collect Books (¥1,100), and Secret Cards & Cases (1 item, 8 types, ¥946). These items showcase characters in their unique fashion styles, perfect for fans to express their love for their favorite characters. Details for the 3rd and 4th wave items will be released sequentially from late April on the Sanrio official website.
“Smiling Ovation!” – The Heart of the Award
This year’s theme, “Cheer for everyone doing their best! Smiling Ovation!,” embodies a spirit of mutual encouragement. “Smiling Ovation,” a term inspired by standing ovations, expresses the desire for Sanrio characters and their fans to support and celebrate each other, creating a joyful event for all. This theme perfectly captures the spirit of mutual encouragement between characters and fans, a truly heartwarming aspect of Sanrio culture.
The Sanrio Character Award, an annual popularity poll initiated in 1986, features 90 characters competing for fan votes. The voting period runs until May 24, with interim results for the top 20 announced on May 12. Fans can cast their votes and follow the rankings on the official voting site.
Additionally, the event includes a “Partner Division” featuring 40 collaborative groups and a “Happylina Friends Division” with 10 characters, each with their own voting and announcement schedules, further diversifying the excitement.
As the competition intensifies, the preliminary results offer a tantalizing glimpse into who might emerge victorious. The coming weeks promise more thrilling updates and a vibrant celebration of Kawaii culture, both in Japan and across the globe, as fans rally behind their favorite Sanrio stars.
