Chocoball Unveils a Dazzling Golden Medal Game and Revives Beloved Retro Charms
Get ready for a double dose of delight as Morinaga Seika’s iconic Chocoball brand launches 2026 with a glittering new “Omocha no Kanzume” (Toy Can) and a wave of nostalgic collectible straps. The beloved “Kyoro-chan” mascot is at the heart of these campaigns, inviting fans of all ages to try their luck and relive cherished memories.
The Golden Kyoro Medal Can: A New Era for the “Omocha no Kanzume”
The “Omocha no Kanzume” campaign, a treasured tradition running for 59 years since Chocoball’s debut in 1967, is famous for its mystery toy can awarded to those who collect one “gold angel” or five “silver angels” from Chocoball boxes. For 2026, the 57th iteration of this legendary prize is the “Golden Kyoro Medal Can,” designed to captivate both children and “kiddults” – adults who embrace playful hobbies.
This new can transforms into a charming medal game, where players can enjoy a mini-arcade experience set to the whimsical tune of the “Chocoball no Uta” (Chocoball Song). The goal is to push out hidden toys with medals, creating a delightful blend of interactive fun and the classic suspense of discovering a secret prize. Shipments for the “Golden Kyoro Medal Can” are set to begin in late January.
Fans can currently choose between this new medal game and the “Kyoro Crane Can,” which debuted in 2025.
“For generations, the thrill of finding a golden angel has been a cherished memory for Japanese snack lovers, and this new can promises to keep that magic alive with a fresh, interactive twist!” a fan might exclaim, anticipating the joy.
Check out the campaign details and the “Golden Kyoro Medal Can” in action:
Lucky Charm Kyoro-chan Straps Make a Nostalgic Comeback
Capitalizing on the recent “Heisei Revival boom” – a wave of nostalgia for Japan’s Heisei era (roughly 1989-2019) – Morinaga is also re-introducing the popular “Engimono Kyoro-chan” (Lucky Charm Kyoro-chan) strap series. These charming collectibles, originally part of the “Kyoro-chan Shop” series that captivated elementary and junior high school students from 1995-2003, are set to delight fans who are now in their late 30s and 40s.
Two distinct campaigns are underway to bring these adorable charms back:
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“Golden Maneki Neko Kyoro-chan Strap” Campaign: Starting January 7th, followers of Kyoro-chan’s official X (formerly Twitter) account (@morinaga_CB) can participate by following and reposting a campaign post. One hundred lucky winners will receive an exclusive “Golden Maneki Neko Kyoro-chan Strap,” a gleaming golden rendition of the classic Japanese lucky cat charm.
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“Revived! Engimono Kyoro-chan Strap” Campaign: From February 3rd to September 1st, those who purchase two boxes of Chocoball can apply with their receipt for a chance to win. Each month, 960 lucky individuals will be randomly selected to receive one of four types of “Revived! Engimono Kyoro-chan Straps.” These include Kyoro-chan dressed as a Maneki Neko (lucky cat), Daruma (traditional Japanese doll), Shishimai (lion dance), or Uchide no Kozuchi (magic mallet).
For more details on how to apply and eligible products, please check the special campaign site from February 3rd, 11:00 AM JST:
Revived! Engimono Kyoro-chan Strap Campaign Site
These initiatives highlight how Japanese snack culture continues to evolve, blending innovative play with cherished nostalgia. The integration of interactive toys and retro collectibles ensures that Kyoro-chan remains a beloved figure, captivating new generations while warmly inviting older fans to revisit their childhood joys. This blend of past and present will surely resonate with Kawaii culture enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the enduring charm and playful spirit that defines Japan’s unique pop culture landscape.
