One
of Japan’s most popular character is “Hello Kitty”. Sanrio the creators of
hello kitty have certain other characters as well. However these are not as
popular as Hello Kitty in most countries outside Japan. Some of these
characters are Jewelpet, Cinnamoroll, Sugarbunnies and My melody.
In
a country where there is no dearth of characters and theme parks, it is but
natural that Hello Kitty deserves a theme park of her own – Sanrio Puroland.
Sanrio
Puroland opened in December 1990 in Tama city near Tokyo and is popular among
young girls and teenagers. Sanrio Puroland is a pink paradise, filled with
cuteness. It is an indoor theme park, which is much smaller compared to the
Disneyland theme parks, but nevertheless a popular destination. Infact, the
theme park is popular among overseas visitors especially from other South east
Asian countries.
The theme park environment can be felt even outside, with the colourful lampposts and pillars.
The star attraction among young girls is Kitty's House.
All furniture is in the Kitty theme- right from the bed, to the bath tub and even the fireplace.
Even the bricks have Kitty embossed on them.
At fixed times, Kitty makes an appearance.
The Kitty mobile:
Apart
from the boat rides and Hello Kitty’s house, there are also live performances.
On weekends and holidays, there is a dinner show with a live performance by
Kitty and Daniel.
Lots
of Sanrio merchandise are on sale in the shopping area.
The food shops also sell Hello kitty themed food stuff.
Definitely worth a visit, especially if you have little girls. Boys beware, it could be boring !!
Access:
5 mins walk from Tama station on Keio Line and Odakyu Line.
Opening
Hours: Vary on weekends and holidays. Other days 10;00-17:00 hrs.
Tickets: Tickets are in
2 categories: Welcome ticket and Passport. While Welcome ticket is good enough
for entrance and to view all free shows, Passport also provides access to all
the attractions
Welcome ticket: Adults : 3000 yen
Children (12-17
years): 2700 yen
Children (4-11 years):
2000 yen
Passport
ticket: Adults : 4000 yen
Children (12-17
years): 3700 yen
Children (4-11 years):
3000 yen
Children
under 3 year : Free
Tickets
purchased in advance are slightly cheaper than same day purchase.
