When you think of must-visit Hello Kitty locations in Japan, Sanrio Puroland and the Hello Kitty island in Awaji may be the first to come to mind. However, there is a Hello Kitty train station in Tokyo that is not only adorable, but also easily accessible.
Image credit: @_tomatotto
Tama-Centre station in Tokyo is the nearest train station to Sanrio Puroland, an indoor theme park that features cute and beloved characters from Sanrio. The station is filled with Sanrio characters, making it seem as if it is a preview of what you will be seeing at the theme park itself.
Image credit: @diorama_sketchbook.teddy.okada
The pillars and walls of the station are plastered with different Sanrio characters such as Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and My Melody.
Image credit: @hiroyuki5821
If you are unfamiliar with the Sanrio characters, you can check out the information board near the ticket machines for a quick crash course.
Image credit: @ayu09_03
The platform at Tama-Centre station looks just like any other train station in Tokyo at first glance.
Image credit: @ranbo_555
However, upon closer inspection, you will start to notice Hello Kitty everywhere, from a Hello Kitty clock to an LED train departure display adorned with the famous feline.
Image credit: @yagoocci
Even the waiting rooms are subtly decorated decals of Hello Kitty’s iconic bowtie so you can sit and wait while being surrounded by the manifestation of kawaii.
Image credit: @yagoocci
The main departure board at the station even has a special Hello Kitty wearing a train conductor uniform as she bids you goodbye while you board the train.
Image credit: @umezarame37
Whoever decorated the station was clearly detail-oriented – even the vending machines at the station have been emblazoned with decals of adorable Sanrio characters.
Image credit: @motohide
The stained glass ceiling right outside the ticket gates at Tama-Centre station is the most impressive Sanrio-themed piece. Stained glass panels are usually found in old cathedrals and places of worship, so it’s interesting to see this thousand-year-old art form interpreted in a modern, adorable way.
Image credit: @jocie0105
Even if you aren’t a huge fan of Hello Kitty, the train station is still a sight for sore eyes. Try to see if you can find all the Hello Kitty decorations at the train station before you head over to Sanrio Puroland!
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Cover image adapted from (clockwise from left): @motohide, @ranbo_555 and @diorama_sketchbook.teddy.okada
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