You can now get limited-edition photo prints (known as “bromides” in Japan) of the “Narumiya Characters”—which boasted immense popularity among Japanese elementary and middle school students in the 2000s—at multi-function copiers located in 7-Eleven stores nationwide. This special project taps into the “Heisei Retro” and “Y2K Fashion” (the style around the year 2000) trends currently sweeping through Millennial and Gen Z generations.
The Verdict: Japan’s Junior Fashion Icons “Narumiya” Return to Convenience Stores
The characters from the junior apparel brands developed by Narumiya International were fashion icons in Japan at the time. For children back then, carrying a colorful paper shopping bag from a department store was a true status symbol.
This collaboration brings together the main characters from the “Big Four” brands of that era:
- ANGEL BLUE: Nakamura-kun
- mezzo piano junior: Berrie-chan
- pom ponette junior: Mint-kun
- DAISY LOVERS: Lookie
These characters are available in two types of print formats for a limited time until May 25, 2026.
Collaborate with Your Favorite Photos! The “Character Frame Print” Experience
The first product is the “Character Frame Print,” which allows users to combine the character designs with photos saved on their smartphones or images of their “Oshi” (favorite figures/characters). This enables you to create your own original collectible photo on the spot.
Product Information
- Paper Type: L-size photo paper (89 × 127 mm / 3.5 × 5 inches) or 2L-size (127 × 178 mm / 5 × 7 inches)
- Format: Selectable (Choose your favorite from 16 designs)
- Price: L-size 400 yen (approx. $2.70), 2L-size 500 yen (approx. $3.40) *including tax
- Sales Period: Feb 25 (Wed) 12:00 PM – May 25 (Mon) 6:00 PM
- Designs: 16 frame designs that encapsulate each brand’s unique aesthetic
By selecting your favorite design from the official page and arranging your photo via the multi-function copier, you can complete a one-of-a-kind collector’s item.
The Thrill of the Reveal! The Charm of “Random Prints”
The second product is the “Random Print,” where the excitement comes from not knowing which character you will get until it is printed. This offers a fun experience similar to Japanese “Gacha,” making it highly collectible.
Product Information
- Paper Type: L-size photo paper (89 × 127 mm / 3.5 × 5 inches)
- Format: Random (One design is randomly selected from 11 types)
- Price: L-size 200 yen (approx. $1.35) *including tax
- Sales Period: Feb 25 (Wed) 12:00 PM – May 25 (Mon) 11:59 PM
- Designs: 11 character visual designs
With an affordable price of just 200 yen (approx. $1.35) per print, many fans are aiming to complete the entire set.
Summary: Experience “Heisei Retro” through Japan’s Unique Convenience Store Culture
These 7-Eleven exclusive photo prints are a special opportunity to awaken memories of Japan in the 2000s. For travelers visiting Japan, it is an excellent chance to touch upon the history of “Kawaii” culture at a local convenience store (Konbini).
As these are only available until May 25, be sure to check the multi-function copiers at 7-Eleven stores throughout Japan. The characters you once admired are waiting for you!
‘Narumiya Characters Random Prints (L-size)’ | Now available at 7-Eleven multi-copy machines! 🇯🇵
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