Starting from 10:00 AM on Thursday, April 9, 2026, a special campaign will be held at 7-Eleven stores (Japanese convenience stores, known as “Konbini”) across Japan. By purchasing two designated chocolates, customers will receive one “Original Mini Pouch Charm,” a collaboration between the globally popular “Sanrio Characters” and “Niccolino,” a brand currently trending in the Japanese capsule toy market.
The charm of this collaboration lies in the Sanrio characters wearing food-themed costumes unique to the Niccolino brand. The design features the iconic “Niccolino Smile,” bringing a unique sense of healing comfort not found in traditional Sanrio merchandise. The pouch is compact, measuring approximately W77mm x H75mm (approx. 3.0 inches x 2.9 inches), making it the perfect size for carrying small items like earphones, lip balm, or coins.
Sanrio x Niccolino: A 6-Pouch Lineup Infused with Japanese Culture
The pouches offered in this campaign feature six unique designs inspired by popular Japanese foods.
Pompompurin x Purin (Custard Pudding)
Pompompurin appears in a costume inspired by “Purin” (Japanese-style custard pudding). While he already resembles a pudding, this Niccolino-style arrangement makes him even more adorable. Don’t miss the detailed design of the caramel sauce on his head.
Hello Kitty x Tako-san Wiener (Octopus Sausage)
The world-famous Hello Kitty has transformed into a “Tako-san Wiener” (octopus-shaped sausage), a staple of Japanese bento boxes. Dressed in a bright red sausage suit, this design blends the surrealism of Japanese subculture with pure cuteness. It pairs perfectly with her red ribbon for a high-impact look.
Pochacco x Broccoli
Pochacco has chosen a healthy “broccoli” theme. The vibrant green costume stands out beautifully against his white body. This unexpected combination of a Sanrio character and a vegetable is a delight unique to Japanese limited-edition collaborations.
Kuromi x Onigiri (Rice Ball)
Kuromi has transformed into “Onigiri” (Japanese rice ball), a true soul food of Japan. Her signature black hood cleverly represents the “nori” (seaweed) of the rice ball. Seeing the usually “cool” Kuromi as a smiling onigiri is a charming gap that fans will love.
Cinnamoroll x Cream Soda (Melon Soda Float)
The incredibly popular Cinnamoroll is themed after “Cream Soda” (Melon Soda Float), a classic favorite in Japanese “Kissaten” (retro coffee shops). The transparency of the design links Cinnamoroll’s white fur with the vanilla ice cream floating on the soda. This refreshing blue pouch is perfect for the spring and summer seasons.
My Melody x Omurice (Omelet Rice)
My Melody features a design inspired by “Omurice” (Omelet Rice), a popular home-cooked dish in Japan. The pink hood and the yellow of the omelet egg create a very colorful palette. The red accents, representing ketchup, add a bright touch that is sure to lift your mood.
How to Participate and Campaign Period
Obtaining these limited-edition mini pouches is very simple. Just visit a 7-Eleven store in Japan, select two of the designated chocolates (you can mix and match), and take them to the register. You can then choose one pouch in your favorite design on the spot.
- Start Date/Time: From Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM
- End Date: Until Wednesday, April 22, 2026 (or while supplies last)
- Available Stores: 7-Eleven stores across Japan (excluding some locations)
Please note that the campaign starts specifically at 10:00 AM. They may not be available if you visit early in the morning. Additionally, stock at each store is limited, so we recommend visiting early if you are aiming for a specific character.
What is “Niccolino,” the Brand with the Unique Smile?
“Niccolino,” the brand collaborating with Sanrio, is a plush toy brand born from capsule toys and developed by the Japanese manufacturer “Qualia.” The name is a combination of the Japanese word “Nikkori” (meaning “smiling”) and the Italian suffix “-ino” (meaning “cute” or “small”).
Since 2023, they have expanded their series with food motifs, and their “expressionless yet adorable smile” has become a major topic on Japanese social media. The brand excels at characterising everyday items in Japanese life, such as “Bento boxes” and “Jun-kissaten” (traditional coffee shops). This unique worldview is fully displayed in this collaboration with Sanrio.
Practical Uses for Your Mini Pouch
These mini pouches are not only cute but also practical. Their compact size makes them extremely useful for organizing the inside of your bag.
- Use it as a case for wireless earphones.
- Temporarily store accessories like earrings or rings.
- Hold etiquette items such as eye drops, lip balm, or medicine.
- Use it as a coin purse or a key case for spare keys.
Since they come with a charm attachment, you can hang them on the outside of a tote bag or backpack as a fashion accent. Grab these special items only available at Japanese convenience stores and add a little “healing” to your daily life!
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