News has arrived that Sakura Miko, a VTuber boasting immense popularity in Japan, is making her debut as a picture book author. The title of her work is “Mikopi and the Big Sakura Tree” (Mikopi to Ookina Sakura no Ki).
While she usually charms many fans through her live streams, this time she is challenging herself with a new form of expression in the world of static images and storytelling found in picture books. Furthermore, this book comes with an exclusive bonus available only at the Japanese convenience store “Lawson.”
The release date is Thursday, March 5, 2026. This picture book, themed around “Sakura” (Cherry Blossoms)—the symbol of spring in Japan—will soon be delivered to readers. In this article, we will introduce the details of this noteworthy work, its bonuses, and how to obtain it. It is highly recommended for those interested in Japanese pop culture or those looking for a unique souvenir.
Product Overview: “Mikopi and the Big Sakura Tree”
First, let’s organize the basic information. This product will be sold in the magazine section of Lawson, a major convenience store chain in Japan.
- Product Name: Mikopi and the Big Sakura Tree
- Release Date: March 5, 2026 (Thursday) *Based on the Tokyo metropolitan area schedule
- Price: 1,980 Yen (tax included) *Approx. $13–$14 USD (depending on exchange rates)
- Availability: Lawson magazine corners nationwide (excluding some stores)
Note: Due to Japan’s long geography stretching north to south, delivery schedules may vary. In some regions like Hokkaido, Kyushu, and the Chugoku region, the book might appear on shelves a few days later than the official release date. If you don’t see it on the release day, it is worth checking back after a few days.
The Tale of a “White Cat” Chasing a Dream
The protagonist of this picture book is a single “White Cat” (Masshiro Neko).
According to the synopsis, this cat has a big dream: “To become a ‘Shikigami’ (Spirit Servant) that protects the Miko (Shrine Maiden) serving God.” The story follows the cat’s journey with friends to make a “Big Sakura Tree” bloom in order to fulfill this dream.
The goal of becoming a “Shikigami” is a setting that will make fans who know VTuber Sakura Miko’s activities and lore smile. However, even for readers without that background knowledge, the universal themes of “working hard towards a dream” and “cooperating with friends” are sure to resonate deeply.
Portraying a “Never-Give-Up Spirit”
An important theme of this work is “a heart that never gives up.”
During the journey, various difficulties and obstacles stand in the way. Despite this, the story depicts the characters supporting each other and moving forward without giving up on their dreams. This makes the book suitable not only for reading to children but also as a source of encouragement for adults.
Look Out for Dynamic Gimmicks
As a fun feature unique to picture books, the page construction has been ingeniously designed.
This book features “Gatefold” pages. These are pages that open outward to the left and right, revealing a panoramic view twice the width of a standard page. It is likely that this gimmick is used effectively in the scene where the titular “Big Sakura Tree” comes into full bloom.
There is a physical surprise and emotion that can only be realized in a paper picture book, something that cannot be experienced on a smartphone or tablet screen.
Lawson Exclusive Bonus: “Original Coloring Book”
The biggest benefit of purchasing at the Japanese convenience store “Lawson” is the exclusive bonus.
When you purchase “Mikopi and the Big Sakura Tree” at Lawson, you will receive a “Lawson Exclusive Original Coloring Book” as a gift. This item allows you to color the world of the picture book with your own hands.
Since it is “exclusive,” there is a high possibility that it will not be available at other bookstores or online shops. It has high value as a collector’s item, and fans might want to buy multiple copies—one for preservation and one to actually enjoy coloring.
Check the “Magazine Corner” in the Store
When buying books at a Japanese convenience store (Konbini), knowing the location is important.
This picture book will not be on the shelves with Onigiri (Rice Balls) or Bento boxes, but in the “Magazine Corner.” Please look for the section where weekly magazines and fashion magazines are usually lined up. The cover featuring the cute characters drawn by Sakura Miko will be your landmark.
As there is a high possibility that this is a limited-quantity product, it is wise for those who want to ensure they get a copy to visit the store early on the release day (March 5).
Summary
A story of dreams, friendship, and “a heart that never gives up,” drawn by VTuber Sakura Miko. “Mikopi and the Big Sakura Tree” possesses both the fun of a picture book and a strong message.
It comes with a Lawson-exclusive original coloring book and is priced at 1,980 yen. Why not touch upon a heartwarming story along with the arrival of spring in Japan? The white cat and its friends will be waiting for you at the Lawson magazine corner on Thursday, March 5.
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