World Character Summit in Hanyu

This is a once-a-year chance to meet mascots from all over Japan — and the world.

What to expect

If you’ve encountered any cultural news from Japan, you’re almost certainly familiar with the concept of yuru-chara, the kawaii mascots used to promote things like regions, companies, and organizations. They make cameos across marketing materials and appear at events, with their designs often inspired by what they’re meant to promote (from cultural signatures to produce). You know Kumamon? He’s a yuru-chara.

Within the genre of yuru-chara is a subset called gotōchi-chara, meaning local characters. And that’s what the World Character Summit celebrates.

More than 170 characters are scheduled to appear. Characters will be performing on stage with PR booths in the event zone, some of which will offer visitors a taste of regional foods from around Japan — including free rice!

Schedule 2025

Dates for 2025 have yet to be confirmed. Last year, the World Character Summit was held on Saturday, November 23 and Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Some characters will only appear one day, so check the official site if you want to see someone specific.

Tickets

The event is free to attend. Food and merchandise have a separate cost.

How to get there

The World Character Summit will be spread out around the West Parking Lot of Aeon Mall in Hanyu and the nearby Kamikawasaki Park. To get there from central Tokyo, either walk around 30 minutes from Minami-Hanyū Station (1 hour and 15 minutes from Shinjuku Station) or get a shuttle bus (¥500) from Minami-Hanyū Station.