The annual “Sanrio Character Ranking” (サンリオキャラクター大賞) is now underway — a fan-voting event featuring Sanrio’s most beloved characters! In recent years, not only fans in Japan but also those overseas can join in and vote. If you love Sanrio characters, don’t miss this exciting opportunity to support your favorites!

Plus, when you shop at the official Sanrio online store and meet the minimum purchase amount, you’ll receive triple the number of votes! Be sure to check out some of the popular items from the online store at the end of this article!

What is the Sanrio Character Ranking?

The Sanrio Character Ranking first appeared in 1986 in Sanrio’s official publication, Strawberry News (いちご新聞). Since then, thanks to the support of countless fans, the event has evolved from postcard and in-store voting to today’s online voting system. What began in Japan has now grown into a global celebration where fans from all over the world can participate.

In 2025, the Sanrio Character Ranking marks its 40th edition, with 90 characters competing for the top spot! Voting is open until Sunday, May 25 (JST) — don’t miss your chance to support your favorites!

A Look Back at Past Champions

Throughout the rich history of the Sanrio Character Ranking, many adorable and unique characters have vied for the top spot, leaving behind a trail of memorable champions. The very first winner in 1986 was Zashikibuta (ザシキブタ), a pig character born in 1984. Known for his laid-back personality and endless curiosity, he may seem a bit lazy, but he’s actually quite the foodie—he loves making snacks and veggie dishes by hand, living a simple and soothing life.

From 1998 to 2009, Hello Kitty dominated the ranking for 11 consecutive years with overwhelming popularity, securing her place as the undisputed queen of that era. In more recent years, Cinnamoroll has risen to the top, winning the championship five years in a row from 2020 to 2024. With his heartwarming appearance and gentle, lovable charm, he has captured the hearts of fans worldwide and surged in popularity.

Who will take the crown this year? We can’t wait to find out!

The First Round of the 2025 Sanrio Character Ranking Is In!

On April 15, 2025, Sanrio Co., Ltd. announced the first round of results for this year’s Sanrio Character Ranking!

For the first time ever, not only were Japan’s Top 10 characters revealed, but the Top 5 from select international regions were also announced. Let’s take a look at who’s currently leading the pack!

Japan First Round Ranking – Top 10

In the first round of the Japan ranking, Pompompurin, who ranked 4th last year, claimed the top spot! 

The overall ranking is as follows:

(1) Pompompurin, (2) Cinnamoroll, (3) Pochacco, (4) Kuromi, (5) Hello Kitty, (6) My Melody, (7) Mermaid Hangyodon, (8) HANAMARUOBAKE, (9) Little Twin Stars, (10) Tuxedo Sam

Overseas First Round Ranking – Top 10

Sanrio also revealed the first round of rankings for various overseas regions. Let’s take a look at the rankings for the United States!

United States Ranking: 

(1) Chococat, (2) Pompompurin, (3) Usahana, (4) Pochacco, (5) Cinnamoroll

The first round of rankings for other regions can be found at the following link:
https://ranking.sanrio.co.jp/en/report_firstday/

Has your favorite character made it onto the list? Join the voting now and help decide this year’s champion!

How to Vote?

Friends overseas can also easily participate in the Sanrio Character Ranking voting! There are many convenient ways to cast your vote. Here are two of the available voting methods to help support your favorite characters:

Method 1: Daily Voting (Free to Participate)

You can vote every day through the official website:
https://ranking.sanrio.co.jp/en/ 

Each character can only receive one vote per day, but you can vote for multiple characters at the same time, with no limit on the number of characters! For example, if you like Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi, you can vote for all three on the same day!

Method 2: Shopping Votes

If you're planning to buy Sanrio products, why not support your favorite character through shopping? Simply register as a member on the official Sanrio online store, and for every purchase of 1,100 yen (including tax), you’ll earn 1 voting opportunity for every 550 yen spent (including tax). Each shopping vote will be counted as 3 votes! This is a great opportunity to boost your favorite character’s ranking!

Sanrio Online Store – Popular Products

To make it easier for you to participate in shopping votes, we've selected a few new arrivals and popular items from the Sanrio online store. During the voting period (from now until May 25th), why not treat yourself to some soothing items while also supporting your favorite character? Here are some picks to consider!

NEW ITEMS

1 Cinnamoroll Plush Keychain Doll

A perfect blend of nostalgic and modern design, this keychain doll comes with a charming flower decoration that boosts its cuteness to the max! Whether you hang it on your bag, backpack, or use it as a decorative piece, it’s a great addition to your collection!

Product Name: Cinnamoroll Plush Keychain Doll（シナモロール　マスコットホルダー（みんなのキルト））
Shop: Sanrio Online Shop
Price: JPY 1,980
Website: https://shop.sanrio.co.jp/

2 Hello Kitty Transparent Storage Pouch

If you're a Hello Kitty fan, this transparent pouch is a must-have! Available in two colors, it's not only lightweight and practical but also showcases Hello Kitty’s classic charm. Perfect for storing cosmetics, small items, or using it as an everyday carry bag.

Product Name: Hello Kitty Transparent Storage Pouch（ハローキティ　クリアポーチ（I Love Hello Kitty））
Shop: Sanrio Online Shop
Price: JPY 1,100 Each
Website: https://shop.sanrio.co.jp/

3 Mini Storage Pouch

You can’t go wrong with a cute and practical mini storage pouch for summer outings! This design features adorable heart decorations on the ears, and its transparent material makes it easy to find your items while keeping a fashionable touch. Perfect for carrying your essentials in style!

Product Name: Mini Storage Pouch（ミニポーチ）
Shop: Sanrio Online Shop
Price: JPY 1,298 Each
Website: https://shop.sanrio.co.jp/

RESTOCKED ITEMS

4 Stainless Steel Bottle with Lid

This sleek, easy-to-use water bottle features a one-button opening function for convenient access and is also detachable for easy cleaning. Its stainless steel vacuum double-layer structure ensures your drinks stay cool, making it the perfect choice for summer outings! Enjoy refreshing cold beverages anytime, anywhere.

Product Name: Stainless Steel Bottle with Lid（カバー付きステンレスボトル）
Shop: Sanrio Online Shop
Price: JPY 4,400 Each
Website: https://shop.sanrio.co.jp/

5 Wireless Stereo Headphones

Featuring an adorable charging case with each character’s design, these wireless headphones support both calls and music playback. With touch controls, you can easily manage playback and voice commands right from your ears. Lightweight and portable, they are the perfect everyday companion for your busy lifestyle!

Product Name: Wireless Stereo Headphones（完全ワイヤレス ステレオイヤホン）
Shop: Sanrio Online Shop
Price: JPY 5,478 Each
Website: https://shop.sanrio.co.jp/

6 Plush Doll (Spring Rabbit Series)

In the Spring Rabbit Series, your favorite characters are transformed into colorful bunnies! 

With heart-shaped details on their ears and soles that match their ribbon accents, the adorable design is sure to melt your heart at first glance. Perfect for cuddling or displaying!

Product Name: Plush Doll (Spring Rabbit Series)（ぬいぐるみ（スプリングラビット））
Shop: Sanrio Online Shop
Price: JPY 3,300 Each
Website: https://shop.sanrio.co.jp/

©Sanrio

Photo Reference: PR Times