Sumikko Gurashi has not only stolen hearts worldwide from kawaii pop culture fans with its cute designs and relatable stories but has recently found itself a new home: a specialized store and cafe on Miyajima Island.
Sumikko Gurashi, or “life in the corner,” is a series of characters known for their cute appearance and desire to stay out of the limelight. Unlike other popular Japanese pop culture characters, Sumikko Gurashi’s charm comes from the characters’ uncertainty about themselves and overall relatable anxiety. For instance, the character Shirokuma is a polar bear who left their home to get away from the cold. Despite their arctic nature, Shirokuma prefers to relax with a cup of hot tea.
A 10-minute ferry ride from Miyajimaguchi Pier to Miyajima Island begins the journey. Miyajima is known for Itsukushima Shrine and the Great O-Torii, or floating torii gate. In addition to this, the roaming deer and big shopping street has added to the island’s fame. Right off of the main shopping street of Miyajima, there is a small food stall entrance and an official Sumikko Gurashi store.
Originally, the famous Rakamunko Sabo Café, the location was renovated into a Sumikko Gurashi exclusive space, along with taking over a small food stall as well. Guests can expect an entrance filled with freshly made Sumikko Gurashi-yaki, formed in a special mold to resemble the main Sumikko Gurashi characters. There are plenty of refreshing drinks to choose from such as iced coffee to slushies. In addition, café exclusive merchandise is readily available, including acrylic keychains, drink holders and adorable buttons.
There are plenty of photo opportunities past the front food stall nook. With standby props, perfected backsplashes and cute Sumikko Gurashi statues, any commemorative photos are supported to the fullest here.
Beyond the food stall is where the official store begins. It is lined wall to wall with Sumikko Gurashi merch, including new and exclusive items recently released by the company San-X. Limited edition products like Miyajima-specific plushies that resemble deer costumes and even maple leaf Sumikko gurashi keychains. The cozy lives of these characters in the corner are projected perfectly by the adorable shopping space.
Even if Sumikko Gurashi isn’t what visitors might be looking for, the neighboring store is a permanent Rilakkuma merchandise location! Both Rilakkuma and Sumikko Gurashi are owned by San-X, ultimately making the two shops in Miyajima a celebration of San-X characters.
While the Rilakkuma store is a permanent feature within the island, the Sumikko Gurashi food stall and shop is relatively new. Celebrating its first year anniversary in 2024, it is unknown to fans if this shop will get a permanent home on Miyajima. There’s only hope to see if Sumikko Gurashi will continue to enjoy their island stay. As for fans, it’s best to find this food and merchandise combination before it moves on to a new corner!
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