Hello Kitty Roomba

Via Hello Kitty Hell

For some reason, I am really happy for the double “L.”

Via Hello Kitty Hell

Just thought we would warn all your Japundits and Japundettes that Sanrio, creator of Hello Kitty, is launching more characters that are so cloyingly cute, they are guaranteed to set your teeth on edge in no time at all.

First are the two ballerina bunny sisters named Sugarminuet.

The older of the two is Ballet Usa (usa is short of usagi, or “rabbit” in Japanese), a make-up loving ballerina with a swan’s grace and pink fur. The younger is Prima Usa, a dreamy and romantic white bunny; both sport sparkly tiaras.

Debuting on August 8th, the pair have already established a line of goods that includes plush toys, stationary, and bags—all in a ballerina-esque blend of white and sugar pink and trimmed with ruffles, ribbons, and roses.

Still not gagging yet? Well how about Sanrio’s Cherinacherine, two little bears who live in a cherry forest?

Makes me want to go out and find something cute. . . so I can stomp on it.

Via CScout Japan

From the amazing and talented Koharu and friend comes the following video of their Tokyo street performance.

If you missed our past posts on Koharu, here is a blast from the past.

More here.

No need to look uncute as your home and the world as you know it is crashing down all around you with this fashionably pink Hello Kitty disaster kit, which includes:

• Disaster hood (covering Body)
• Flame retardant blanket
• Pouch
• Crime-prevention buzzer
• Bandanas

Price: 9,800 yen

I can’t remember where I found this, so if someone would like to claim credit for it, please drop me a line.

A Chinese woman claiming to be from the earthquake-devastated province of Sichuan and who goes under the name of Xiaoyun (Little Cloud) has been posting spicy photos of herself in a bid to encourage people to donate cash for earthquake relief.

Though there is no word concerning the effectiveness of the comely Xiaoyun’s fund raising efforts, they are getting mixed reviews from Chinese netizens: some are calling her a “shameless 90s generation girl”, while others are in awe of her altruistic spirit.

Make up your own mind by viewing more photos here and here.

Via Danwei

A brand new bakery opened in Tokyo on May 5th. The shop is called Shirohige no shou cream kobo (which means White-bearded’ cream puff workshop).

A perfect opening for Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day), the shop sells cream puff Totoros and sold out of them in the first ten minutes of opening!

The store has the unique recognition as being the only store officially recognized by Studio Ghibli and is filled with illustrations from Miyazaki Hayao’s nephew.

For those in Tokyo, it is advised to call in advance, since the shop sells a very limited quantity everyday and sell out fast.

I hope this is still open when I finally get out to Japan again- I have a soft spot for Totoro (and sweets!)

Via Ghibli World

Shirohige no shou cream kobo Homeage for more pics!

This little piggy rolls out your toilet paper!
Although odd for your bathroom, I think the craftsmanship on the pig is beautiful. Does anyone know what the 931 on his shirt is for?

Spice up your bathroom with a piggy workout via Product Page

It’s been a while since we had any music on JAPUNDIT, so here’s a little something from the Wonder Girls of South Korea.