Spring Awakens at Whity Umeda with Sumikkogurashi
The vibrant underground shopping arena, Whity Umeda in Osaka, is set to showcase an exciting new collaboration with San-X’s beloved characters, Sumikkogurashi. Starting from March 13 to April 13, 2026, visitors can immerse themselves in the cheerful ambience of spring with beautiful decorations and unique events designed to brighten their days and create lasting memories.
A Floral Wonderland Awaits
As the warm spring weather draws everyone out, Whity Umeda welcomes back the delightful Sumikkogurashi characters, who can be seen enjoying a whimsical hanami (flower viewing) amidst blooming cherry blossoms and a riot of colorful spring flowers. In this enchanting setting, you’ll find the characters relaxing, adding a serene vibe perfect for taking delightful photos.
A highlight of this year's event is the debut of the charming unit 'Shippos', comprised of shrimp tails from the beloved characters: 'Ebiten no Shippo', 'Ebi Fry no Shippo', and 'Aji Fry no Shippo'. Their presence not only adds to the colorful ambience but also offers an exclusive opportunity for fans to meet and engage with their favorite characters.
Unique Highlights Of Each Area
Izumi no Hiroba
A section filled with cherry blossoms, Izumi no Hiroba turns into a picturesque space where visitors can spread out their picnic blankets and enjoy a virtual hanami with the adorable Sumikkogurashi characters. As you relax, you might spot characters dozing off under the gentle spring sun, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Sunny Terrace
The Sunny Terrace will buzz with excitement as 'Shippos' make their debut. Here, vibrant decorations, including a magnificent stage shaped like a star and an array of giant flowers, will transform the area into a festive wonderland. Visitors will love the cute photo spots available, where they can snap delightful pictures with 'Shippos' and create wonderful memories.
FARURU Corridor
The FARURU Corridor offers an intimate spring setting surrounded by colorful flowers and playful poses by the Sumikkogurashi characters. Look closely, and you might find characters adorned with cherry blossoms or creating charming scenes of spring-time mischief. Scattered photogenic spots make it a perfect location for capturing moments with these delightful characters.
Exclusive Events and Campaigns
In addition to the decorations, Whity Umeda is hosting exciting events throughout the collaboration. An original umbrella marker, featuring the Whity Umeda x Sumikkogurashi design, will be given as a prize to lucky fans through a social media campaign. Participants can join by reposting specific posts on Twitter or sharing their spring-themed photos on Instagram. A limited number of original bottles will also be available for visitors who shop within Whity Umeda, further enhancing their experience.
Sumikkogurashi: A Cultural Phenomenon
Since its inception in 2012 under the theme ‘This is where I feel most at ease’, Sumikkogurashi has captured the hearts of many for its combination of cute yet relatable characters. These quirky characters, embodying feelings many people can relate to—such as wanting to sit in the corner—have resonated deeply with fans across generations. More than just adorable, they cleverly reflect life’s little joys and quirks.
For more information about Sumikkogurashi and its various adventures, be sure to check out their latest updates and merchandise online.
About Whity Umeda
Located in the heart of Osaka, Whity Umeda remains a beloved hub for locals and tourists alike. Opened in 1963, this extensive shopping arcade has transformed into a vibrant commercial space, catering to diverse shopping and dining needs. As a favorite meeting spot, Izumi no Hiroba stands out, featuring an ever-changing light display that enchants visitors throughout the day and night.
If you’re in Osaka during the spring, make sure to stop by Whity Umeda to experience this delightful Sumikkogurashi spring collaboration—where warmth, joy, and beautiful memories await!
For further details and updates about this event, kindly visit the Whity Umeda official website.