A Sweet Collaboration: Hanepyon and Merry Chocolate Unite to Delight Tokyo Residents

Tokyo's Ota Ward is abuzz with excitement following the announcement that the Ota Tourism Association has partnered with Merry Chocolate Company to create an exclusive product featuring their beloved official character, Hanepyon. This unique collaboration will bring to life a new treat titled "Plain Cocoa (Hanepyon)," set to hit the stores on January 26, 2026.

Collaboration Details

The collaboration between the Ota Tourism Association and Merry Chocolate is a match made in sweet heaven. The character Hanepyon embodies the essence of Ota Ward, representing Haneda Airport, an essential gateway to Japan. The name "Hanepyon" brilliantly fuses the word "hane" (羽), meaning wing, referencing the airport, and "pyon" (ぴょん), which suggests a sprightly hop, indicative of the character's playful personality as it explores the local attractions.

Hanepyon is depicted donned in a charming jewelry made of cherry blossoms while holding a traditional bath bucket. This quirky character stands as the mascot for Ota Ward's tourism promotion efforts, aiming to charm both residents and visitors alike.

Product Launch Details

- Product Name: Plain Cocoa (Hanepyon)
- Release Date: January 26, 2026
- Locations:

- Ota Tourism Association office (inside Ota Ward Industrial Plaza PiO)
- Ota Ward Tourist Information Center (Wing Kitchen Keikyu Kamata, 2nd floor)
- Merry Chocolate Kamata Plaza Tokyu Store

- Online Sales Start: Early February 2026 via the Hanepyon Store (Ota Tourism Association's online shop)
- Price: 378 yen (including tax) for a 49g package.

As the release date approaches, fans are encouraged to treat themselves or consider this delightful product as a small gift for others. The charming packaging featuring Hanepyon is expected to spread smiles and joy to everyone who lays eyes on it.

About Ota Tourism Association

The Ota Tourism Association is dedicated to promoting the rich cultural heritage and attractions of the Ota Ward area. Their collaboration with Merry Chocolate is just one of the many initiatives aimed at fostering community engagement and attracting tourists to this vibrant part of Tokyo. With the sweet synergy between the cute Hanepyon character and Merry Chocolate’s revered brand, this collaboration is poised to encapsulate the delightful spirit of the locality.

Through this product launch, the Ota Tourism Association hopes to send a loving message to not just local residents but also to visitors from across Japan and abroad, inviting them to explore the charming attractions that Ota Ward offers. The initiative aims to spread happiness and create a sweet connection amongst the community.

Time to Indulge!

The collaboration between Hanepyon and Merry Chocolate promises to deliver a delightful experience that goes beyond just taste. It’s an invitation to indulge in local culture, to appreciate the lighthearted essence of Ota Ward, and to enjoy a treat that represents the community’s spirit. So mark your calendars for January 26, 2026, and get ready to grab your adorable Plain Cocoa (Hanepyon) treat, whether at a local store or online. This collaboration is not just about chocolate; it’s about sharing joy, creating smiles, and celebrating the unique identity of Ota Ward.

For more information or updates, be sure to check out the Ota Tourism Association's official website.