The beloved characters from Sumikko Gurashi are making a special appearance as a charming Osechi (traditional Japanese New Year’s food) for the upcoming year! These delightful character Osechi sets, sold by the online retailer Belle Maison Net, will begin accepting reservations from noon JST on Monday, August 25, 2025.
About Sumikko Gurashi & Latest Adventures
Sumikko Gurashi, from San-X, is a popular character franchise centered around the charming theme of “feeling calm for some reason when you’re in a corner.” Its cast of slightly negative but incredibly unique characters—including Shirokuma, Penguin?, Tonkatsu, Neko, Tokage, and Ebi Furai no Shippo (Fried Shrimp Tail)—have captivated audiences across all generations, from children to adults, especially since celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2022. The franchise continues to expand its reach with the TV anime Sumikko Gurashi Koko ga Ochitsukundesu, which began airing in April 2025 as part of Nippon Television’s morning information program “ZIP!”. Fans can also look forward to the 4th movie installment, Eiga Sumikko Gurashi Sora no Oukoku to Futari no Ko, set to premiere on October 31.
For 2026, these adorable Sumikko friends—Shirokuma, Penguin?, Tonkatsu, Neko, and Tokage—are once again gracing New Year’s celebrations as specially crafted Osechi.
A Culinary Journey with Sumikko Friends: What’s Inside the Osechi?
The Belle Maison Net “Osechi: Sanjuubako Sumikko Gurashi” (Three-tiered Box Sumikko Gurashi) comes packed with delightful ingredients that even children will love, such as character-themed jōyo manjū. All these treats are beautifully arranged within charming pastel blue jūbako. As an added bonus, the set includes a special tabletop calendar that can also be used as mini postcards or matching cards, making this Osechi set a joy to enjoy throughout the entire year.
Tier by Tier: A Peek Inside
Let’s dive into the delicious details of each tier!
The “Ichinojuu (First Tier): Wa no Oiwaijuu” features an adorable Shirokuma jōyo manjū and tricolor dango intricately designed with Minikko characters.
The “Ninojuu (Second Tier): Wa no Aiwaijuu” includes charming jōyo manjū shaped like Penguin? and Tonkatsu.
Finally, the “Sannojuu (Third Tier): Okosama Juu” is a true delight, offering Neko and Tokage jōyo manjū (such as the Neko manjū seen here).
It also includes character-printed cheese slices atop hamburg steaks, and even pumpkin croquettes adorned with the beloved Sumikko Gurashi characters.
This year marks the 19th anniversary of these charming “character Osechi” sets, a testament to their enduring popularity and dedication to fully capturing the unique worldviews of beloved characters. Each year, the culinary content and accompanying accessories are carefully reviewed and refined, taking into account feedback from previous purchasers. This meticulous development process is driven by the heartfelt wish for customers to “enjoy a truly delightful start to the New Year.”
The beautiful pastel blue jūbako itself is a lovely keepsake.
The set also comes with five pairs of special iwaibashi (celebratory chopsticks).
And don’t forget the versatile tabletop calendar, which doubles as mini postcards and even matching cards for extended fun!
Pricing & Reservation Details
Reservations for the “Osechi: Sanjuubako Sumikko Gurashi” officially open from noon JST on August 25. This frozen Osechi set, designed to serve three people, will be available for a standard price of 23,900 yen (tax included). However, early bird shoppers can take advantage of a 5% discount, applicable for all orders placed between August 25 and September 30.
Key Details for the Osechi: Sanjuubako Sumikko Gurashi
- Price: 23,900 yen (tax included). An early bird discount of 5% applies for reservations made between August 25 and September 30.
- Best Before Date: January 31, 2026 (when frozen).
- Jūbako Size: Approximately 22 x 11.5 x 14 cm (height).
- Manufacturing: Domestically produced in Japan.
- Set Contents: One frozen Osechi set (for 3 people), one tabletop calendar set, five pairs of iwaibashi (celebratory chopsticks), and one aisatsujou (greeting card).
- Allergens: Contains egg, dairy, wheat, and shrimp.
(C)2025 San-X Co., Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
Written by Hidegomi
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