Guwashi! Makoto-chan Pop-Up Store at Graveyard Gallery Brings T-Shirts, Jersey, and Lifestyle Goods from August 20

Fans of Kazuo Umezu’s high-energy absurdist gag manga Makoto-chan have something to look forward to this summer. A pop-up store dedicated to the series will be held at Graveyard Gallery (Nakano store) and its online store from August 20 to September 15, 2026.

Makoto-chan Pop-Up Store at Graveyard Gallery

First serialized in 1976, Makoto-chan became a cultural phenomenon with its boundary-pushing humor and distinctive art style. The story follows the unpredictable kindergarten student Sawada Makoto, whose antics include crude jokes and outrageous pranks. The manga also popularized the hand gestures “Guwashi” and “Bashi,” which became nationwide trends in Japan.

This year marks two major milestones: the 50th anniversary of the series’ debut and the 90th birthday of creator Kazuo Umezu. To celebrate, Makoto returns to the Reiwa era with a special pop-up store at Graveyard Gallery.

The store will offer a wide range of original merchandise created specifically for the event. Apparel items include T-shirts, a hoodie, and a jersey, alongside lifestyle goods such as acrylic stands, keychains, stickers, and more. The lineup is designed to appeal both to longtime fans and those who have recently discovered the series.

Apparel and Accessories

The “MAKOTO CHAN T-shirt” features a bold design of the protagonist, incorporating Umezu’s signature red-and-white stripes. The catchphrase is, of course, “Guwashi!”

The “Alarm Clock T-shirt” prints the striking cover art of a memorable comic volume.

The “License Master T-shirt” illustrates the arduous path to mastering the “Guwashi” pose, titled “The Road to Guwashi.”

A long-sleeve T-shirt features a “Makoto Land” print that attempts a full anatomical (?) analysis of the mysterious protagonist.

The “MAKOTO CHAN Pullover Hoodie” adopts a college-style design, with the official (?) emblem of Saint Shuu Kindergarten’s Plum Class on the front and a large “M” on the back.

The “MAKOTO CHAN Jersey” combines retro vibes with pop design, featuring Makoto and the Guwashi pose. Its stylish coloring makes it suitable for both town use and as a standout piece.

The “GUWASHI Cap” reproduces the iconic hand sign in embroidery on the front, serving as a silent greeting among fans.

The “GUWASHI Waist Bag” in vivid red features a subtly embroidered Guwashi sign, perfect for storing essentials while adding an accent to any outfit.

Lifestyle Goods

The “Boxed Handkerchief” gathers famous scenes, lines, and signature gags from the series. Packaged in a box, it is suitable for daily use, collection, or as a gift.

A clear pouch printed with Makoto and his sister Mikarin on both sides, featuring a pop and vivid color scheme and a cute Makoto charm.

A tenugui (traditional Japanese hand towel) that can be used, displayed, or wrapped. It prints the “Guwashi” hand sign in varying difficulty levels.

A long tumbler featuring Makoto and the “Makoto Bug” design. Adding a favorite drink makes everyday moments special.

A small plate with an impactful print of Makoto, suitable for snacks, small items, or display.

The “Makoto Bug” pin badge, a three-dimensional rendition of the series’ mascot character.

A set of 10 blind stickers in transparent acrylic material, featuring famous scenes, lines, and popular characters. The design is revealed upon opening.

An original poster with the event’s key visual in a slim vertical layout, combining flashy retro-pop cuteness with impact.

Exhibition Features

Inside the venue, visitors can enjoy panels of famous scenes, document displays, photo spots, and a participatory message board, allowing them to experience the absurd and fun world of Makoto-chan.

Graveyard Gallery previously hosted a well-received exhibition for Umezu’s Drifting Classroom last year. The venue continues to attract international visitors, promoting Japanese manga culture worldwide.