What this is
This is a limited-time collaboration campaign bringing together two beloved Momoko Sakura creations — the iconic anime series 'Chibi Maruko-chan' and the surreal comedy manga 'COJI-COJI' — in partnership with JR-Central Retailing Plus. Running from June 9 to July 6, 2026, the campaign features campaign-exclusive newly drawn character designs across 18 products sold at station shops and convenience stores along the Tokaido Shinkansen corridor between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka. Chibi Maruko-chan has been a cornerstone of Japanese pop culture since the late 1980s, while COJI-COJI is a cult-favourite absurdist spin-off with a devoted following. The campaign transforms everyday shinkansen travel into a themed experience, with character ekiben, rice balls, sandwiches, sweets, and original merchandise available at select station stores.
Who should go
This campaign is ideal for fans of Chibi Maruko-chan and COJI-COJI, anime merchandise collectors, and anyone travelling the Tokaido Shinkansen who wants to pick up a unique, limited-edition souvenir. It will also appeal to families with children, nostalgia-driven adults who grew up watching the anime, and visitors looking for character-themed food experiences unique to Japan's station culture. The relaxed, retail-based format means there are no tickets or reservations required — you simply visit a participating station store. If you're travelling between Tokyo and Osaka by shinkansen, plan to stop at a participating station store early in the campaign period, as popular items are likely to sell out quickly.
Good to know
No tickets are required — this is a retail campaign accessible to anyone passing through participating stations on the Tokaido Shinkansen corridor. The PLUSTA ONLINE STORE offers online purchasing from June 16, but international shipping availability should be confirmed on the official site; foreign credit cards may or may not be accepted depending on the platform. In-store purchases at Kiosk and Bellmart-type shops are typically cash-friendly, though many JR station shops now accept IC cards and major credit cards. Stock is limited and campaign-exclusive designs will not be reprinted after the campaign ends, so visiting early in the June 9 start window is strongly advised. Tokyo Station's Grand Kiosk and Gift Kiosk locations tend to carry the broadest selection of character merchandise.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.