When you watch TV in Japan, you're almost guaranteed to come across an amusing children's cartoon character - the superhero Anpanman, who is modeled after a bread bun. The character was created by the artist Yanase Takashi back in 1968 and has featured on TV from 1988 until now. According to Bandai company research, Аnpanman is the most loved character for Japanese children up to 12 years of age. Over 50 million copies of Anpanman books have been sold across the world, so you can get some scope for the level of popularity!
If you're visiting Sendai you'll find a special place dedicated to the iconic character and the supporting heroes - The Anpanman Children's Museum and Mall. It’s a really amusing place for families with kids, and the two-story building contains plenty to see and do. One popular spot is Uncle Jam’s Bakery, where they make fresh anpan buns with different fillings and a host of other baked products to enjoy. The bakery also has big windows where you're able to watch the baking process.
On the ground floor of the premises, you'll find a mall with shops selling children's clothes, themed accessories, and toys that children can play with right then and there.
The museum is located on the first floor and there is an admission fee of ¥1,600 (plus tax) – visitors must be over the age of one.
The ground floor shopping mall is completely free and is an enjoyable opportunity to look for gifts.
Getting there
The Sendai Anpanman Children's Museum and Mall are located nine minutes on foot from the East Exit of Sendai Station.
©Takashi Yanase / Froebel-kan,TMS,NTV
