Many cultures have their own unique ways of ringing in the New Year, but the traditions that accompany Japanese New Year celebrations are especially delightful. There’s the custom of crafting “nengajo” cards emblazoned with the animal of the coming year (2013 is the Year of the Snake, by the way), plus a host of fun games and traditional treats. In hopes of having an absolutely adorable year, we’ve got a whimsical selection of Japanese-inspired toys to keep kids smiling til next winter rolls around!
Fast Friends: What could be more precious than friendship and fun? That’s the sentiment behind the cute-as-can-be Kimmidoll Junior collection by Kid’s Preferred! We love the sweet Lotti doll, whose motto is “friends make everyday an adventure.” Lotti measures up at 45 x 85mm and sports a sparkly pink, blue, and gold kimono bedecked with little ice cream cones. How sweet is that?
$17.99, amazon.com
Like a Good Neighbor: Many kids and parents alike know Totoro as the star of one of the most beloved anime movies of all time: “My Neighbor Totoro.” The “king of the forest” comes to snuggle with your little one this winter with this irresistible 9-inch plush–complete with Totoro’s signature leaf satchel.
$39.95, amazon.com
Headphone Helper: In today’s hyper-technological world, knotted and kinked headphone wires just won’t do. We love how Momiji’s bibi button earphone cord wrap is a whimsical mixture of fashion and function. Kids will love the sweet look of this tech helper, while parents will delight in not having to replace damaged earbuds month after month.
$2.95, lovemomiji.com
Serpent Style: No roundup of treats from the Far East would be complete without the Queen of Cute herself, Hello Kitty. Celebrate the Year of the Snake with this fun, seasonal plush from Sanrio. Hello Kitty suits up for 2013 in a festive snake costume proving that slithering serpents need not always be scary!
$20, sanrio.com
Mia Weber is an independent lifestyle journalist, blogger, and social media consultant. She can be reached at [email protected] and found on Twitter at @MeezyWeb.
