Gakken Inc. (Shinagawa, Tokyo; President: Tatsuya Nanjo), a group company of Gakken Holdings Co., Ltd. (Shinagawa, Tokyo; President: Hiroaki Miyahara), has revealed the cover of Learning Kabuki for the First Time with Sanrio Characters (scheduled for release on September 17, 2026) on August 4, 2026, and the book is now available for preorder.
Kabuki has been drawing attention lately through films and new stage productions.
For anyone who thinks "I'd like to see kabuki live at least once in my life!" or "I used to find it intimidating, but maybe I'll give it another try," Learning Kabuki for the First Time with Sanrio Characters is a cute, easy-to-understand kabuki guidebook made to cheer readers on.
Cover Finally Revealed
The adorable cover, featuring Sanrio Characters dressed in the original costumes that made waves when first announced in March, has finally been revealed! Word has it that "Kabuki Nyantaro" (かぶきにゃんたろう) is hidden somewhere on the obi wrap...!?
Be sure to pick up this pop, cute introduction to kabuki, Learning Kabuki for the First Time with Sanrio Characters, and see for yourself.
A Pop Guidebook That Makes Watching Kabuki Even More Fun
The book quickly answers the questions kabuki beginners often have, using plenty of illustrations and clear explanations. It's laid out in a one-question-per-page format covering topics such as "What manners should I know before going to see kabuki?", "Which plays are recommended for beginners?", and "What should I wear?" — making it a great fit for readers who are short on time or want quick answers.
The book covers four main topics — "Before You Go to Kabuki," "Kabuki Basics," "Kabuki's Main Characters," and "Famous Kabuki Works" — so reading it should make watching kabuki even more enjoyable. Thanks to its thorough explanations and columns, it's also likely to make a second and third visit to the theater something to look forward to.
Also Featuring Sanrio Puroland's "KAWAII KABUKI" and a Talk Between Masato Takenaka and Aya Komaki
"KAWAII KABUKI: Hello Kitty Ichiza no Momotaro" has been a hit at Sanrio Puroland since 2018. The book introduces its highlights along with kabuki "nyanbassador" Kabuki Nyantaro.
It also includes a talk and interview between Masato Takenaka, supervisor of "KAWAII KABUKI: Hello Kitty Ichiza no Momotaro" and President of Shimbashi Enbujo Co., Ltd., and Aya Komaki, President of Sanrio Entertainment Co., Ltd., which operates Sanrio Puroland. The feature is filled with their thoughts and messages for anyone watching kabuki for the first time.
Be sure to check it out!
*The cover, obi, and interior pages shown are still in production and may be subject to change.
© 2026 SANRIO CO., LTD. APPROVAL NO. L672362
Book Overview
- Title: Learning Kabuki for the First Time with Sanrio Characters
- Author: Ayumi Seki
- Price: ¥1,540 (tax included)
- Release date: September 17, 2026
- Format: A5, 96 pages
- Digital edition: None
- ISBN: 978-4-05-407104-9
- Publisher: Gakken Inc.
Where to Buy
- Gakken publishing site: https://hon.gakken.jp/book/1340710400
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/405407104X/
- Rakuten Books: https://books.rakuten.co.jp/rb/18564591/
- 7net: https://7net.omni7.jp/detail_isbn/978-4-05-407104-9
