Hello Kitty and Friends - 50 Years

Small Gift, Big Smile. That's the simple idea at the heart of Sanrio that has delighted fans of all ages around the world. With a love for everything kawaii, Sanrio has given us creations such as My Melody, Keroppi, and the iconic Hello Kitty.

Since her first appearance in 1974, Hello Kitty has become one of the most beloved characters of all time. She has appeared in everything -- from everyday items, like clothing, accessories, and toys -- to her own movies, coffee shops, theme parks, hospitals, and even airlines! You can travel to a mall anywhere around the world and you'll probably find Hello Kitty items. She is an ambassador of Japanese pop culture and one of the most globally recognizable characters ever created. And yet... she has never had her own LEGO set.

This proposed LEGO set celebrates the 50-year legacy of Hello Kitty and her many Sanrio pals. It draws inspiration largely from the animated series Hello Kitty and Friends Supercute Adventures, but also various artworks through the years that portray Sanrio Town -- as seen in toys, books and video games. It also pays tribute to Sanrio's long history of adorable gift items and accessories.

The set depicts four mini buildings from Sanrio Town: Hello Kitty's Café, Keroppi's Mini-Mart, My Melody's Gift Shop, and Badtz-Maru's Arcade. Each structure opens up and reveals a little playset filled with dozens of hidden Easter eggs that reference other Sanrio characters, including Tuxedo Sam, Little Twin Stars, Pompompurin, Chococat, Gudetama, Tiny Chum, and many more. The set comes with minifigures of Hello Kitty, Badtz-Maru, Keroppi, My Melody, Kuromi and Cinnamoroll. It also includes other mini-builds, including the town's welcome sign and fountain, Hello Kitty's tricycle (first seen in 1974), and Hello Kitty's yellow airplane (first seen in 1977).

Staying true to Sanrio's philosophy, each building also doubles as a cute desk accessory that's sure to brighten any tabletop. It includes a coin bank, pen organizer, phone stand, and a trinket box. Each one features a minifig stand that pays tribute to classic Sanrio products and artwork - with the coin bank being a call-back to Hello Kitty's 1974 debut appearance on a coin purse.

Whether you grew up with these characters or you're introducing them to your kids for the very first time, a Sanrio-themed gift is sure to bring home smiles.

Vote for this LEGO Ideas set to build the kawaii world of Hello Kitty!

Please note: This is a prototype design created with available LEGO pieces. Should the set be produced, LEGO may choose to create its own parts and minifigures.