Unlocking Smiles Worldwide Through Sport
At Sanrio, our corporate philosophy is simple: "Minna Nakayoku" (The meaning of this phrase is “Getting Along Together” in English. Minna means “all of us”, and nakayoku means “friendship”)
To bring this to life, we've crafted a vision of "One World, Connecting Smiles," which encompasses our mission to spread happiness far and wide, making the world a brighter place.
We've charmed hearts with our characters, but it doesn't stop there. We're diving into the world of sports and dynamic endeavors involving individual athletes, sporting teams and events, driven by the spirit of "friendliness," "globalization," "playfulness," and "future possibilities."
Stay tuned, as the dynamic activities we support promise to unveil exciting new horizons in global entertainment!
Athletes Supported by Sanrio
Sponsored Athletes
- Table TennisMiu Hirano
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A silver medalist in the women’s team table tennis events at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, Miu Hirano began playing table tennis at the age of 3 years and 5 months and achieved her first-ever victory for a Japanese player in the 2016 World Tour Singles. Known as 'Hurricane Hirano,' her lightning-fast style of play has captured the world's attention!
- Table TennisMiwa Harimoto (Kinoshita Group)
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A silver medalist in the women’s team table tennis event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Miwa Harimoto first stole the spotlight in 2021 by becoming the first-ever player to win four titles—singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and team—in the U15 category at the World Youth Championships. After the Paris Olympics, she made a significant contribution to winning the team gold medal at the Asian Championships, marking the first such victory in 50 years.
- Alpine SkiingMomoka Muraoka
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A Japanese National Para Alpine Ski Team athlete.
Began using a wheelchair at the age of four due to illness. Discovered chair skiing in the third grade of elementary school and entered the world of competitive alpine skiing in the second year of junior high school.Has won numerous international competitions, including the World Championships.
Continues to compete at the forefront as one of the world’s top athletes, also taking on the challenge of excelling both on snow and on track.
- Figure SkatingMao Shimada (Kinoshita Group)
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She has made history with four consecutive World Junior Championship titles and an unprecedented 39-win, undefeated streak throughout her junior career. She also became the first Japanese female athlete to win a gold medal at the 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games, drawing widespread attention as one of the rising stars poised to lead the future of women’s figure skating.
Beginning with the 2026–27 season, she will make a full-fledged transition to the senior category. With exceptional technical ability and expressive artistry, she continues to pursue her goal of reaching the pinnacle of the sport on the world stage.
Partnership Athletes
- GolfYui Kawamoto (Ricoh)
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Started playing golf at age 5 and turned professional in 2018.
After winning her first tour event in 2019, she went on to claim her first domestic major in 2026.
Known for her outstanding technical skills and competitive spirit, she is one of the top players in Japanese women’s golf.
Ranked 3rd in the 2025 Mercedes Ranking.
Sports and Organizations Supported by Sanrio
J.League
J.League and Sanrio have entered into a Fair‑Play Partner Agreement, based on their shared values: J.League’s commitment to the “Spirit of Fair Play” and Sanrio’s corporate philosophy of “Minna Nakayoku” (Getting Along Together). Together, they have entered into this Fair‑Play Partner Agreement with the aim of communicating the importance of these ideals—fairness, friendship, and mutual respect—to people of all ages, from children to adults.

Mölkky
Mölkky: A universal sport from Finland! This sport, which can be enjoyed by people of all ages, nationalities, and abilities, is skyrocketing in worldwide popularity. Sanrio, as the top sponsor of the Japan Mölkky Association, is committed to nurturing the growth of this exciting game.
Yamanashi Gakuin University Track & Field Team (Long-Distance)
We are proud to support the Yamanashi Gakuin University Track & Field Team in their pursuit of excellence. The spirit of these athletes, who carry their teammates’ hopes with them, passing the baton as they run toward their shared goals, resonates deeply with Sanrio’s philosophy of “Minna Nakayoku” (Getting Along Together). From Yamanashi to the world, by standing alongside these student-athletes as they pursue their dreams and take on new challenges, we are committed to helping create a future filled with smiles.
LPGA
We aim to connect Sanrio’s beloved characters and their enduring values with the sport of golf, bringing people around the world together through joy and smiles. We will engage fans and spectators through a variety of initiatives, including hands-on events, support for younger generations, and the sharing of diverse stories through digital platforms.
Sporting Events Supported by Sanrio
Sanrio Smile Golf Tournament
Sanrio is a special sponsor of several matches promoted as the "Sanrio Smile Golf Tournament" in the Next Heroine Golf Tour hosted by Mynavi. Through live character appearances and other activities, Sanrio supports young golfers aspiring to become professionals.

Sanrio Baseball Academy
Sanrio is proud to present the “Sanrio Baseball Academy,” supporting young boys and girls who are taking on the world of baseball in true Sanrio style.
The baseball clinic event "Sanrio Baseball Academy" carries the slogan “Play Smile .– Bringing Smiles to the Future Through Baseball.”
With the hope of seeing even more smiles from children,Sanrio characters including Hello Kitty will appear and help deliver a special baseball clinic that connects people through smiles.
Program Presented by Sanrio
Sanrio SMILEY SMILE
Sanrio has commenced sponsorship of a radio program broadcast on J-WAVE (81.3FM).
The program is set in a classic café named “Smile,” which comes to life only at night.
Serving as the café’s proprietor and program navigator is Ms. Yuka Itaya.
Airing Monday through Thursday, this 30-minute program features in-depth conversations between distinguished guests.

Sanrio's Next-Generation Support Project
Sanrio Cheers for Smiles
Sanrio has launched "Sanrio Cheers for Smiles" (SCS), a project to support the next generation of talent who are striving to shine in various fields.

Official Support Ambassador for the Japan Women’s Baseball Federation
We proudly support women baseball players as they pursue their dreams and take on new challenges. In addition to supporting each athlete’s dedication and individual journey, we are committed to helping create an environment where more children can discover the joy of baseball and have the opportunity to thrive in the sport.
From Japan to the world, we aim to share the appeal of women’s baseball and the inspiring stories of its players. By spreading a “circle of smiles” in true Sanrio style, we will continue to support the growth and development of women’s baseball.
World Children’s Baseball Foundation
We support smiles and friendship among children around the world. The World Children’s Baseball Tournament, organized by the World Children’s Baseball Foundation, is an international exchange program that brings children together through baseball, transcending differences in nationality and culture while fostering friendship and goodwill.
We hope that the connections and smiles born from the shared joy of baseball will inspire hope for the future. With this belief, we will continue to support the activities of the World Children’s Baseball Foundation.
Matsui 55 Baseball Foundation, Inc.
We support children who are taking on challenges and pursuing their dreams on the world stage. The baseball clinics organized by the Matsui 55 Baseball Foundation provide a place where children can discover the joy of baseball while developing bonds with their teammates and a spirit of challenge.
Together with Hideki Matsui, we will continue to create opportunities for children to experience the power of baseball, spreading smiles and friendship and helping shape a brighter future for the next generation.
Mynavi Career KOSHIEN (12th Edition)
We support high school students as they take on new challenges. Mynavi Career KOSHIEN is an inquiry-based competition in which high school students from across Japan explore social issues and possibilities for the future, and share their own ideas.
Guided by values such as kindness and “Minna Nakayoku” (Getting Along Together), Sanrio supports opportunities for the next generation to take an active role in shaping the future as they collaborate with their peers and try new things. By respecting each student’s individuality and ideas, we aim to nurture the ability to create a better future and help build a society filled with smiles.
Heart Global
We support children’s self-expression and international exchange. HEART Global is an educational program that unlocks children’s potential through music, dance, and singing alongside cast members from around the world.
The experience of connecting with others and expressing their individuality across differences in language and culture helps children develop an appreciation for diversity and the confidence to take their next steps toward the future. Guided by our philosophy of “Minna Nakayoku” (Getting Along Together), Sanrio supports the activities of HEART Global as we strive to create a society where everyone can shine in their own unique way and take on new challenges with a smile.

Nakayoku Creators
In an age when anyone can be a creator, this project supports creators who continue to pursue the future of entertainment with new creativity.










