Everyone that grew up in the 1980s, or at least has any knowledge at all about the 80s (even if it is through VH1 specials) knows about Hello Kitty. The cute little Japanese cartoon kitty that has been slowly taking over America is on everything from clothes, to alarm clocks and even toasters. But all cartoon characters with selling power come with their right-hand friend. Pooh has Tigger, Eeyore and Piglet, Mickey has Minnie, Goofy and Donald Duck. Surly, Hello Kitty has some equally as marketable friends, so where are they all hiding?
Chinatown’s Asia Crafts is the favorite hiding spot for all of Hello Kitty’s friends from the popular Sanrio franchise. Throughout the store, Hello Kitty merchandise comes to life as it joins forces to play with other characters such as Chococat, Kuromi, Cinnamoroll, Pandapple, My Melody and Deery-Lou.
Perhaps Sanrio characters are too girly and cute for your brother or boyfriend, or maybe your mom just doesn’t “get it.” That’s ok; Asia Crafts has something for everyone. Lure your brother or boyfriend in by telling him all about the giant Luigi stuffed doll from the popular Mario videogames. Convince him to buy it so that your newly purchased and edgy Kuromi doll has a new enemy to go ninja on. Mom may not understand the hype that is Sanrio, but you can try to convince her to purchase a handcrafted piggy bank or hand-made kettle, two of the sweet items you won’t be able to find South of Market.
You can visit Asia Crafts Monday through Friday from 10am through 8:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 9:30pm. But shh! Don’t let them know you’re coming. They’ve spent years in hiding.
Asia Crafts, 123 N. 10th St., 215.925.3974
AroundPhilly Staff
