Tokyo’s Haneda Airport has just released a new line of exclusive penguin merchandise illustrated by Chiharu Sakazaki, the beloved artist behind the iconic Suica Penguin character. Given the news, just 6 months ago, that the Suica penguin would be retired after 25 years of service, observers were quick to wonder: has Suiza Penguin already found a new job?
Similar, but different
While it’s amusing to think that Suica penguin, which has been a part of train life for over 2 decades, has now taken flight, the truth is that they are simply 2 different penguins. To tell them apart, observers need simply pay attention to the beak. Suica Penguin’s beak is oval-shaped while Haneda Penguin’s beak is shaped more like disk or a flying saucer. Their eyes are also slightly different as well.
left: Suica Penguin | right: Haneda Penguin
The Lineup
The new collection of merch, launched on May 22, is designed around themes of sky, travel, and Japan. The designs feature charming scenes like the “Sky Penguin,” wrapped in a scarf inspired by Japan’s flag as it takes flight, and “Penguin JAPAN,” which pairs penguins with regional folk crafts and lucky charms from across the country. The lineup includes rope-handle tote bags, acrylic keychains, hand towels, and mugs — all rendered in Sakazaki’s soft, whimsical style.
The merchandise is available through Haneda Airport’s official online shop, HANEDA Shopping, with select items also sold at Tokyo’s Tokyo inside Terminal 2.
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