Who Is Obakenu? Meet Japan's Cutest Little Ghosts!

Boo! 👻 Did we scare you? Probably not, especially if the ghost staring back at you has tiny eyes, rosy cheeks, and the most adorable little face!

Today, we’re talking about Obakenu, a Japanese character who's here to prove that ghosts don't have to be scary. In fact, some are so cute that you'll want to take them home!

But Obakenu isn't alone. There's a whole gang of ghostly friends, including a playful kitty, a pudding-loving cutie, and even a ghost that looks like sushi! Ready to meet them? Let's float right in!

• Japanese name: オバケーヌ (Obakenu)
• Debut: November 2020
• Creator: CRUX
• Species: Ghost
• Personality: Mischievous but easily scared
• Likes: Surprising people and dressing up in costumes
• Special ability: Glowing in different colors
• Friends: Everyone in the Obakenu gang!
• Favorite hiding spots: Behind doors and outside windows
• Fun fact: Obakenu loves scaring people but sometimes gets scared by its own ghost friends!

What Is Obakenu?

Obakenu is a kawaii character series created by CRUX, a Japanese company known for its cute stationery and character goods.

The name comes from “obake” (おばけ), the Japanese word for ghost or supernatural apparition. And while traditional Japanese ghost stories can get pretty creepy, Obakenu takes things in a much sweeter direction. The idea behind the series is simple–ghosts aren't something to fear. They can be your friends!

Obakenu first appeared in November 2020, and what started with a little ghost has grown into a huge family of more than 50 characters. These aren't your typical sheet-covered Halloween ghosts, either. Some have animal ears, some resemble your favorite foods, and others have rather unusual personalities. They even have their own school, Obakenu Academy!

And although they love popping up unexpectedly to surprise people, it's hard to imagine anyone running away from something this cute.

Want a little ghost friend of your own? Check out the Obakenu collection at Blippo!

Meet the Main Obakenu Characters

As mentioned, there are over 50 ghosts in the Obakenu series. We tried our best to get to know them, and we’ll start with five of the most recognizable members of the gang!

Obakenu (オバケーヌ)

The original little ghost, Obakenu has a round body that glows in different colors. It absolutely loves surprising people. There's just one tiny problem: Obakenu is a bit of a scaredy-cat, too!

Nyankonu (ニャンコーヌ)

The playful kitty ghost, Nyankonu has cute cat ears and a tail. It's energetic, playful, and knows exactly how to turn on the charm. Instead of an ordinary meow, Nyankonu makes little sounds like "nu!" and "nya!"

Purinu (プリーヌ)

Inspired by a pudding (obviously), Purinu has a jiggly body and a sweet scent. It loves visiting retro Japanese cafes and taking care of its skin. If you love Japanese desserts, this might be your new favorite character!

Akumanu (アクマーヌ)

Every group of cute ghosts needs a little troublemaker! Akumanu is a devil ghost with tiny horns and a cheeky personality. It loves teasing its friends and playing little pranks, but don't worry, it's more adorable than scary!

Zombinu (ゾンビーヌ)

Zombinu is a shy, patchwork zombie ghost that usually prefers staying indoors. But when Halloween comes around, it becomes much more outgoing. Looks like even shy ghosts love a good Halloween celebration!

The Supporting Obakenu Characters

The main gang is adorable, but wait until you meet their friends! Obakenu's world is divided into different character families, each with its own mix of personalities, funny habits, and unusual talents.

The Classic Ghosts

These little spirits may look like traditional ghosts, but each has its own personality.

Ochibinu (オチビーヌ)

Ochibinu is a tiny, round, baby-like ghost that has just one foot. It's affectionate, loves attention, and wants everyone to fuss over it.

Hyororinu (ヒョロリーヌ)

A tall, skinny ghost, Hyororinu unintentionally scares everyone by appearing without making a sound. Sometimes, it even scares itself!

Techinu (テチーヌ)

A small ghost with little feet, this Obakenu makes cute sounds when walking. Unfortunately, it gets tired pretty quickly!

Odebinu (オデビーヌ)

This is a round, marshmallow-bodied ghost that's always eating and loves its own squishy body.

Perarinu (ペラリーヌ)

Because it's paper-thin, this ghost is incredibly light and takes up almost no space.

Tororinu (トロリーヌ)

This melting ghost that has fallen completely into the world of idol fandom. We're just not sure which idol!

Don't you find these classic Obakenu ghosts super cute? Speaking of adorable little ghosts, you can find more spooky-cute Obakenu goodies at Blippo!

The Animal Ghosts

Love animals? Obakenu has plenty of furry, feathered, and surprisingly muscular friends!

Bearnu (ベアーヌ)

Bearnu is a polar bear ghost that worries about getting sunburned. Even ghosts need to be careful with the sunshine!

Merinu (メリーヌ)

Need a nap? Just being around Merinu's soft, fluffy wool is enough to make everyone feel sleepy!

Goririnu (ゴリリーヌ)

A strong and dependable Obakenu, Goririnu has a muscular gorilla-like body. Despite its tough appearance, it's a reliable friend who's always willing to help.

Usaginu (ウサギーヌ)

With its long bunny ears and impressive jumping skills, Usaginu is one of the more responsible ghosts in the group. It's dependable and often helps keep its friends organized.

Pandinu (パンディーヌ)

Pandinu is a panda ghost with a confident and straightforward personality. It prefers clear answers and tends to see things in black and white.

Toranu (トラーヌ)

With its tiger-like appearance, Toranu is considered one of the more handsome ghosts. It has several secret admirers who are drawn to its looks.

Koalarinu (コアラーヌ)

Koalarinu is a koala ghost that loves physical affection, especially hugs. It enjoys clinging to its bigger, fluffier friends.

Piyokonu (ピヨコーヌ)

A small chick ghost with an impressive singing voice, Piyokonu loves karaoke. It enjoys performing and showing off its vocal skills.

Ushinu (ウシーヌ)

Ushinu is a relaxed cow ghost that prefers doing things at its own pace. It rarely gets worked up and enjoys a quiet, easygoing lifestyle.

Kitsunenu (キツネーヌ)

A clever fox ghost, Kitsunenu enjoys telling stories and playing tricks on its friends. According to its character profile, around 80% of what it says is made up!

Risunu (リスーヌ)

Risunu is an energetic squirrel ghost with a large, curled tail. It's athletic, quick on its feet, and has excellent reflexes.

Chibinezunu (チビネズーヌ)

A tiny mouse ghost with a mischievous personality, Chibinezunu loves running around. It's particularly fond of strong-smelling cheese and enjoys searching for it.

Enaganu (エナガーヌ)

Enaganu is a small, round ghost inspired by the long-tailed tit bird. Despite its fluffy appearance, it's surprisingly energetic and enjoys bumping into its friends for cuddles.

Can't get enough of cute animals? You'll find plenty of cuddly companions in Blippo's plushie collection!

The Cat Ghosts

Nyankonu isn't the only feline around! Let's get to know the other cat Obakenu.

Mikenu (ミケーヌ)

A gentle calico cat ghost, Mikenu loves being petted and spending time with its friends. Its calm and affectionate personality makes it easy to get along with.

Sukotinu (スコティーヌ)

Scotinu is a Scottish Fold ghost with folded ears and an idol-like personality. It's particularly competitive with Nyankonu, whom it considers a longtime rival.

Perusyanu (ペルシャーヌ)

With its long, luxurious fur, Pershanu resembles a glamorous Persian cat. It has a refined personality and takes pride in its appearance.

Toranekonu (トラネコーヌ)

A moody tabby ghost, Toranekonu has a somewhat unpredictable mood. Although it can seem unfriendly at first, it suddenly becomes affectionate when offered dried fish.

Chibi Nyankonu (チビニャンコーヌ)

A tiny kitten ghost, Chibi Nyankonu looks up to Nyankonu and hopes to become just like it. It dreams of growing bigger and becoming more independent.

Kuronekоnu (クロネコーヌ)

Kuronekonu is a black cat ghost that tries to maintain a cool, mysterious image. It even drinks black coffee to appear more sophisticated.

If these kitty ghosts have stolen your heart, take a peek at Blippo's kawaii cat collection!

The Dog Ghosts

Don't worry, dog lovers! There are plenty of canine ghosts, too. Let's meet them!

Shibanu (シバーヌ)

A cheerful Shiba Inu ghost with a curled tail, Shibanu is known for its friendly personality. It gets along with almost everyone and rarely argues with its friends.

Maruchinu (マルチーヌ)

Maruchinu is a fluffy Maltese ghost with a round, cotton-like appearance. It loves sweets and is always happy to receive a treat.

Wankonu (ワンコーヌ)

An outgoing poodle ghost, Wankonu enjoys meeting new people and making friends. It makes a distinctive little "kyaun!" sound when greeting others.

Shunaunu (シュナウヌ)

Schnaunu is a Schnauzer ghost with thick eyebrows and a mustache that give it an elderly appearance. It has a calm personality and enjoys reading in quiet places.

Dalmeshinu (ダルメシーヌ)

A spotted Dalmatian ghost with many siblings, Dalmeshinu enjoys spending time with its family. It's also fond of playing chess.

The Aquatic Ghosts

Apparently, in the world of Obakenu, ghosts can swim, too! Ready to meet the cute ghosts inspired by sea creatures?

Penkonu (ペンコーヌ)

Penkonu is a penguin ghost known for being clever and entertaining. However, it can also be quite clumsy, sometimes causing its plans to go wrong.

Upanu (ウーパーヌ)

An axolotl ghost with a gentle personality, Upanu has a secret crush on Penkonu. It hasn't found the courage to express its feelings yet.

Samenu (サメーヌ)

Samenu is a shark ghost that has an unusual way of showing affection. Instead of hugging its friends, it likes giving them little nibbles.

Rakkonu (ラッコーヌ)

A sea otter ghost, Rakkonu is very attached to its favorite seashell. It treasures the shell and likes keeping it close wherever it goes.

Irukanu (イルカーヌ)

Irukanu is a dolphin ghost with excellent swimming abilities. Its graceful movements in the water often impress the other aquatic ghosts.

Kamenu (カメーヌ)

A small turtle ghost, Kamenu usually moves at a slow, relaxed pace. However, it can run surprisingly fast when it needs to.

Kurionu (クリオーヌ)

Kurionu is a sea angel ghost with a delicate, slightly transparent body and a heart-shaped marking. It has a gentle personality that matches its soft appearance.

Mendakonu (メンダコーヌ)

A shy flapjack octopus ghost, Mendakonu gets embarrassed easily. Its face quickly turns pink whenever it receives too much attention.

Chin-anagonu (チンアナゴーヌたち)

These garden eel ghosts are usually seen together with expressionless faces. Despite their serious appearance, they're actually enjoying themselves.

Kawausonu (カワウソーヌ)

Kawausonu is an adventurous otter ghost that enjoys exploring new places. It's also affectionate and likes cuddling with its aquatic friends.

Kuragenu (クラゲーヌ)

A jellyfish ghost with a relaxed personality, Kuragenu prefers floating wherever the current takes it. It even enjoys drifting around inside washing machines.

All this talk of sea creatures is making us hungry for some Japanese savory snacks, especially the seafood-inspired ones!

The Food Ghosts

This might be the most delicious-looking group of all! This might be the most delicious-looking group of all! From Japanese favorites like sushi and takoyaki to sweet treats like ice cream and macarons, these little ghosts look just like your favorite snacks and desserts. Just don't try to eat them!

Sushinu (スシーヌ)

Sushinu is a sushi ghost that appreciates traditional Japanese aesthetics and enjoys writing haiku. It also has an unusual taste in drinks, considering wasabi a beverage.

 

Takoyakinu (タコヤキーヌ)

Originally from Kansai, Takoyakinu is a takoyaki ghost that speaks in the local dialect. It enjoys telling jokes and entertaining its friends.

 

Ebifuryanu (エビフリャーヌ)

Ebifuryanu is a fried shrimp ghost with a golden, crispy-looking coating. Its appearance resembles a freshly cooked Japanese ebi fry.

 

Aisunu (アイスーヌ)

Aisunu loves ice cream so much that it once ate an enormous amount of it. According to its character story, ice cream eventually started growing from its head!

 

Onigirinu (オニギリーヌ)

Onigirinu is a rice ball ghost that changes its filling every day. It might reveal what's inside to friends it trusts.

 

Furansupanu (フランスパーヌ)

A French bread ghost born in Paris, Furansupanu has a golden crust and a pleasant aroma. It has a stylish personality that reflects its Parisian background.

 

Shokupanu (ショクパーヌ)

Shokupanu is a kindhearted sliced bread ghost that enjoys helping others. It's always willing to support friends who are having trouble.

 

Omunu (オムーヌ)

Omunu is an omurice ghost covered in a yellow egg blanket. It's terrible at hide-and-seek because it keeps dropping green peas that reveal its hiding spot.

 

Cherinu (チェリーヌ)

Cherinu consists of two cherry ghosts that are almost always together. Although they're close, they sometimes get into little arguments.

 

Macaronnu (マカロンヌ)

A ghost that enjoys squeezing into small spaces, Macaronnu once got stuck inside a macaron. Its love for tight, cozy spots sometimes gets it into trouble.

 

Monburanu (モンブラーヌ)

Monburanu is a Mont Blanc dessert ghost with a chestnut on top. Its elegant appearance resembles the popular chestnut dessert served in Japanese cafes.

 

Zerinu (ゼリーヌ)

Zerinu is a shiny jelly ghost that changes its color and flavor depending on its mood. Its appearance can be different each time you see it.

 

Kabochanu (カボチャーヌ)

A pumpkin ghost, Kabochanu usually receives little attention during the year. However, it becomes especially popular when Halloween arrives.

If Sushinu and friends made you hungry, treat yourself to some real Japanese snacks from Japan Candy Store!

The Fantasy Ghosts

The Obakenu universe gets even more magical with this imaginative bunch! These little ghosts come in all kinds of unusual forms, and some even have special powers. Let's discover them!

Yunikonu (ユニコーヌ)

The gang's resident fashion trendsetter. We have a feeling Unicornu would absolutely love browsing Blippo for cute accessories!

 

Tenshinu (テンシーヌ)

Tenshinu is an angel ghost with white wings and a glowing halo. It's kindhearted and enjoys flying through the sky.

 

Mekanu (メカーヌ)

A mechanical ghost, Mekanu operates using a plug and a wind-up key. When the key stops turning, it shuts down until it can be powered again.

 

Ufonu (ユーフォーヌ)

Ufonu is a UFO-inspired ghost with a mysterious connection to outer space. It can communicate with beings beyond Earth.

 

Gaonu (ガオーヌ)

Gaonu is a dinosaur ghost with a fierce appearance that can seem intimidating. However, it secretly loves cute things and has a softer side.

 

Flowernu (フラワーヌ)

A cheerful flower ghost that grew from a small sprout, Furawanu loves dancing. It has a bright personality and enjoys spending time with its friends.

 

Ouchinu (オウチーヌ)

Ouchinu is a house-shaped ghost that provides shelter for other ghosts. It can move around slowly while carrying its residents inside.

 

Yotsubanu (ヨツバーヌ)

Yotsubanu is a rare four-leaf clover ghost believed to bring happiness. Meeting one is considered a sign of good luck.

 

Star-nu (スターヌ)

A sparkling star ghost, Starnu moves through the sky like a shooting star. It also helps guide its friends when it's dark.

 

Pierоnu (ピエローヌ)

Pieronu is a clown ghost with a red nose and ears that can move. It enjoys entertaining its friends and making them laugh.

 

Kumonu (クモーヌ)

A fluffy cloud ghost, Kumonu's emotions affect the weather around it. When it feels sad, it begins to rain.

 

Fairinu (フェアリーヌ)

Fairinu is a fairy ghost with sparkling wings and a love for flowers. It often carries a small bouquet wherever it goes.

 

Monsternu (モンスターヌ)

Monstarnu is a furry monster ghost with two small horns. Although it looks intimidating, it becomes clingy when it doesn't receive sweets.

 

Pegasus-nu (ペガサスーヌ)

A winged horse ghost, Pegasusnu is known for its beautiful appearance. It takes pride in its wings and enjoys being admired.

 

Datenshinu (ダテンシーヌ)

Datenshinu is a fallen angel ghost with a dark body and a melting halo. It acts proud and distant but secretly dislikes being ignored.

The Gemstone Ghosts

And finally, meet three sparkling sisters who might just bring a little luck into your life!

Safanu (サファーヌ)

Safanu is the eldest of three gemstone sisters and carries a blue sapphire. She's known for her intelligence and is believed to bring good luck in studying.

 

Rubinu (ルビーヌ)

The middle gemstone sister, Rubinu carries a red ruby and has a passionate personality. She's said to bring good luck in romance.

 

Emeranu (エメラーヌ)

Emeranu is the youngest of the gemstone sisters and carries a green emerald. She has a gentle personality and is believed to bring good luck in friendship.

Who wouldn't want a lucky little ghost cheering them on? Find more adorable companions in Blippo's kawaii character collections!

 

 

Obakenu x Sanrio: The Cutest Ghostly Crossover!

What happens when Japan's cutest ghosts meet Hello Kitty and her friends? A seriously adorable collaboration! The Sanrio Characters × Obakenu collaboration first appeared in June 2023, bringing together familiar Sanrio favorites and their ghostly companions.

 

Fans got to see their favorite Sanrio characters paired with Obakenu in all sorts of cute designs, from plushies and keychains to stationery and everyday accessories, like this My Melody x Obakenu Magnet Charm Set!

And it certainly wasn't a one-time thing! The collaboration even made an appearance at SANRIO FES 2024, one of Japan's biggest Sanrio fan celebrations. Then in February 2026, the collection got a trendy makeover with leopard prints, silver accessories, and darker designs.

Love both character worlds? Shop Sanrio x Obakenu goodies at Blippo!

Obakenu's Other Fun Collaborations and Releases

Obakenu may have started as CRUX stationery design, but these little ghosts have been keeping busy beyond stationery shops!

In October 2024, Obakenu joined the online game Dorobo Kindergarten 2 (ぬすんであそぼ！ドロボー幼稚園２) for a Halloween collaboration. Players could dress up with special ghostly hats and enjoy Halloween-themed items!

Obakenu also ventured into livestreaming through a special collaboration with 17LIVE in December 2025. And in February 2026, the gang became study buddies with the release of the Dorodoroon Obakenu Drill educational workbooks.

 

You can even bring Obakenu into your everyday chats with its adorable LINE stickers, including two new sticker sets released in September 2026!

Of course, these ghosts love making little surprises! They've appeared as squishy, gummy-style mascot keychains at Capcom amusement venues, as well as light-up mascots, clear figures, and mini eco-bags in Japanese capsule toy machines.

Stay up-to-date with Obakenu and other kawaii characters from Japan by subscribing to our Blippo newsletter!

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Where Can You Meet Obakenu in Japan?

Want to meet these little ghosts in person? You're in luck! Obakenu and friends have made special appearances at limited-time events in Japan, giving fans a chance to see their favorite characters.

In March 2024, Obakenu Land opened at Candy Pop in Ibaraki, Osaka, with special merchandise and a ghostly shopping experience. Another Obakenu Land opened at Candy Pop in Aeon Mall Itami in August 2024, where fans could even take commemorative photos with Nyankonu!

Nyankonu has also made special appearances at other events in Osaka and Iwate, giving fans more chances to meet the adorable kitty ghost. These events are limited-time experiences, so check the official Obakenu website for upcoming appearances before planning your visit!

Did You Know Obakenu Fans Can Vote for Their Favorites?

With such a huge cast, everyone has a favorite ghost. Are you Team Obakenu, Team Nyankonu, or Team Purinu? 

And Obakenu actually gives fans a chance to show their love through official character popularity polls! The third popularity vote took place in January 2024, and the fifth poll was held in early 2026, with results announced in April.

 

There's even been a character design contest! In January 2024, CRUX announced the winners of its Obakenu new-character contest, which invited fans to share their own ideas for ghostly additions. How fun would it be to see a ghost you dreamed up become part of the official gang?

Bring Obakenu's Kawaii Magic Into Your Everyday Life!

You don't have to visit Japan or wait for a special event to enjoy these little ghosts. Obakenu has found its way onto all sorts of everyday goodies, especially Japanese stationery!

At Blippo, you can find cute items such as the Obakenu Stargazing Clear Tape Dispenser and Obakenu Sundae Fun Tri-Colored Eraser! There's also the Sanrio Characters x Obakenu collection, perfect for anyone who loves both character worlds.

A little ghost on your desk, a cute charm on your bag, or a fluffy pencil case in your school bag? Yes, please!

 

Give your desk a kawaii upgrade with Obakenu goodies and more Japanese stationery from Blippo!

 

That’s it for our long list of the cutest little ghosts from Japan! Did you have fun learning about Obakenu? Which one is your favorite? Maybe you're more like Hyororinu, accidentally surprising people without trying. Or perhaps you're Odebinu, happily enjoying snacks and refusing to worry about dieting!

That's part of what makes Obakenu so much fun. Every little ghost has its own personality, strange habits, and adorable quirks. Let us know your favorite in the comments!