Foreword from ZenPlus
Seen some delightfully cute Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global otters on social media this year, but don't know where or how to get in on the adorable fun?
Our kawaii culture expert Grace co-authored this ultimate guide to the Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global fandom (and family!) to help you find your way.
You'll be a master of Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global and its ever-popular Mochi series of plushies in no time!
We also interviewed Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global to get an insiders look on the Mochi plushies. Keep reading until the end to find out some never before shared pieces of information!
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Contents
- Foreword from ZenPlus
- Fostering a Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global family
- About the Mochi plushie series
1. Mochi Dog
2. Mochi Cat
3. Mochi Pig
4. Mochi Hedgehog
5. Mochi Cat -Naoru-
6. Mochi Otter
7. Mochi Bear
8. Mochi Penguin
9. Mochi Sloth
10. Mochi Frog
11. Mochi Rabbits
12. Mochi Bulldogs
13. Mochi Axolotls
14. Mochi Seals
15. Mochi Pen Cases
16. Mochi Puppets
17. Mochi Red Pandas
18. Mochi Hamsters
19. Mochi Turtles
20. [ZenPlus Limited Edition] Mochi Boars
21. [ZenPlus Limited Edition] Angel & Devil Otters - 22. Mochi Shimaenaga
22. Mochi Koikeru
22. Mochi Cows - What's hot in the Mochi plushie series
- Interview with Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global
- Welcome to the Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global family
- About the author
- Other articles you'll enjoy
Fostering a Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global family
Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global is based in Tokyo, and since opening its doors in 1997 it has dedicated itself to one clear goal: to put a smile on millions of faces around the world.
Given the surging popularity of the company's adorable plushies, it's obviously done a great job so far!
And yet, despite being such a household name in recent years, there's still something uniquely intimate about Morisaka Global.
For starters, its social media team has engaged with many (if not most) media under the #shinadaglobal hashtag on Instagram, either by giving posts a like or sharing them to its own set of Instagram Stories -- a clear indication of just how much the company appreciates the community's creativitiy and passion.
Then there's the official Instagram's own content, which often pairs kawaii Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global toys with everyday facets of Japanese culture like food, drinks, and even famous landmarks.
But perhaps most significant of all is quite simply the fact that the company is so receptive and considerate when it comes to us fans! As recently as last year (October 2022), Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global and ZenPlus conducted a survey to find out what kinds of products we the community hope to see in the future. I don’t know about you, but I love being a part of the official design process and supporting a company so devoted to their own fanbase. Unfortunately this kind of customer involvement is more the exception than the rule nowadays, which makes things the whole situation even better.
The long and the short of it? The company isn't just putting smiles on faces; it's fostering a warm, tight-knit Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global family.
About the Mochi plushie series
The Mochi line of plushies is a collection of animal toys that:
- Are purposefully under-stuffed for maximum squishiness
- Are filled with beans at the bottom so they can sit up without any help
- Are just so adorable!
Aside from the obvious physical appeal, there's also the benefit that these Mochi plushies have on your mental health as well -- namely, the peace of mind you get in having such a soft, squishy buddy by your side at all times. Need a reliable friend to turn to while out and about? The mini, S, and M variants are just the right size to take along on any outdoor adventure. Want a sense of security as you lounge around at home? The XL, XXL, and XXXL options make the perfect hug buddies.
Fans of collecting will be happy to know that there's over a dozen unique animals in the Mochi plushie series, with almost 10 new additions between 2023 and March 2024!
Read on to find out what made animals made the cut!
1. Mochi Dog
In a nutshell
- Colors: Black (Kuroshiba), brown (Akishiba)
- Sizes: Mini, S, M, L, XL
- Released: 2017
Closer look
This cute plushie represents the dog native to Japan and is marketed as having a “gentle face” for the ultimate kawaii look.
We love the different color palette on each variant: the brown one has a cream-colored snout and belly, while the black one has tan accents instead.
2. Mochi Cat
In a nutshell
- Colors: Black, siamese, calico, kutsushita (black with white paws), bicolor (black, gray, pink, blue, orange)
- Sizes: Mini, S, M, L, XL, XXXL
- Released: 2017
Closer look
Mochi Cats rank right up there with otters in terms of popularity and variety of colors on offer.
Even if you're a dog person, it's pretty hard not to love these fabulous felines.
Mochi Cats also have the distinction of being the only animal with a humongous XXXL size -- coming in at 170 cm, or about 5 ft 7 in!
3. Mochi Pig
In a nutshell
- Colors: Black, pink
- Sizes: Mini, L
- Released: 2018
Closer look
The pig is a symbol of good luck in a lot of places around the world.
This plushie features a pink nose and a fluffy big belly which is squishy to touch, also marketed by Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global as having “friendly” eyes to help with your worries.
4. Mochi Hedgehog
In a nutshell
- Colors: Brown, ivory
- Sizes: S, M, L
- Released: 2018
Closer look
Given how popular hedgehogs are as pets for any age group, it was only a matter of time before they'd get the Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global treatment.
Don’t worry -- the quills on their back are a lot softer than the real thing!
5. Mochi Cat -Naoru-
In a nutshell
- Color: Red
- Sizes: L
- Released: 2019
Closer look
This cheeky kitty is actually a collaboration with Hiromu Takahashi from New Japan Pro Wrestling.
Who knew a cat mischieviously poking its tongue out could be so charming!
6. Mochi Otter
In a nutshell
- Colors: Brown, gray, pastel (lavendar, mint), fruit (banana, blueberry, peach), aquarium pink
- Sizes: Mini, M, L, XL, XXL
- Released: 2019
Closer look
This kawaii otter features a thick tail, small paw pads, and large mouth, with an adorable facial expression.
Mochi Otters exploded in popularity across social media in 2021-2022, so chances are they're what attracted you to the Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global fandom in the first place.
The otters are also my own personal favorite, so you can imagine how happy I am to have the full set of colors in my collection. Believe me when I say that once you start, you'll find it hard to stop!
7. Mochi Bear
In a nutshell
- Colors: Brown, white
- Sizes: M, L
- Released: 2020
Closer look
Described as both bold and fluffy, this cute bear would be a much better companion than a real one.
8. Mochi Penguin
In a nutshell
- Colors: Black, gray, pink, blue
- Sizes: Mini, M, L
- Released: 2021
Closer look
Antarctica isn't exactly the warmest or fuzziest place on Earth, but obviously the Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global penguins didn't get the message!
Just like all the other animals in the Mochi plush series, these little waddlers will warm your heart with their perfect squishiness and "hugability."
9. Mochi Sloth
In a nutshell
- Colors: Gray, brown
- Sizes: L
- Released: 2022
Closer look
Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global plushies are the perfect companion for any occasion -- costume parties, road trips, grocery shopping, you name it.
But given their cuddly nature and the fact that they're just so relaxing to be around, it's little wonder they also make amazing nap partners too.
And of course, if it's a comfortable day in bed or on the couch you're after, what could be a better partner in crime than a kawaii Mochi Sloth?
Rilakkuma might have to watch out!
10. Mochi Frog
In a nutshell
- Colors: Green, light blue, pink
- Sizes: Mini, L
- Released: 2022
Closer look
With their large belly and flexible hands, these Mochi Frogs are already a community fan favorite.
11. Mochi Rabbits
In a nutshell
- Colors: White, pink, beige (lop-eared and upright ears)
- Sizes: Mini, L
- Released: 2022
Closer look
These cute Mochi rabbits come in two varieties: lop-eared and upright eared! The fur on their necks is super soft and you just resist touching it.
12. Mochi Bulldogs
In a nutshell
- Colors: Cream, black, pied
- Sizes: Mini, L, XL
- Released: 2022
Closer look
They may look a bit grumpy, but we can assure you they are just as sweet and cuddly as the other Mochi animals.
13. Mochi Axolotls
In a nutshell
- Colors: Ivory, pink, matcha green, sunflower yellow, lavender, mint
- Sizes: Mini, L
- Released: 2023
Closer look
These Mochi Axolotl have furry and soft fins as well as a large open mouth. Those two eyes are just adorable!
14. Mochi Seals
In a nutshell
- Colors: Gray, white
- Sizes: Mini, L
- Released: 2023
Closer look
Mochi seals were a hit as soon as they were released and with their floppy bellies, we can tell why. Don't worry - the Large ones can sit up on their own with their tails to help stabilize them.
15. Mochi Pen Cases
In a nutshell
- Colors: Otter: Lavender, gray, yellow, mint, brown
Cat: Sakura, Hachiware
Frog: Green, Light blue
Sloth: Brown - Sizes: One size
- Released: 2023
Closer look
Slightly different from the regular Mochi plushie series, but these pen cases are essentially their bigger Mochi versions, just in pen case form! They can fit up to 30 pens and are the perfect size to bring on the go.
16. Mochi Puppets/Golf Head Covers
In a nutshell
- Colors: Otter: Lavender, gray, brown
Cat: Red, Hachiware
Frog: Green, Light blue - Sizes: One size
- Released: 2023
Closer look
Also slightly different from the normal Mochi plushie lineup, but these act as both puppets and golf club covers so whether you want to entertain your children or protect your golf clubs, this is the perfect plush to have.
17. Mochi Red Pandas
In a nutshell
- Colors: Golden brown, reddish brown
- Sizes: Mini, L
- Released: 2023
Closer look
Released in October 2023, the red pandas were extremely popular right from the start. Their backs are also either orange/red to match the front color, and they have super thick tails. We're sure you will love them even more in person!
18. Mochi Hamsters
In a nutshell
- Colors: Orange, gray
- Sizes: Mini
- Released: 2023
Closer look
Just like the Mochi Red Pandas, Mochi Hamsters were released in October 2023 and they are only available in Mini size to mimic the size of a real hamster. Their cheeks are extra puffy and are just begging to be squished.
19. Mochi Turtles
In a nutshell
- Colors: Brown, green
- Sizes: Mini, large
- Released: 2023
Closer look
These Mochi sea turtles will swim into your life! They have hard black beads as eyes, which is quite different from the normal embroidered eyes that the other Mochi animals have.
20. [ZenPlus Limited Edition] Mochi Boars
In a nutshell
- Colors: Brown, pink
- Sizes: Large
- Released: September 2023
Closer look
The Brown Mochi Boar was originally released as a limited edition for Crane Games in the United States. However, due to fan requests, ZenPlus has also launched an exciting new limited edition: the Pink Boar! They're perfect to pair in your collection.
21. [ZenPlus Limited Edition] Angel & Devil Otters
In a nutshell
- Colors: Black, Grey
- Sizes: Large
- Released: November 2023
Closer look
The Angel & Devil Otters by Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global are a limited edition series exclusively available on ZenPlus. They add a unique twist to the Mochi Otters collection with their angelic and devilish themes. Each piece is handcrafted, ensuring a level of uniqueness and authenticity that collectors will appreciate.
Originally limited to only 500 pieces each, both the Devil and Angel otters are almost out of stock! Get yours before it's too late.
22. Mochi Shimaenaga
In a nutshell
- Colors: Brown, yellow
- Sizes: Mini, large
- Released: February 2024
Closer look
The Mochi Shimaenaga plush, part of Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global's Mochi series, brings the adorable Long-tailed Tit to life with its soft, squishy design, perfect for cuddling. Native to Japan, the Shimaenaga is beloved for its fluffy appearance and whimsical charm​.
23. Mochi Koikeru
In a nutshell
- Colors: Brown/White
- Sizes: Mini, large
- Released: May 2024
Closer look
The Mochi Koikeru plush by Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global captures the essence of playful dogs with its soft, under-stuffed design, making it an ideal snuggle companion.
24. Mochi Cows
In a nutshell
- Colors: Grey/White, Brown/White
- Sizes: Mini, large
- Released: May 2024
Closer look
Latest addition to the Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global collection, the Mochi Cows have been long awaited by fans and are now available for pre-order on ZenPlus!
What's hot in the Mochi series
As is the case with any fandom, everyone is bound to have their own individual favorites -- and that's totally okay.
But what if you just can't decide which characters or variants to go with?
While we're in no place to shape your personal preference, what we can do is let you know the general vibes running through the community -- especially when it comes to causes the most buzz!
Mochi Otters
Without a doubt it's the otters that get the most attention across Western social media. The #shinadaglobal hashtag on Instagram is full to the brim with fans showcasing their otter family, the daily escapades they go on together, and the cute little outfits that people buy (or make!) for them.
The great thing about Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global otters (and the fandom as a whole) is that age is irrelevant when it comes to interest and ownership. For example, recently my own mother -- who is not a plushie collector by any means -- has added a lavender otter to her Christmas list, purely because it matches the color of her car and would make the perfect backseat passenger! (I actually did the same with the banana-colored otter and my own yellow ride.)
Brighter colors
It's typically the brighter plushie colors that get the most heads turning (and the most people talking) within the collector community. The aforementioned banana, peach, blueberry, and aquarium pink variants generated an especially large response upon release.
Yes, those palettes are a far cry from any real otter you'll ever see in the wild -- but what does it matter when that radiant glow has the ability to brighten any room (and your mood) at any time?
Interview with Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global
In the beginning of August 2023, Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global visited us and we took this opportunity to ask them some questions about the Mochi series. This information was only shared with us, so this is super exclusive information:
(Responses have been translated from Japanese and paraphrased)
1. How did you think of the designs? Is there any special meaning behind the designs or animals?
When we asked Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global this, we thought they would say the first animal was their favorite animal or something along those lines, but actually… most of the designs are suggestions from fans and customers!
At first, Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global would help design and make items for other large companies such as Disney or FujiQ (an amusement park in Japan), but starting in 2015-2016, they decided to start making their own original goods and asked customers for what they wanted to see.
The “mochi mochi” squishy feel was popular and Shinada Global got started on creating many designs. The CEO's son even went to China for one year to look for articles, and the first 3 animals were the cat, Shiba inu, and hedgehog. So if you have one (or all of them), then lucky you because those were the start of Shinada Global!
Surprisingly, the otter was only created 1-2 years after everything began, and there were 3 patterns made at first. The CEO's son took a survey with 100 customers to find out the most popular design, and ended up with what we know and love now.
Zoo animals are the main concept, such as bears, otters, seals, cats (yes, there’s a zoo in Japan with cats in zoos!) and this continues to be the main inspiration for what animals are made next.
2. Is there anything special about each plushie that fans should know about?
Yes; in fact, there is something special about all the plushies!
Like how the nose for the bunny is different from other bunny plushies, or how the cheek for the red panda is made of a different material. Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global does their best to add some special point for each animal to capture the essence of the actual animal without looking "too real".
3. How long, from design to production, does it take to make a new plushie?
Put simply, it depends on the animal.
There are some animals where the design only takes 1 day, but it would take 2 weeks for the sample to arrive.
Guess which animal took the longest to be finalized?
…The bulldog! It took about 1 year for the Mochi bulldog to be made into what it is today - it took about 7 or 8 tries of making the design, receiving a sample, fixing some parts, sending it back and getting another sample, etc.
Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global only tries to provide the best for all their lovely customers and they won't sell anything until they're 100% satisfied with the result.
Well, there you have it. We hope you could get a small glimpse into how much work and love goes into each plushie, and that you left with some interesting tidbits about Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global!
Welcome to the Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global family
Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global is at the forefront of the kawaii plush toy wave taking over the world right now -- and given how much the company lists to its fans and strives to implement their ideas, it looks like bright things will continue for quite a while yet.
Interested in starting (or expanding) your Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global collection? Whether it be the Mochi series explored in this guide or the host of other product lines that the company offers, there's plenty of resources online to help you along the way:
- Official Shinada Global website
- Shinada Global plush toy collection on ZenPlus
- Various social media communities and pages: Facebook, Reddit, and more
Everyone in the fandom is so warm and friendly, and will no doubt welcome you with open arms! At the end of the day, we’re one big family with a mutual love of kawaii plushies -- and there’s plenty to go around.
About the author*
Grace is a 25-year-old plush collector from England, UK who has been collecting plushies since she was a small child. You can see more of her collection on her dedicated Instagram account, @icedplushies.
*The blog was originally written by Grace and then updated by ZenPlus staff in April 2024.
Other articles you'll enjoy
For more Shinada Global coverage, check out the articles below:
- Morisaka (Previously Shinada) Global: Otters That Ought To Make You Smile
- Mochi Otter Fashion: The Art of Plush Clothing
- Morisaka (previously Shinada) Global Otters: Love at First Squish
Thanks for reading!
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