
In a joint effort between NHK and the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo, an international team of scientists was assembled in a quest to be the first to photograph the elusive giant squid in its natural habitat. Their search was made into an NHK special documentary titled, “World’s first photographing! Deep sea giant squid” and was broadcasted in Japan this past January. After its airing, giant squids quickly became a popular topic of conversation among viewers.
In celebration of the documentary’s success, NHK has created a line of giant squid goods. From smartphone cases to squid ink cookies to pencil pouches in the shape of giant squid, there are almost too many tentacles for sale.
NHK is offering some especially bizarre goods like this light up squid eyeball key chain:
This giant squid plush toy is actually kind of cute. Of course if you actually came face-to-face with a giant squid, you’d be scared out of your mind, but the stuffed version is so cuddly! And what a steal at 2,835 yen (US$28.58).
The giant squid goods will only be on sale from July 6 until October 6 in the special deep sea exhibition at the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno Park, Tokyo. The movie version of the NHK documentary will be released on August 17. Could this be the summer of the giant squid?
▼ Giant squid pencil pouch, 1,522 yen (US$15.34)
▼ Pencil set, 300 yen (US$3.02)
▼ Giant squid pen, 1,200 yen (US$12.10)







[ Read in Japanese ]






How to make a lucky sushi roll with KFC fried chicken skin【SoraKitchen】
This gigantic judo dojo-sized hotel room will make you feel like royalty, but it’s disappearing soon
Why you should visit Shizuoka, the green tea oasis in the middle of Japan’s golden route
Japanese dating site’s picture of ideally attractive woman: young, no sleeves, college education
Brand-new Pokémon manhole covers have Sandshrew welcoming you to an often forgotten part of Japan
How to make a lucky sushi roll with KFC fried chicken skin【SoraKitchen】
This gigantic judo dojo-sized hotel room will make you feel like royalty, but it’s disappearing soon
Why you should visit Shizuoka, the green tea oasis in the middle of Japan’s golden route
Japanese dating site’s picture of ideally attractive woman: young, no sleeves, college education
Brand-new Pokémon manhole covers have Sandshrew welcoming you to an often forgotten part of Japan
Japan’s 10 best Ferris wheels for beautiful views, as chosen by travelers【Survey】
This beautiful Nara inn was once home to a Living National Treasure
Say hello to Japan’s new stationmaster cat!【Video】
Figma creates realistic action figure of the inner human anatomy that’s fully posable
What is Teru Teru Bozu? The tragic history behind the Japanese fine weather doll
Yokai are descending upon Tokyo this spring in the latest immersive art experience
Japan’s Naruto theme park now offering real-world version of Minato’s kunai ninja weapon
Japan has a new bar just for people thinking about quitting their jobs, and the drinks are free
New Studio Ghibli stamps leave an impression on your stationery…and your heart
Japan cherry blossom forecast update moves up sakura dates for many parts of the country
Archfiend Hello Kitty appears as Sanrio launches new team-up with Yu-Gi-Oh【Pics】
Studio Ghibli turns My Neighbour Totoro characters into bag charms for everyday adventures
If you haven’t tried an antenna shop in Japan, you’re missing out
Studio Ghibli releases Spirited Away bags in Japan, based on a mysterious festival
Morning-after pill finally available in Japan without a prescription, must be taken at pharmacy
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
Japan releases first official sakura cherry blossom forecast for 2026
10 times to avoid traveling in Japan in 2026
Starbucks Japan releases new Frappuccino and latte for Valentine’s Day
Our 52-year-old pole dancing reporter shares his tips for achieving your New Year’s exercise goal
China’s don’t-go-to-Japan warning looks to be affecting tourist crowds on Miyajima
Studio Ghibli releases new “komorebi” plush toys from Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away
Ramen restaurant’s English menu prices are nearly double its Japanese ones, denies discriminating
Survey asks foreign tourists what bothered them in Japan, more than half gave same answer
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
We deeply regret going into this tunnel on our walk in the mountains of Japan
Studio Ghibli releases Kodama forest spirits from Princess Mononoke to light up your home
Major Japanese hotel chain says reservations via overseas booking sites may not be valid
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
No more using real katana for tourism activities, Japan’s National Police Agency says
Starbucks Japan reveals new sakura drinkware collection, inspired by evening cherry blossoms
Updated cherry blossom forecast shows extra-long sakura season for Japan this year
Japan’s 10 best Ferris wheels for beautiful views, as chosen by travelers【Survey】
This beautiful Nara inn was once home to a Living National Treasure
Say hello to Japan’s new stationmaster cat!【Video】
Figma creates realistic action figure of the inner human anatomy that’s fully posable
What is Teru Teru Bozu? The tragic history behind the Japanese fine weather doll
Ghost in the Sheel goes traditional with Japanese porcelain Tachikoma robots, only 50 to be made
Sumikkogurashi cafes coming to five cities, may be so cute/cozy you’ll never want to leave【Pics】
Studio Ghibli reveals real reason why Jiji stops talking at the end of Kiki’s Delivery Service
Escape from downtown Tokyo! How far from the city center can you get by rental bike in 8 hours?
Kyoto planning surprise late-night inspections of Airbnb-style rentals to fight overtourism
A century’s worth of Japanese beauty trends, from silver screen chic to puffy-eyed catharsis
Trouble making friends? Sticker collecting works surprisingly well
Japan’s suicides fall to lowest recorded number ever, but one demographic hits all-time high
Leave a Reply