One of Japan’s most beloved stars meets one of Japan’s most beloved characters.
It’s a big year for Doraemon: he’s celebrating his 50th anniversary, and his 40th movie — Nobita’s no Shin Kyoryu (Nobita’s New Dinosaur) — came out in theaters earlier this year.
And, as one of Japan’s most famous 2D characters, he’s got a lot of real 3D celebrity fans. One of these is none other than Naomi Watanabe, who participated in promo for Doraemon’s big year by dressing up in one of the most adorable cosplays we’ve ever seen.
▼ Her blue hair buns are Doraemon’s tiny ears! How much more creative can you get?
Her look includes Doraemon’s signature red collar — well, three collars if you count the ones keeping her “ears” in place — red lips to mimic Doraemon’s blue-and-red palette, and a red circle on the back of her dress for Doraemon’s tail. She even has dorayaki (a pancake-like snack filled with red bean paste) earrings, which is Doraemon’s favorite food!
If you’re wondering why Naomi Watanabe is one of the celebrities promoting the new movie, it’s because she played a part in it! She provided the voice of the character Natalie. It’s not a leading role, but it’s a pretty big deal to be a part of the Doraemon franchise.
▼ We think she could make a pretty convincing female Doraemon, though.
Fans and netizens absolutely loved the clip of Watanabe taking a nap with her Doraemon doll:
“This is adorable!”
“I love the dorayaki earrings. The red collar motif ribbons holding her hair in place are amazing, too.”
“That look suits her.”
“She makes a cute Doraemon!”
In the second Instagram post we linked, Watanabe said she’d someday love to be able to play the role of Dorami-chan — Doraemon’s younger sister. Whatever she ends up doing (even if it’s another Lady Gaga parody), we’re sure she’ll nail it!
Sources: Neto Labo, Instagram/@watanabenaomi703
Top image: Instagram/@watanabenaomi703
Instagram queen Naomi Watanabe’s latest post uses trick art to turn herself into sushi
Naomi Watanabe is moving to the U.S., switching base of operations to outside Japan
Naomi Watanabe responds to “Olympig” remark from Tokyo Olympics ceremony chief
Tokyo Olympics ceremony chief quits after suggesting Naomi Watanabe dress as an “Olympig”
Japanese comedian Naomi Watanabe has a livestream YouTube channel, and fans are living for it
Japanese convenience store releases Japanese convenience store-flavor fried chicken
Cup Noodle releases cold-water instant ramen in Japan, but can it really be made with just cold water?
Hatsune Miku collaborates with Hokusai’s art in new Vocaloid ukiyo-e illustration series [Pics]
Japan’s “edible fireworks” wagashi sweets return, but only for a limited time [Photos]
Studio Ghibli releases anime T-shirts that pay homage to one of Hayao Miyazaki’s most personal films
Japan now has human refrigerators inspired by Japanese vending machines
Giant Snorlax, other snoozing Pokémon appear in Yokohama for Pokémon Sleeping Faces Research [Pics]
Japan’s popular curry chain Cocoichi has an elusive delivery-only noodle menu
Family Mart’s new Tokyo flagship convenience store doesn’t feel convenient, but is that a problem?
Teen girl in Japan refuses to be victim, personally escorts train pervert to police for arrest
Cup Noodle unveils first-ever cold-water instant ramen in Japan
Starbucks Japan releases new Discovery Series collection celebrating local regions and traditions
Japanese government ID card and app to be required for certain Pokémon card purchases next month
Is Japan’s tourism boom slowing down? Foreign visitor numbers fall for first time in five years
Japan announces sudden 400-percent increase in visa fees for foreigners entering the country
Studio Ghibli has a new anime out, and there’s only one place in the world where you can see it
Salomon releases Japan-exclusive Mt. Fuji hiking gear that doubles as an amazing souvenir
Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad
Japan triples departure tax, foreign tourists and locals now must pay more to leave country
Japan launches first overnight Shinkansen bullet train between Tokyo and Osaka this summer
Family Mart opens new “Famima” flagship store in Tokyo that’s like a tourist attraction
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
Japan reportedly adding Japanese language skill requirement to most common foreigner work visa
Naomi Watanabe’s New York food budget leaves TV co-stars and netizens stunned
Naomi Watanabe sports Adidas stripes in her hair to celebrate becoming brand ambassador
“Japanese Beyoncé” Naomi Watanabe is now a model for Beyoncé’s Ivy Park collection
Naomi Watanabe releases new clothing collaboration with Japanese restaurant chain Saizeriya
Naomi Watanabe cosplays as Sailor Moon as she joins voice cast of anime franchise
Naomi Watanabe shares her beauty secrets in hilariously down-to-earth makeup tutorial 【Video】
Naomi Watanabe slays Lady Gaga in “Rain On Me” parody video
Naomi Watanabe models new Sailor Moon plus-size clothing range in Japan 【Photos】
Naomi Watanabe produces new line of comfortable yet supportive ‘at home’ bras, sizes up to 5L
James Corden joins comedian Naomi Watanabe, John Legend, others for hilarious SK-II commercials
Last Samurai star Ken Watanabe cooks with daughter Anne in viral YouTube video