Japanese gashapon manufacturer Kitan Club (キタンクラブ) has collaborated with Japanese frog model studio Kaeru no Mori Kobo (カエルの森工房) to release the popular second installment of their "Kaeru no Mori Kobo Safe Return Frog Strap" series, titled "Kaeru no Mori Kobo Safe Return Frog Strap II". The suggested retail price is 400 JPY per capsule, with an anticipated release in early September 2025!
Kaeru no Mori Kobo is a frog model studio located in Fukushima, Japan. Since 2001, the founder has been creating and selling frog-themed illustrations and sculptures. Each year, they conduct field research in mountains and forests to create even more exquisite frog-themed models. In Japanese, "frog" (カエル, Kaeru) is a homophone for "to return" (帰る, Kaeru), thus "Safe Return Frog" (無事カエル) carries the meaning of "returning safely"!
Following the first installment and its earth-tone versions, this "Kaeru no Mori Kobo Safe Return Frog Strap II" features frogs carrying horizontal backpacks, a style commonly used by young travelers in the 1960s and 70s, known as "Showa Kani-zoku" (Showa Crab Tribe). The collection includes four color variations: the safe and secure "Dark Brown," the healing "Green," the happy "Yellow," and the lucky "Aqua Blue." The straps utilize "accessory cord," commonly found on hiking backpacks, to create a strong outdoor vibe. The hiking cord is cleverly threaded through the gap between the frog and its backpack, ensuring no metal clasps disrupt the overall aesthetic! Furthermore, the Dark Brown and Green versions also feature a compass on their backpacks, ready to guide all toy enthusiasts safely home. These are perfect for gifting to friends and family for their safe travels or for personal wear as a charm!
Safe and Secure "Dark Brown"
Healing "Green"
Happy "Yellow"
Lucky "Aqua Blue"
Kaeru no Mori Kobo Safe Return Frog Strap II
Suggested Retail Price: 400 JPY / capsule
Product Specifications: Approximately 4.9 cm
Anticipated Release Date: Early September 2025
via： kitan