TV-Series
Description
Hangyodon, a male anthropomorphic fish character, debuted in 1985 through Sanrio designer Hisato Inoue. Born on March 14 under Halley’s Comet with Chinese nationality, his name fuses Japanese terms "han-gyo" (half-fish) and "don" (man), reflecting his hybrid nature. His blue-skinned physique includes a long tail, stubby arms, large expressive eyes, and full lips modeled after Inoue’s features, complemented by a distinctive back fin.

Sensitive and good-natured, he avoids solitude and dreams of heroism despite frequent mishaps. He engages in stand-up comedy and pranks to amuse others but displays romantic inclinations and shyness around women. He collects self-branded merchandise and favors hiyashi chuka, ebisen prawn crackers, and nabemono. Warm aquatic settings like hot springs suit him best.

His family comprises unnamed parents and an older brother depicted as a prehistoric ancestor. His sister Sumire, a half-salamander introduced a year after his debut, works at an aquarium with a competitive streak. Close companions include Sayuri, an optimistic octopus and his best friend; Itaro, a studious yellow squid inventor; and Otamaro, a leisurely tadpole. Romantic pursuits involve Kingyochan, a goldfish he briefly dated, and Kumiko, a human girl from early comics.

Beyond "Hello Kitty's Animation Theater," he embraces adventurous roles: solving mysteries as a detective in "Meitantei Hangyodon: Kaitou Ruzu Arawaruno-kan," time-traveling to the dinosaur era in "Hangyodon no Parallel Daisakusen: Kyouryuu Oukoku wa Oosawagi," and racing in "Sam to Chip no wa Hachamecha Dai Race." He also promotes positivity in the Hapidanbui (Sanrio Boys) group alongside Pochacco and Badtz-Maru.

His iterations include superhero form "Great Hangyo" and mech suit "Hangyodon Robo." He features in video games like "Sanrio Timenet: Kako-Hen and Mirai-Hen," "Hello Kitty Island Adventure" (in Seashell Bay), and "Hello Kitty Cafe" on Roblox. In "The Emperor’s New Clothes" segment of "Hello Kitty’s Animation Theater," his comedic and moralistic traits shine.

Initially overlooked, he placed 3rd in Sanrio’s 1986 Character Awards and climbed to 8th by 2024, boosted by Gen Z’s affinity for his unique design. Sanrio celebrated his 40th anniversary in 2025 with a City Pop music video showcasing his singing.