Ever hear the phrase, “You’re so cute I could just eat you up”? Japan has taken this way too literally.

How am I supposed to eat something that adorable and not feel like one of the hunters from Bambi, you guys? I mean, I love to look at it, but biting the ear off that bear, even if said ear is made of chocolate or pancake, seems like a gruesome Vincent Van Gogh-esque assault on a kawaii life.

RocketNews24 explains:

While working for San-X, illustrator Aki Kondo created one of Japan’s most iconic characters, a lazy little bear named Rilakkuma, with friends Korilakkuma and Kiiroitori. For over 10 years the trio has taken it easy, going on all kinds of food-related and relaxing adventures. However, in the most recent Rilakkuma series, Korilakkuma brings back a “new friend” from the honey forest, called Koguma-chan (Little Bear). Not only is there a whole new line of products to welcome Koguma-chan to the Rilakkuma family, San-X has decided to roll out a new cafe in Harajuku, decorated like the honey forest from which he appeared. For a short period from March 10 to April 10, fans of the series or all things cute can enjoy an array of special menu items, with three sets of entrees, desserts, and beverages to choose from.

You want to be careful about messing around with little bears; just ask Leonardo DiCaprio. Mercifully, the only real danger here is in missing out, as reservation slots in Japan are rapidly filling up.

Could you consume such a cute face? Is this what Japan considers a “bear market”? Ponder these thoughts and any others in comments.

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images: Rilakkuma Cafe