Complete Guide to Distinguishing Genuine and Fake Japanese Figures | 7 Checkpoints

When purchasing Japanese figures from overseas, the biggest concern is often whether you might end up with a "fake" product. Especially when buying from eBay, Amazon, or individual sellers, without the knowledge to distinguish between genuine products and fakes (bootlegs), you risk paying a high price for a low-quality item.

In this article, we will explain in detail seven specific checkpoints, including copyright seals, JAN codes, and paint quality. Let's master practical methods for determining authenticity that can be used both before and after purchase, from judging based on online photos to checking once the actual item arrives.

Why is it Necessary to Distinguish Between Genuine and Fake Figures?

With the expansion of the Japanese anime figure market, unfortunately, the circulation of fakes (bootlegs, pirated versions) has also increased. It is not uncommon for fakes to be sold alongside genuine products on overseas online marketplaces. Purchasing these fakes can lead to not only financial loss but also quality issues and legal risks.

The Reality of the Fake Figure Market

Fake figures are primarily manufactured in China and Southeast Asia and are sold on platforms such as eBay, AliExpress, and Amazon (third-party sellers). Popular products from Good Smile Company, such as Nendoroids and figma, as well as scale figures from Alter and Max Factory, are particularly rife with fakes.

While the prices of fakes may seem attractive at about 30-50% of the genuine product's price, "prices that are too low" are a sign of a fake. If a popular figure is being sold for less than half its retail price shortly after its release, it is almost certainly a fake. Additionally, be cautious of products listed by sellers located in China or Hong Kong that are described as "high-quality replicas" or "no brand."

Risks of Purchasing Fakes

When you purchase a fake figure, the first major issue is the quality. There are obvious differences in appearance and feel, such as uneven paint, poor fitting of parts, brittle materials, and inaccurate sculpting. Furthermore, fakes may use paints and materials that do not meet safety standards, posing health risks that cannot be ignored.

Moreover, fakes obviously do not come with manufacturer warranties, and you cannot exchange or repair them if they break. Their value as collectibles is zero, and if you are considering reselling or buying back in the future, fakes hold no value whatsoever.

Additionally, purchasing or importing items that infringe on intellectual property rights can lead to legal issues in some countries. If discovered by customs, there is a possibility of confiscation or fines, so purchasing genuine products is also a form of self-defense.

Checkpoint 1: Confirming Copyright License Seals and Hologram Seals

One of the most reliable methods to distinguish between genuine products and fakes is to check the copyright license seal (copyright seal) and hologram seal. These are proof that the genuine manufacturer has obtained permission from the copyright holder to produce the item, while fakes either lack these seals or have poorly made counterfeits.

Basic Understanding of Copyright Seals

A copyright seal is a small sticker affixed to the packaging of a figure, indicating that the figure has been officially licensed for production. Japanese figure manufacturers must obtain permission from the rights holders when using characters from anime or games, and they attach the copyright seal as proof.

Copyright seals are usually found on the sides or bottom of the packaging, often placed over the film, and they include the copyright holder's name (e.g., ©TYPE-MOON/FGO PROJECT) along with the "©" mark. In many cases, they are also hologram-processed, appearing to shine in rainbow colors when viewed from different angles.

In the case of fakes, there may be no copyright seal at all, or if present, the printing is rough, and the hologram's shine appears unnatural. Compared to genuine products, the colors may be lighter, or the font may differ slightly, so it is advisable to compare with photos of genuine products on official websites or databases like MyFigureCollection.

Features of Hologram Seals by Manufacturer

Products from Good Smile Company feature a distinctive silver hologram seal. This seal is engraved with the words "GOOD SMILE COMPANY" and shines in rainbow colors when viewed from different angles. Nendoroids and figma always have this seal, so be sure to check product photos before purchasing.

Max Factory's figma also has a hologram seal similar to GSC (figma is a joint brand of GSC and Max Factory). Alter's high-end scale figures have the "Alter" logo engraved on the back of the base, and the packaging has a copyright seal attached.

Kotobukiya's products also have a copyright license sticker on the packaging, and series like ArtFX J use Kotobukiya's logo hologram. Since the design and placement of the seals differ by manufacturer, it is recommended to check the characteristics of genuine products on each manufacturer's official website before purchasing.

Checkpoint 2: Check the JAN Code and Barcode

The JAN code (Japanese Article Number) is a 13-digit product identification number assigned to products in Japan and is a powerful tool for verifying whether a product is genuine. Counterfeits may have incorrect JAN codes or use codes for completely different products.

How to Check the JAN Code

The JAN code is printed on the bottom or side of the figure's packaging along with a barcode. It consists of 13 digits, with the first two digits being the country code (Japan is 45 or 49), the next five digits being the manufacturer code, the following five digits being the product code, and the last digit being the check digit.

The JAN code of genuine products is printed clearly on the packaging, with no ink smudging or fading. In the case of counterfeits, the JAN code may not be printed, the quality of the barcode may be low, or the number of digits may be incorrect.

Using a smartphone barcode scanning app, you can read the JAN code and check the product information. If it is a genuine product, the manufacturer's name and product name will be displayed accurately. In the case of counterfeits, scanning may yield no information or display completely unrelated products.

Cross-Referencing with Official Databases

The most reliable method is to cross-reference the JAN code with MyFigureCollection (MFC) or the manufacturer's official website. MFC is the world's largest figure database, and most genuine figures' JAN codes are registered there.

Open the page for the relevant figure on MFC and compare the number listed in the "Barcode" section with the JAN code of the product in hand. If they match, it is highly likely to be a genuine product; if they do not match, it may be a counterfeit or a different product.

Additionally, official websites of companies like Good Smile Company, Alter, and Kotobukiya have product databases where you can search by JAN code or product number. Before purchasing, you can request online sellers to "send a photo of the JAN code" and cross-reference it with official data to significantly reduce the risk of counterfeits.

Checkpoint 3: Quality of Paint and Precision of Details

Japanese genuine figure manufacturers boast very high painting techniques and detail reproduction. On the other hand, counterfeits are produced in low-quality factories, resulting in visually obvious differences such as paint unevenness, color misalignment, and lack of precision in parts.

Differences in Painting Quality Between Genuine Products and Counterfeits

Genuine figures have uniform and smooth paint applications. The color boundaries are sharp, and gradients are reproduced naturally. The painting of the face is particularly precise, with detailed distinctions for pupils, eyelashes, and lips.

In the case of counterfeits, paint unevenness is prominent, and colors often bleed outside the lines. Differences are especially noticeable in the painting of hair and intricate patterns on clothing. The colors themselves may also be lighter compared to genuine products or completely different colors may be used.

When purchasing online, check the seller's photos for close-ups of the face and details of the paint. If the photos are blurry or only show distant views, it is recommended to ask for "close-up photos of the face." Sellers who are selling genuine products should be willing to comply.

Precision of Parts and Fit

Genuine figures have perfect fit between parts, with no gaps or looseness. When removing and replacing hair parts, it is smooth and does not require excessive force. The connection to the base is also stable and securely fixed.

Counterfeits have low precision in parts, resulting in large gaps at the joints or, conversely, being too tight and requiring force to push together. In the case of movable figures (figma or Nendoroid), the joints may be too loose to hold poses or too stiff to move.

Additionally, genuine products have excellent material texture, and the weight and feel when touched are of high quality. Counterfeits may have cheap plastic that feels too light or, conversely, unnaturally heavy. It is advisable to watch review videos of genuine products on review sites or YouTube to check the precision and fit of the parts in advance.

Checkpoint 4: Check the Logo on the Package and Base

Not only the figure itself but also the package and base have points to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit products. The print quality and logo precision are difficult to counterfeit and are very effective for authenticity judgment.

Check the Print Quality of the Package

The package of genuine products is made with high-quality printing technology, with clear images and rich colors. The lines of the character illustrations are sharp, and the text is easy to read. The paper quality is also thick and sturdy, without any cheapness.

Counterfeit packages may have blurry prints, faded colors, and an overall poor finish. Particularly, the reproduction of gradients and fine illustrations may be low, making dots stand out. Additionally, the font may differ slightly, or there may be typos.

Checking the treatment of the corners and folds of the package is also a point to confirm. Genuine products are carefully assembled, with neat glueing and folds, while counterfeits may have a rough finish, with glue overflowing or misaligned folds. When purchasing online, it is advisable to request a photo of the entire package and a close-up of the printing details (especially the text parts).

Check the Base and Logo

Many Japanese figures come with a base that has the manufacturer or brand name engraved. Good Smile Company's Nendoroid has the "nendoroid" logo engraved on the base, while figma has the "figma" logo. High-end figures from Alter and Kotobukiya also have the manufacturer logo engraved on the back of the base.

The logo on genuine products is deeply and clearly engraved, with accurate letter shapes. In the case of counterfeits, the logo may be shallow, blurry, or the font may differ slightly. There are also counterfeits that have no logo at all.

Check the material and color of the base as well. Genuine products are made of high-quality plastic or ABS resin, with no color unevenness. Counterfeits may have cheap materials, uneven colors, or remnants of excess plastic from molding.

Checkpoint 5: Comparison with Market Prices

Price is one of the easiest and most effective indicators to spot counterfeits. As the saying goes, "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is," prices that are significantly lower than the market price are a sign of counterfeits.

How to Research Fair Prices

To know the fair price of genuine products, check the market on reliable Japanese e-commerce sites or databases. Major e-commerce sites like AmiAmi, Hobby Stock, and Suruga-ya allow you to check prices for both new and used items.

MyFigureCollection (MFC) is also very useful, as each figure's page has a "Price" section displaying the average purchase price reported by users worldwide. Additionally, the "Shops" tab on MFC allows you to compare prices from multiple online shops.

Popular figures shortly after release are often traded at or above the retail price, while limited editions or event exclusives may command premium prices. On the other hand, regular version figures that have been out for a while typically range from 70-90% of the retail price, and used items are around 50-80% of the retail price.

Unusually Low Prices are a Sign of Counterfeits

If a popular figure shortly after release is being sold for less than 50% of the retail price, it is almost certainly a counterfeit. This is especially true for "new and unopened" items from third-party sellers on eBay or Amazon that are extremely cheap.

Additionally, products labeled as "high-quality replicas," "no brand," or "Chinese version" are effectively counterfeits. These are pirated versions manufactured without proper licensing and are significantly lower in quality.

However, there are exceptions. Sales or clearance items from authorized retailers, or items with box damage, may be sold at lower prices even for genuine products. In such cases, assess the reliability based on the seller's ratings, return policy, and the detail of the product description. It is important to make a comprehensive judgment by combining price with other checkpoints.

Checkpoint 6: Verify the Reliability of the Seller

Where you purchase from is extremely important in avoiding counterfeit risks. Choosing a reliable seller significantly increases the chances of obtaining genuine products.

Check Ratings and Reviews

When purchasing on platforms like eBay, Amazon, or Mercari, always check the seller's ratings. Sellers with a star rating of 4.5 or higher and over 100 reviews are relatively trustworthy.

The content of the reviews is also important. Sellers with many positive comments like "It was genuine" or "It's an authentic product" are reassuring, but if there are negative feedbacks such as "It was a fake," "The quality was poor," or "They did not respond to refund requests," you should avoid them.

Also, check the seller's location. Products shipped from China or Hong Kong have a higher risk of being counterfeit, while those shipped from within Japan are more likely to be authentic (however, be cautious as there are also fakes shipped from Japan).

Return Policy and Warranty

Reliable sellers present clear return policies. If they offer guarantees like "Returns accepted within 30 days" or "Full refund if it's a fake," you can handle situations where you receive a counterfeit product.

On the other hand, products clearly marked as "No returns" or "No return policy" require caution. Especially for inexpensive items with such conditions, there is a possibility they could be counterfeit.

Additionally, it can be effective to ask the seller questions before purchasing. Requesting things like "Please send a photo of the copyright seal" or "Let me verify the JAN code" and observing their response can be telling. Sellers dealing in authentic products will respond politely. If they are slow to reply, give vague answers, or refuse to provide photos, it is wise to avoid making a purchase.

Choosing Reliable Sales Channels

The safest option is to buy from official stores or certified resellers. Sites like AmiAmi, Hobby Stock, Good Smile Online Shop, and Solaris Japan only deal in authentic products. These sites also support international shipping, making the risk of counterfeits almost zero.

Checkpoint 7: Authenticity Judgment from Product Photos

When purchasing online, you cannot physically handle the item, so product photos become the only basis for judgment. Developing the skill to identify counterfeits from photos is key to successful overseas purchases.

Photo Angles to Check

To verify whether a product is authentic, you need photos from the following angles. First, photos of the copyright seal and hologram. If the photos are taken from different angles, you can check if the hologram shines in rainbow colors.

Next, photos of the JAN code and barcode. Request high-resolution photos where the 13-digit number is clearly readable, and cross-check with sites like MyFigureCollection.

Photos of the manufacturer's logo on the base are also important. Check if the logo is clearly engraved and if the font is accurate. Additionally, a close-up photo of the figure's face can help verify the quality of the paint. The neatness of the paint on the eyes, mouth, and blush is a key point for judgment.

Finally, photos of the entire package and details of the printing. Check the corners of the box, the clarity of the printing, and the accuracy of the font.

Distinguishing Stock Photos from Actual Product Photos

It is important to distinguish whether the photos used by the seller are "official stock photos from the manufacturer" or "photos of the actual product in hand." Sellers who only post stock photos may not have the actual item (or may be hiding a counterfeit).

Stock photos are characterized by a pure white background, perfect lighting, and professional photography quality. In contrast, actual product photos may show the seller's home or store background, or use natural light for lighting.

To ensure you are seeing the actual item, it is effective to request, "Please take a photo with a handwritten note." For example, asking, "Please take a photo with a piece of paper that has today's date and my username next to the figure" can reveal whether the seller truly possesses the product. You should avoid purchasing from sellers who refuse this request.

What to Do If You Accidentally Purchase a Counterfeit

If you accidentally purchase a counterfeit, you may still be able to receive a refund or compensation if you handle the situation properly. It is important to act quickly and calmly.

Steps for Return and Refund

If you realize the item is a fake, first take evidence photos. Document the reasons for it being counterfeit, such as issues with the copyright seal, discrepancies in the JAN code, poor paint quality, or differences in packaging. Having comparison photos with the authentic product adds further credibility.

Next, contact the seller and clearly state, "I would like to return and get a refund because the product is counterfeit." Attach the evidence photos and respond in a calm and polite tone. In many cases, the seller will agree to the return or propose a partial refund.

It is important to complete the procedure within the return period. eBay usually has a 30-day return period, while Amazon has a return period of 30 to 90 days, so check immediately after the product arrives, and if you determine it to be a counterfeit, take action promptly. When returning, use a traceable shipping method and keep proof of the return.

Response to Platforms and Credit Card Companies

If the seller does not agree to a refund, utilize the buyer protection program of the platform. eBay has the "eBay Money Back Guarantee," and Amazon has the "Amazon Marketplace Guarantee," which provide compensation for counterfeits.

When reporting to the platform, submit evidence that it is a counterfeit (photos, screenshots of mismatched JAN codes, comparisons with the manufacturer's official site, etc.). Usually, the platform will conduct an investigation, and if the claim is deemed valid, a full refund will be issued.

If it still does not get resolved, as a last resort, you can request a chargeback (payment cancellation) from your credit card company. Contact the card company and explain, "I requested a refund because I purchased a counterfeit, but it was not honored," and provide evidence. Chargebacks are a powerful measure, but the process can take time, so it is recommended to first utilize the platform's protection program.

Summary: 7 Checkpoints to Ensure Authenticity

When purchasing Japanese figures from overseas, it is essential to carefully check both before and after the purchase to avoid the risk of counterfeits. By utilizing the 7 checkpoints introduced in this article, you can distinguish between authentic products and counterfeits with a high probability.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

When making online purchases, be sure to check the following points:

• Is the price reasonable? (Be cautious if it is below 50% of the retail price)
• Does the seller have a rating of 4.5 or higher, with many positive reviews?
• Are copyright seals, JAN codes, and base logos visible in the product photos?
• Are actual photos provided? (Not just stock photos)
• Is the return policy clear?
• Is the seller willing to provide additional photos upon request?

Check these points, and if you have any doubts, it is necessary to have the courage to refrain from purchasing.

Post-Purchase Checklist

Once the product arrives, check the following:

• Are the copyright seal and hologram genuine? (Do they shine rainbow colors when viewed from different angles?)
• Does the JAN code match the data from MyFigureCollection or the official site?
• Is the paint uniform, with no color bleeding or unevenness?
• Do the parts fit well, with no gaps or looseness?
• Is the printing on the package clear, with no typos or color inconsistencies?
• Is the manufacturer's logo accurately engraved on the base?
• Is the texture and weight of the material of good quality?

In the unlikely event that it is a counterfeit, take evidence photos and promptly initiate the return and refund process.

To Purchase Even More Safely

In addition to the skills for determining authenticity introduced in this article, choosing a reliable purchasing source, using appropriate shipping methods, and understanding how to store the item after arrival are also essential for safe and satisfying figure purchases.