Ichiban Kuji Beginner's Start Guide | Complete Explanation of How to Start, Manners, and Frequently Asked Questions

Ichiban Kuji is a popular lottery service in Japan where you can win character goods from anime and games. In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation for those experiencing Ichiban Kuji for the first time, covering everything from the basic mechanics to how to purchase, the manners to observe, and frequently asked questions. We will introduce it step by step in an easy-to-understand manner, so even foreigners who cannot speak Japanese can enjoy it with peace of mind.

What is Ichiban Kuji? (What is Ichiban Kuji? Let's Understand the Basics)

Ichiban Kuji is an official character lottery service operated by Bandai Spirits. Its biggest feature is the "no losing tickets" system, where you are guaranteed to win some kind of prize with every ticket you draw. It is loved by fans both in Japan and abroad due to its many collaborations with popular anime and game works, allowing you to obtain limited figures and goods.

Unlike regular lotteries or gachas, Ichiban Kuji requires you to purchase a ticket for each draw and select one from a dedicated lottery box set up in stores. Depending on the prize written on the ticket you draw, you can receive your prize on the spot. The series released changes regularly, and new goods from popular works continue to appear, making it an unmissable event for collectors and fans.

No Losing Tickets (The No Losing System)

The biggest appeal of Ichiban Kuji is the "no losing system," where every ticket wins a prize. In other lotteries, there is a possibility of winning nothing, but with Ichiban Kuji, you are guaranteed to take home some kind of prize. This design allows beginners to participate with confidence, ensuring satisfaction regardless of which prize they win.

Prizes are ranked, ranging from A to G, and even include a Last One Prize, providing a wide variety of options. Even if you don't win a top prize like A or B, the lower-tier prizes also include attractive goods, allowing all participants to enjoy the experience. This no losing system is a major factor supporting the popularity of Ichiban Kuji.

Prize Ranks Explained (About Prize Ranks)

The prizes in Ichiban Kuji are structured in a hierarchy from A to G, with a special "Last One Prize" awarded to the person who draws the last ticket from the box. A prizes are the most rare and often include high-quality figures or limited items, making them popular as the highlight of the lottery. B and C prizes also feature many attractive prizes, including figures and plush toys that fans will love.

D to G prizes mainly consist of practical goods for everyday use, such as towels, keychains, and clear files. While they may seem plain at first glance, they are highly valued as collectible items due to their official design and limited availability. The Last One Prize is a special prize that can only be obtained by the person who draws the last ticket from the lottery box, and it is not uncommon for it to have a value comparable to or even greater than an A prize.

The winning probabilities for each prize vary by series, but A and B prizes are quite rare, typically only a few per box, while lower-tier prizes are designed to be more numerous. Beginners are recommended to first aim for the lower-tier prizes to understand the mechanics of Ichiban Kuji and gradually challenge themselves for the higher-tier prizes.

How Much Does It Cost? (How Much Does It Cost?)

The price per draw for Ichiban Kuji is typically set in the range of 680 to 900 yen. Prices fluctuate depending on the popularity of the works, the quality of the figures, and the volume of the prizes, so it is necessary to check for each series. For example, luxurious series that include large figures are generally set around 900 yen per draw, while smaller series focused on goods are typically set at around 680 yen.

Since prices are fixed by store and series, negotiation or discounts are not possible. Additionally, the amount paid for one draw includes the value of the prizes, and considering the no-loss system, it can be said that the pricing is reasonable compared to gacha machines and regular lotteries. For beginners, it is advisable to try 1-2 draws first and then decide whether to challenge further based on their budget.

Where to Buy Ichiban Kuji (どこで買える？購入場所ガイド)

Ichiban Kuji can be purchased at various stores across Japan. The most accessible option is convenience stores, where major chains like Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart carry them. It is also possible to purchase them at bookstores, hobby shops, and Namco amusement facilities.

Since the series and stock situation vary by store, if you have a specific series in mind, it is recommended to call the store in advance to confirm or use the store search function on the official website. Especially popular series often sell out shortly after release, so early action is important.

Convenience Stores (コンビニが一番簡単)

The most recommended option for beginners is purchasing at convenience stores. Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart have locations throughout Japan, and many are open 24 hours, making it easy to stop by at your convenience. The Ichiban Kuji displays are often set up in prominent places within the store, making them easy to find even for first-timers.

At convenience stores, the common method is to order at the register and receive a voucher. You can simply tell the staff, "Ichiban Kuji, please," and they will assist you. If you are unsure about Japanese, just pointing at the display will also get the message across, making it appealing to purchase without feeling the language barrier. Additionally, convenience stores can be visited while doing other shopping, allowing for an easy way to enjoy Ichiban Kuji.

Official Shops & Hobby Stores (公式ショップ・ホビーショップ)

If you want a wider selection and to choose from multiple series, Ichiban Kuji official shops, bookstores, and hobby shops are recommended. Official shops often have series that are not available at convenience stores and a variety of the latest popular works, expanding your options.

Bookstores and hobby shops like Animate and Gamers also carry Ichiban Kuji, and the stores are filled with anime and game merchandise. In these stores, the Ichiban Kuji displays are large, allowing you to see at a glance which series are available, making them suitable for those who want to take their time choosing. Additionally, Namco amusement facilities also carry them, allowing you to enjoy Ichiban Kuji while playing at the game center.

How to Find Stores (店舗を探す方法)

You can easily find stores that handle Ichiban Kuji using the store search function on the official website. The official site allows you to filter searches by region and series name, so you can check in advance which stores have which series available for purchase. Additionally, if you download the Ichiban Kuji official app, you can search for the nearest store using GPS functionality from your smartphone.

If you are targeting a specific series, it is best to call the store to inquire before the release date. Popular series can sell out within hours of their release, so confirming in advance and arriving early is key to success.

How to Buy at Stores: Step-by-Step Guide (店舗での買い方:完全ガイド)

The process of purchasing Ichiban Kuji at a store is very simple. Even first-timers can smoothly make a purchase by following the steps below. Here, we will explain the specific procedures using a convenience store as an example. Even if you cannot speak Japanese, you can manage with visual signs or pointing, so don’t worry.

There may be slight differences depending on the store, but the basic flow is the same everywhere. You look for the Ichiban Kuji display, choose your favorite series, place your order at the register, draw a ticket, and receive your prize. Let’s go through each step in order.

Step 1: Find the Display (ステップ1:ディスプレイを探す)

Once you enter the store, first look for the Ichiban Kuji display. In convenience stores, it is often set up in prominent locations near the register, at the entrance, or close to the magazine section. The display is decorated with colorful posters and samples of the prizes, so it should catch your eye immediately.

The display showcases the titles and characters of the currently available series, as well as the prizes for each category. Check what prizes are available from A prize to the last one, and see if it’s a series you want. If you can’t find it, you can ask a staff member, "Where is Ichiban Kuji?" or show them on your smartphone using a translation app.

Step 2: Choose Your Kuji (ステップ2:くじを選ぶ)

Once you find your favorite series on the display, decide whether to make a purchase. The price for one ticket is usually between 680 and 900 yen, which is clearly stated on the display, so check it in advance. Depending on your budget, you can decide whether to try just once or draw multiple times.

If there are multiple series lined up, compare the prize lineups of each and choose the series that has the character or goods you want the most. Popular series may have limited stock, so you can also check the remaining quantity with the staff.

Step 3: Go to the Register (ステップ3:レジで注文)

Once you have decided on the series to purchase, head to the register. Tell the staff, "I would like to buy Ichiban Kuji (number of times)." If you cannot speak Japanese, you can point to the poster or series name on the display and indicate the number with your fingers. Additionally, showing the phrase "I want to buy Ichiban Kuji (series name), one time please" on your smartphone translation app is also effective.

When the staff takes your order, they will give you a ticket. The ticket states your right to draw a lottery, and you will head to the lottery box with it. In some stores, there is also a style where you draw the lottery directly at the register, but in that case, please follow the staff's instructions.

Step 4: Draw Your Ticket (ステップ4:くじを引く)

Once you have your ticket, it's time to draw the lottery. The lottery box is usually set up near the display and has a hole at the top. Put your hand in and pull out one lottery ticket. The tickets are designed to be torn off along perforations, and you will open it on the spot after drawing.

When drawing the lottery, take your time and choose slowly without rushing. The odds of winning are the same regardless of which ticket you choose, but trusting your intuition to make a selection is one of the joys of the Ichiban Kuji. The opened ticket will indicate a rank such as A prize, B prize, or C prize, so you will immediately know what you have won.

Step 5: Receive Your Prize (ステップ5:景品を受け取る)

After drawing the lottery, check the rank of the prize indicated on the ticket and take it to the register. When you show the opened ticket to the staff, they will give you the corresponding prize. The prizes are items that were displayed in advance, and you can receive them on the spot.

Once you receive your prize, lightly check for any damage or defects. If there are any issues, you can inform the staff on the spot. Once everything is complete, put it in your shopping bag and take it home. This concludes your first Ichiban Kuji experience.

How to Buy Online (オンラインでの買い方)

For those who do not have time to go to the store or do not have a nearby store that carries it, "Ichiban Kuji ONLINE" is recommended for online purchases. Ichiban Kuji ONLINE is an official online service operated by Bandai Spirits, allowing you to draw lotteries and receive prizes by mail from the comfort of your home. Just like purchasing in-store, there is no losing ticket system, and you are guaranteed to win a prize with every ticket you draw.

The online version allows you to check stock status in real-time, making it convenient to see if the series you want is still available. Additionally, since you do not need to go to the store, it is ideal for busy individuals or those living far away. Below, we will explain how to purchase online in detail.

What is Ichiban Kuji ONLINE? (一番くじONLINEとは?)

Ichiban Kuji ONLINE is an official service that allows you to purchase Ichiban Kuji sold in stores via the internet. You can access it from a computer or smartphone, select the lottery box of your favorite series, and draw the lottery online. The prizes corresponding to the tickets you draw will be delivered to your home later, allowing you to enjoy Ichiban Kuji without going to the store.

The advantages of the online version include being able to purchase at any time, easily checking stock status at a glance, and comparing multiple series. However, there may be a surge in access on the release day of popular series, but if you register as a member in advance, you can proceed with the purchase smoothly. The disadvantages are that shipping costs are additional and it may take several days to a week for the prizes to arrive.

How to Register (会員登録の方法)

To use Ichiban Kuji ONLINE, you first need to create a "BANDAI Namco ID". Access the official website, click the "New Member Registration" button, and enter the required information. Register your basic information such as email address, password, name, date of birth, and address, and agree to the terms of use to create your account.

After registration, a confirmation email will be sent to your email address, so click the link provided to activate your account. This will allow you to access all the features of Ichiban Kuji ONLINE. Account registration is free, and once registered, it can be used for all future purchases, so it is recommended to take a little time to register initially. Even foreigners can create an account if they have a Japanese address.

How to Purchase (購入の流れ)

Once your account registration is complete, log in to the official website and select the lottery box for the series you want to purchase. The top page displays a list of currently available series, where you can check the remaining stock and prize lineup for each series. When you find the series you want, click the "Purchase" button and select the number of times you want to draw.

Payment methods available include credit card, PayPay, and convenience store payment. Once the payment is completed, you can draw the lottery online. The prizes will be randomly determined on the screen, and the prizes you win will be displayed. After that, the prizes will be delivered to the registered address, so wait for their arrival. Shipping costs vary by series and region, but are usually around 500 to 800 yen.

Manners & Etiquette (マナーとエチケット:守るべきルール)

When enjoying Ichiban Kuji, it is very important to observe manners and etiquette. In Japan, consideration for others and adherence to store rules are deeply rooted in culture, and Ichiban Kuji is no exception. Especially for beginners, it is essential to understand the following rules well and have an enjoyable experience while avoiding trouble.

By observing manners, you can maintain good relationships with other fans and avoid causing inconvenience to the store. Additionally, violating manners not only deprives others of enjoyment but can also lead to receiving warnings from the store. Below, we will explain the basic manners to observe in Ichiban Kuji in detail.

Purchase Limits (購入制限を守る)

Many stores have purchase limits for Ichiban Kuji. Generally, there are restrictions such as "up to 5 times per person" or "up to 10 times per person", which are measures to provide fair opportunities to many fans. Popular series often sell out shortly after release, so if one person buys in large quantities, it can prevent others from enjoying it.

Purchase limits vary by store, so check at the register or look for notices displayed. If you try to purchase beyond the limit, you may be refused by the staff. Additionally, attempting to bypass the limit by lining up multiple times at the register is also considered a violation of manners. It is important to follow the rules and enjoy fairly with other fans.

Be Considerate of Others (他の人への配慮)

When drawing Ichiban Kuji, be sure to keep consideration for others in mind. Especially during busy times or on release days of popular series, many people are waiting to draw. Taking a long time to decide when drawing or occupying the display area can be a nuisance to others.

Also, after drawing a lottery ticket, please promptly receive your prize and give way to the next person. While it is important to enjoy yourself, do not forget that others want to enjoy it just as much. Following the order and having a spirit of sharing is an important etiquette in Japanese culture.

Respect Store Rules (店舗ルールを尊重)

Each store may have its own unique rules. For example, rules such as "Do not touch the contents of the lottery before opening," "Do not touch the display prizes," and "No photography allowed" exist. These measures are in place to ensure that all fans can enjoy fairly, so please make sure to follow them.

Please also follow the staff's instructions. There may be unique procedures for drawing lottery tickets and receiving prizes at each store. If you have any questions, asking the staff can help you proceed with your purchase smoothly. By respecting the rules, you can avoid troubles and enjoy the lottery comfortably.

Avoid Reselling Practices (転売目的の購入は避ける)

Buying lottery prizes in bulk for resale purposes is considered a breach of etiquette. Purchasing for resale deprives other fans of the opportunity to draw tickets and causes market prices to be unfairly inflated. Particularly, buying in large quantities to target top prizes can receive strong criticism from other fans.

The lottery is a service for fans who love characters and goods to enjoy. Drawing tickets for prizes you truly want is the original way to enjoy the lottery. Avoid purchasing for resale and enjoy the lottery in a fair manner.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them (よくある間違いと対策)

When beginners start with the lottery, they can fall into several typical mistakes. By knowing these failures in advance, you can enjoy the lottery smoothly. Below, we will detail four representative mistakes that beginners tend to make and their respective countermeasures.

To avoid mistakes, prior preparation and correct knowledge are important. In particular, checking stock and choosing the right timing are crucial points for achieving satisfactory results in the lottery. Let’s look at specific examples of mistakes and countermeasures below.

Mistake 1: Not Checking Stock (在庫確認を忘れる)

The biggest mistake beginners often make is heading to the store without checking stock. Popular series often sell out shortly after release, and a few days after the release date, most tickets may have already been drawn. Especially for top prizes like A and B prizes, it is not uncommon for them to sell out within a few hours of the start of sales.

To avoid this mistake, it is important to check stock in advance by calling the store or checking the stock status on the official website or app. Additionally, going to the store first thing on the morning of the release date increases your chances of drawing tickets while stock is plentiful. For popular series, checking information before the release and acting strategically is the key to success.

Mistake 2: Ignoring Purchase Limits (購入制限を無視する)

It is often seen as a mistake to try to draw a large number of lottery tickets without knowing the purchase limits. Many stores have restrictions such as "up to 5 times per person," and if you try to purchase beyond this limit, you will be refused by the staff. Additionally, attempting to make a large purchase with friends without knowing the limits can also be considered a breach of etiquette.

As a countermeasure, it is important to check the notices around the display or cash register before drawing the lottery and to understand the purchase limits. Even when going with multiple people, each person should purchase within the limits and adhere to the store's rules. By following the limits, you can enjoy the experience fairly with other fans.

Mistake 3: Poor Timing (タイミングが悪い)

Going to the store during busy hours or long after the release date is also a common mistake made by beginners. If you go during busy times, there may be many other customers, and your chances of drawing a lottery ticket may be limited. Additionally, if a significant amount of time has passed since the release date, the higher prizes may have already been drawn, leaving only the lower prizes available.

To avoid timing mistakes, it is effective to go right after the store opens on the release date or to aim for relatively quiet times, such as weekday afternoons. Also, by checking the release schedule on the official website and planning your visit, you increase the likelihood of achieving better results.

Mistake 4: Not Understanding the System (仕組みの理解不足)

There are also mistakes made by having excessive expectations without fully understanding the system of Ichiban Kuji. For example, some may misunderstand that "drawing once guarantees a prize A" or think they can freely choose their prizes. It is essential to understand that Ichiban Kuji is based on randomness, and the probability of winning higher prizes is very low.

As a countermeasure, it is advisable to research the basic mechanics and probabilities of Ichiban Kuji in advance and to have realistic expectations. Since there is no losing system, you will receive some prize regardless of which one you win, but if you aim for higher prizes, you need to be prepared to try multiple times. By understanding the system, you can enjoy Ichiban Kuji without disappointment.

FAQ (よくある質問)

We have compiled frequently asked questions from Ichiban Kuji beginners. We will clearly answer the common doubts and concerns that first-time challengers may have. By reading the following questions and answers, you should be able to enjoy Ichiban Kuji with more peace of mind.

Can I Buy Without Speaking Japanese? (日本語が話せなくても買える?)

Yes, it is entirely possible to purchase Ichiban Kuji even if you cannot speak Japanese. In many convenience stores and shops, simply pointing at the display will be understood by the staff. Additionally, using a smartphone translation app to display "One Ichiban Kuji, please" and showing it to the staff is also effective.

Furthermore, the Ichiban Kuji displays feature visually clear posters and prize samples, allowing you to make a purchase without feeling the language barrier. The payment at the register is also reassuring, as the amount is displayed. Even for foreigners who cannot speak Japanese, please feel free to give it a try.

Can I Choose My Prize? (景品は選べる?)

No, Ichiban Kuji is a completely random system, and you cannot choose your prizes freely. Based on the results of the lottery, you will receive a prize corresponding to either A prize through G prize, or the Last One prize. This randomness is the essence of Ichiban Kuji, and the thrill of not knowing which prize you will get is part of the enjoyment.

If you want a specific prize, you can either try multiple times until you win that prize or purchase it from the secondary market, but the original way to enjoy Ichiban Kuji is to relish the results of your random draws.

Can I Return or Exchange? (返品・交換は可能?)

Basically, you cannot return or exchange prizes drawn from Ichiban Kuji. Once you draw the lottery, the result is confirmed, and you are obligated to receive the prize. This is a rule to maintain the fairness of the lottery. However, if there is a clear defect or damage to the prize, you may be able to get assistance by consulting the store where you purchased it.

It is important to check the condition of the prize upon receipt and inform the staff immediately if there are any issues.

How Many Times Should I Draw? (何回引くべき?)

The number of times you should draw depends on your budget and purpose. For beginners, it is recommended to start with 1 to 3 draws. This allows you to understand the mechanics and atmosphere of Ichiban Kuji and find a way to enjoy it that suits you. If you aim for specific top prizes, you need to be prepared to try more than 10 times, considering the probabilities.

However, there is no need to force yourself to make a large purchase. Enjoying within your budget is the most important thing. Also, in stores with purchase limits, make sure to follow the rules while trying multiple times.

Tips for Winning Top Prizes (上位賞を当てるコツは?)

There is no guaranteed way to win top prizes, but there are some tips. First, going right after the store opens on the release date increases your chances of drawing from a well-stocked inventory. Additionally, checking with the staff about the remaining number of lottery tickets can help you know if top prizes are still available.

Furthermore, buying in bulk can increase your chances of winning. However, due to purchase limits, make sure to follow the rules while trying. For more detailed strategies and probability calculations, refer to the complete guide in the parent article.

What if the Series I Want is Sold Out? (欲しいシリーズが売り切れていたら?)

If the series you want is sold out, consider looking for other stores or purchasing from Ichiban Kuji ONLINE. By using the store search function on the official website, you can find nearby stores with stock available. Additionally, the online version allows you to check stock status in real-time, reducing the risk of sold-out items.

If you still cannot get it, waiting for the next restock or the release of a new series is also an option. Popular series may be restocked, so be sure to check the official site and social media for the latest information.

Is It Worth the Money? (お金を払う価値はある?)

Whether Ichiban Kuji is "worth the money" depends on individual enjoyment. Since you can obtain goods of your favorite characters or series, it is a highly satisfying service for fans. With the no-loss system, you will receive some prize regardless of which one you win, so you will not completely lose out.

However, if you aim for the top prizes, you will need to challenge multiple times, which may increase your budget. By enjoying it in a way that suits your budget and purpose, the Ichiban Kuji will become a worthwhile experience.

Summary: Let's Start Enjoying Ichiban Kuji

Ichiban Kuji is a lottery with no losing tickets, a unique form of entertainment in Japan that anyone can enjoy casually. This article explained all the information beginners should know, from the basic mechanism of Ichiban Kuji, where to buy it, how to purchase it specifically, the manners to observe, common mistakes and their countermeasures, to frequently asked questions.

First, I recommend trying it 1-2 times at a convenience store. The series of steps from finding the display, ordering at the register, drawing the lottery, and receiving the prize is easier than you might think. Even if you cannot speak Japanese, you can purchase without any issues by using pointing or translation apps, so rest assured.

Moreover, by observing manners and etiquette, you can enjoy it without bothering other fans or the store. Adhering to purchase limits, being considerate of others, and respecting store rules are key to a comfortable Ichiban Kuji experience. It is important to not be afraid of failure and to try it at least once.

Ichiban Kuji is an entertainment that attracts with its randomness. While aiming for the top prizes is good, enjoying whichever prize you win should be the top priority. Enjoy it within your budget without straining, and savor the joy of acquiring goods of your favorite characters.

For more detailed strategies, probability calculations, and methods for bulk buying, please refer to the parent article "Complete Guide to Ichiban Kuji." There, deeper knowledge and strategies are introduced. Beginners should first grasp the basics in this article, and once you get used to it, check the parent article for advanced information.

Through Ichiban Kuji, enjoy Japanese anime and game culture more deeply. If you are a first-timer, please feel free to give it a try. A wonderful encounter with great prizes is surely waiting for you.