Lottery Purchase Guide by Convenience Store | Differences and Tips for Buying at Seven, Lawson, and FamilyMart

Advantages of Buying Lottery Tickets at Convenience Stores (Why Buy at Convenience Stores)

Purchasing lottery tickets at convenience stores is a very convenient and practical option, especially for foreigners. With over 56,000 stores nationwide, convenience stores are the most accessible places to obtain lottery tickets.

The biggest advantage of buying lottery tickets at convenience stores is their overwhelming number of locations and the convenience of being open 24 hours. The three major chains, Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, have over 51,000 stores across the country, making them easy to find in tourist areas, around train stations, and in residential neighborhoods. You can purchase tickets even late at night or early in the morning, allowing for flexible travel schedules.

For foreign travelers, the multilingual support at convenience stores is particularly important. Many convenience stores have English signage at the registers and accommodate various payment methods, including credit cards and electronic money. Additionally, convenience stores in tourist areas often have staff who can speak English, creating an environment where language barriers are less of an issue.

Compared to specialty stores and official shops, convenience stores are appealing because they are easy to drop by. It is easy to check lottery tickets while shopping or to visit multiple stores to search for stock. There are also series exclusive to convenience stores, meaning there are prizes that can only be obtained at these locations.

Lottery Tickets at Seven-Eleven (Seven-Eleven)

Seven-Eleven is Japan's largest convenience store chain, with over 21,000 stores nationwide. It has the highest number of stores that handle lottery tickets, making it easy to find them in any region. Not only in urban areas but also in rural and tourist locations, it is the most reliable convenience store when searching for lottery tickets during your travels.

A characteristic of Seven-Eleven is its wide range of lottery ticket genres. From anime, games, special effects, to character goods, there is a diverse lineup available. Due to the large number of stores, it is relatively easy to find stock even for popular series, and by visiting multiple stores on the release day, the chances of getting your desired prize increase.

By utilizing the official Seven-Eleven app, you can search for nearby stores and check new product information. The app is displayed in Japanese, but foreign visitors can use their smartphone's translation function to navigate it. Additionally, Seven-Eleven is not only located in urban areas but also has many stores in airports and train stations, making it convenient as a last chance before returning home.

Seven-Eleven Exclusive Series (Seven-Eleven Exclusive Series)

The Seven-Eleven exclusive lottery series is a lineup that fans of special effects and robot anime cannot miss. In the past, popular series such as "Gundam," "Kamen Rider," and "Ultraman" have been sold exclusively at Seven-Eleven. These series are not available at other convenience stores or shops, making them a valuable opportunity for fans.

The Seven-Eleven exclusive series is also known for its high-quality figures and goods. Particularly in the Gundam series, intricate plastic models and special edition figures in metallic colors appear as prizes, boasting high popularity among collectors. The Kamen Rider series also offers attractive items for fans, such as miniature transformation belts and rider figures.

The release information for the Seven Limited Series can be checked on the official Seven-Eleven website or their official Twitter account. Additionally, information will also be published on in-store posters and the Ichiban Kuji official website, so it is advisable to check before your visit to Japan. The limited series is very popular and tends to sell out quickly, so it is recommended to visit the store first thing in the morning on the release date.

Purchasing Tips at Seven-Eleven

To ensure you can purchase Ichiban Kuji at Seven-Eleven, there are a few tips. First, the most reliable way to check stock is to call the store directly. You can find the store's phone number by searching on Google Maps or the official Seven-Eleven website. If you cannot speak Japanese, you can ask, "Ichiban Kuji arimasu ka?" or use a translation app to convey, "Is there stock of Ichiban Kuji?"

Recommended stores are those located a bit away from the station in residential areas or suburban locations. Stores in tourist areas or near stations have high competition and sell out quickly. On the other hand, stores catering to local residents tend to have relatively more stock available. Additionally, larger stores often have a greater supply, so they usually have more stock.

On the release date, the best times to target are early in the morning from 7 AM to 8 AM or late at night from midnight to 2 AM. For popular series, it is not uncommon for them to sell out by the morning, so early action is important. By listing nearby stores on the Seven-Eleven app and planning an efficient route to visit multiple stores in advance, your success rate will increase.

Lawson

Lawson is a major convenience store chain with about 14,000 locations nationwide, particularly strong in entertainment-related Ichiban Kuji. They offer a wide variety of Ichiban Kuji centered around pop culture content such as anime, manga, and games, gaining high support especially from younger audiences and anime fans.

A significant feature of Lawson is the purchasing system using an in-store terminal called Loppi. Some Ichiban Kuji require you to issue a purchase ticket via Loppi before paying at the register. This method may be confusing at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes easy and minimizes communication with staff, making it a convenient system for foreigners who are not proficient in Japanese.

The Lawson official app allows you to check new product information and release schedules for Ichiban Kuji. Additionally, Lawson also operates a ticket sales service called "Lawson Ticket," which frequently hosts event-related Ichiban Kuji and collaboration projects. If you are a fan of anime or games, Lawson's Ichiban Kuji is a must-check.

Lawson Exclusive Series

The Lawson exclusive Ichiban Kuji series mainly features popular anime and manga works. In the past, series such as "One Piece," "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba," "Jujutsu Kaisen," and "My Hero Academia" have been sold exclusively at Lawson. These series offer a variety of merchandise as prizes, including character figures, towels, acrylic stands, and can badges.

The appeal of the Lawson exclusive series lies in the many collaborations with the latest anime. Ichiban Kuji is often released in conjunction with the airing of television anime, allowing you to obtain timely character goods. There are also exclusive series released in conjunction with theatrical anime releases, making them popular as movie memorabilia.

For foreign anime fans, the Lawson exclusive series is a valuable item that can only be obtained in Japan. In particular, the A and B prize figures are of high quality and can sometimes be traded at high prices overseas. Lawson's Ichiban Kuji can be said to have a lineup that is a must-see for anime goods collectors.

How to Use Loppi

Loppi is a multifunction terminal installed in Lawson stores. The method for issuing a purchase ticket for Ichiban Kuji is very simple. First, select "Various Service Menu" or "Entertainment" on the Loppi terminal screen. Next, look for and touch the Ichiban Kuji icon.

The screen will display a list of currently available Ichiban Kuji, so select the series you want to purchase. Then, choose the number of times you want to draw (usually about 1 to 10 times) and press the confirmation button. A receipt (application ticket) will be printed from Loppi, which you will receive. Take this application ticket to the register within 30 minutes and pay the fee to complete your purchase.

Even if you cannot read Japanese, it is designed to be operable by looking at the images and icons on the screen. If you are unsure, you can use a smartphone translation app to translate the screen or tell a staff member "Loppi Ichiban Kuji" to get assistance. The advantage of the Loppi method is that it maintains privacy better than drawing lots directly at the register, allowing you to choose calmly.

FamilyMart

FamilyMart operates about 16,000 stores nationwide and is a convenience store chain positioned between Seven-Eleven and Lawson. The lineup of Ichiban Kuji is also balanced, handling a wide range of genres such as anime, characters, games, and special effects. FamilyMart's strength lies in its strong offerings of Ichiban Kuji related to character goods like Disney and Sanrio.

Like Lawson, FamilyMart also has an in-store terminal called FamiPort. Using FamiPort, you can issue purchase tickets for Ichiban Kuji or check stock information. Additionally, by using the smartphone payment app FamiPay, you can earn points and use coupons.

FamilyMart is also characterized by having many Ichiban Kuji targeted at families and female customers. There are many cute character goods and practical prizes, and the series for children is well-stocked. The lineup is enjoyable not only for tourists but also for foreigners visiting Japan on family trips.

FamilyMart Exclusive Series

The FamilyMart exclusive Ichiban Kuji series centers around globally popular characters such as Disney, Sanrio (Hello Kitty, My Melody, etc.), and Pokémon. These series are popular among a wide range of age groups, especially receiving high support from female fans and families.

The prizes in the FamilyMart exclusive series are characterized by being practical goods. There is a rich variety of items that can be used in daily life, such as towels, pouches, eco-bags, tableware, and stationery. For tourists, many of these goods are also ideal as souvenirs and are popular as travel mementos.

In addition, FamilyMart offers many seasonal limited series. Special lottery tickets are released for seasonal events such as Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Halloween, allowing you to obtain uniquely designed goods available for a limited time. It is also recommended to check the seasonal limited series according to your visit period.

How to Use FamiPort

FamiPort is a terminal installed inside FamilyMart stores, which has similar functions to Loppi. To purchase a lottery ticket, first select the "Tickets & Entertainment" or "Lottery" menu on the terminal screen. A list of currently available lottery tickets will be displayed, so touch the desired series.

Next, select the number of purchases and press the confirmation button, and a application ticket will be printed from the FamiPort. Bring this application ticket to the register within 30 minutes and complete the payment to finalize your purchase. Payment methods include cash, credit cards, electronic money, and FamilyPay, among others.

The FamiPort screen is displayed in Japanese, but it uses many images and icons, making it intuitive to operate. If you have trouble operating it, you can ask a staff member for support by saying "FamiPort Lottery." Additionally, downloading the FamilyPay app allows you to check lottery information in advance, making your purchase smoother.

Comparison of Three Chains

The three major convenience store chains, 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, each have different characteristics and strengths. When deciding which convenience store to choose for purchasing lottery tickets, it depends on your purpose and preferences. Here, we will compare the differences among the three companies in detail and explain their respective advantages.

In terms of the number of stores, 7-Eleven is overwhelmingly at the top with about 21,000 stores. Next is FamilyMart with about 16,000 stores, followed by Lawson with about 14,000 stores. For tourists, 7-Eleven is the easiest to find and allows for easier visits to multiple locations. On the other hand, Lawson and FamilyMart are concentrated in urban areas and around train stations, making them relatively easy to find even in tourist spots.

In terms of the trends of limited series, 7-Eleven is strong in special effects and robot themes, Lawson in anime and manga themes, and FamilyMart in character and Disney themes. By choosing a convenience store that matches your preferences, you can efficiently find the lottery tickets you are looking for.

Comparison Table

Item	Seven-Eleven	Lawson	FamilyMart
Number of Stores	About 21,000 stores	About 14,000 stores	About 16,000 stores
Business Hours	24 hours (most stores)	24 hours (most stores)	24 hours (most stores)
Trend of Limited Series	Gundam, Kamen Rider, Ultraman (Special Effects/Robot)	One Piece, Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen (Anime/Manga)	Disney, Sanrio, Pokémon (Character)
Purchase Method	Direct order at the register	Register order or Loppi terminal	Register order or FamiPort terminal
Official App	Seven-Eleven App	Lawson App	Famipay App
Payment Methods	Cash, Credit Card, Nanaco, Transportation IC, etc.	Cash, Credit Card, PayPay, Transportation IC, etc.	Cash, Credit Card, Famipay, Transportation IC, etc.
Multilingual Support	English signage at tourist locations	English signage at tourist locations	English signage at tourist locations
Abundance of Stock	★★★★★ (many stores)	★★★★☆ (urban areas)	★★★★☆ (balanced)
Convenience for Foreigners	★★★★★ (available everywhere)	★★★★☆ (no conversation needed with terminal use)	★★★★☆ (no conversation needed with terminal use)

As can be seen from this comparison table, each convenience store has distinct differences. Seven-Eleven is characterized by its large number of stores and strength in special effects series, Lawson has a rich lineup for anime fans, and FamilyMart features many character goods and practical prizes. Choose the best convenience store according to your preferences and purposes.

Which One to Choose

The choice of convenience store varies depending on your purpose. Please refer to the following guide to select the best convenience store.

Recommended for Seven-Eleven:
- People who like special effects/robot series such as Gundam, Kamen Rider, and Ultraman
- Those who want to ensure they can find a store (most stores)
- People who want to visit multiple stores to search for stock
- Those who want to buy lottery tickets even in rural areas or tourist spots

Recommended for Lawson:
- People who like popular anime such as One Piece, Demon Slayer, and Jujutsu Kaisen
- Those who want to avoid conversations in Japanese (purchase tickets can be issued at the Loppi terminal)
- People who want to quickly obtain the latest anime merchandise
- Those who shop in urban areas or around train stations

Recommended for FamilyMart:
- People who like character goods such as Disney, Sanrio, and Pokémon
- Those who want practical prizes (towels, pouches, tableware, etc.)
- People looking for souvenirs for their family
- Those who want to collect cute design goods

In conclusion, remember that for special effects/robot series, Seven-Eleven is best; for anime series, Lawson; and for character series, FamilyMart. Of course, all three companies may also handle common series, so it is recommended to check multiple convenience stores.

Step-by-Step Guide for International Buyers

The procedure for purchasing Ichiban Kuji at a convenience store can be easily mastered even by foreigners who do not speak Japanese. Here, we will explain in detail, step by step, from entering the store to receiving the prizes. If you understand this procedure in advance, you can make your purchase smoothly.

Ichiban Kuji is usually displayed near the cash register or in a special corner of the store. There are large posters and displays, so you should be able to find it right away. If you can't find it, you can ask a store clerk, "Ichiban Kuji arimasu ka?" (Do you have Ichiban Kuji?) or show them a screen on your smartphone that says "Ichiban Kuji."

The Japanese needed at the time of purchase is minimal, and in most cases, you can manage with pointing and gestures. Additionally, most convenience stores have simple English guidance, and you can use credit cards or electronic money, so it's not a problem if you don't have cash. Please refer to the detailed steps below and feel free to challenge yourself with Ichiban Kuji.

In-Store Purchase Steps

Step 1: Find Ichiban Kuji
Once you enter the convenience store, look for the special space around the cash register. Ichiban Kuji is usually displayed with colorful posters, and there are often samples of the prizes on display. If you can't find it, show the clerk a note that says "Ichiban Kuji" or pronounce "Ichiban Kuji."

Step 2: Go to the Cash Register
Once you find the Ichiban Kuji you want to purchase, head to the cash register. You do not need to bring the actual lottery box (the box or display containing the lottery tickets) with you. Inform the clerk at the register that you want to draw an Ichiban Kuji. If you cannot speak Japanese, you can point to the Ichiban Kuji poster or say "This one, please" in English.

Step 3: Indicate the Number of Draws
The clerk will ask, "How many times will you draw?" You can indicate the number with your fingers or respond in English with "One" (1 time) or "Two" (2 times). In many stores, the price is around 700 yen per draw, but prices may vary by series, so be sure to check the price on the poster in advance.

Step 4: Draw the Lottery
The clerk will present the lottery box, so draw one lottery ticket (or the number you specified). The lottery ticket will indicate the prize level (A prize, B prize, C prize, etc.). When you hand the drawn ticket to the clerk, they will give you the corresponding prize.

Step 5: Payment and Receipt
Pay the fee and receive your prize. If the prize is large, they can put it in a bag for you. Be sure to get a receipt as well. This completes your purchase.

Useful Japanese Phrases

Here are some basic Japanese phrases that are useful when purchasing Ichiban Kuji at a convenience store. The Romanized version and English translation are also provided for your pronunciation reference.

Basic Phrases:
- "Do you have Ichiban Kuji?" (Ichiban Kuji wa arimasu ka?) = Do you have Ichiban Kuji?
- "This one, please." (Kore wo onegai shimasu) = This one, please.
- "I'll draw once." (Ikkai hikimasu) = I'll draw once.
- "I'll draw twice." (Nikai hikimasu) = I'll draw twice.
- "Can I pay by credit card?" (Credit card de haraemasu ka?) = Can I pay by credit card?
- "Thank you very much." (Arigatou gozaimasu) = Thank you very much.

Question Phrases:
- "Do you still have stock?" (Mada zaiko wa arimasu ka?) = Do you still have stock?
- "Is the A Prize still available?" (A-shou wa mada arimasu ka?) = Is the A Prize still available?
- "How much is it?" (Ikura desu ka?) = How much is it?

If you note these phrases on your smartphone or show this guide, communication with store staff will be smooth. Additionally, using a translation app to show the screen can also be effective.

Payment Methods

Japanese convenience stores accommodate a variety of payment methods, making it easy for foreign travelers to use. Below are the main payment methods introduced.

Cash:
Payments are made with Japanese yen bills and coins. The 1,000 yen, 5,000 yen, and 10,000 yen bills are commonly used. Since Ichiban Kuji costs around 700 yen per draw, having a 1,000 yen bill ready will make things smoother. Rest assured that change will definitely be returned.

Credit Card:
Most convenience stores accept major international credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and JCB. Payment is completed by simply inserting the card into the register terminal or tapping it. Sometimes a signature or PIN may be required.

E-Money (IC Card / E-Money):
Transportation IC cards like Suica, PASMO, ICOCA, and e-money like nanaco (Seven-Eleven) and WAON (FamilyMart) can be used. Payment can be made instantly by just touching the card reader. It is convenient for tourists to use a Suica card purchased at the station.

QR Code Payment:
Smartphone payment apps like PayPay, LINE Pay, and Famipay are also available. However, it is often necessary to register a Japanese bank account or credit card in advance, so cash or credit cards are recommended for short-term travelers.

Stock Checking & Store Selection Tips

The popular Ichiban Kuji series often sells out quickly after release, making stock confirmation and store selection very important. Especially for foreign travelers, who have limited stay durations, it is necessary to efficiently find stores with available stock. Here, we will explain specific methods for stock confirmation and the characteristics of stores that tend to have stock remaining.

The basics of stock confirmation involve combining multiple methods. By using the official app, social media, and direct confirmation with stores, you can obtain the most accurate information. Additionally, acting early on the release day is key to success. Popular series can sell out within hours after opening, so prior research and early action are crucial.

How to Check Stock

1. Official Apps and Websites:
You can check new product information and release schedules on the official apps of Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart. However, real-time stock information is not displayed, so these are merely tools to know "which series will be released where." The Ichiban Kuji official website (https://bpnavi.jp/kuji) allows you to check the series scheduled for release and the types of stores that will carry them.

2. X (Twitter) Search:
By searching "Ichiban Kuji [series name] stock" or "Ichiban Kuji [convenience store name] [region name]" on Twitter (X), you can find people tweeting real-time stock information. Additionally, searching for "Ichiban Kuji sold out" will let you know which stores have sold out. Be sure to use the hashtag "#IchibanKuji" as well.

3. Phone Confirmation with Stores:
The most reliable method is to directly call the store to confirm stock. Search for nearby convenience stores on Google Maps and check their phone numbers. When calling, ask, "Do you have stock of Ichiban Kuji [series name]?" If you cannot speak Japanese, you can use a translation app or ask in English, "Ichiban Kuji [series name] stock?" Many store clerks will understand.

Best Stores & Times

Characteristics of Stores with Remaining Stock:
- Stores in residential areas away from stations: Few tourists and commuters, low competition
- Large suburban stores: High stock levels due to larger orders
- Stores open late at night: From midnight to around 6 AM, there are fewer customers, increasing the likelihood of remaining stock
- Stores in office districts: Fewer people on weekends, making them a good target

Stores to Avoid:
- Stores inside or in front of stations: High foot traffic, likely to sell out quickly
- Convenience stores in tourist areas: High competition due to many tourists
- Small stores: Low stock levels, likely to run out quickly

Recommended Times:
- Right after opening on release day (7 AM - 8 AM): The time with the most abundant stock
- Midnight to 2 AM: New stock may arrive, and there are fewer people
- Weekday afternoons (10 AM - 2 PM): Lower competition than on weekends

Times to Avoid:
- Evenings on release day: Popular series are likely already sold out
- Mornings on weekends: Many people come to buy, leading to high competition

By utilizing these tips, even foreign travelers can efficiently purchase Ichiban Kuji. Planning to visit multiple stores and targeting early time slots is the key to success.

Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting (FAQ & Troubleshooting)

When purchasing Ichiban Kuji at a convenience store, we introduce specific solutions to common questions and troubles that foreigners often have. By knowing this information in advance, you can enjoy Ichiban Kuji with peace of mind.

Purchasing Ichiban Kuji at a convenience store is generally simple, but there are rules regarding purchase limits and the handling of prizes. Additionally, it is reassuring to know how to deal with any troubles that may arise. Below, we explain specific cases.

Purchase-Related Questions

Q1: Are there purchase limits for Ichiban Kuji?
A: Generally, there are no purchase limits, and you can draw as many times as you want as long as there is stock available. However, some stores may impose limits such as "one person can draw once" or "one person can draw up to five times." Especially on the release day of popular series, there may be restrictions to ensure that many people can participate. If you are concerned, it is advisable to ask the staff before purchasing, "How many times can I draw? (Nankai made hikemasu ka?)"

Q2: If I draw multiple times and win the same prize, can I exchange it?
A: No, since Ichiban Kuji is a lottery format, you cannot exchange prizes even if you win the same one multiple times. Generally, exchanges or returns of prizes are not accepted. However, if there is a clear defect or damage to the prize, you may be able to get assistance by informing the staff on the spot.

Q3: Can I make a reservation in advance?
A: Reservations for Ichiban Kuji are generally not possible. It is common to go to the store on the release day to make a purchase. However, some specialty stores or hobby shops may accept reservations. Since convenience stores do not have a reservation system, it is recommended to visit the store early on the release day.

Q4: Can I use a foreign credit card?
A: Yes, most convenience stores accept international credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. However, there may be rare cases where some stores do not accept them, so it is advisable to have cash on hand just in case.

Troubleshooting

Trouble 1: The prize was broken or defective
When you receive the prize, if you find any defects or damage on the spot, please inform the staff immediately. You can say, "This is broken (Kore, kowarete imasu)" or point to the damaged area. In most cases, the staff will contact the manufacturer or exchange it if a replacement is available. It is important to keep the receipt.

Trouble 2: All the desired prizes were sold out
Since Ichiban Kuji is a lottery format, it is common for popular prizes (A prizes and B prizes) to sell out quickly. If your desired prize is no longer available, here are some ways to deal with it:
- Visit other nearby convenience stores
- Search for stock information on X (Twitter)
- Return the next day or later, aiming for the timing of restocking
- Purchase from online flea market apps (like Mercari) or specialty stores

Trouble 3: Communication with Store Staff is Difficult
If you cannot speak Japanese and the staff cannot speak English, try the following methods:
- Use a smartphone translation app (like Google Translate) to show the screen
- Point to the Ichiban Kuji poster or this guide
- Indicate the number of times with your fingers (communicate through gestures)
- Say "Ichiban Kuji, please" in English

Most staff are kind and will try to understand you. Take your time and communicate slowly, and you will be fine.

Trouble 4: It’s Difficult to Take Prizes Home After Drawing
Large figures for A and B prizes can be difficult to carry. Here are some solutions:
- Buy a large bag at a convenience store (for a fee, around 5 to 10 yen)
- Return to your hotel to drop off your luggage
- Send it to your home country via courier (international shipping services are available at convenience stores)
- Put it in a travel bag or suitcase

To prevent the prizes from breaking, it is recommended to wrap them in cushioning material (bubble wrap) or protect them with clothing.

Summary: Enjoying Ichiban Kuji at Convenience Stores

Purchasing Ichiban Kuji at convenience stores is a wonderful opportunity for foreign travelers to experience Japanese pop culture. The three major chains, Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, each have different limited series and features, and they are conveniently accessible 24 hours a day.

By understanding the purchasing procedures, stock checking methods, and differences between convenience stores introduced in this article, you can enjoy Ichiban Kuji with peace of mind even if you cannot speak Japanese. Utilizing tips such as aiming for the very first thing in the morning on the release date, visiting multiple stores, and looking for stores in residential areas will increase your chances of getting the prizes you want.

Ichiban Kuji is not just a lottery; it is an entertainment that symbolizes Japanese anime, manga, and gaming culture. Feel free to challenge yourself at convenience stores and create wonderful memories of your trip to Japan. I hope you win your favorite prize. Enjoy your Ichiban Kuji experience!