Ichiban Kuji Lot Buying Guide | Explanation of Prices, Reservation Methods, Prohibited Stores, and Precautions

Ichiban Kuji is usually drawn one at a time, but in fact, you can obtain all the prizes at once through a method called "lot buying." In this article, we will comprehensively explain the mechanism of lot buying, price trends, reservation methods, prohibited stores, advantages and disadvantages, and other information that those considering lot buying should know. Since it can be a significant investment, it is important to understand it thoroughly before making a purchase.

What is Lot Buying? (ロット買いとは？)

Lot buying is a method of purchasing one lot of Ichiban Kuji (a complete set of all prizes) at once. In a regular Ichiban Kuji, you draw one ticket at a time to win prizes, but with lot buying, you can purchase all the tickets and prizes prepared by the store at once.

One lot includes all the prizes in the series, from higher prizes like A and B prizes to lower prizes like E and F prizes, and even the "Last One Prize" that can only be obtained by the person who draws the last ticket. In other words, it is a purchasing method that allows you to obtain all the prizes without being influenced by luck.

Many people who engage in lot buying are enthusiastic collectors of specific characters or series. There are also those who purchase popular prizes for resale purposes, as well as store owners who stock up to sell Ichiban Kuji in their own stores. Normally, you would need to visit the store multiple times and keep drawing until you get the desired prize, but with lot buying, you can eliminate that hassle and ensure you obtain all the prizes.

However, not all stores allow lot buying. In particular, many major convenience store chains prohibit lot buying to secure sales opportunities for general customers.

What's Included in One Lot (1ロットの内容)

One lot typically contains 80 tickets, but depending on the series, it may also contain 60 or 100 tickets. The most common configuration is 80 tickets, which includes all prizes from A to E (or F) and the Last One Prize.

The specific breakdown of prizes might be, for example, 2 A prizes, 3 B prizes, 5 C prizes, 10 D prizes, and 60 E prizes. The higher the prize, the fewer there are, while lower prizes are more numerous. The Last One Prize is usually set as a premium prize equivalent to or greater than the A prize and is only one per lot.

When you purchase one lot, you are guaranteed to receive all these prizes. This means that even the higher prizes, which are usually hard to win through regular methods, can be obtained, and you will also definitely receive the special Last One Prize. In popular series, the Last One Prize alone often holds high value, making it a significant attraction for collectors.

Difference from Regular Purchase (通常購入との違い)

The biggest difference between regular purchases and lot buying is "certainty." In the regular method, you can draw for about 700 yen per time, but whether you get the desired prize depends on luck. Especially for higher prizes like A and B prizes, the probability of winning is low, so there is a possibility that you may not win even after drawing dozens of times.

On the other hand, with lot buying, all prizes are guaranteed from the start, so you are not influenced by luck. However, in exchange, a high payment of about 50,000 to 70,000 yen is required at once.

In regular purchases, you can aim for only the necessary prizes, but with lot buying, you must purchase everything, including unnecessary prizes. This leads to the problem of how to dispose of unwanted prizes later. However, considering time efficiency, there is a significant advantage in not having to repeatedly visit the store.

How Much Does a Lot Cost? (Price of 1 Lot)

Lot buying for Ichiban Kuji generally costs around 50,000 to 70,000 yen. This price fluctuates depending on the series of Ichiban Kuji and the pricing per round. Popular anime and game series tend to have higher prices per round.

The price of 1 lot is not fixed and varies depending on the planning of that series. For example, there are series priced at 650 yen per round and others at 800 yen per round. Additionally, while 80 tickets is standard, there are also series with 60 or 100 tickets.

When determining the price, it is necessary to consider not only the amount but also the content and quality of the included prizes. Even an expensive lot can have good cost performance if the value of the prizes is high. In particular, series with intricately designed figures or larger-sized prizes tend to have higher prices per round.

When considering a purchase, it is recommended to check the exact prices on the official website or at hobby shops in advance. Also, when purchasing online, shipping costs will be added, so it is essential to calculate the total amount accurately.

Price Calculation Method (Price Calculation Method)

To calculate the price of 1 lot, you use the simple formula "price per round × total number of tickets." For example, for a series priced at 700 yen per round with 80 tickets, it would be 700 yen × 80 tickets = 56,000 yen.

Similarly, for 650 yen per round with 80 tickets, it would be 52,000 yen, and for 800 yen per round with 80 tickets, it would be 64,000 yen. For a series priced at 700 yen per round with 60 tickets, it would be 42,000 yen, and for 100 tickets, it would be 70,000 yen.

When purchasing online, shipping costs will be incurred in addition to this base price. Shipping costs vary by retailer and delivery area, but generally range from 1,000 to 2,000 yen. Additionally, there may be separate charges for cash on delivery fees or payment processing fees.

When purchasing in physical stores, there are no shipping costs, but some stores may charge reservation fees or costs for packaging materials for takeout. To accurately understand the total amount, be sure to check all costs before making a purchase.

Price Examples by Series (Price Examples by Series)

Let's look at specific price examples for popular series. The Ichiban Kuji for the "One Piece" series is priced around 750 to 800 yen per round, and for an 80-ticket configuration, it would be around 60,000 to 64,000 yen. The "Gundam" series is in a similar price range, with a lot costing about 60,000 yen on average.

Popular anime series like "Demon Slayer" and "Jujutsu Kaisen" are often set at 700 to 750 yen per round, with a lot costing around 56,000 to 60,000 yen. Series like "Dragon Ball" and "My Hero Academia" are also in a similar price range.

In relatively inexpensive series, there are items set at 650 yen per purchase, allowing for a lot to be purchased for about 52,000 yen. Conversely, special collaboration series or premium series that include large figures may be set at over 900 yen per purchase, with a lot exceeding 72,000 yen in some cases.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

To evaluate the cost performance of buying lots, it is necessary to consider the market value of the prizes. For example, if you purchase a lot for 56,000 yen, the top prizes (A, B, C prizes) often have a value of 30,000 to 40,000 yen.

In particularly popular series, A prize figures alone can be worth 10,000 to 15,000 yen, and the Last One prize also holds equal or greater value. When totaled, it can sometimes be calculated that you can recoup your investment just from the desired prizes.

When considering resale, if you sell popular prizes at a fair price, there is a possibility of recovering 50% to 70% of your investment. However, lower-tier prizes (D, E prizes) may be difficult to sell due to low demand. Additionally, the resale market is highly volatile, so there is no guarantee of making a profit.

If your goal is purely for collection purposes, buying lots, which ensures you can obtain all prizes, may offer better cost performance when considering time and effort compared to targeting only the desired prizes through regular methods.

Where to Buy Lots

The places where you can buy lots of Ichiban Kuji are limited. The most reliable options are hobby shops and specialty stores, as these stores are familiar with handling Ichiban Kuji and often accommodate lot purchases. However, not all hobby shops accept lot purchases, so prior confirmation is essential.

In online sales, there are EC sites specializing in hobbies and online shopping sites that specialize in Ichiban Kuji, which offer pre-orders by the lot. However, the official "Ichiban Kuji ONLINE" does not conduct lot sales and only offers regular sales for individuals.

Currently, buying lots at convenience stores is generally difficult. Many major chains prohibit lot purchases to secure sales opportunities for general customers. However, in individually operated convenience stores or small shops, the store manager may decide to sell, so it is worth directly inquiring at nearby stores.

Local hobby shops, bookstores, and anime goods shops may also allow lot purchases if they handle Ichiban Kuji. Many stores accept pre-orders before release, so it is recommended to reserve early for popular series.

Online Retailers

When buying lots online, hobby-specialized EC sites are the most reliable option. Major online stores of hobby shops like "AmiAmi," "Hobby Search," and "Surugaya" often start pre-orders at the same time as the announcement of new Ichiban Kuji products, allowing for purchases by the lot.

These sites accept pre-orders from 1 to 2 months before the release date, and prices are clearly stated in advance. Payment methods include credit cards, bank transfers, and cash on delivery, with nationwide shipping available. However, for popular series, items may sell out as soon as pre-orders start, so it is necessary to check official announcements and reserve early.

The advantage of online purchases is that you can securely secure one lot from the comfort of your home. Additionally, it saves you the trouble of carrying heavy items to the store. The disadvantages are that shipping costs are incurred separately and you cannot check the actual product. It is recommended to choose a reliable retailer and check reviews and ratings before making a purchase.

Physical Stores (実店舗)

When buying lots at physical stores, the most reliable options are hobby shops and anime merchandise specialty stores. National chain stores like "Animate," "Toranoana," and "Gamers" may accommodate lot purchases depending on the store. However, since each store has different policies, it is necessary to confirm in advance.

Local hobby shops and model stores may also allow lot purchases if they handle Ichiban Kuji. These stores often respond more flexibly than large chains and may prioritize sales to regular customers.

The advantages of purchasing at physical stores are that you can check the prizes on the spot and there are no shipping costs. Additionally, since you can communicate directly with the staff, you can resolve any questions immediately. The disadvantages are that you need to travel to the store and the hassle of carrying a large number of prizes back home.

How to Inquire (問い合わせ方法)

When inquiring about the possibility of lot purchases at a store, the most efficient way is to confirm by phone first. By directly asking, "Is it possible to buy a lot of Ichiban Kuji?" you can quickly find out if it is possible. If it is possible, also confirm the price, reservation method, payment method, and pickup time at the same time.

If you are asking directly at the store, it is important to choose a time when it is not crowded and to ask politely. By conveying the specific series name, such as "I am considering buying a lot of Ichiban Kuji from the ○○ series, is that possible?", you can obtain more accurate information.

How to Reserve & Purchase (予約・購入方法)

The most reliable method for purchasing lots of Ichiban Kuji is to make a reservation before the release. For popular series, lots are often sold out on the release day, so pre-reservation is essential. Reservations usually start being accepted 1 to 2 months before the release date.

The reservation methods vary by store, but online reservations, phone reservations, and in-store reservations are common. Online sales sites announce the reservation start date and time on their official sites and social media, so registering as a member in advance can make the reservation process smoother.

Payment methods also vary by store. In many cases, full payment or a partial deposit is required at the time of reservation. Payment options include credit cards, bank transfers, and cash on delivery, but since it involves a large transaction, it is important to confirm the payment method in advance.

There are two options for pickup: delivery and in-store pickup. In the case of delivery, shipping costs are incurred separately, but it saves you the trouble of carrying heavy items. For in-store pickup, there are no shipping costs, but you need to go to the store after the release date to pick it up. Since a lot of prizes can be quite heavy, it is recommended to consider coming by car.

Pre-Order Process (事前予約の流れ)

Pre-orders are made between the official announcement of Ichiban Kuji and the release date. For popular series, reservations may start simultaneously with the official announcement, so it is important to regularly check the official site and social media.

When making a reservation online, first complete your membership registration. Once the reservation start time arrives, access the site, select the relevant Ichiban Kuji, and choose either "1 lot" or "full set" to add to your cart. Enter your personal information, delivery address, and payment method to confirm the reservation.

If you are making a reservation in-store or by phone, contact the store to confirm if reservations are possible. If so, provide your name, contact information, payment method, and pickup method. Many stores require a deposit (reservation fee) at the time of reservation. Be sure to receive and keep the reservation confirmation or receipt safely.

Once the reservation is confirmed, you will often receive contact from the store as the release date approaches, but it is recommended to check in yourself just in case. Especially for popular series, if you do not pick up on the release date, there is a possibility that your reservation will be passed on to the next customer, so be sure to adhere to the pickup date and time.

Payment & Delivery (支払いと受取)

Payment methods vary by store and site, but generally, the following options are available. Credit card payment is the most convenient, and for online reservations, payment is completed at the time of reservation. For bank transfers, you need to transfer to the specified account by the designated date after confirming the reservation.

Cash on delivery is a method where you pay the delivery person in cash when the product arrives, but some stores do not accommodate this due to the high value of the transaction. For in-store pickup, it is common to pay in cash or by credit card at the time of pickup. Regardless of the method you choose, since the payment will be a high amount of 50,000 to 70,000 yen, be sure to prepare your funds in advance.

For delivery, items will be shipped sequentially after the release date. If you can specify a delivery date and time, choose a time when you can definitely receive the package. Since a lot of items are large and heavy, rescheduling delivery when you are not home can be difficult. Additionally, there is a risk of damage during delivery, so be sure to check the condition of the box upon receipt.

For in-store pickup, go to the store within the specified period. Bring your identification and reservation confirmation, and after verifying your identity, you will receive the product. There may be cases where you can open the package and check the contents of the prize, so if possible, it is recommended to check it on the spot.

Cancellation Policy (キャンセルポリシー)

Lot buying for Ichiban Kuji is generally non-cancellable at many stores. This is due to the high value of the transaction and the fact that the store has made special purchases. Be sure to confirm the cancellation policy at the time of reservation and make your reservation with an understanding of it.

Some stores may accept cancellations up to a certain period before the release date. However, cancellation fees often apply, and the reservation fee may not be refunded. If you need to cancel for unavoidable reasons, contact the store as soon as possible to discuss.

Because the cancellation policy is strict, it is important to carefully consider whether you truly intend to purchase, whether you have secured a budget, and whether you have a place to store the prizes before making a reservation. There are many cases where people impulsively make reservations and later find themselves unable to cancel, so think thoroughly before reserving.

Stores That Prohibit Lot Buying (ロット買い禁止店舗)

Lot buying for Ichiban Kuji is not possible at all stores. Particularly at major convenience store chains, many stores explicitly prohibit lot buying to ensure fair sales opportunities for general customers.

The background of the prohibition is the intention to preserve the original enjoyment of the Ichiban Kuji. The Ichiban Kuji is originally designed for many people to draw once each and enjoy, and if some individuals monopolize all the prizes through bulk purchases, it becomes impossible for general customers to enjoy it.

Additionally, convenience stores prioritize providing services fairly to many people as part of the local community. Therefore, they adopt a policy that prioritizes allowing more customers to enjoy the Ichiban Kuji over high-priced bulk purchases.

However, not all stores prohibit it. In individually operated stores or small hobby shops, there may be cases where the store manager or owner decides to accept bulk purchases. Also, even within the same chain, franchise-operated stores may sell based on their own judgment.

Major Chains That Prohibit

Many stores of the three major convenience store chains, Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, prohibit bulk purchases. These chains often have a policy of not responding to bulk purchases as directed or recommended by the headquarters.

Seven-Eleven has fundamentally prohibited bulk purchases since the start of handling the Ichiban Kuji, and this is communicated through notices in stores and explanations from staff. Lawson and FamilyMart have similar policies and do not accommodate bulk purchases except for some exceptions.

Many major bookstore chains and supermarkets also prohibit bulk purchases in a similar manner. These stores introduce the Ichiban Kuji as part of their sales promotion, prioritizing enjoyment for a larger number of customers.

However, even within the same chain, responses may vary by store. Especially in franchise-operated stores, there may be cases where the owner decides to sell, so it is worth trying to inquire at multiple stores without giving up.

Why They Prohibit

The main reason for prohibiting bulk purchases is to secure sales opportunities for general customers. The Ichiban Kuji is designed as an entertainment option that can be casually enjoyed at an affordable price of several hundred yen per draw. If bulk purchases are allowed, all prizes could be bought up on the release day, preventing customers who come later from enjoying the Ichiban Kuji.

Maintaining the brand image is also an important reason. The Ichiban Kuji is popular with the concept that "everyone has an equal chance." If only certain individuals can monopolize all the prizes, this concept is undermined, and the popularity of the Ichiban Kuji itself may decline.

Furthermore, there is also the aspect of resale prevention. Many people who make bulk purchases are currently reselling popular prizes at high prices on auction sites or flea market apps. This not only creates a sense of unfairness for general customers but also has the potential to damage the brand image of the Ichiban Kuji.

How to Check Store Policies

The most reliable way to check a store's bulk purchase policy is to directly call the store and inquire. If you ask straightforwardly, "Is bulk purchasing of the Ichiban Kuji possible?" you will receive an immediate answer. It is recommended to inquire at multiple stores to find one that can accommodate you.

When asking directly at the store, politely inquire with the staff, "Is it possible to purchase the Ichiban Kuji by lot?" However, during busy times, they may not be able to assist you, so it is important to choose a less crowded time to ask. Additionally, if you can consult directly with the store manager or owner, you can obtain more accurate information.

Advantages & Disadvantages (メリット・デメリット)

There are clear advantages and disadvantages to purchasing Ichiban Kuji by lot. When considering a purchase, it is important to understand these thoroughly before making a decision. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages and make a choice that fits your goals and budget.

The biggest advantage is that you can be sure to obtain all the prizes. Even higher prizes like A and B prizes, which may not be won no matter how many times you draw under normal circumstances, can be secured through lot buying. Additionally, you are guaranteed to receive the special Last One Prize, making it an ideal method for collectors aiming for a complete set.

On the other hand, a disadvantage is the high initial investment required. An amount ranging from 50,000 to 70,000 yen is certainly not cheap. Moreover, you must purchase everything, including unwanted prizes, which poses challenges in disposing of duplicate items and securing storage space.

Furthermore, the limitation of stores that allow lot buying is also a disadvantage. It is generally prohibited at major convenience store chains, making it a hassle to find a place to purchase. Considering these advantages and disadvantages, determine whether lot buying is the right choice for you.

Advantages of Lot Buying (メリット)

There are four main advantages to lot buying. Let’s take a closer look at each advantage.

Guaranteed Complete Set (全景品確実入手)

The biggest advantage of lot buying is that you can be sure to obtain all the prizes. Under normal circumstances, the chances of winning higher prizes like A and B prizes are very low, and it is possible to draw dozens of times without winning. Especially for popular series, it is not uncommon to spend tens of thousands of yen trying to obtain higher prizes without success. With lot buying, all prizes are guaranteed from the start, without being influenced by luck.

Last One Prize (ラストワン賞)

The Last One Prize is a special prize that can only be obtained by the person who draws the last ticket of a lot. This prize is usually set as a premium prize equivalent to or greater than the A prize, featuring special designs and specifications. Normally, to aim for the Last One Prize, you would need to continue drawing until the last ticket, which incurs costs similar to lot buying. With lot buying, you can be sure to obtain the Last One Prize from the start.

Time Efficiency (時間効率)

When enjoying Ichiban Kuji through normal methods, you need to visit the store multiple times. Especially for popular series, it is common for items to sell out on the release day, requiring you to visit multiple stores. With lot buying, you can reserve and receive all the prizes in one go, significantly saving time and effort.

Resale Potential (転売の可能性)

For popular series, higher prize items are traded at high prices on flea market apps and auction sites. If you sell unwanted or duplicate items obtained through lot buying at a fair price, there is a possibility of recovering part of your investment.

Disadvantages of Lot Buying (デメリット)

While there are merits, there are also significant disadvantages to lot buying that cannot be ignored. It is important to consider purchasing after fully understanding these disadvantages.

High Investment (高額投資)

Lot buying requires a high initial investment ranging from 50,000 to 70,000 yen. This amount is not something that many people can easily spend. Additionally, there is no guarantee that this investment can be recouped. If the market value of the prizes is lower than expected, there is a possibility of incurring losses. Be sure to carefully consider your budget before making a purchase.

Inventory Risk (在庫リスク)

With lot buying, you must purchase not only the desired prizes but also all the unwanted ones. Particularly, lower-tier prizes like D and E prizes are numerous, and it is not easy to store or dispose of all of them. If you are considering reselling, lower-tier prizes may have low demand, making it difficult to find buyers. If you end up purchasing an unpopular series, you risk holding a large amount of inventory.

Storage Issues (保管の問題)

The amount of prizes in one lot is considerable. Storing nearly 80 prizes requires a significant amount of space. Especially for figures, the boxes are large, and dedicated storage space is necessary to keep everything. If you live in a rental property or have limited storage space, securing a place to store them becomes a major challenge.

Limited Availability (購入場所の限定)

Stores that allow lot buying are limited. It is generally prohibited in major convenience store chains, so you need to look for hobby shops or online sales sites. Additionally, for popular series, there may be a rush of reservations, making it impossible to purchase. Finding a place to buy can itself become a labor-intensive task.

Who Should Consider Lot Buying (向いている人)

Lot buying is suitable for enthusiastic collectors of specific series or characters. It is the best method for those who value completing the entire set of prizes and are willing to invest what is necessary for that. It is also recommended for those who have a budget that allows for spending 50,000 to 70,000 yen without it being a burden. If purchasing for resale purposes, it is worth considering for those who can accurately assess market value and manage inventory risk.

Important Tips & Cautions (購入時の注意点とコツ)

To successfully engage in lot buying for a lottery, there are several important points and tips to keep in mind. Since it involves a significant investment, it is crucial to prepare thoroughly in advance to avoid failures. By keeping the following points in mind, you can avoid troubles and make a satisfactory purchase.

The most important thing is not to neglect pre-checks. Confirm all information related to the purchase in advance, such as inventory status, accurate prices, cancellation policies, payment methods, and pickup methods. In addition to verbal confirmations, it is reassuring to keep records in writing or via email if possible.

For popular series, it is not uncommon for items to sell out as soon as reservations start. Regularly check official websites and social media for new product information, and make sure not to miss the reservation start date. Additionally, having a list of multiple retailers in advance provides peace of mind in case you cannot reserve at one store, as there are other options available.

When receiving your items, it is highly recommended to open the package and check the contents. In the unlikely event that there are missing or damaged prizes, pointing it out on the spot will allow for immediate assistance. If you discover a problem later, there is a possibility that you may not receive support, so checking at the time of receipt is very important.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

I have listed the items that you must check before making a purchase. Let's make a decision after checking all of these.

First, check the stock status. Make sure to clarify whether it is available for reservation and when you can receive it on the release date. Next, confirm the exact price. It is important to understand the total amount, including not only the base price but also shipping, fees, and taxes.

Also, be sure to check the cancellation policy. Clarify whether cancellations are possible, if so, until when, and whether there are any cancellation fees. Many stores have a no-cancellation policy, so you need to carefully consider whether you truly intend to make the purchase before deciding.

Check the payment methods and delivery methods in advance as well. Understand the details such as whether credit cards can be used, if installment payments are possible, how much the shipping cost is for delivery, and the pickup period if you choose in-store pickup, to ensure a smooth transaction.

Finally, confirm the contents of the prizes on the official website and recheck if you really want all the prizes. It is important to make a calm judgment to avoid impulsively purchasing and regretting it later.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

One common mistake when buying in lots is trying to purchase on the release date without a reservation. For popular series, lots are often sold out by the release date. If you want to ensure your purchase, always make a reservation in advance.

It is also dangerous to make a reservation without checking the price. Prices may vary by store, and it could end up being more expensive than you thought. Additionally, many people are surprised by additional costs later because they did not consider shipping and fees when making the reservation. Always check the total amount before reserving.

Overlooking the cancellation policy is also a serious mistake. Many stores have a no-cancellation policy, and even if you try to cancel after making a reservation, they will not accept it. Reservation fees are also non-refundable, so be sure to check and understand the cancellation policy before making a reservation.

Tips for International Buyers

For foreigners buying in lots for Ichiban Kuji, there are some additional challenges. First, there is the language barrier. If you cannot speak Japanese well, negotiating with the store can be difficult. If possible, bring a friend who can speak Japanese or use a translation app.

The delivery address is also an important point. If you do not have a reliable address in Japan to receive your items, it may be difficult to have them delivered to a hotel or short-term stay. In that case, consider using a proxy purchase service or a forwarding service. By using these services, you can receive items in Japan and have them forwarded to your home overseas.

Summary: To Successfully Buy in Lots for Ichiban Kuji

Buying a lottery lot is an attractive way to ensure you obtain all the prizes, but it requires a significant investment and adequate preparation. The price of one lot generally ranges from 50,000 to 70,000 yen, depending on the series. Be sure to check the exact price and total cost before making a purchase.

The places where you can buy are limited, and it is generally prohibited at major convenience store chains. Hobby shops and online sales sites are the main places to purchase. For popular series, pre-ordering before the release is essential, so be sure to frequently check official websites and social media for information and not to miss the reservation start date.

The advantages include guaranteed acquisition of all prizes, winning the last one prize, and improved time efficiency. On the other hand, the disadvantages include high investment, inventory risks, storage issues, and limited purchase locations. It is important to make a decision that aligns with your goals and budget after fully understanding these factors.

Be sure to thoroughly check your pre-purchase checklist and clarify the cancellation policy and delivery methods. Especially for foreigners, attention is needed regarding language barriers and delivery address issues. Keep these points in mind to achieve a satisfying lottery lot purchase.