Complete Explanation of the Ichiban Kuji Prize System | Thorough Comparison of Differences and Values from A Prize to E Prize

Understanding the Ichiban Kuji Prize System (一番くじの景品システムとは)

The biggest feature of Ichiban Kuji is its "No Losers" system, where every lottery ticket comes with a prize. Unlike regular lotteries or capsule toy machines, you are guaranteed to receive some kind of prize every time you draw. This system allows even first-timers to enjoy it with peace of mind.

Prizes are managed through a ranking system from A Prize to E Prize. A Prize is the most valuable and rarest prize, while the probability of winning increases as you move towards E Prize, but the value of the prizes decreases relatively. This clear ranking system allows participants to strategize which prizes to aim for, making Ichiban Kuji a delightful experience.

A single lot (one set) typically contains around 80 tickets, with a predetermined number of each prize. For example, there is only 1 A Prize per lot, 2 B Prizes, and 4 to 6 C Prizes, and so on. This structure maintains a balance between the rarity and value of each prize.

Additionally, Ichiban Kuji is characterized by its high transparency compared to other lottery systems. The official website publishes the prize contents of each series and the composition of each lot in advance, making it possible to calculate the probability of winning each prize. This transparency has made it a trusted system among fans from overseas.

Prize Ranks Explained: A to E (賞のランク解説：A賞からE賞まで)

Ichiban Kuji prizes are classified into five main ranks: A Prize, B Prize, C Prize, D Prize, and E Prize. Each rank has clear differences, with variations in the type, size, quality, and rarity of the prizes. Understanding this hierarchical structure allows you to strategize according to your budget and goals.

Generally, higher-tier prizes (A Prize and B Prize) often consist of three-dimensional items like figures and plush toys, while lower-tier prizes (D Prize and E Prize) mainly include practical items and small goods like towels and keychains. C Prize is positioned in the middle, often including medium-sized figures and practical goods, making it a popular choice for its balanced offerings.

The value of each prize is not determined solely by the size of the prize. Factors such as the popularity of the character, the quality of the design, and exclusivity are also important elements. For example, a D Prize item featuring a popular character may have a higher market value than a C Prize figure of a lesser-known character.

Moreover, the rank of the prizes is also determined by the number of tickets per lot. A Prizes are set at just 1 ticket, and B Prizes at around 2 tickets, making them highly rare, while D Prizes and E Prizes account for a total of 40 to 50 tickets, making them relatively easier to win. This distribution ensures that all participants can obtain some kind of prize, realizing the "No Losers" system.

A Prize - Top Tier (A賞 - 最上位賞)

The A Prize is the highest prize in the Ichiban Kuji, and it is the most rare item, with only one included per lot. The winning probability is set very low at about 1.25%. The prizes mainly consist of high-quality PVC figures, typically large types measuring over 20cm to 30cm, characterized by premium quality with meticulous detailing. In the market, they are valued at around 5,000 to 15,000 yen, and it is not uncommon for prices to soar after release for popular series. It is the most sought-after prize for collectors, and many people attempt multiple times aiming for the A Prize.

B Prize - Premium Quality (B賞 - プレミアム賞)

The B Prize is the premium prize following the A Prize, with about 2 items included per lot. The winning probability is higher than the A Prize at about 2.5%, but it is still a rare prize. The prizes often include large figures and plush toys, with sizes typically ranging from 15cm to 25cm. There may be items with the same level of sculpting quality as the A Prize or variations of different characters. The market price is valued at around 3,000 to 8,000 yen, and while it does not have the rarity of the A Prize, it is still popular as a prize with sufficient collection value.

C Prize - Standard Quality (C賞 - スタンダード賞)

The C Prize is the mid-level rank in the Ichiban Kuji, with about 4 to 6 items included per lot, and the winning probability is about 5 to 7.5%. The prizes mainly consist of medium-sized figures (10cm to 15cm), plush toys, and practical items like towels. While it does not have the rarity of the higher prizes, the quality is sufficiently high, and the size is popular for display on desks. The market price is valued at around 1,500 to 4,000 yen, and it is regarded as a well-balanced prize that is relatively easy for beginners to aim for. Many prizes also feature a combination of practicality and collectibility.

D & E Prizes - Entry Level (D賞・E賞 - エントリーレベル)

The D and E Prizes are entry-level prizes in the Ichiban Kuji, making up more than half of a lot (40 to 50 items) in total. The winning probabilities are the highest, with the D Prize at about 15 to 20% and the E Prize at about 30 to 40%. The prizes mainly consist of small items and practical goods such as keychains, acrylic stands, can badges, stickers, and hand towels. The market price is modest, valued at around 500 to 1,500 yen, but the character designs are cute, and their usability is appealing. They are suitable prizes for those who are trying Ichiban Kuji for the first time or for those who want to collect goods casually.

Special Prizes: Last One & Double Chance (特別賞：ラストワン賞とダブルチャンス)

In the Ichiban Kuji, there are two special chances to win unique prizes separate from the regular ranks of A to E prizes. These are the "Last One Prize" and the "Double Chance Campaign." These are special prizes offered through a different mechanism than the regular prizes, making them highly attractive to collectors. Both have high exclusivity, often featuring special color variations or designs not found in regular prizes, which makes them very popular among fans.

Last One Prize (ラストワン賞)

The Last One Prize is a special prize that can only be won by the person who draws the last ticket of a lot. In other words, when all the tickets in a lot (around 80 tickets) have been drawn, the person who draws the last ticket is eligible to win this prize. The prize often has a value equal to or greater than the A Prize, and it typically features special color variations (e.g., gold color or clear color) or limited designs.

The high value of the Last One Prize is due to its rarity. There is only one per lot, and the randomness of drawing the last ticket makes it difficult to target strategically. Some retailers may allow you to check the remaining number of tickets in a lot, and there are collectors who adopt a strategy of purchasing the last few tickets in hopes of winning the Last One Prize. It is not uncommon for it to be traded at a higher market price than the regular A Prize.

Double Chance Campaign (ダブルチャンスキャンペーン)

The Double Chance Campaign is a special system that provides another opportunity to win a prize after drawing a ticket. Each ticket has a unique serial code printed on it, and you can apply by entering this code on the official website or app. If you win the lottery, you can receive a prize exclusive to the Double Chance.

The Double Chance prizes often include completely original designs not found in the regular lineup, figures in different poses from the A Prize, and limited color versions, making them very popular among collectors. Applications are free, and you can apply for as many times as the number of tickets you draw, so drawing multiple times increases your chances of winning. Although the winning probability is not disclosed, it is generally estimated to be around a few percent to 10%. Deadlines are set for each series, so it is important to check the official website.

Prize Types & What You Can Win (景品の種類と内容)

The prizes in Ichiban Kuji are very diverse, ranging from figures to practical items. Attractive prizes are lined up according to the theme and characters of each series, catering not only to collectors but also to those who want to enjoy everyday use. By understanding the types of prizes, you can clarify which prize you should aim for and which items you want. Here, we will explain the main prize types in three categories.

Figures & Collectibles (フィギュア・コレクタブル)

Figures are the most popular prize category in Ichiban Kuji. They are mainly included in the A, B, and C Prizes, and many high-quality figures made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) are used. The sizes range from 10 cm to over 30 cm, and the size and detail of the sculpting vary depending on the prize rank. In the A Prize, there are many luxurious figures that come with bases and special effect parts, designed to stand out in displays. Figures of popular characters are often traded at high prices in the market, leading some collectors to purchase them for investment purposes. Recently, diorama-type figures that recreate famous scenes from anime and high-value products with lighting functions have also appeared, expanding the range of collections.

Plush Toys & Practical Items (ぬいぐるみ・実用品)

Stuffed animals and practical items are types of prizes that are often included in B, C, and D prizes. Stuffed animals are character mascots made from soft materials, typically ranging in size from 15cm to 30cm. They are characterized by their cute, deformed designs, and can be enjoyed not only as decorations but also as items to hug. The practical items category includes towels, mugs, plates, cushions, blankets, and more. These items are popular not only as collectibles but also for their practicality, as they can be used in everyday life. In particular, towels have become standard prizes in many series, with a wide range of high-quality towels featuring character designs available.

Small Goods & Accessories (小物・アクセサリー)

Small goods and accessories are mainly included in D and E prizes. Keychains, acrylic stands, can badges, stickers, clear files, and postcards are among the small, easily portable items. These prizes are easy to incorporate into daily life, as they can be attached to bags or clothes, or displayed around the desk. In recent years, acrylic stands have become increasingly popular, allowing characters printed on transparent acrylic boards to be displayed. Can badges can be collected and attached to bags or arranged on collection boards for enjoyment. While the prices are modest, their cute designs and compactness make them beloved as easily enjoyable prizes by many people.

Prize Value Comparison (景品の価値比較)

Understanding the value of Ichiban Kuji prizes is crucial for determining which prizes to aim for. The market value of each prize varies significantly based on the type of prize, size, and popularity of the character. Generally, A prizes range from 5,000 yen to 15,000 yen, B prizes from 3,000 yen to 8,000 yen, C prizes from 1,500 yen to 4,000 yen, and D and E prizes have a market value of around 500 yen to 1,500 yen.

The price of a single lottery ticket is usually between 700 yen and 800 yen, but if you draw an A or B prize, you can receive a return that greatly exceeds your investment. However, the probability of winning top prizes is very low, so considering the expected value does not always guarantee a good deal. C prizes are popular as they offer a good balance between winning probability and value, making them relatively realistic targets.

Additionally, the value of prizes fluctuates between immediately after release and after some time has passed. Limited prizes from popular series can see their market prices soar after release, and especially Last One prizes or Double Chance prizes often become premium-priced due to their rarity. On the other hand, prizes from less popular series or those produced in large quantities may decrease in value over time. If you are purchasing for collector purposes, it is advisable to consider these market trends as well.

Probability by Prize Rank (賞ごとの当選確率)

The winning probability of Ichiban Kuji is determined by the number of each prize included in a single lot. A standard lot often consists of 80 tickets, and the number of each prize is published in advance on the official website. This transparency allows for mathematically accurate calculations of winning probabilities.

Let's take a look at specific examples of winning probabilities. For Prize A, there is 1 ticket per lot, so the probability is 1/80 = about 1.25%. For Prize B, there are 2 tickets, making it 2/80 = about 2.5%, and for Prize C, there are 5 tickets, resulting in 5/80 = about 6.25%. Prize D has about 15 tickets, giving a probability of about 18.75%, and Prize E has about 30 tickets, resulting in about 37.5%. The remaining tickets are allocated to other prizes (if there are Prizes F and G) or the Last One Prize.

However, these probabilities are theoretical values based on "drawing one ticket from the entire lot." In actual stores, it is common to start from a state where multiple tickets have already been drawn, so the probabilities fluctuate depending on the composition of the remaining tickets. For example, if Prize A has already been drawn, drawing a ticket afterward will not yield Prize A. Therefore, by checking the remaining tickets and the prizes that have already been drawn in the store, you can strategically draw tickets.

Furthermore, understanding the probabilities allows you to calculate the expected value. For instance, if you draw tickets worth 800 yen each 10 times, with a total investment of 8,000 yen, statistically, you are likely to draw multiple Prizes D and E, and perhaps draw Prize C once. It takes quite a bit of luck to draw Prizes A or B. By understanding the probabilities, you can develop a strategy that aligns with your budget and goals, which is the key to maximizing your enjoyment of the Ichiban Kuji.

Popular Series Prize Examples (人気シリーズの景品例)

In Ichiban Kuji, prizes from popular anime and manga series representing Japan regularly appear. Each series has its own fan base, and the lineup of prizes is creatively tailored to the characteristics of the series. Here, we will introduce representative prize examples from three particularly popular series. By referring to these examples, you can understand the quality of prizes you can expect.

One Piece Series (ワンピース シリーズ)

One Piece is one of the most frequently appearing series in Ichiban Kuji, characterized by a wide range of prizes. Prize A often features large figures of major characters such as Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji, with particular popularity for figures depicting Luffy in Gear 5 or in combat scenes with Haki. Prizes B and C include medium-sized figures and plush toys of characters like Nami, Robin, and Chopper, often showcasing cute, deformed designs. Prizes D and E offer practical goods popular among fans, such as towels and keychains with pirate flag designs, as well as acrylic stands of the Straw Hat crew. The Last One Prize may feature special variations like a gold-colored Luffy figure, appealing to collectors.

Gundam Series (ガンダム シリーズ)

The Gundam series is an Ichiban Kuji that captivates with its intricate mechanical designs. Prize A features large figures of iconic mobile suits such as the RX-78-2 Gundam, Char's Zaku, and the Unicorn Gundam. These figures replicate detailed armor parts and weathering (paint effects), offering a different charm compared to Gunpla models. Prizes B and C often include figures sized for display on desks or models with diorama-style bases, allowing for the recreation of battle scenes. Prizes D and E include goods featuring the emblems of the Federation and Zeon forces, as well as towels and keychains designed with the silhouettes of each mobile suit. The Gundam series is particularly popular among adult male fans, and it is not uncommon for items to sell out immediately after release.

Other Popular Series (その他の人気シリーズ)

Popular series such as Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen, Pokémon, Dragon Ball, and Spy Family boast high popularity in the Ichiban Kuji lottery. In Demon Slayer, main characters like Tanjiro, Nezuko, and Rengoku Kyojuro are turned into figures along with bases that express their respective breathing effects. In Jujutsu Kaisen, figures with effect parts that recreate the techniques of characters like Satoru Gojo and Yuji Itadori are popular. The Pokémon series offers a wide range of plush toys featuring popular Pokémon, including Pikachu, appealing to a broad audience from children to adults. Each series has many prizes that faithfully recreate the world of the work, making them highly collectible items for fans.

How to Choose Which Prize to Aim For (どの賞を狙うべきか)

Which prize to aim for varies depending on budget, purpose, and personal values. Here, we introduce strategies for different types of players.

Collector-focused Strategy: For serious collectors aiming for A prizes or Last One prizes, be prepared to draw multiple times. There is also a method called "box buying," where you purchase an entire lot, ensuring you get all the prizes, but this can cost around 50,000 to 70,000 yen. Additionally, lining up at stores on the release day can increase the chances of A prizes still being available.

Balance-focused Strategy: If you want to balance budget and satisfaction, aiming for C prizes is recommended. C prizes have a relatively high winning probability of about 6%, and the quality of the prizes is sufficiently high, offering excellent cost performance. With a budget of 3,000 to 5,000 yen, drawing 3 to 6 times gives you a chance to win a C prize or something close to it.

Beginner-friendly Strategy: For those trying Ichiban Kuji for the first time or wanting to enjoy it casually, it’s good to draw only 1 to 2 times. D and E prizes also offer cute and practical goods. Don’t forget to apply for the Double Chance Campaign to gain additional winning opportunities. Participating with a mindset of enjoying luck without making high investments is the key to enjoying Ichiban Kuji for a long time.

Summary: Understand and Enjoy the Ichiban Kuji Prize System

The Ichiban Kuji prize system is structured with a clear ranking system from A to E prizes, Last One prizes, and the Double Chance Campaign. Each prize has different winning probabilities and values, and understanding this system allows you to find a way to enjoy it that suits you.

A prizes are the highest-ranking prizes with the most rarity and value, making them the ultimate goal for collectors. B and C prizes have a good balance of quality and winning probability, making them popular as realistically attainable prizes. D and E prizes have high winning probabilities and are entry-level prizes that allow you to enjoy practical goods easily. Furthermore, Last One prizes and the Double Chance Campaign provide additional chances to win special limited prizes.

There is a wide variety of prizes available, including figures, plush toys, towels, and keychains. In popular series like One Piece, Gundam, and Demon Slayer, high-quality prizes that maximize the appeal of the works are regularly released.

To fully enjoy Ichiban Kuji, it is important to develop a strategy that aligns with your budget and goals. There are various participation styles, ranging from a serious approach for collectors to a casual way for beginners to enjoy. With a no-loss system, you can confidently challenge yourself knowing that you will receive a prize regardless of which award you win.

For those who want to learn more about Ichiban Kuji, please check out the Ichiban Kuji Complete Guide. It compiles comprehensive information for enjoying Ichiban Kuji, including how to purchase, where to buy, and how to obtain the latest information.