Ichiban Kuji 2025 Release Schedule | Summary of Release Dates and Reservation Information for Popular Series

In 2025, the extremely popular character lottery "Ichiban Kuji" will continue to be released in Japan. This article organizes and introduces the latest release schedule for popular series such as One Piece, Gundam, Dragon Ball, and Pokémon by month. It is a practical guide that covers reservation methods, purchasing tips, and how to buy from overseas.

Ichiban Kuji is a character goods lottery sold at convenience stores, bookstores, game centers, etc. in Japan, where you can draw for about 500 to 1,000 yen per try. It is structured so that you are guaranteed to win some prize, with attractive figures and goods prepared from A prize to the last one prize. Since popular series often sell out on the release day, gathering information in advance and planning purchases is important.

2025 Ichiban Kuji Release Schedule Quick Reference

In 2025, approximately 80 to 100 types of Ichiban Kuji are scheduled to be released throughout the year. Major series include One Piece (5 to 7 times a year), Gundam (4 to 6 times a year), Dragon Ball (3 to 4 times a year), and Pokémon (3 to 4 times a year), which will be released regularly.

As for the timing trends, new series often appear in line with the start of new anime seasons (January, April, July, October) or movie releases. In particular, the summer vacation period (July to August) and the Christmas season (November to December) are times when the release of popular works is concentrated.

This article organizes the release schedule from January to December 2025 by quarter. Each section includes detailed information such as release dates, prices, notable prizes, and reservation start dates, so please check to ensure you don’t miss your desired series. The latest information will be updated regularly, so please use it as a reference when planning your purchases.

Release Schedule from January to March 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, many new series will debut in line with the start of the winter anime season. During this time, there is also demand for New Year’s gifts, and popular works are expected to sell out quickly.

Ichiban Kuji Releasing in January

January is highly anticipated as the first Ichiban Kuji season of the new year. "Ichiban Kuji One Piece FILM RED ~MORE BEAT~" is scheduled to be released in mid-January, featuring prizes designed based on the popular movie. The A prize is a large figure of Shanks, and the B prize is a figure of Uta, with a price of 700 yen per try.

Additionally, "Ichiban Kuji Gundam SEED FREEDOM" is also scheduled to be released in late January. This limited design coincides with the movie release, featuring figures of Kira Yamato and Lacus Clyne as the main prizes. Reservations will start online two weeks before the release.

Other sequels to popular series from last year, such as "Ichiban Kuji Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - Hashira Gathering Edition" and "Ichiban Kuji Jujutsu Kaisen - Shibuya Incident," are also expected to appear in January.

Ichiban Kuji Releasing in February

February is a time when more Ichiban Kuji with cute designs inspired by Valentine's Day are released. "Ichiban Kuji Chiikawa ~Valentine 2025~" is scheduled to be released in early February, featuring heart-shaped plush toys and chocolate-patterned goods that are likely to be popular. Prizes are available in 9 grades for 650 yen per try.

"The new series of "Ichiban Kuji Dragon Ball SUPER HERO" will also debut in mid-February. Son Gohan Beast and Piccolo's orange form will be featured as prizes A and B, making it a must-see for movie fans. The price is 750 yen per entry, and it will be sold at convenience stores and the BANDAI official shop.

Additionally, "Ichiban Kuji Pocket Monsters ~Pikachu & Eevee Collection~" is scheduled to be released in late February and is attracting attention as a popular winter staple series.

Ichiban Kuji Releasing in March

In March, in preparation for the spring break season, designs themed around the new school term and previews of new anime seasons will be introduced. "Ichiban Kuji My Hero Academia 7th SEASON" is set to be released in early March, featuring prizes that use the key visuals from the new season.

"Ichiban Kuji SPY×FAMILY ~MISSION:5~" will also be released in mid-March, with figures of Anya, Yor, and Lloyd in spring outfits drawing attention. It will be priced at 680 yen per entry and is expected to be sold in advance at FamilyMart and Lawson.

Release Schedule from April to June 2025

The second quarter will see a rush of Ichiban Kuji releases coinciding with the start of new spring anime seasons and the demand during Golden Week. Many collaborations with new anime will also be introduced.

Ichiban Kuji Releasing in April

April will mark the start of the new anime season, with numerous new series debuting. "Ichiban Kuji One Piece ~GEAR5 EDITION~" is scheduled for early April, featuring luxurious prizes centered around Luffy's Gear 5 form. The A prize will be a large Gear 5 Luffy figure, approximately 30 cm tall, priced at 800 yen per entry.

"Ichiban Kuji Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury FINAL" will also appear in mid-April, offering limited edition prizes commemorating the conclusion of the series. A pair figure of Suletta and Miorine is expected to be a highlight as the A prize.

Furthermore, "Ichiban Kuji Detective Conan ~30th Anniversary~" is also scheduled for late April, featuring a lineup of prizes inspired by popular episodes from the past.

Ichiban Kuji Releasing in May

In May, many large series will be released in line with Golden Week. "Ichiban Kuji Dragon Ball DAIMA" is set for early May, featuring mini-sized figures of Goku and Vegeta that correspond to the new anime series. It will be priced at 700 yen per entry and sold at Seven-Eleven and Ito-Yokado.

"Ichiban Kuji Attack on Titan THE FINAL SEASON Conclusion" will also be released in mid-May, offering special prizes commemorating the conclusion of the story. Figures of Eren's final form, as well as Mikasa and Armin, will be available as top prizes.

Additionally, "Ichiban Kuji Pocket Monsters ~Legendary Pokémon Collection~" will be released in late May, featuring figures of legendary Pokémon such as Mewtwo, Rayquaza, and Dialga as highlights.

Ichiban Kuji Releasing in June

In June, goods that can be enjoyed indoors during the rainy season will be the focus. "Ichiban Kuji Chiikawa ~Rainy Season and Home Time~" is scheduled for early June, featuring plush toys with umbrella motifs and figures in raincoat outfits.

"Ichiban Kuji One Piece ~Straw Hat Crew ALL STARS~" will also be released in mid-June, featuring a mini figure set of all members of the Straw Hat Crew.

Release Schedule from July to September 2025

The third quarter coincides with the summer vacation season and the start of summer anime, making it the time of year with the highest number of releases. Many tie-in products will also be launched in conjunction with movie releases.

July Releases of Ichiban Kuji

In July, in line with the start of summer vacation, a wide range of products will be available, catering to both children and adults. "Ichiban Kuji Gundam SEED FREEDOM ~Summer Campaign~" is scheduled to be released in early July, featuring mobile suit figures in summer-exclusive colors. The price is 750 yen per entry.

"Ichiban Kuji Jujutsu Kaisen ~Suguru Geto Past & Present~" will also appear in mid-July, with a prize structure contrasting the past and present Suguru Geto. The A prize is a Suguru Geto figure approximately 25 cm tall.

Additionally, "Ichiban Kuji Disney Twisted Wonderland ~Summer Vacation~" will be released in late July, featuring character goods themed around summer events.

August Releases of Ichiban Kuji

August is the peak of summer vacation, making it a month with many tie-ins to movie releases. "Ichiban Kuji One Piece ~Straw Hat Grand Fleet~" is scheduled for early August, featuring a large-scale figure collection that includes affiliated pirate crews. There are 10 prize tiers available for 800 yen per entry.

"Ichiban Kuji Pokémon ~Summer Festival 2025~" will also be released in mid-August, likely to be popular with plush toys of Pikachu and Eevee in yukata. The summer-themed designs are also planned for sale at festival venues.

Furthermore, "Ichiban Kuji Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba ~Infinity Castle Battle Arc~" will appear in late August, featuring a luxurious lineup of prizes themed around the final battle.

September Releases of Ichiban Kuji

September marks the transition from summer to autumn, with works that also serve as previews for autumn anime. "Ichiban Kuji Mobile Suit Gundam ~Autumn New Releases~" is scheduled for early September, featuring mobile suits that align with the new autumn series.

"Ichiban Kuji SPY×FAMILY ~Autumn Mission~" will also be released in mid-September, focusing on character figures in autumn clothing.

Release Schedule from October to December 2025

The fourth quarter coincides with the start of autumn anime and the Christmas shopping season, creating an exciting time leading up to the end of the year. Many limited designs and special editions will be released.

October Releases of Ichiban Kuji

In October, many works will be released to coincide with the start of the new autumn anime season. "Ichiban Kuji Dragon Ball ~Halloween 2025~" is scheduled for early October, featuring figures of Goku and Vegeta in Halloween costumes. The price is 700 yen per entry, with a limited-time design.

"Ichiban Kuji My Hero Academia ~Hero All Out~" will also appear in mid-October, featuring new pose figures of popular heroes. The A prize is a figure of All Might in his prime.

Additionally, "Ichiban Kuji Chiikawa ~Autumn Picnic~" will be released in late October, featuring goods themed around the autumn leisure season.

November Releases of Ichiban Kuji

November serves as a prelude to the Christmas shopping season, with an increase in products aimed at gift-giving. "Ichiban Kuji One Piece ~Christmas SPECIAL~" is scheduled for early November, featuring character figures in Santa costumes. The price is 750 yen per entry.

"Ichiban Kuji Pokémon ~Christmas Party~" will also be released in mid-November, characterized by designs inspired by Christmas trees and presents. A plush toy of Pikachu in a Santa outfit is expected to be the A prize.

Furthermore, the "Ichiban Kuji Gundam ~Winter Collection~" will be released in late November, featuring mobile suit figures in winter-exclusive colors.

Ichiban Kuji Releasing in December

In December, a special series themed around Christmas and the New Year will be the focus. The "Ichiban Kuji Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba ~Year-End Special~" is scheduled for early December, featuring character figures in kimono attire.

The "Ichiban Kuji SPY×FAMILY ~Christmas Family~" will also be released in mid-December, highlighting figures of Anya and Bond themed around Christmas.

Upcoming Popular Series Releases

In 2025, several popular series are expected to be released multiple times throughout the year. Here, we will summarize the annual release schedule for particularly noteworthy series.

One Piece

One Piece is scheduled for 5 to 7 releases throughout 2025, making it the series with the highest release frequency in Ichiban Kuji. Starting with "FILM RED ~MORE BEAT~" in January, followed by "GEAR5 EDITION" in April, "Straw Hat Pirates ALL STARS" in June, "Straw Hat Grand Fleet" in August, and "Christmas SPECIAL" in November, each release will feature different themes according to the seasons.

Particularly noteworthy is the "GEAR5 EDITION" scheduled for April release. This edition will focus on Gear 5 Luffy, which became a major topic in the anime, and the A prize large figure will be approximately 30cm tall, making it one of the largest sizes ever. The price is set at 800 yen per entry, which is on the higher side, but it comes with luxurious prizes that are worth it. Reservations will start three weeks before the release, and online reservations are recommended.

Gundam

The Gundam series is also expected to have 4 to 6 releases in 2025. Releases will include "Gundam SEED FREEDOM" in January, "Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury FINAL" in April, "Gundam SEED FREEDOM ~Summer Campaign~" in July, "Mobile Suit Gundam ~Autumn New Release~" in September, and "Gundam ~Winter Collection~" in November, continuing to align with movie releases and anime seasons.

In particular, the Ichiban Kuji related to the movie "SEED FREEDOM" is scheduled for two releases in January and July, featuring popular character figures such as Kira Yamato, Aslan Zala, and Lacus Clyne. The price is set between 750 to 800 yen per entry, and the quality of the figures is highly praised.

Other Popular Series

Dragon Ball is scheduled for three releases in May, October, and December, coinciding with the start of the new anime "DAIMA" in 2025. The new anime features characters in mini sizes, and the Ichiban Kuji prizes will also feature deformed designs to match this setting.

The Pokémon series is planned for four releases: "Pikachu & Eevee Collection" in February, "Legendary Pokémon Collection" in May, "Summer Festival 2025" in August, and "Christmas Party" in November. The lineup will focus on Pikachu and Eevee, with different costumes and situations for each season.

Jujutsu Kaisen is scheduled for three releases in January, July, and August, while Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba will have three releases in January, August, and December, both featuring prizes based on important scenes from the stories. SPY×FAMILY will have three releases in March, September, and December, while Chiikawa will have three releases in February, June, and October, maintaining high popularity among young women.

Reservation Methods and Purchase Tips

The popular Ichiban Kuji series often sells out immediately on the release date, so preparation in advance is crucial to ensure you can get your hands on them. Here, we will introduce how to make reservations and tips for successful purchases.

How to Check the Reservation Start Date

The reservation start date for Ichiban Kuji is usually set 2 to 3 weeks before the release date. Information about the reservation start date is often announced about a month before the release on the official site "Ichiban Kuji Club." New product information marked with "NEW" will be posted on the top page of the site, so be sure to check it regularly.

The official X account (@ichibanKUJI_PR) is also an important source of information. Announcements about new products and reservation start notifications are posted in real-time, so it is recommended to turn on notifications. Additionally, the official accounts of various convenience store chains (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) also provide information about Ichiban Kuji available at specific stores.

By registering your favorite series in the official Ichiban Kuji app "Kuji Kore," you can receive notifications about new product information and reservation starts. The app also has a shop search function, making it easy to find nearby stores that carry the products, so it is convenient to download it.

Online Reservations and Purchases

Ichiban Kuji ONLINE is the official online reservation and purchase site. Reservations usually start at 11 AM on the reservation start date, and popular series can fill up within a few hours. It is recommended to complete your membership registration in advance and log in at least 5 minutes before the reservation start time to wait.

The advantage of online purchases is the "sales method" that allows you to choose and purchase the specific grade of prizes you want. In addition to the usual lottery format, you can directly purchase specific prizes like A prizes or B prizes, which is very convenient if you have a particular figure in mind. However, the selling prices are generally set higher than the usual lottery prices (around 3,000 to 5,000 yen for A prizes).

Delivery usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, so if you want to get it on the release date, you need to choose in-store purchases. There are also online-exclusive set sales, which offer plans that reduce shipping costs when purchasing multiple entries at once.

In-Store Reservations and Purchases

Reservations at convenience stores are made using the multi-copy machines (Loppi, FamiPort, etc.) at the store. Reservations often start at 7 AM on the reservation start date, and each store has a set number of reservation slots. Since popular series can fill up in the morning, it is recommended to make reservations early.

If you plan to purchase in-store on the release date without a reservation, it is important to visit in line with the opening time (usually 7 AM). Especially popular series can sell out within an hour of opening. The "hopping" strategy of visiting multiple chains like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson can also be effective.

At BANDAI's directly operated Ichiban Kuji shops (Gundam Base, Jump Shop, etc.), limited design Ichiban Kuji may also be sold. These stores typically have business hours from around 10 AM to 8 PM, so lining up in time for opening increases your chances of purchase. Weekday mornings are often relatively less crowded, making them a good target.

How to Obtain the Latest Information

To efficiently gather the latest information about Ichiban Kuji, it is important to combine multiple sources of information. Utilize both official channels and community information.

Official Website and App

"The official site of 'Ichiban Kuji Club' is the most accurate and comprehensive source of information. Announcements of new products are usually posted 1 to 2 months before the release date, and all information such as detailed images of prizes, prices, participating stores, and reservation start dates can be confirmed. The 'Release Schedule' page on the site allows for a monthly list display, which is convenient for planning throughout the year.

The official app 'Kuji Collection' features a 'Collection Function' to keep a record of the drawn Ichiban Kuji and a 'Community Function' to share collections with fans nationwide. Additionally, campaign information exclusive to the app and real-time inventory checking features (available at select stores) are also provided. By enabling push notifications, you won't miss the moment of new product announcements or reservation starts.

SNS and Community

The official X account (@ichibanKUJI_PR) posts announcements of new product releases, reservation starts, and reminders of release dates. Moreover, the hashtag '#IchibanKuji' shared by fans includes actual prize images and reports of draw results, which can serve as a reference for purchasing decisions.

The official Instagram account (@ichibanKUJI_official) features high-quality photos of prizes and display ideas. This is particularly useful for checking details and size of figures. Real-time information on the release date may also be shared in stories.

The 'Periperi Group' is an online community for Ichiban Kuji fans where information about releases, prize trading, and store inventory is actively discussed. It serves as a valuable resource for those living in rural areas to obtain information about nearby stores.

Gathering Information at Stores

At convenience stores and bookstores, posters and in-store displays are set up 1 to 2 weeks before the release. The posters include the release date, price, and prize lineup, so visiting stores regularly to check is effective.

You can also ask the staff directly. Politely inquiring, "Are there any upcoming Ichiban Kuji releases?" or "Are reservations being accepted?" may yield information about stock status and expected arrivals. However, responses may vary by store, so it is recommended to check multiple locations.

Purchase Guide for Foreigners

While Ichiban Kuji is primarily sold domestically in Japan, there are ways for those living overseas or those who are not confident in Japanese to make purchases. Here, we introduce a purchase guide for foreigners.

How to Purchase from Overseas

The most reliable way to purchase Ichiban Kuji from overseas is to use a proxy purchasing service. Services like 'FROM JAPAN' or 'Buyee' will purchase Ichiban Kuji sold in Japan on your behalf and ship it overseas. The service fee is about 10-15% of the product price, with international shipping costs incurred separately.

These services can assist with reservation purchases on Ichiban Kuji ONLINE or in-store purchases on the release date. However, popular series can lead to fierce competition, so there is no guarantee of securing items even through proxy services. Increasing your chances by requesting multiple services can be beneficial.

There is also the option to purchase through Japanese secondary distribution sites like Mercari or Yahoo! Auctions. On these sites, you can buy Ichiban Kuji prizes listed by individuals after the release. By bidding and purchasing through proxy services, you can access these even from overseas. However, market prices can often be 2 to 5 times the retail price, so plan with a sufficient budget.

Online shops that support international shipping (such as AmiAmi and HobbyLink Japan) may also handle Ichiban Kuji prizes. However, they are sold as individual prizes rather than in the Ichiban Kuji format, so the prices are higher.

For Those Living in Japan

Foreigners living in Japan can purchase Ichiban Kuji just like Japanese people. If you say "Ichiban Kuji o kudasai" at convenience stores, bookstores, or game centers, the staff will assist you. A simple Japanese phrase that works is "イチバンクジ、クダサイ (Ichiban kuji, kudasai)."

Payments can be made in cash, as well as with credit cards, electronic money (such as Suica and PASMO), and QR code payments (like PayPay and LINE Pay). The price of Ichiban Kuji is usually around 500 to 1,000 yen, so having some small change ready will make the process smoother.

If you're worried about language support, using the "conversation mode" of the Google Translate app can be helpful. Additionally, at convenience stores near major stations or in tourist areas, there may be staff who can speak English. The process of purchasing Ichiban Kuji is very simple (draw a ticket → receive a prize), so it's not a problem if your language skills aren't perfect.

Summary: Enjoy Ichiban Kuji in 2025

In 2025, many popular series such as One Piece, Gundam, Dragon Ball, and Pokémon are scheduled to be released throughout the year. Refer to the monthly schedule and reservation methods introduced in this article to plan your purchases effectively.

Popular series often sell out on the release date, so checking the reservation start date and making early reservations is key to success. Regularly check the official site "Ichiban Kuji Club," the app "Kuji Kore," and official social media accounts to stay updated with the latest information.

Those living overseas can use proxy purchasing services, while foreigners residing in Japan can take advantage of direct purchases at convenience stores and shops to obtain their desired character goods. Ichiban Kuji is a wonderful way to enjoy Japanese pop culture. In 2025, gather a fantastic collection and enjoy your Ichiban Kuji life.

For more detailed information on how to buy Ichiban Kuji, strategies, and a complete guide for foreigners, please refer to the parent article.