Complete Guide to Stores Where You Can Buy Ichiban Kuji | How to Search for Stores at Convenience Stores, Official Shops, and Bookstores

Ichiban Kuji is a popular lottery character goods that can be purchased at convenience stores and specialty shops in Japan. For foreigners living in Japan and travelers visiting Japan, it is a big question where to buy Ichiban Kuji and how to search for stores.

In this article, we will explain in detail all types of stores where you can purchase Ichiban Kuji and efficient methods for searching for stores. From convenience stores to official shops, bookstores, and hobby shops, we will introduce the characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and specific purchasing methods of each. By utilizing this information, you will be able to easily find and purchase Ichiban Kuji.

Types of Stores Where You Can Buy Ichiban Kuji

Ichiban Kuji is sold at various stores across Japan. The main sales stores can be broadly classified into four categories. Each type of store has its own unique characteristics, and the types of Ichiban Kuji they handle and their stock status may vary. Here, we will explain in detail all categories of stores where you can purchase Ichiban Kuji.

Depending on the type of store, the start time for the release of Ichiban Kuji, the turnover rate of stock, and the ease of obtaining rare items will change. It is important to choose the most suitable store according to your lifestyle and purpose. In the following sections, let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of each type of store.

Convenience Stores

Convenience stores are the most accessible places to purchase Ichiban Kuji. Major convenience store chains such as Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart regularly handle various character Ichiban Kuji.

The biggest advantage of convenience stores is that many of them are open 24 hours, allowing you to purchase at any time. With tens of thousands of stores across Japan, you can easily search for Ichiban Kuji near your home or workplace. However, popular Ichiban Kuji often sells out quickly, and if you do not visit early in the morning on the release day, it may be sold out. Since the types of Ichiban Kuji handled may differ by convenience store chain, it is important to check in advance which convenience store will sell the series you are looking for.

Official Shops and Specialty Stores

Official shops like Bandai Namco Cross Official Shop and specialty stores like Animate are also major sales points for Ichiban Kuji. There are 56 official shops nationwide, located in major city station buildings and shopping malls.

The strength of specialty stores is that they have a rich stock of Ichiban Kuji and sell them for a longer period than convenience stores. In particular, official shops may hold store-exclusive Ichiban Kuji and special promotions. Animate has about 120 stores nationwide and widely handles Ichiban Kuji aimed at anime and game fans. In specialty stores, staff are often knowledgeable about character goods, making it easier to ask questions about Ichiban Kuji. However, their business hours are shorter than those of convenience stores, usually operating from around 10 AM to 8 PM.

Bookstores and Hobby Shops

Large bookstores and hobby shops are also important sales channels for Ichiban Kuji. You can find Ichiban Kuji at bookstore chains like TSUTAYA, hobby corners in electronics retailers like Yodobashi Camera and Bic Camera, and at miscellaneous goods stores like Village Vanguard.

In these stores, since the Ichiban Kuji is offered alongside books, magazines, and hobby goods, it is convenient to purchase an Ichiban Kuji while shopping. Especially in large stores, there are often multiple types of Ichiban Kuji available at the same time, providing a wide range of options. Additionally, bookstores and hobby shops are often located in suburban shopping malls, making them easily accessible by car. The availability of Ichiban Kuji varies greatly by store, so it is recommended to confirm by phone before visiting.

Other Sales Locations

In addition to the above, there are various stores where you can purchase Ichiban Kuji. Discount stores like Don Quijote, toy sections in general supermarkets like Aeon and Ito-Yokado, as well as game centers and amusement facilities may also have Ichiban Kuji available.

The handling of Ichiban Kuji in these stores varies by location, and it is often not a permanent offering. However, you may find stock in unexpected places, and due to less competition, there is a possibility that rare items remain. Local supermarkets and independently operated toy stores may also carry Ichiban Kuji, so it is a good idea to keep an eye out while doing your daily shopping. However, since they often do not appear in the official store search, it is necessary to either visit the store directly or confirm by phone.

How to Buy Ichiban Kuji at Convenience Stores

Convenience stores are the easiest way to purchase Ichiban Kuji. Major convenience store chains in Japan, such as 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, each offer their own unique lineup of Ichiban Kuji. Since the features and available products differ by convenience store, it is important to know which convenience store sells the Ichiban Kuji of your favorite character.

Here, we will explain the characteristics of Ichiban Kuji at each convenience store chain and the actual purchasing procedure in detail. Buying at convenience stores is relatively easy for foreigners, and in most cases, you can purchase even if you do not understand basic Japanese.

7-Eleven

7-Eleven is the largest convenience store chain in Japan, with approximately 21,000 stores nationwide. They are proactive in handling Ichiban Kuji, regularly selling various popular character Ichiban Kuji.

Characteristics of Ichiban Kuji at 7-Eleven

The Ichiban Kuji sold at 7-Eleven covers a wide range of genres, including Jump works (such as One Piece, Jujutsu Kaisen, My Hero Academia), Disney, and Sanrio characters. There are many Ichiban Kuji exclusive to 7-Eleven, featuring special lineups that cannot be purchased at other convenience stores or locations.

Due to the large number of stores, it is easy to visit multiple locations to search for stock. However, it is not uncommon for popular Ichiban Kuji to sell out by the morning of the release date. Ichiban Kuji at 7-Eleven is usually displayed near the cash register, with the lottery display set up in a prominent location.

How to Purchase in Store

The procedure for purchasing Ichiban Kuji at 7-Eleven is very simple. First, check the Ichiban Kuji display near the cash register inside the store. Once you find the Ichiban Kuji you want to purchase, you can either tell the cashier, "I would like to draw an Ichiban Kuji," or simply point to the display to indicate your intention.

The staff will prepare a lottery box, from which you can draw one lottery ticket of your choice. After drawing the ticket, show the ticket number to the staff, and they will hand you the corresponding prize. Payment can be made in cash, credit card, or electronic money (such as Suica, PayPay, etc.). The price for one draw is usually around 700 to 800 yen. If you want to draw multiple times, you can inform the staff, and you can purchase them all at once.

Lawson

Lawson is a major convenience store chain with about 14,000 stores nationwide, and they are also focusing on handling lottery draws. They are particularly known for their collaboration products with anime and games.

Features of Lawson's Lottery Draws

Lawson's lottery draws feature many popular titles from anime and games. Collaborations with trending anime and games such as "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba," "SPY×FAMILY," and "Genshin Impact" are frequently held. Additionally, Lawson-exclusive lottery draws regularly appear, offering limited goods that cannot be obtained at other stores.

Lawson announces lottery release information in advance through in-store posters, the official Lawson app, and their X account. Some stores that handle popular title lottery draws may adopt a reservation system, allowing customers to obtain reservation tickets at the store before the release date. This increases the likelihood of being able to purchase on the release day.

How to Purchase in Store

The purchasing method at Lawson is basically the same as at Seven-Eleven. Once you enter the store, look for the lottery display near the register or close to the hot snack corner. When you find the lottery draw you want to purchase, inform the staff at the register of your intention to buy.

If communication is difficult, simply pointing at the lottery display will suffice. When the staff brings the lottery box, draw your favorite ticket from it. After receiving the prize for the drawn ticket, complete your purchase by making the payment at the register. If you present your Ponta card at Lawson, you can earn points, so be sure to show it if you have one.

FamilyMart

FamilyMart is a major convenience store chain with about 16,000 stores nationwide, and they also have a rich selection of lottery draws. They are characterized by a wide range of lottery draws across various genres.

Features of FamilyMart's Lottery Draws

FamilyMart's lottery draws cover a diverse range of genres, from anime and manga to idols and sports figures. In particular, lottery draws featuring cute characters like "Chiikawa" and "Sumikko Gurashi" are abundant and popular among female fans.

At FamilyMart, the stock status of lottery draws can vary significantly by store. Stores near train stations tend to sell out quickly, while those in residential areas or suburbs tend to have relatively more stock available. You can check the release information for lottery draws on the official FamilyMart website or app, so it's a good idea to check in advance.

How to Purchase in Store

The purchasing process at FamilyMart is similar to that of other convenience stores. Once you enter the store, check the lottery display set up near the register. When you find the lottery draw you want, either tell the staff at the register "I would like a lottery draw, please" or point to the display to indicate your intention.

Once the staff prepares the lottery box, you will draw one lottery ticket from inside the box. The ticket has a prize number written on it, so when you show it to the staff, they will give you the corresponding prize. Payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or with electronic money. If you have a FamilyMart T card, you can earn T points by presenting it.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying Ichiban Kuji at Convenience Stores

There are several clear advantages and disadvantages to purchasing Ichiban Kuji at convenience stores. Depending on your situation and purpose, you should determine whether buying at a convenience store is the best option for you.

Advantages:
- Many stores are open 24 hours, allowing you to purchase at any time
- There are many stores nationwide, making them easily accessible
- You can buy them while doing your regular shopping
- There are exclusive Ichiban Kuji items at each convenience store chain
- A variety of payment methods are available (cash, credit card, electronic money)

Disadvantages:
- Popular Ichiban Kuji items often sell out on the day of release
- There is no restocking, so once sold out, you cannot purchase them
- Some stores may not carry certain items
- Rare prizes like A and B prizes tend to disappear quickly
- Many stores do not allow pre-orders

The convenience of purchasing at convenience stores is its biggest appeal, but if you want to ensure you get what you want, you may need to visit early on the release day or check multiple stores.

How to Buy Ichiban Kuji at Official Shops and Specialty Stores

Official shops and specialty stores are a recommended option for those who want to ensure they can purchase Ichiban Kuji, as they tend to have a larger inventory than convenience stores. These stores specialize in Ichiban Kuji and the staff is knowledgeable about character goods, making it a safe environment for first-time buyers.

Here, we will explain in detail how to purchase at the Bandai Namco Cross Official Shop, Animate, and other specialty stores, along with their features.

Bandai Namco Cross Official Shop

The Bandai Namco Cross Official Shop operates nationwide as an official retailer of Ichiban Kuji. It is one of the most reliable stores to purchase Ichiban Kuji.

List of 56 Official Shops Nationwide

There are 56 Bandai Namco Cross Official Shops across the country, located in major city station buildings and shopping malls. In Tokyo, there are stores in major areas such as Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Akihabara, and Shibuya. In Osaka, you can find them in Umeda and Namba, while in Kyoto, they are located in Kawaramachi, and in Nagoya, in Sakae, among other major cities nationwide.

You can check the list of official shops on the Bandai Namco Cross official website. Each store's address, business hours, and phone number are listed, so it’s a good idea to check before visiting. Business hours are usually from 10 AM to around 8 PM, but this may vary by store.

Advantages of Buying at Official Shops

The biggest advantage of purchasing at official shops is the abundance of stock and good selection. Popular Ichiban Kuji items that sell out quickly at convenience stores often remain in stock for a relatively long time at official shops. Additionally, there are exclusive Ichiban Kuji items and early sale products, increasing your chances of obtaining rare items.

Furthermore, the store staff is knowledgeable about character goods and Ichiban Kuji, making it easy to ask questions and seek advice. Even foreign customers can feel at ease as the staff provides polite assistance. The store also offers a wide range of character goods such as figures and plush toys, allowing you to enjoy other products along with Ichiban Kuji.

Animate is one of Japan's largest chains of anime, manga, and game specialty stores, with approximately 120 locations nationwide. They have a rich selection of "Ichiban Kuji" (lottery) products, especially for anime fans.

Animate's strength lies in its sensitivity to the latest trends in anime and manga, quickly handling popular works' Ichiban Kuji. They feature a wide range of products, including Jump titles like "Demon Slayer" and "Jujutsu Kaisen," game titles like "Uma Musume" and "Idolmaster," and Ichiban Kuji related to popular voice actors. Animate often holds store events on the release day of Ichiban Kuji, making it a popular place for fan interactions. Additionally, using Animate's membership card, the "Animate Card," allows customers to accumulate points that can be used for future purchases.

Other Specialty Stores

Other specialty stores that handle Ichiban Kuji include the following:

Gamers: An anime and game specialty store with locations in major cities. They have a lineup similar to Animate but particularly excel in game-related Ichiban Kuji.

Toranoana: A specialty store dealing in doujinshi and anime goods, also handling Ichiban Kuji. They have many locations in Akihabara and Ikebukuro, which are centers of otaku culture.

Hobby Station: A hobby shop that deals in trading cards and figures, also selling Ichiban Kuji. They have about 60 stores nationwide and are popular among hobby enthusiasts.

These specialty stores each have their unique fan base, and the stock and lineup of Ichiban Kuji can vary by store. Visiting multiple specialty stores increases the chances of finding the desired Ichiban Kuji.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying at Specialty Stores

Purchasing at specialty stores has different advantages and disadvantages compared to convenience stores.

Advantages:
- Abundant stock, with a high possibility of purchase even after the release date
- Exclusive or early-release Ichiban Kuji available
- Staff knowledgeable about character goods, making it easy to consult
- Ability to purchase other goods alongside Ichiban Kuji
- Many stores offer point accumulation with membership cards

Disadvantages:
- Shorter operating hours than convenience stores (usually around 10 AM to 8 PM)
- Fewer locations than convenience stores, which may take longer to access
- Stores in large cities are often crowded
- Popular Ichiban Kuji may sell out quickly even at specialty stores

How to Search for Ichiban Kuji Retailers

To efficiently find Ichiban Kuji, it is important to know the appropriate store search methods. There are many Ichiban Kuji retailers in Japan, but stock availability is constantly changing. Here, we explain how to combine multiple search methods, such as the official website, Google Maps, social media, and phone inquiries, to find Ichiban Kuji most efficiently.

By utilizing these methods, even foreigners can easily find the nearest Ichiban Kuji retailers.

Searching on the Official Website

The official Bandai Namco Cross website is the most reliable source for searching Ichiban Kuji retailers. The official site provides a function to search for stores that handle each Ichiban Kuji series.

Detailed Search Steps

To search for stores on the official website, follow these steps. First, access the official Bandai Namco Cross website (bpnavi.jp). From the top page, select the "Ichiban Kuji" section and navigate to the page of the Ichiban Kuji series you are looking for.

Each Ichiban Kuji product page has a button labeled "Find Retailers". When you click this button, a store search screen will be displayed. By entering your postal code, prefecture, or city and town, you can search for a list of stores that handle the relevant Ichiban Kuji in that area. The search results include information such as store name, address, phone number, and business hours.

Points to Note When Searching

When searching on the official site, there are several points to keep in mind. First, the store information displayed in the search results is based on the registration at that time and may not reflect real-time stock status. This means that even if a store appears in the search results, it may already be sold out.

Additionally, there may be stores that handle Ichiban Kuji that are not registered on the official site. In particular, some independently operated retail stores and certain stores like Don Quijote often do not appear in the search results. Therefore, it is recommended to use the official site’s search results as a reference and combine them with other methods to find stores. Furthermore, the stores that handle Ichiban Kuji vary depending on the type of Ichiban Kuji, so it is necessary to search for each desired Ichiban Kuji.

Searching Using Google Maps

Google Maps is one of the easiest store search tools for foreigners. You can quickly find stores that handle Ichiban Kuji near your current location.

Effective Search Keywords

When searching for stores that handle Ichiban Kuji on Google Maps, it is important to use appropriate keywords. The most effective search keywords are as follows.

By entering "Ichiban Kuji", general handling stores will be displayed. If you want to search more specifically, use keywords like "Seven-Eleven Ichiban Kuji", "Lawson Ichiban Kuji", "Animate", or "Bandai Namco Cross". If you are looking for a specific character's Ichiban Kuji, searches that include the character's name, such as "One Piece Ichiban Kuji" or "Pokemon Ichiban Kuji", are also effective.

Searching in English is also possible, using keywords like "Ichiban Kuji", "anime lottery", or "prize lottery Japan". However, searching in Japanese tends to yield more accurate results.

How to Check Store Information

By tapping on a store from the Google Maps search results, you can check detailed information. Important information to check includes the following.

First, check the business hours. You can quickly see whether the store is currently open. Next, check the store's photos and reviews. If there are photos posted by other users that show Ichiban Kuji, it is likely that the store handles them. Additionally, if there is a link to the store's website, you can check for the latest information there.

The review feature on Google Maps is also useful. Other users may comment that they "purchased Ichiban Kuji here". However, it is important to check the posting date of the reviews to ensure they are not outdated. Using the route guidance feature to the store makes it easy to find access methods by foot or public transportation.

Collecting Information on SNS (X/Twitter)

X (formerly Twitter) is a powerful tool for obtaining the latest information on Ichiban Kuji. Active fan communities share real-time stock information and release information.

There are several effective methods for gathering information on X. First, by searching with hashtags like "#一番くじ" and "#ichikuji", you can find the latest Ichiban Kuji information. If you are looking for specific characters or series, use more specific hashtags like "#一番くじワンピース" or "#一番くじポケモン".

Additionally, searching with keywords like "一番くじ 在庫あり" or "一番くじ ○○店舗" may lead you to reports from people who have actually visited the stores. Including the name of the region in your search can also be effective; for example, searching "一番くじ 新宿" or "一番くじ 大阪" may provide stock information for that area. Following the official X account of Bandai Namco Cross (@bpnavi_info) will allow you to receive information about new Ichiban Kuji releases and participating stores. The official accounts of various convenience store chains may also post Ichiban Kuji information.

Phone Confirmation in Advance

Calling the store directly to check stock status is one of the most reliable methods. It is especially recommended to confirm by phone before visiting a store that is far away.

A basic conversation example for confirming by phone is as follows. First, start with, "Excuse me, I would like to inquire about the stock of Ichiban Kuji." Next, convey the specific name of the Ichiban Kuji. For example, you might ask, "Do you still have the One Piece Ichiban Kuji?" If they have stock, it’s good to ask additional questions like, "What time should I arrive to make a purchase?" and "What prizes are still available?".

If you are a foreigner and are unsure about your Japanese, you can use the voice function of the Google Translate app or ask a Japanese-speaking friend to make the call. Many store staff may understand simple English. It’s also a good idea to try asking in simple English, such as "Do you have Ichiban Kuji?" or "Is it still available?". When making a call, it is recommended to do so during store hours, especially avoiding busy times (like lunch breaks or peak evening hours).

Important Points for Foreigners to Know When Purchasing in Stores

When purchasing Ichiban Kuji in Japan, there are several important points that foreigners should be aware of. Since the store systems and business practices in Japan may differ from those in other countries, understanding these in advance can facilitate a smoother purchase.

Here, we provide practical information that will be useful during the actual purchase, including store hours, payment methods, inventory management, and communication.

Store Hours and Regular Holidays

The operating hours of stores in Japan can vary significantly depending on the type of store. Convenience stores, as their name suggests, are "convenient stores" and many operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Most stores of Seven-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are open even during late night or early morning, so you can purchase Ichiban Kuji at any time.

On the other hand, the business hours of specialty stores and official shops are usually from 10 AM to 8 or 9 PM. Stores like Animate and Bandai Namco Cross Official Shop often set up in shopping malls or station buildings, adhering to the hours of those facilities. Additionally, some stores may be closed on holidays such as New Year's Day, so it is important to check the business days before visiting. Similarly, bookstores and hobby shops generally operate from around 10 AM to 8 PM, and some stores have designated days off. If you want to purchase a lottery ticket on the release day, checking the opening hours in advance and visiting right after opening increases the chances of securing stock.

Payment Methods

In Japanese stores, various payment methods are available, but the acceptance varies by store. Cash can be used in all stores and is the most reliable payment method. If you prepare Japanese yen in bills and coins, you can make purchases without any issues anywhere.

Credit cards are accepted at major convenience store chains and most specialty shops. International brands like Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and American Express are widely accepted. However, be cautious as small privately-owned stores may not accept credit cards.

Electronic money and QR code payments are also very popular in Japan. Transportation IC cards like Suica, PASMO, and ICOCA, as well as smartphone payment apps like PayPay, LINE Pay, and Rakuten Pay, can be used at many convenience stores and specialty shops. Even foreigners can easily use these apps by downloading them and registering a Japanese bank account or credit card. Since the price of a lottery ticket is usually around 700 to 800 yen, having a small amount of cash is sufficient.

Out of Stock and Sales Period

The most significant feature of lottery tickets is that stock is limited, and once sold out, they are finished. It is not uncommon for popular lottery tickets to sell out within a few hours on the release day. Especially, top prizes like A and B prizes tend to run out early.

The official sales period for lottery tickets is stated as "until sold out." This means there is no specific end date set, and sales continue until all prizes are drawn. Typically, convenience stores sell out within a week of the release date, but specialty stores and official shops may have stock remaining for a few weeks to a month.

Stock availability varies greatly by store. Stores near urban train stations face intense competition and sell out quickly, while stores in suburban or residential areas tend to have stock remaining for a relatively longer time. If you want to ensure a purchase, it is recommended to visit right after opening on the release day. Additionally, planning to visit multiple stores increases the chances of finding stock. Lottery tickets are rarely restocked, so if you find a series you want, it is advisable to purchase it without hesitation.

Communication Tips

Even foreigners who are not confident in their Japanese can relatively easily purchase lottery tickets. The purchasing process in stores is simple and does not require complex conversations.

The most basic method is to point at the lottery ticket display and say "I would like this" or "One lottery ticket, please." Even if you cannot speak Japanese, simply pointing at the display will convey your intention to the staff. Many staff members are accustomed to foreign customers and will communicate with gestures.

It's useful to remember some helpful Japanese phrases. "Ichiban kuji wo onegaishimasu" means "I would like to buy an Ichiban kuji." "Kore wa mada arimasuka?" can be used to check stock availability. You can ask for prices with "Ikura desuka?". "Arigatou gozaimasu" is a basic phrase to express gratitude.

Smartphone translation apps are also very convenient. By using apps like Google Translate or DeepL, you can translate between Japanese and your native language in real-time. With the voice input feature, conversations can proceed smoothly. Additionally, by showing a screenshot of the Ichiban kuji product page to the store staff, you can clearly communicate which Ichiban kuji you are looking for. Japanese store staff are generally kind and will explain things politely if you have questions. Don't hesitate to ask when you're in trouble.

Comparison Table by Store Type

We will compare the various store types introduced so far and organize their respective strengths and weaknesses. Please use this as a reference to choose the best store for your situation and purpose.

Summary of Features by Store Type

The following comparison table summarizes the main features of each store type.

Store Type	Business Hours	Accessibility	Stock Abundance	Sold Out Speed	Limited Products	Recommendation Level
Convenience Store (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart)	24 hours	★★★★★	★★☆☆☆	Very Fast	Chain Exclusives Available	★★★★☆
Bandai Namco Cross Official Shop	10:00-20:00	★★★☆☆	★★★★★	Normal	Official Exclusives Available	★★★★★
Animate	10:00-20:00	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	Normal	Store Exclusives Available	★★★★☆
Bookstore/Hobby Shop	10:00-20:00	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	Somewhat Fast	None	★★★☆☆
Others (Don Quijote, Supermarkets, etc.)	Varies by Store	★★★★☆	★★☆☆☆	Somewhat Slow	None	★★☆☆☆

Explanation of Each Item:

Business Hours: The biggest strength of convenience stores is their 24-hour operation. Specialty stores and official shops usually operate from around 10 AM to 8 PM.

Accessibility: Convenience stores are easy to access from anywhere as there are tens of thousands of them nationwide. Specialty stores are concentrated in major cities and large shopping malls.

Stock Abundance: Official shops have the most abundant stock and sell items for a long time. Convenience stores usually only have initial stock and rarely restock.

Sold Out Speed: Convenience stores often sell out on the day of release. Official shops and specialty stores may have stock remaining for a few weeks to a month.

Limited Products: Each store type has limited Ichiban kuji. Certain Ichiban kuji may only be available at specific stores.

How to Choose the Right Store for You

Choose the best store type according to your situation and purpose. Below are recommended stores based on different scenarios.

Scenario 1: I want to make sure I purchase on the release day
Recommended stores: Convenience stores or official shops (visit right after opening)
Reason: If you go right after opening on the release day, there will be stock at any store. It's reassuring to plan to visit multiple stores. At convenience stores, you can visit several locations in a short time.

Scenario 2: I missed the release date but still want to buy
Recommended stores: Bandai Namco Cross official shop, Animate
Reason: Official shops and specialty stores tend to have stock for a longer time. Be sure to check stock availability by phone before visiting.

Scenario 3: I want to purchase late at night or early in the morning
Recommended stores: 24-hour convenience stores
Reason: You can purchase at convenience stores without worrying about the time. However, popular items may be sold out even in the early morning.

Scenario 4: I am looking for limited items or special lineups
Recommended stores: Check the limited lottery at each store (gather information on the official website)
Reason: There are different lotteries exclusive to each store, such as 7-Eleven exclusive, Lawson exclusive, and official shop exclusive. Choose stores based on the items you want.

Scenario 5: I am not confident in my Japanese and need support
Recommended stores: Bandai Namco Cross official shop, Animate
Reason: The staff at specialty stores are knowledgeable about character goods and provide polite assistance. It’s an environment where communication is easier while using translation apps.

Scenario 6: I want to draw multiple times while keeping my budget down
Recommended stores: Suburban convenience stores, Don Quijote
Reason: In suburban stores with less competition, there may still be stock left a few days after the release date. This increases the chances of being able to draw multiple times.

No matter which type of store you choose, gathering information in advance and planning to check multiple stores is the key to efficiently obtaining lottery tickets.

Summary: Let’s efficiently find and purchase lottery tickets

In this article, we have detailed all types of stores where you can purchase lottery tickets and efficient store search methods. We provided practical information to help foreigners living in Japan and visitors to Japan easily find and purchase lottery tickets.

Here, we will review the important points of the article and introduce specific actions to take next.

Important Points of This Article

1. Main types of stores where you can purchase lottery tickets
Lottery tickets can be purchased at various places, including convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart), Bandai Namco Cross official shops, Animate, bookstores, and hobby shops. Each type of store has its own characteristics, and stock availability and product offerings vary.

2. Convenience stores are easy but competition is fierce
Convenience stores are open 24 hours and are easily accessible, but popular lottery tickets often sell out on the release day. If you want to ensure a purchase, plan to visit right after opening on the release day or visit multiple stores.

3. Official shops and specialty stores have abundant stock
Specialty stores like Bandai Namco Cross official shop and Animate tend to have stock for a longer period than convenience stores. Even if you miss the release date, there is a higher chance of being able to purchase at specialty stores.

4. Utilize Effective Store Search Methods
By combining the official website, Google Maps, social media (X/Twitter), and phone confirmations, you can efficiently find Ichiban Kuji. Real-time information on X is particularly useful for understanding stock availability.

5. Easy for Foreigners to Purchase
Even if you're not confident in Japanese, you can purchase Ichiban Kuji just by pointing at the display. Using translation apps or memorizing basic Japanese phrases can make the purchase process even smoother. Various payment methods such as cash, credit cards, and electronic money are available.

6. Stock Availability is Always Changing
Ichiban Kuji is a limited stock product and is rarely restocked. If you find the Ichiban Kuji you want, it is recommended to purchase it without hesitation. Gathering information in advance and planning to check multiple stores is the key to success.

Next Actions

To efficiently find and purchase Ichiban Kuji, let's follow these steps.

Step 1: Identify the Ichiban Kuji You Want
First, clarify which character or series of Ichiban Kuji you want. Check the Bandai Namco Cross official site (bpnavi.jp) for currently available and upcoming Ichiban Kuji products. You can confirm the release dates, prices, and prize contents of each Ichiban Kuji.

Step 2: Search for Retailers
Use the store search function on the official site, Google Maps, and social media to list stores near your home or workplace that carry Ichiban Kuji. By picking multiple stores, you can reduce the risk of sold-out items.

Step 3: Confirm Stock in Advance
Especially when visiting distant stores, confirm stock availability by phone in advance. Just asking, "Is the Ichiban Kuji for XX still available?" can prevent wasted trips. If you want to purchase on the release day, also check the opening hours.

Step 4: Act Quickly on Release Day
Popular Ichiban Kuji often sells out on the release day, so it is recommended to visit the store right after it opens. It’s a good idea to plan an efficient route to visit multiple stores in advance. For convenience stores, you can visit several locations in a short time by walking or biking.

Step 5: Share Information on Social Media After Purchase
Once you’ve purchased Ichiban Kuji, posting on X (Twitter) with the hashtag "#IchibanKuji" allows you to share your joy with other fans. Additionally, sharing stock information can help others. The Ichiban Kuji community is friendly and active, so be sure to participate.

Step 6: Check Other Ichiban Kuji Related Information
The enjoyment of Ichiban Kuji is not just in purchasing. Our site offers more detailed information in other articles about the mechanics of Ichiban Kuji, types of prizes, and introductions to popular series. To enjoy the world of Ichiban Kuji more deeply, please check out other articles as well.

With this, you can efficiently find and purchase Ichiban Kuji in Japan. Get your favorite character goods and fully enjoy the fun of Ichiban Kuji. Good luck with your Ichiban Kuji hunting!