What this is
Ichiban Kuji is a popular lottery-style merchandise system run by Bandai Spirits, found in convenience stores, hobby shops, and anime retailers across Japan. Each 'try' costs a fixed price and guarantees a prize — ranging from premium figures to smaller goods — with rarer items assigned to higher-tier lots. This particular campaign, 'Attack on Titan: Dedicate Your Hearts 2026,' is themed around the globally beloved manga and anime series by Hajime Isayama, which concluded its run but remains a cultural phenomenon with an enduring fanbase. Ichiban Kuji campaigns for major franchises like Attack on Titan are highly anticipated collector events, with top-tier prizes often becoming sought-after items on the secondary market. The campaign launches in-store from October 24, 2026, with stock selling out quickly at popular locations.
Who should go
This is a must-visit for Attack on Titan fans and anime merchandise collectors visiting Japan in late October 2026. The lottery format makes it exciting even for casual anime fans who enjoy the thrill of a guaranteed prize at an accessible price point. It's a quintessential 'only in Japan' experience that gives visitors a hands-on taste of otaku retail culture. Head to Animate, Hobby Off, Yodobashi Camera, or larger convenience store chains early on release day for the best selection of remaining lots.
Good to know
Ichiban Kuji is sold at a wide range of retailers including Lawson convenience stores, Animate, Hobby Off, Yodobashi Camera, and other hobby/anime shops — no advance ticket purchase is needed, just walk in and pay per try. Cash is strongly recommended as many smaller retailers and convenience stores may not accept foreign credit cards for this type of purchase. The prize tiers run from A (rarest, typically a large premium figure) down to a 'last one' bonus prize for whoever buys the final ticket — so buying early or late both have strategic appeal. Prizes are handed over immediately in-store, so factor in luggage space if you're a tourist; larger figures can be bulky to transport. Stock is strictly first-come, first-served with no reservations, and once a store sells out it will not restock.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.