Gacha as souvenirs: what to get and how to bring it home
Capsule toys make great souvenirs: they are cheap, small, very Japanese, and you never know exactly what you will get. Here is what to look for and how to get your haul home in one piece.
What makes a good souvenir
- Very Japanese things. Miniature food, folk crafts, local snacks and everyday items you will only see in Japan. Browse the Japanese culture, food and miniatures tags.
- Things people can use. Charms, pouches, keychains and card cases are easy gifts.
- Japan-only character designs. Sanrio, Disney, Pokémon and anime goods made for the Japanese market often never appear abroad.
Keep the card, toss the capsule
The plastic capsule takes up a lot of space. Most gacha shops have a recycling box for empty capsules. If you want to keep the set together, keep the small paper insert, which often shows the whole lineup.
Packing crane game prizes
- Arcades hand out free bags for big prizes. Ask the staff if you don't see them.
- Large plush squash down well in a suitcase; boxed figures don't. Plan space for boxes, or pack figures in your carry-on.
- If you win more than you can carry, hotels and convenience stores can send a box or suitcase within Japan, for example ahead to the airport. To ship overseas, use a post office.
Prices and tax
The price on a gacha machine already includes tax, and machines don't do tax-free shopping, so the price you see is the price you pay. Most sets cost ¥200–¥500 per turn.