What Is Ichiban Kuji? Japan's Anime Prize Lottery Explained
If you collect anime figures, you have probably seen items labeled "Ichiban Kuji A Prize" or "Last One Prize". Ichiban Kuji is one of Japan's most popular ways to get exclusive character goods, and many prizes are never sold any other way. Here is how it works.
Key Takeaways
- Ichiban Kuji is a prize lottery by Bandai Spirits, sold mainly at convenience stores and hobby shops in Japan.
- Every ticket wins a prize, from large figures to small goods.
- A Prize is usually the top prize. The Last One Prize goes to whoever draws the final ticket.
- Prizes are made for the lottery, so buying a specific prize from a shop is often the only way to get the one you want.
In this guide: How it works · Prize tiers · Buying from overseas · Shop the guide · FAQ
How Ichiban Kuji Works
- A store displays the prize lineup for a series, such as a popular anime.
- You buy a ticket at the counter and draw from a box.
- Each ticket shows a prize letter, and you receive that prize.
- When the final ticket is drawn, that customer also receives the special Last One Prize.
New series launch regularly, often tied to anime releases and anniversaries, and popular lotteries can sell out on launch day.
Understanding Prize Tiers
| Prize | Typical items |
|---|---|
| A Prize, B Prize | Large figures, often the highlight of the series |
| Middle prizes | Smaller figures, plush or homeware |
| Lower prizes | Towels, acrylic stands, rubber charms, clear files |
| Last One Prize | A special version, often a different color or pose, given with the final ticket |
Exact prizes vary by series, so always check the listing for the prize letter and item details.
Buying Ichiban Kuji Prizes from Overseas
Ichiban Kuji tickets are sold in stores in Japan, so overseas fans usually buy individual prizes through Japan-based shops. The big advantage is certainty: you get exactly the prize you want instead of a random draw.
- Check the prize letter and series name in the listing.
- Check the condition, such as whether the box is unopened.
- Last One Prizes are produced in small numbers, so they are often priced higher.
Shop the Guide
Bleach 20th Anniversary Prizes
Uma Musume Agnes Tachyon (B Prize)
Demon Slayer Douma Figure
Dragon Ball Vol.42 (B Prize)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play Ichiban Kuji online from outside Japan?
The classic in-store lottery is only available in Japan. Buying individual prizes from a Japan-based shop is the easiest option for overseas fans.
Are Ichiban Kuji figures official?
Yes. Ichiban Kuji is run by Bandai Spirits, and prizes are officially licensed products.
Why is the Last One Prize special?
Only one is available per lottery set, given to whoever draws the final ticket, which makes it rarer than the regular prizes.
Browse anime figures and more in Anime & Collectibles. Everything is sourced in Japan and shipped worldwide by Natsuyama.
Shop by series: All Ichiban Kuji prizes · One Piece · Demon Slayer · Jujutsu Kaisen · Evangelion. Related guides: One Piece merchandise · Demon Slayer merchandise
