Find Unique Souvenirs with Gachapon!
Gachapon, also known as “gacha,” refers to capsule toy vending machines that sell small toys or accessories encased in plastic capsules.
Gachapon is named after the sound it makes when you turn the handle (“gacha”) and the capsule pops out (“pon”). These machines are extremely popular in Japan and can be found in various locations such as shopping malls, train stations, and tourist spots.
Since many tourist spots and travel destinations have location-specific items, trying out gacha machines in new places is highly recommended. When I was a child, gachapon only cost 100 yen per try, and the items were rather cheap. However, these days, you can enjoy them for around 100 to 500 yen, and the quality of the toys has significantly improved.
You can find a wide variety of items, including anime characters, animal figures, miniature foods, and miscellaneous goods. Collecting gachapon from the same series is a joy, and rare items are particularly appealing to collectors.
The outcome is random, so what you get depends on luck. It’s an exciting experience every time, making gachapon a widely enjoyed form of entertainment for both children and adults.
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Let’s try Gachapon!
Among the many gachapon, I found a PEZ gachapon. Collecting PEZ dispensers as a child brings back fond memories. It seems there’s a retro boom these days, and items popular during the Heisei era are making a comeback.
There are six different types of PEZ pouches available. As I turn the crank, I’m hoping to get the pink pouch. The anticipation of what will come out is thrilling.
First, I insert four 100-yen coins one by one. If I don’t have any 100-yen coins, I use a nearby change machine to get some coins. Then, I turn the handle in the direction of the arrow until I hear a click.
A capsule comes out, and it’s a cute blue color. Thinking about what to put inside is part of the fun. Feeling this excited for just 400 yen is such a delight.
Interesting and Unique Gachapon
I found a very unique gachapon – a perfume gachapon. The price is quite high at 900 yen, but since I wanted perfume, I decided to give it a try. I wondered what would happen if I didn’t like the scent, but the excitement of the gachapon won.
What came out was a French eau de parfum. It contains mojito and has a bold fragrance that captures the excitement of a midsummer beach party. It evokes the cheerful atmosphere of a summer evening, which I love.
I’m happy to have encountered something I wouldn’t have bought for myself.
Get it with Gachapon: A Little Gift for Kids
On another day, I tried a gachapon that featured a “Do Not Press” button and various vehicles, which seemed perfect for kids. It’s enjoyable to do together, and it also makes a delightful little gift.
I want everyone to experience the thrill of turning the handle and the excitement of opening the capsule.
Generally, you need coins to use a gachapon machine, so it’s a good idea to exchange your money for coins beforehand.
Gachapon is more than just a simple vending machine; it’s a delightful adventure that offers a piece of Japanese culture in a small, round capsule. Whether you’re a collector chasing rare items, a traveler exploring new places, or simply looking for a bit of fun, gachapon brings a unique thrill to everyone. The joy of anticipation, the surprise of discovery, and the charm of these tiny treasures make gachapon an experience to be cherished. So next time you see a gachapon machine, give it a spin—you never know what little delight awaits you inside.
