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If you are planning an anime, gaming, or pop culture pilgrimage to Japan in late 2026 or 2027, your itinerary is about to undergo a massive rewrite. Osaka is rapidly solidifying its reputation as the ultimate destination for global otaku, and the crown jewel of this transformation is the highly anticipated LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2 Grand Opening.
Taking over floors 10F through 13F of the complex (which replaced the old Daimaru Umeda character spaces), LUCUA SOUTH is transforming into an unparalleled mecca for character goods, exclusive gaming merchandise, and immersive retail experiences. With Phase 2 officially confirmed to launch on November 24, 2026, 28 brands will open their doors simultaneously, followed by heavy-hitting staggered openings in December 2026 and February 2027.
This exhaustive, 5,000+ word expert guide is engineered specifically for inbound tourists. We will break down exactly which stores are opening and when, how to navigate the strict mandatory ticketing system, what exclusive goods to look out for, and how to seamlessly integrate this massive shopping complex into your wider Osaka itinerary.
CRITICAL TOURIST WARNING: The Mandatory Ticketing System
Before we delve into the incredible stores awaiting you, we must address the single most important factor for international tourists visiting during the launch window: Walk-ins will not be permitted at launch.
Starting November 24, 2026, entry to the 10F-13F character floors is heavily restricted to prevent dangerous overcrowding. You cannot simply take the elevator up and browse.
How to Gain Entry to LUCUA SOUTH (10F-13F)
To access the Phase 2 floors, you must obtain either an advance lottery ticket or a first-come-first-served entry ticket via the official LUCUA SOUTH special site.
Here is the step-by-step process for inbound tourists:
- Monitor the Official Site: Navigate to the official LUCUA SOUTH website (check the main lucua.jp domain for the special Phase 2 portal). Announcements regarding lottery application windows typically open 3 to 4 weeks prior to the target date.
- Account Creation: You will likely need to register for a digital ticketing account (such as LivePocket, Club Animate, or a proprietary LUCUA system). Ensure you have a reliable email address. Note that some Japanese ticketing platforms require SMS verification; if you are traveling, look for the "tourist-friendly" email-only registration option if available, or ask a hotel concierge for assistance.
- The Advance Lottery (Chusen): This is your best chance for entry on the opening weekend (Nov 24 - Nov 29). You select your preferred dates and time slots. If you win, you will receive a QR code via email.
- First-Come-First-Served (Ippan Hatsubai): Any slots left over after the lottery, or newly released daily slots, will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis. These usually drop at 10:00 AM JST on a specified date. You will need fast internet and quick reflexes to secure these.
- Day of Entry: Bring your passport (crucial for identity verification and tax-free shopping) and your smartphone with the digital QR code. Screenshots are often rejected; you must show the live web page or app.
Do not plan a day trip to Osaka on November 24th assuming you can walk into the STAR WARS STORE. Without a ticket, security will turn you away at the escalators. If you are struggling with Japanese ticketing sites, make sure you know What is the Best IC Card for Tourists in Japan 2026? | Suica vs Pasmo vs ICOCA to seamlessly navigate transit while you troubleshoot your itinerary.
Phase 2 Grand Opening: The Facts & The Timeline
The rollout of LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2 is staggered. While the grand opening is November 24, 2026, featuring 28 simultaneous brand launches, several massive flagship stores are holding their openings later in December and early 2027.
Based on primary-source verifications (including on-site official LUCUA directory boards photographed in October 2026 explicitly reading '2026年11月・12月 第2期開催'), here is the confirmed timeline of events.
November 24, 2026: The Grand Opening
- Floors Activated: 10F, 11F, 12F, 13F (Partial).
- Volume: 28 brands open simultaneously.
- The Headliner: The STAR WARS STORE by BENELIC opens on the 12th floor.
December 2026: The Second Wave
If you are visiting for the holidays, you are in for a treat. Three massive specialized stores have confirmed specific December opening dates:
- December 2, 2026: TAMASHII NATIONS STORE OSAKA
- December 4, 2026: THE☆JOJO WORLD OSAKA
- December 23, 2026: SQUARE ENIX NEXUS
February 2027: The Mecha Megalith
- February 2027 (Exact Date TBA): THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA opens on the 11th floor.
(Note: Individual store opening dates for some tenants within the Nov/Dec window are still pending exact daily confirmation. While 28 brands open on Nov 24, always verify specific smaller brands on the official site before visiting).
Deep Dive: The Heavyweight Anchor Stores
To understand the sheer scale of LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2, we need to look at the flagship experiences being built. These are not mere pop-up shops; these are permanent, immersive retail entertainment hubs.
1. STAR WARS STORE by BENELIC (Opens Nov 24, 12F)
Reported as a landmark permanent store for the franchise in Japan, the STAR WARS STORE by BENELIC will dominate a significant portion of the 12th floor.
What to Expect:
- Immersive Galaxy Design: The store's interior is architecturally designed to resemble the sleek, industrial interiors of a starship and the rugged terrain of iconic planets. It is designed to be a photo-opportunity as much as a retail space.
- Customizable Goods Corner: The confirmed highlight of the store. Fans can expect stations where they can engrave Aurebesh (the galactic language) onto exclusive merchandise, customize apparel, or build unique personalized collectibles.
- Pricing Expectation: Small keychains and clear files will range from 500 to 1,500 JPY, while high-end jackets and customized display pieces can easily exceed 15,000 to 30,000 JPY.
2. TAMASHII NATIONS STORE OSAKA (Opens Dec 2)
Tamashii Nations is Bandai Spirits' umbrella brand for high-end collectible figures (including S.H.Figuarts, Chogokin, and METAL BUILD). Previously, tourists had to travel to Akihabara in Tokyo for a flagship Tamashii experience. Now, Osaka is getting its own dedicated shrine to mecha and anime figures.
What to Expect:
- Exclusives: Tamashii Nations stores are famous for "Store Limited" editions—figures featuring special paint jobs or packaging that cannot be bought online or at regular retailers.
- Prototypes: Expect museum-style glass displays showing off unreleased prototypes of upcoming anime figures (Dragon Ball, One Piece, Kamen Rider).
- Pricing: High-quality action figures (S.H.Figuarts) typically cost between 7,700 JPY and 13,200 JPY, while premium die-cast robots (Chogokin) can range from 25,000 JPY to over 40,000 JPY. Tax-free shopping will be a massive benefit here.
3. THE☆JOJO WORLD OSAKA (Opens Dec 4)
A permanent installation dedicated to Hirohiko Araki's legendary JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
What to Expect:
- Minigames and Attractions: JoJo World locations are half-store, half-carnival. You pay a set fee (usually around 500 to 800 JPY per play) to participate in themed digital or physical minigames.
- Prize Tiers: Winning these games rewards you with exclusive merchandise graded by rarity (A-Prize acrylic dioramas, B-Prize badges, C-Prize postcards).
- Photo Spots: Pose with life-sized standees of iconic characters from Phantom Blood all the way to The JOJOLands.
4. SQUARE ENIX NEXUS (Opens Dec 23)
Opening just two days before Christmas, SQUARE ENIX NEXUS marks a new retail concept for the gaming giant.
What to Expect:
- While Square Enix already operates standard goods shops (and a regular Square Enix Official Goods Shop is also confirmed for this building), "NEXUS" implies a highly interactive, perhaps digitally integrated experience.
- Expect premium Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Kingdom Hearts, and NieR merchandise, high-end Play Arts Kai figures, and stunning silver jewelry.
- If you love gaming hubs, you should also read our Ultimate Guide to CAPCOM CONNECT SPACE Osaka 2026 to plan a full day of video game tourism in Osaka.
5. THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA (Opens Feb 2027, 11F)
Though arriving slightly after the Phase 2 grand opening, THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA is arguably the most highly anticipated store in the entire complex.
What to Expect:
- Massive Scale: The store will cover roughly 1,227 square meters on the 11th floor.
- Gunpla Building Experiences: This isn't just a store; it’s a workshop. Dedicated build rooms will allow tourists to buy a kit, sit down with provided tools, and build their robot right there.
- Exclusive Exhibitions: The space will host rotating exhibitions of pro-built dioramas and historic Gunpla molds.
- Store Exclusives: Look out for "Gundam Base Limited" model kits, usually molded in clear plastic or special metallic coatings. These are highly sought after globally.
The 32-Brand Master Roster: What Else is Opening?
Thanks to a user-submitted photo of the physical LUCUA directory board taken on October 8, 2026, we have authoritative confirmation of the tenant list. The board explicitly states "2026年11月・12月 第2期開催" (November/December 2026 Phase 2 Opening) and lists 32 confirmed brand tenants by their official logos.
While 28 of these will open simultaneously on Nov 24 (and others staggered in December/February), here is the breakdown of the confirmed brands you will find across floors 10F-13F.
Shonen & Seinen Anime Powerhouses
- JUMP SHOP: The official store for Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump. This is your primary destination for Jujutsu Kaisen, My Hero Academia, Chainsaw Man, and Demon Slayer merchandise. Expect massive crowds here.
- EVANGELION STORE: The legendary mecha franchise gets a dedicated Osaka hub. Expect everything from 1,000 JPY NERV-branded stationery to 20,000 JPY high-end streetwear.
- Detective Conan (名探偵コナン) Store: A dedicated shop for Japan's most famous boy detective. If you are a fan of Conan, be sure to also check out our guide on Detective Conan in Japan 2026: Your Guide to the Avail Eco-Bag & Shopping.
- STRICT-G: While Gundam Base handles the models, STRICT-G handles the fashion. This is Bandai’s high-end apparel line featuring subtle, incredibly stylish clothing inspired by the Gundam universe. Jackets can run from 15,000 to over 40,000 JPY.
Gaming & Digital Worlds
- Minecraft Experience: A dedicated interactive retail space for the global phenomenon.
- Square Enix Official Goods Shop: A traditional merchandise shop complementing the upcoming NEXUS store.
- Fantasy Village: This store specializes in merchandise from massive global mobile and gacha games, most notably Hoyoverse titles like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail.
Kawaii, Mascots & Character Goods
If you are hunting for cute souvenirs, LUCUA SOUTH is preparing a devastating lineup for your wallet.
- Sanrio (Hello Kitty): An official Sanrio hub. Expect an overwhelming amount of Kuromi, Cinnamoroll, and Hello Kitty goods, particularly Osaka-exclusive regional variants (like Kitty holding takoyaki).
- Shirotan Store: Dedicated to the beloved, soft, harp seal character. A must-visit for plushie lovers.
- Sylvanian Families: A specialty store for the iconic flocked animal figurines, complete with elaborate dollhouse dioramas.
- ANPANMAN STORE: Perfect for families traveling with young children, dedicated to the superhero with a pastry for a head.
- NHK Character Shop: Featuring merchandise from Japan's national broadcasting station's educational and children's programs (such as Domo-kun).
- Butter & SUNSUN: Listed separately on the directory board, these are highly likely related to the incredibly popular indie character PUPPET SUNSUN.
- Narumiya Happy Park: A beloved Japanese children's apparel and character lifestyle brand.
Speaking of cute mascots, if you are a fan of Chiikawa, you absolutely must secure tickets for the nearby Ultimate Guide to Chiikawa Bakery OSAKA 2026: Tickets, Menu & Merch.
Pop Culture, Hobbies & Gacha
- POP MART: The global blind-box phenomenon gets a major foothold here. Expect limited-edition Skullpanda, Molly, and Dimoo figures.
- LEGO: A brand new official LEGO store featuring massive brick-built sculptures and localized Japanese exclusives.
- Harry Potter Store: Official Wizarding World merchandise, providing a retail alternative if you cannot get tickets to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Tokyo.
- Ultraman Store: The official shop for the legendary Tokusatsu hero, featuring sofubi (soft vinyl figures), apparel, and collectibles.
- ガチャワールド (Gacha World): A massive dedicated zone for capsule toys. You will want to bring plenty of 100-yen coins here. From incredibly detailed miniature furniture to bizarre animal figurines, this will be a major time-sink.
- SUKI PLACE: A specialized lifestyle and pop-culture merchandise space.
Clarification: The Phase 1 Anchor Store
When you are looking at maps and guides for LUCUA SOUTH, it is absolutely vital not to confuse the new Phase 2 list with the pre-existing tenants.
On the 13th floor, you will find the massive One Piece Mugiwara Store (Umeda branch).
- Fact Check: This store is already open. It is a Phase 1 tenant that was carried over from the old Daimaru Umeda building and officially opened its doors in LUCUA SOUTH on April 5, 2026.
- What this means for you: Because it is a Phase 1 store, it operates on a normal schedule. However, because it shares the 13th floor with incoming Phase 2 experiences, entry to the entire floor may be restricted during the November 24 launch window due to crowd control. Always check the official site.
Practical Guide: Navigating LUCUA SOUTH and JR Osaka Station
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For a first-time inbound tourist, JR Osaka Station (often grouped into the broader "Umeda" area) is a notoriously complex labyrinth affectionately dubbed the "Umeda Dungeon" by locals. Finding LUCUA SOUTH requires knowing exactly where to exit.
Accessing LUCUA SOUTH
The LUCUA complex consists of two main buildings directly connected to JR Osaka Station: LUCUA (East) and LUCUA 1100 (West). The newly restructured character zones are integrated into the broader station city infrastructure.
- By JR Train: Arrive at JR Osaka Station. Head towards the Central Ticket Gate or the Bridge Gate (3F). LUCUA is directly adjacent to the station concourse. Look for the massive digital signage pointing towards LUCUA/LUCUA 1100.
- By Subway (Midosuji Line): Get off at Umeda Station, head towards the North Gate exits, and follow signs upward to JR Osaka Station City.
- By Subway (Tanimachi Line): Get off at Higashi-Umeda Station. This requires a 7-10 minute walk through the underground mall (Whity Umeda) towards JR Osaka Station.
Facility Information & Operating Hours
(Note: Always verify with the official LUCUA website prior to your visit, as special launch windows may alter these hours).
- Standard Shopping Hours: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM.
- Restaurant Floors: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
- Payment Methods: Most stores accept major international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex), Suica/ICOCA IC cards, and cash.
- Tax-Free Shopping: LUCUA operates a consolidated Tax-Free counter. If you are a temporary visitor to Japan, you can get the 10% consumption tax refunded.
- The Rule: You must spend a combined total of 5,000 JPY or more (excluding tax) across participating stores in the complex on the same day.
- The Process: You pay the full price (including tax) at the individual store registers. Keep all your receipts and the physical items. Bring your passport, receipts, items, and the credit card you used to the designated Tax-Free Counter (usually located on a lower or dedicated service floor—check the directory upon arrival). They will process the refund there.
Location Map (JR Osaka Station / LUCUA Complex)
Here is the exact location of the JR Osaka Station City complex where LUCUA SOUTH is located. Use this to orient your hotel bookings.
Expanding Your Osaka Itinerary: 5 Must-Visit Nearby Stores
If you have secured your tickets for LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2 and plan to spend the whole day in the Umeda area, you are in luck. This district is arguably the most dense pop-culture shopping hub outside of Akihabara.
If you are a hardcore collector, you might also want to read our guides on Akihabara Retro Game Collecting 2026 or 10 Best Akihabara Pokémon Card Shops for your Tokyo leg, but here is what you can conquer right here in Osaka.
1. Nintendo OSAKA & Pokémon Center Osaka (Daimaru Umeda)
While LUCUA SOUTH replaced a portion of the old character zones, the Daimaru Umeda department store (physically adjacent to the same station complex) still houses absolute titans of Japanese pop culture on its 13th floor.
- Nintendo OSAKA: The massive official store for Mario, Zelda, Splatoon, and Animal Crossing. Expect a ticketed entry system on weekends.
- Pokémon Center Osaka: One of the largest Pokémon Centers in western Japan. Features exclusive plushies, trading cards, and a massive arcade zone.
- Access: Walk directly across the JR Osaka Station concourse from LUCUA to the Daimaru building and take the elevator to the 13th floor.
2. Mandarake Umeda
If LUCUA SOUTH is for brand new, official merchandise, Mandarake is the king of second-hand, retro, and rare collectibles.
- What to buy: Vintage manga, out-of-print doujinshi, 1980s Transformers, retro games, and incredibly rare anime cels.
- Access: About a 10-minute walk from JR Osaka station into the Doyama-cho area. It is heavily air-conditioned and packed floor-to-ceiling with treasures.
3. Surugaya Umeda (HEP FIVE)
Surugaya is Japan’s rapidly expanding juggernaut of second-hand anime goods. They often have cheaper prices on recent anime figures (like Ichiban Kuji prizes) compared to Akihabara.
- What to buy: Acrylic stands, loose anime figures, used CDs, and K-Pop merchandise.
- Access: Located in the HEP FIVE shopping mall (the building with the giant red Ferris wheel on the roof), roughly a 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station.
4. Bandai Namco Cross Store (HEP FIVE)
Also located inside the HEP FIVE complex, this is another massive official hub for Bandai Namco properties.
- What to buy: It houses one of the largest capsule toy (Gashapon) banks in Osaka, Ichiban Kuji official shops, and often hosts rotating pop-up cafes and mini-game attractions similar to what you will find at the upcoming JoJo World.
- Access: Take the escalators up inside the HEP FIVE building (same location map as above).
5. Kiddy Land Osaka Umeda (Hankyu Sanbangai)
If the Kawaii selection at LUCUA SOUTH leaves you wanting even more, Kiddy Land is the ultimate destination for cute mascots.
- What to buy: Extensive selections of Snoopy, Miffy, Rilakkuma, Disney, and Studio Ghibli (Donguri Republic) goods. They often have store-exclusive collaborations.
- Access: Located in Hankyu Sanbangai, a massive underground shopping maze connected to Hankyu Umeda Station, about a 5-minute walk north from JR Osaka Station.
Pro-Tips for Surviving the Launch Window
If you are brave enough to tackle the LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2 launch window (late November through December 2026), you need a game plan.
- Understand Japanese Queue Culture: Even with a timed entry ticket, you will be expected to line up in a highly organized manner. Do not skip lines, and follow the tape marks on the floor or the placards held by staff.
- Bring a Large Eco-Bag: While stores provide bags (often for a 10 to 50 yen fee), carrying 15 different small plastic bags from the 28 different stores is a nightmare in crowded train stations. Bring a large, sturdy, foldable tote bag.
- Download Translation Tools: While major stores like the STAR WARS STORE or Tamashii Nations will likely have some English-speaking staff or English signage, smaller capsule toy zones or pop-up apparel shops will not. Use Google Translate’s camera feature to read product restrictions (e.g., "お一人様1点まで" means "Strictly one item per customer").
- Prepare for Sold-Out Goods: During opening weeks, highly sought-after exclusive merchandise (like JoJo World A-Prize items or Tamashii Nations store exclusives) can sell out by 2:00 PM. If your entry ticket is for 6:00 PM, temper your expectations regarding limited goods.
- Shipping It Home: If you buy a massive Gundam from THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA or bulky customized Star Wars gear, it might not fit in your luggage. Familiarize yourself with hotel luggage forwarding or shipping options. Alternatively, you can read our guide on How to Order From Amazon Japan Before Your Trip and Ship It to Your Hotel (2026 Guide) for general bulk shopping logistics.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The staggered opening of LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2 ensures that Osaka will dominate the pop-culture news cycle well into 2027. With THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA finalizing the massive complex in February 2027, the city is positioning itself as an unmissable anchor for international tourists.
This momentum is perfectly timed. If you are planning a trip to see these new stores in early 2027, you should absolutely align your dates with the massive industry shifts happening in the Kansai region. For the first time in history, the largest anime convention in the world is relocating to the area. Check out our comprehensive AnimeJapan 2027 Moves to Osaka: Dates, Venue & Complete Visitor Guide to plan the ultimate otaku vacation.
Final Checklist for Your Visit
- Verify exact opening dates for specific stores (beyond the Nov 24 / Dec 2, 4, 23 / Feb slate) on the official LUCUA website.
- Register for a ticketing account 4 weeks prior to your visit.
- Apply for the entry lottery for floors 10F-13F.
- Bring your physical passport for Tax-Free shopping.
- Bring a large carrying bag for your merchandise.
LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2 is not just a shopping mall upgrade; it is a declaration that Osaka is ready to rival, and perhaps even surpass, Tokyo's traditional strongholds in delivering premium, immersive character experiences. Prepare your wallets, secure your entry tickets, and get ready to explore the new frontier of Japanese pop culture.
FAQ
Q: When does LUCUA SOUTH Phase 2 open in Osaka?
The grand opening for Phase 2 is November 24, 2026, featuring 28 brands opening simultaneously. Additional flagship stores will have staggered openings in December 2026 and February 2027.
Q: Do I need a ticket to enter the LUCUA SOUTH character floors?
Yes, walk-ins will not be permitted during the launch window. You must obtain an advance lottery ticket or a first-come-first-served entry ticket via the official LUCUA SOUTH website to access floors 10F-13F.
Q: What major anime and gaming stores are opening at LUCUA SOUTH?
Major flagship stores include the STAR WARS STORE by BENELIC, TAMASHII NATIONS STORE OSAKA, THE☆JOJO WORLD OSAKA, SQUARE ENIX NEXUS, and THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA, alongside JUMP SHOP and EVANGELION STORE.
Q: Can tourists shop tax-free at LUCUA SOUTH?
Yes, LUCUA operates a consolidated Tax-Free counter. Temporary visitors to Japan can get a 10% tax refund by spending a combined total of 5,000 JPY or more (excluding tax) across participating stores on the same day.
Q: When is THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA opening?
THE GUNDAM BASE OSAKA is scheduled to open on the 11th floor in February 2027. It will feature massive retail spaces, dedicated build rooms, and exclusive Gunpla kits.