[PR] This article contains affiliate links.
Ahoy, future visitors to Japan and fellow treasure hunters! If your travel plans for Summer 2026 include a journey to the land of anime and manga, prepare to set sail on an adventure of epic proportions. On August 8th, 2026, a new treasure is set to land on Japanese shores, and it's one that will have One Piece fans from across the globe ready to do battle: the Ichiban Kuji "One Piece - Elbaf Arc - GIANT BASH!! Vol.2".
This isn't just about buying merchandise. This is a quest. A thrilling lottery where every ticket is a winner, and the grand prizes are jaw-droppingly detailed figures of the Straw Hat crew and their allies in their new Elbaf Arc attire. From the legendary swordsman Roronoa Zoro to a long-awaited figure of Roger Pirate's own Scopper Gaban, this lineup is pure gold.
But how do you, a traveler in a foreign land, navigate this exciting cultural phenomenon? How do you find these lottery tickets? What are the secret strategies to score the best prizes? Fear not. As your expert guide to Japan's otaku culture, I'm here to give you the ultimate, exhaustive map to securing this treasure. We'll cover everything from the prizes themselves to the exact stores you need to raid, complete with maps, insider tips, and a full battle plan for your 2026 trip. Get ready to shout, "I'm gonna be King of the Kuji Hunters!"
What is Ichiban Kuji? Your Crash Course to Japan's Most Exciting Lottery
Before we dive into the Elbaf treasure trove, let's cover the basics for the uninitiated. You'll see "Ichiban Kuji" (一番くじ) advertised in convenience stores, bookstores, and hobby shops all over Japan. It's a special type of lottery run by Bandai Spirits, and its biggest draw is that there are no losing tickets.
The "Guaranteed Win" System Explained
Unlike a typical lottery where you might win nothing, Ichiban Kuji guarantees you a prize with every single ticket you purchase. Here’s how it works:
- Find a Participating Store: A store will have a large poster and a box or display of tickets for a specific series (in this case, "One Piece - Elbaf Arc - GIANT BASH!! Vol.2").
- Buy Your Ticket(s): Go to the cashier and tell them how many tickets you'd like to buy. For this set, each ticket costs a budget-friendly 790 JPY (tax included).
- Draw and Reveal: You'll be given sealed tickets to draw from a box. You open the ticket, peel back a tab, and it will reveal the letter of the prize you've won (e.g., A Prize, B Prize, F Prize, etc.).
- Claim Your Prize: You show the ticket to the staff, and they give you your corresponding prize right then and there.
The prizes are tiered. The "A" and "B" prizes are typically large, high-quality figures, while the lower-tier prizes (F, G, H, etc.) are smaller but still exclusive items like keychains, art towels, clear files, or small plates that you can't buy anywhere else.
The Allure of the "Last One" Prize (ラストワン賞)
This is the ultimate prize for dedicated hunters. The "Last One" prize is a special, often variant-colored or entirely unique figure, that is given to the person who buys the very last ticket from a particular set in a store.
For the Elbaf Arc Vol.2 set, the Last One prize is a mysterious and highly anticipated figure of a new giant warrior, "Gunshikyu". This means if you see a display with only one ticket left, you not only get the prize for that ticket but the exclusive Last One figure as well! This creates a thrilling endgame as players watch the ticket count dwindle.
A GIANT Treasure Trove: Deep Dive into the "Elbaf Arc Vol.2" Prizes (August 2026 Release)
The theme for this Kuji is the long-awaited Elbaf Arc, the land of giants, which means we're getting epic, Viking-inspired designs for our favorite characters. All the main figures in this lineup are part of the prestigious "MASTERLISE EXPIECE" series, renowned for its incredible detail, dynamic poses, and impressive scale. Let's break down the loot.
Prize A: Roronoa Zoro - The Swordsman in Elbaf Armor
As the Straw Hats' indomitable swordsman, Zoro's Elbaf version is a sight to behold. Expect this figure to feature Zoro clad in imposing, Nordic-style armor, complete with a flowing mantle. The sculpt will undoubtedly capture his intense gaze and powerful three-sword style stance, making it a centerpiece for any collection. This will be one of the most sought-after prizes in the set.
Prize B: Sanji - The Chef's Nordic Makeover
Black Leg Sanji trades his usual dapper suit for the rugged attire of a warrior. This MASTERLISE figure will likely depict Sanji in Elbaf-themed gear, perhaps a mix of leather and metal, while still retaining his signature suave demeanor. Fans can anticipate a dynamic kicking pose, showcasing the powerful "Diable Jambe" in a whole new aesthetic.
Prize C: Tony Tony Chopper - The Cutest Viking
Prepare for an overload of cuteness! The crew's doctor, Tony Tony Chopper, will be presented in an adorable Elbaf outfit. Imagine a tiny reindeer in a giant's helmet, wielding a miniature axe or shield. This figure is guaranteed to be a fan favorite, combining Chopper's inherent charm with the epic scale of the Elbaf saga.
Prize D: Brogy - The Legendary Green Ogre
A true giant joins the lineup! Brogy, one of the two legendary giant captains from Little Garden whom fans have loved for decades, makes a triumphant return. This MASTERLISE figure will be massive, capturing the scale and power of the "Green Ogre." With an updated sculpt reflecting modern figure technology, this will be the definitive version of Brogy for collectors.
Prize E: Scopper Gaban - The Roger Pirate Revealed!
For long-time, die-hard One Piece fans, this is arguably the most exciting prize. Scopper Gaban was one of the most powerful members of the Gol D. Roger Pirates, alongside Rayleigh and Roger himself. His appearance has been shrouded in mystery for years, and this Kuji marks one of his very first high-quality figures. Dressed in his iconic attire, likely with his signature axes, this figure is a piece of pirate history and an absolute must-have.
The Ultimate Prize: Last One - The Mysterious Giant "Gunshikyu"
And now, the final treasure. The Last One prize is a figure of "Gunshikyu," a name that has fans buzzing. As a character likely to be introduced formally in the Elbaf arc of the anime around this time, this figure represents the cutting edge of the One Piece story. Owning it means you're among the first to have a physical representation of the series' future. This giant warrior figure will undoubtedly be large, detailed, and a unique trophy for the most persistent Kuji hunter.
Lower Tier Prizes (F, G, H, and beyond)
While the figures are the main draw, don't sleep on the lower-tier prizes! These are not mere "consolation" items. You can expect a fantastic selection of exclusive goods, such as:
- Acrylic Stands: Featuring character art in their Elbaf outfits.
- Art Towels: Long towels with dynamic illustrations from the arc.
- Clear Files & Folders: Perfect for practical use or for displaying the beautiful artwork.
- Rubber Keychains: Stylized, collectible keychains of the entire cast.
- Small Art Plates: Themed ceramic plates that are perfect for display.
These items are a fantastic and affordable way to bring home a piece of the Elbaf adventure.
The Hunt Begins: Where to Buy Your Ichiban Kuji Tickets in Japan (2026 Edition)
Your quest officially begins on Saturday, August 8th, 2026. Be warned: popular sets like One Piece can sell out in major city centers within a day or two, sometimes even hours. Here’s your map to the hunting grounds.
Strategy 1: The Convenience Store (Konbini) Crawl - 7-Eleven
The humble Japanese convenience store, or "konbini," is your most reliable and widespread hunting ground. 7-Eleven is one of the main partners for this release.
- Why it's a good option: They are absolutely everywhere, and many are open 24/7. This allows for late-night or early-morning Kuji hunting missions when crowds are thinner.
- How to find it: Just walk down any major street in a Japanese city, and you'll likely see the iconic orange, green, and red sign.
- Practical Tip: When you enter, look for the Kuji display, usually near the counter or magazine rack. To ask the clerk, you can simply point and say, "Kore, onegaishimasu" (This one, please). If you don't see a display, you can ask, "Ichiban Kuji arimasu ka?" (Do you have Ichiban Kuji?). When paying, remember that many konbinis now accept both cash and credit cards, as well as IC cards like Suica or Pasmo. For more info on managing your money, check out our guide on Cash vs Card in Japan | Best Way to Pay in 2026. An IC card is also a lifesaver for train travel; learn more at What is the Best IC Card for Tourists in Japan 2026?.
Featured 7-Eleven Location: Akihabara Chuo-dori Store
This 7-Eleven is right in the heart of Electric Town, making it a prime spot for otaku goods. It will likely have a high volume of stock but also high competition. It's a great starting point for an Akihabara-wide hunt.
- Access: A 3-minute walk from JR Akihabara Station's Electric Town Gate.
Strategy 2: The Supermarket Sweep - Ito-Yokado
Ito-Yokado is a major chain of general merchandise stores and supermarkets. Think of it as a Japanese Target or Walmart, but often with multiple floors.
- Why it's a good option: These larger stores often receive more Kuji sets than a small konbini. They are also slightly off the beaten path for most tourists, meaning potentially less competition from other travelers.
- Practical Tip: The Ichiban Kuji display will typically be in the toy, electronics, or stationery section.
- Featured Ito-Yokado Location: Musashi-Sakai Store
While not in central Tokyo, the Musashi-Sakai store is easily accessible and located in a more residential area, which can be a strategic advantage. It's a large store with a dedicated toy section.
- Access: Located right outside the south exit of Musashi-Sakai Station. From Shinjuku Station, it's a direct 20-minute ride on the JR Chuo Line (Rapid).
Strategy 3: The Mega-Mall Mission - Youme Town
Youme Town is a chain of large suburban shopping malls, predominantly found in the Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu regions of Western Japan.
- Why it's a good option: If your 2026 Japan itinerary includes cities like Hiroshima or Fukuoka, Youme Town is an excellent place to hunt. These malls contain bookstores and hobby shops that carry Ichiban Kuji, offering a comfortable, all-in-one shopping experience.
- Featured Youme Town Location: Hiroshima Store
For travelers visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, this Youme Town is a convenient and massive shopping center to explore.
- Access: It's a short 10-minute taxi ride from Hiroshima Station or accessible via local bus routes.
Strategy 4: The Pirate's Paradise - The Mugiwara (Straw Hat) Stores
This is the holy land for One Piece fans. The Mugiwara Stores are the official merchandise shops for the series, and they are guaranteed to have this Ichiban Kuji on release day.
- Why it's a must-visit: The atmosphere is incredible. You're surrounded by life-sized statues, exclusive merchandise, and fellow fans. It's an experience in itself. However, be prepared for the highest level of competition. Arrive early on August 8th, as lines can and will form.
- Practical Tip: Follow the official Mugiwara Store X account (@mugiwara_store) for real-time stock updates. They often post when a Kuji set sells out.
Featured Mugiwara Store Location 1: Shibuya Main Store
Located in the trendy Magnet by Shibuya 109 building, this store overlooks the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing. It's the flagship store and an absolute must-visit.
- Access: A 1-minute walk from the Hachiko Exit of JR Shibuya Station.
Featured Mugiwara Store Location 2: Ikebukuro Store
Nestled within the massive Sunshine City complex in Ikebukuro, another of Tokyo's major otaku hubs, this store is another fantastic option. You can combine your Kuji hunt with a visit to the aquarium, planetarium, or the numerous other anime shops in the area.
- Access: An 8-minute walk from Ikebukuro Station or a 3-minute walk from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station on the Yurakucho Line.
Pro Gamer Moves: Advanced Ichiban Kuji Strategies for Tourists
Alright, you know what you want and where to find it. Now, let's talk strategy. This is how you go from a casual player to a seasoned Kuji hunter.
"Kuji-Kari" (Kuji Hunting): The Art of Checking the Board
Every Ichiban Kuji display has a sheet of paper or a board attached. This is your intel. It shows all the prizes available in that specific set and has peel-off tabs indicating which prizes have already been won.
- How to Read It: The top prizes (A, B, C, etc.) will be listed with the number of that prize available in the set (e.g., A賞 - 2/2, B賞 - 2/2). When a prize is won, the staff removes a tab. If you see "A賞 - 0/2," it means both A prizes are gone.
- Your Strategy: Before buying a ticket, always check the board. If you're only hunting for the Zoro figure (Prize A) and both are already gone, don't waste your money at that store. Move to the next one. This simple act of observation saves you time, money, and disappointment.
The "Last One" Snipe: Is It Worth Buying Out the Set?
This is the high-risk, high-reward endgame. Let's say you find a set where the board shows only 8 tickets remaining. The A and B prizes are gone, but you desperately want that exclusive "Gunshikyu" Last One figure.
- Do the Math: You would have to buy all 8 remaining tickets. That's 8 x 790 JPY = 6,320 JPY. For that price, you get the coveted Last One figure PLUS the 8 remaining lower-tier prizes.
- The Verdict: Is it worth it? For serious collectors, absolutely. You guarantee yourself the rarest prize and walk away with a huge haul of exclusive merchandise. For a casual fan, it might be too steep. This is a judgment call, but "sniping" the Last One prize is one of the most thrilling experiences in the Kuji world.
Beyond the Lottery: The Second-Hand Market
What happens if you miss out, or if you only want the Sanji figure and don't want to gamble? Welcome to the wonderful world of Japan's second-hand otaku shops. Stores like Mandarake, Lashinbang, AmiAmi, and Surugaya are treasure troves where you can buy the individual prizes directly.
- Pricing: Prices are determined by market demand. Expect the top-tier prizes (A, B, E) and the Last One prize to sell for significantly more than the 790 JPY ticket price. Lower-tier prizes can often be found for just a few hundred yen.
- When to Look: Prices will be highest in the week of release. If you're not in a hurry, waiting a few weeks or months can sometimes see prices drop (unless the figure becomes exceptionally popular).
Prime Second-Hand Hunting Ground 1: Mandarake Complex (Akihabara)
This is an 8-story black tower of otaku dreams. Each floor is dedicated to a different niche, and you will absolutely find a floor dedicated to figures and Ichiban Kuji prizes. It's a must-visit for any anime fan.
- Access: A 4-minute walk from JR Akihabara Station's Electric Town Gate.
After a long day of shopping in Akihabara, you'll be hungry. Find out the best places to eat with our guide to the Best Restaurants in Akihabara 2026 | Must-Try After Anime Shopping.
Prime Second-Hand Hunting Ground 2: Lashinbang (Akihabara)
Lashinbang is another giant in the second-hand anime goods world. They have multiple locations in Akihabara, often specializing in different things. Their main store has a massive selection of figures, and their prices are very competitive.
- Access: Located throughout Akihabara, with their main store just a 3-minute walk from JR Akihabara Station.
Bringing Your Treasure Home: A Tourist's Guide to Packing and Customs
You’ve won your prize! Now, how do you get this beautiful but bulky box back home in one piece?
The Art of "Box Tetris": Safely Packing Your Figures
The boxes for MASTERLISE figures are large and sturdy, but you still need to pack them with care.
- Keep the Box: The original box is the best protection. Do not throw it away!
- Use Clothes as Padding: Wrap the figure box in soft clothes like t-shirts and sweaters and place it in the center of your suitcase.
- Buy Extra Protection: For peace of mind, pop into a 100-yen store (like Daiso or Seria) and buy a roll of bubble wrap ("puchi-puchi" in Japanese).
- Consolidate: If you win many smaller prizes, consider taking them out of their packaging (if it's just a blind box) to save space, but keep the figures themselves well-wrapped.
For a complete breakdown of the best techniques, check out our definitive guide on How to Pack Anime Figures & Souvenirs from Japan: The Ultimate 2026 Guide.
Tax-Free Shopping and Customs
Unfortunately, purchases like Ichiban Kuji tickets from convenience stores are not eligible for tax-free benefits. However, if you buy figures from a second-hand store like Mandarake or Lashinbang and your purchase exceeds 5,000 JPY, you can claim a tax exemption! Just remember to bring your passport.
Before you fly home, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your home country's customs regulations regarding the value of goods you can bring back without paying import duties.
Making a Day of It: A One Piece Fan's Perfect Itinerary in Tokyo (2026)
Turn your Kuji hunt into a full-day One Piece pilgrimage! Here’s a sample itinerary for release day, August 8th, 2026.
-
9:30 AM: Shibuya Scramble & Mugiwara Store Start your day at the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing. Get your photos, then head straight to the Magnet by Shibuya 109 building when it opens (usually 10:00 or 11:00 AM). Be one of the first in line at the Mugiwara Store to try your luck with the brand-new Kuji.
-
1:00 PM: Akihabara Treasure Hunt Take the JR Yamanote Line from Shibuya to Akihabara (approx. 25 minutes). Spend the afternoon diving into the heart of otaku culture. Check the many 7-Elevens for Kuji sets that might have been overlooked. Then, hit up Mandarake and Lashinbang to either buy the figures you missed or to hunt for rare prizes from past sets. If you plan to stay in the area, there are many convenient options; see our list of the Best Hotels Near Akihabara 2026 | Value Location Convenience.
-
5:00 PM: Final Stop in Ikebukuro Take the JR Yamanote Line from Akihabara to Ikebukuro (approx. 18 minutes). Head to Sunshine City to visit the second Tokyo Mugiwara Store. This is your last chance to find a fresh Kuji set or snipe a Last One prize.
-
7:00 PM: Victory Dinner You've earned it! After a long day of hunting, you'll be starving. Ikebukuro and Akihabara are filled with incredible restaurants. Why not celebrate with a hearty bowl of ramen? Learn how to order like a pro with our guide on How to Order at Ramen Restaurant in Japan | Ticket Machine & Customization.
Your Quest Awaits
The "Ichiban Kuji One Piece - Elbaf Arc - GIANT BASH!! Vol.2" is more than just a merchandise release; it's a cultural event and a fantastic adventure for any visiting fan. It’s a chance to engage with a fun Japanese hobby, explore different parts of a city, and bring home a truly unique and hard-earned souvenir.
Remember the key details: August 8th, 2026, 790 JPY per ticket, and your primary hunting grounds are 7-Eleven, Ito-Yokado, Youme Town, and the Mugiwara Stores.
So, study the prize list, plan your route, and get ready for the thrill of the hunt. May your pulls be lucky and your luggage space be plentiful. Good luck, future Pirate King
FAQ
Q: What is Ichiban Kuji?
Ichiban Kuji is a special type of lottery in Japan run by Bandai Spirits where every ticket is a guaranteed winner. You purchase a ticket and win a prize from a tiered list, ranging from large figures to smaller exclusive merchandise like keychains and art towels.
Q: When is the 'One Piece - Elbaf Arc - GIANT BASH!! Vol.2' Ichiban Kuji released?
The official release date is Saturday, August 8th, 2026.
Q: How much does one Ichiban Kuji ticket cost?
For the 'One Piece - Elbaf Arc - GIANT BASH!! Vol.2' set, each ticket costs 790 JPY, tax included.
Q: Where can I buy tickets for this One Piece Ichiban Kuji in Japan?
You can find these lottery tickets at participating stores across Japan, including 7-Eleven convenience stores, Ito-Yokado supermarkets, Youme Town shopping malls, and the official Mugiwara (Straw Hat) Stores.
Q: What is the 'Last One' Prize in Ichiban Kuji?
The 'Last One' Prize is an exclusive, special item (often a unique figure) that is given to the person who purchases the very last ticket from a specific lottery set at a store. For this set, the prize is a figure of a new giant warrior named 'Gunshikyu'.
Q: What if I don't win the figure I want?
If you don't win your desired prize through the lottery, you can often buy it directly from second-hand anime merchandise stores in Japan like Mandarake, Lashinbang, AmiAmi, and Surugaya. Prices will vary based on demand.