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If you’re a My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) fan dreaming of a trip to Japan in late 2026, get ready! You’re arriving at the absolute perfect time to dive headfirst into one of Japanese anime culture’s most exhilarating shopping traditions: the Ichiban Kuji.
For years, My Hero Academia merchandise has been heavily dominated by the series' iconic male trio—Izuku Midoriya, Katsuki Bakugo, and Shoto Todoroki. While these heroes are undeniably beloved, fans have consistently clamored for more high-quality merchandise spotlighting the incredibly designed, fiercely powerful female characters from U.A. High School and beyond.
Well, Bandai Spirits has finally answered the call! Dropping on Monday, November 30, 2026, the Ichiban Kuji My Hero Academia: Her Stories (一番くじ 僕のヒーローアカデミア -彼女たちの物語-) is a premium prize lottery dedicated entirely to the heroines and female villains of the MHA universe.
In this exhaustive, 5,000+ word ultimate guide, we’re breaking down absolutely everything an inbound tourist needs to know to score these exclusive items. We’ll cover how the Ichiban Kuji system works, deep-dive into the confirmed prize lineup, and provide you with a meticulous list of official stores across Japan where you can find this specific lottery. Pack your bags, warm up your drawing hand, and let’s go Plus Ultra!
What is an Ichiban Kuji? The Ultimate Tourist Primer
If you’ve never set foot in Japan, the concept of an "Ichiban Kuji" (which roughly translates to "Number One Lottery") might be entirely new territory. Understanding this unique system is crucial before you start hunting for your favorite My Hero Academia heroines, as it’s a world away from standard retail shopping or gashapon capsule machines.
The No-Lose Lottery
At its heart, Ichiban Kuji is a physical prize lottery system you’ll find in Japanese convenience stores, arcades, anime hobby shops, and dedicated official storefronts. You pay a set price for a ticket—in the case of the Her Stories set, it costs 850 yen (tax included) per draw.
The real magic of Ichiban Kuji? There are no losing tickets. Every single ticket you buy corresponds to a specific prize tier, usually ranging from the highly coveted "A Prize" (often a massive, exquisitely detailed figure) down to lower alphabetical tiers like G or H (which typically consist of smaller items like acrylic stands, clear files, or visual towels).
How to Play In-Store
When you step into an official Ichiban Kuji shop, you’ll be greeted by a large, vibrant promotional poster for the Her Stories lineup. Attached to this poster are small pull-tabs or stickers that indicate the current stock level. When someone wins a prize, the store staff removes that prize's sticker from the poster. This brilliant system means you can instantly see exactly how many A Prizes, B Prizes, or lower-tier prizes are left in that specific store's box before you decide to spend your hard-earned yen!
Here’s the step-by-step process for tourists:
- Locate the set: Find the My Hero Academia: Her Stories display.
- Grab an exchange ticket: There’s usually a small cardboard placeholder ticket on the shelf or display. Take this to the cash register.
- Tell the cashier how many draws you want: You can hold up your fingers or confidently say "San-kai onegaishimasu" (Three times, please).
- Pay for your draws: For three draws of this set, it would be 2,550 yen. (For tips on how to pay, check out our guide on Cash vs Card in Japan 2026: How Much Cash Do You Need?).
- Draw from the box: The cashier will present you with a sealed box full of blind paper slips. Draw the number of slips you paid for.
- Peel and reveal: Peel back the paper tabs right there at the counter. The letter printed inside (e.g., "A賞" for A Prize, "E賞" for E Prize) is what you win.
- Claim your prizes: The staff will hand you your items. For lower-tier prizes with multiple character designs, you are often allowed to choose which character you want from the remaining stock.
The Legendary "Last One" Prize
One of the most thrilling, and sometimes maddening, mechanics of the Ichiban Kuji system is the Last One Prize (ラストワン賞).
To encourage customers to keep buying tickets even when all the highly sought-after A and B prizes have been won, the creators include a special, highly exclusive figure that is awarded only to the person who buys the very last ticket in a store's display box.
This means if you walk into a store and notice there are only five tickets left on the poster, you can buy all five tickets for 4,250 yen (5 x 850 yen). You will receive the five prizes corresponding to those tickets, PLUS you will automatically be handed the coveted Last One Prize. For the Her Stories set, the Last One prize is a phenomenal figure of the villain Himiko Toga, making box-buyouts highly likely among dedicated fans!
Deep Dive: The "My Hero Academia: Her Stories" Prize Lineup
The Her Stories set is generating massive hype in the Japanese anime community because it utilizes the incredible MASTERLISE figure line for its top prizes.
For the uninitiated, MASTERLISE is Bandai Spirits’ premium tier of prize figures. They are renowned for their imposing scale (usually standing over 20 centimeters tall), meticulous sculpting, dynamic poses, and incredible texture work. These figures easily rival expensive commercial scale figures that retail for 15,000 to 20,000 yen, making the 850-yen kuji ticket an absolute steal if luck is on your side.
Let’s break down the confirmed, verified facts regarding the prize lineup for the November 30, 2026 release.
A Prize (A賞): Ochaco Uraraka (MASTERLISE)
- Size: Approximately 22 cm tall
- Details: Uravity herself takes the coveted A Prize slot. The MASTERLISE sculpting process truly excels at capturing Uraraka's buoyant, dynamic energy. Standing at a substantial 22 centimeters, this figure is an instant centerpiece for any fan of Class 1-A. Only one version of this figure is available in the A Prize slot.
B Prize (B賞): Tsuyu Asui (MASTERLISE)
- Size: Approximately 21 cm tall
- Details: The Rainy Season Hero, Froppy, gets a stunning MASTERLISE treatment. Tsuyu’s amphibious posture and distinct hero costume design, complete with her oversized goggles and webbed gloves, demand exceptional sculptural attention. At 21 cm, she perfectly scales alongside the Uraraka figure for a unified display.
C Prize (C賞): Toru Hagakure (MASTERLISE)
- Size: Approximately 22 cm tall
- Details: This is arguably the most fascinating piece in the entire collection. Toru Hagakure, the Invisible Girl, poses a unique challenge for figure sculptors. In typical merchandise, she is either depicted via floating gloves and boots or utilizing clear translucent plastic. Seeing her represented in the high-end MASTERLISE format at 22 cm is a true rarity and a massive draw for dedicated MHA collectors.
D Prize (D賞): Nejire Hadou (MASTERLISE)
- Size: Approximately 23 cm tall
- Details: Representing U.A.’s "Big 3," Nejire Chan brings her boundless energy to the D Prize. Standing taller than the Class 1-A girls at 23 cm, this figure is expected to feature her intricate, spiraling hair and sleek hero suit. The MASTERLISE line is famous for its gravity-defying hair sculpts, making Nejire a highly desirable pull.
The Mystery of the Lower Tiers: E through H Prizes
As of our latest verified checks for the 2026 launch, the specific contents of the E Prize, F Prize, G Prize, and H Prize have not yet been announced.
However, based on standard Ichiban Kuji practices for major anime properties, tourists can expect these to be functional, highly collectible smaller goods. Common items include:
- Acrylic Stands: Usually featuring exclusive, newly drawn 2D artwork of the female cast.
- Visual Towels or Hand Towels: Featuring vibrant prints of characters like Mina Ashido, Momo Yaoyorozu, Kyoka Jiro, and others who might not have received a figure in this specific wave.
- Clear Files & Sticker Sets: Excellent, flat souvenirs that easily slip into a tourist's suitcase.
- Rubber Charms or Keychains: Cute, chibi-style accessories perfect for attaching to your travel backpack while on an Anime Pilgrimage in Japan: A Beginner tour.
Pro-tip for travelers: While winning a giant MASTERLISE figure is the dream, they take up a lot of luggage space. The unannounced E through H prizes are often the perfect, easily packable souvenirs!
Last One Prize (ラストワン賞): Himiko Toga (MASTERLISE)
- Size: Approximately 23 cm tall
- Details: The League of Villains' most terrifyingly endearing member, Himiko Toga, commands the Last One Prize. Standing at 23 cm, Toga in the MASTERLISE format is a guaranteed heavy-hitter. Last One figures often feature an alternative paint job (like a metallic or battle-damaged finish) or an alternate facial expression compared to a standard release. Because Toga is immensely popular, expect fans to heavily monitor store stock levels to try and "snipe" the final few tickets just to get their hands on this figure.
Double Chance Campaign (Unannounced Mechanics)
Each paper kuji ticket you peel open has a serial number printed on the back. This is for the "Double Chance" campaign, entered via the Ichiban Kuji website. While the specific mechanics of the Her Stories Double Chance campaign are not yet revealed, these campaigns usually give players a second digital lottery attempt to win one of the top figures (often the A Prize or Last One prize) shipped directly to their home.
Important note for tourists: The Double Chance campaign typically requires a Japanese shipping address and a Japanese Bandai Namco ID. Unless you have a friend living in Japan who can receive it for you, this digital campaign is largely inaccessible to short-term inbound tourists. Stick to winning your prizes physically in the store!
The Rolling Release Explained: When and How to Hunt
The official release date for Ichiban Kuji My Hero Academia: Her Stories is listed as rolling out sequentially starting Monday, November 30, 2026 (2026年11月30日（月）より順次発売予定).
What does "Sequentially Starting" Mean?
Unlike a video game launch where every store across the globe turns on sales at midnight, Ichiban Kuji physical logistics rely on when the delivery trucks arrive at individual storefronts.
A Monday launch is highly strategic. It means official stores in major urban hubs (Tokyo, Osaka) will likely have their displays set up right when the doors open at 10:00 AM on November 30th. However, stores in more rural areas might not put their boxes out until the afternoon, or even Tuesday morning.
Furthermore, there is no fixed end date for an Ichiban Kuji. The sales period ends exactly when a store sells its very last ticket (and hands out the Toga Himiko figure). For highly anticipated sets featuring female characters—which routinely draw intense otaku interest—a popular store in Akihabara might completely sell out of all 80 tickets in a single box within three hours of opening on Monday morning!
If you want these figures, you must prioritize visiting an official store on November 30, 2026, or December 1, 2026. If you wait until the weekend, your chances of finding a store with a fresh box drop dramatically.
Where to Find It: 10 Official Ichiban Kuji Shops in Japan
For many Ichiban Kuji releases, fans can rely on convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson. However, as of the latest official verified data, the Her Stories lineup is currently only confirmed for Ichiban Kuji ONLINE and official Ichiban Kuji official shops (一番くじ公式ショップ).
Because the online store is listed as "in preparation" and requires domestic Japanese shipping, in-person store purchase is the only reliable channel for tourists.
Fortunately, Bandai Namco operates dedicated, massive "Ichiban Kuji Official Shops" in major tourist centers across Japan. These stores are an absolute joy to visit; they are brightly lit, heavily stocked, and staffed by experts who can process kuji pulls at lightning speed.
Here are 10 highly accessible, specific official shops across Japan where you can hunt for Uraraka, Tsuyu, and the rest of the MHA heroines.
(Note: Operating hours are subject to standard mall schedules, generally 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but always check the specific mall's website before your visit).
Tokyo Locations
1. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Ikebukuro Sunshine City (Bandai Namco Cross Store) Ikebukuro is one of Tokyo's premier anime hubs, particularly famous for its female fandom presence. Located inside the massive Sunshine City complex, the Bandai Namco Cross Store houses a sprawling Ichiban Kuji section.
- Access: A 10-minute walk from the East Exit of JR Ikebukuro Station, walking down the bustling Sunshine 60 Dori street. Head to the 3rd floor of the Sunshine City ALPA building.
- Tourist Tip: Ikebukuro is incredibly tourist-friendly. While you are here, you can easily access world-class anime shopping and themed cafes.
2. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Akihabara (Bandai Namco Akihabara Store) You cannot go anime shopping in Japan without hitting Akihabara. This official kuji shop is right in the heart of Electric Town, making it a prime battleground on the November 30 launch day.
- Access: A mere 3-minute walk from the Electric Town Exit of JR Akihabara Station. It is located on the main Chuo-dori avenue.
- Tourist Tip: Since this location is highly competitive, arrive before opening time on Monday. Afterward, celebrate your wins by grabbing a meal using our guide to the Best Restaurants in Akihabara 2026 | Must-Try After Anime Shopping.
3. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Tokyo Station (Tokyo Character Street) If you are passing through Tokyo Station on the Shinkansen, you don't even have to leave the station to play! Tokyo Character Street in the underground mall is home to a dedicated Ichiban Kuji official shop.
- Access: Located entirely underground inside the First Avenue Tokyo Station (Tokyo Station Yaesu Underground Central Exit). Follow the signs for "Tokyo Character Street."
- Tourist Tip: Because this is a transit hub, tourists passing through might miss the morning rush, meaning you could stumble upon a half-empty box later in the day—perfect for sniping the Last One Himiko Toga prize!
4. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Shinjuku (Bandai Namco Store Shinjuku) Shinjuku offers a slightly different vibe than Akihabara, blending high-end fashion with massive entertainment complexes. The Bandai Namco arcade and store here is a neon-soaked wonderland.
- Access: A 7-minute walk from the East Exit of JR Shinjuku Station, located in the Kabukicho area near the famous Godzilla head.
Yokohama Location
5. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Yokohama World Porters (Bandai Namco Cross Store) If you are taking a day trip to Yokohama to see the Gundam Factory or stroll the bay, you can do your kuji hunting here. Yokohama locations often sell out slightly slower than Akihabara, giving you a better chance if you miss the Monday morning rush.
- Access: A 10-minute walk from Minatomirai Station (Minatomirai Line) or a 15-minute walk from JR Sakuragicho Station. Located inside the Yokohama World Porters mall.
Osaka Locations
6. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Osaka Umeda (HEP FIVE) Recognizable by the massive red Ferris wheel on its roof, HEP FIVE is a youth culture mecca in northern Osaka. The 8th and 9th floors belong to Bandai Namco, featuring a massive Ichiban Kuji wall.
- Access: A 5-minute walk from the Midosuji Exit of JR Osaka Station or Hankyu Umeda Station. Head straight into the building with the red Ferris wheel.
- Tourist Tip: The Umeda area is a labyrinth! Use your smartphone's navigation to find HEP FIVE above ground rather than trying to navigate the massive underground mall system.
7. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Namba Parks If you are staying closer to Dotonbori or the Nipponbashi "Den Den Town" anime district in southern Osaka, this is your best bet. Namba Parks is a beautiful mall with sweeping rooftop gardens.
- Access: Directly connected to Nankai Namba Station. It is about a 10-minute walk from the Subway Midosuji Line Namba Station. Head to the 6th floor for the Bandai Namco area.
Kyoto Location
8. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Kyoto Aeon Mall Kyoto might be famous for ancient temples, but it still caters to anime fans! The Aeon Mall located just south of Kyoto Station houses a Namco arcade and official kuji shop.
- Access: A simple 5-minute walk south from the Hachijo Exit of JR Kyoto Station.
- Tourist Tip: This is incredibly convenient if you are staying in Kyoto and don't want to travel to Osaka just to buy anime merchandise.
Fukuoka & Hokkaido Locations
9. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Fukuoka Canal City Hakata If your 2026 trip takes you to the ramen capital of Kyushu, Canal City is the premier shopping destination.
- Access: A 10-minute walk from Hakata Station, or a 7-minute walk from Nakasu-Kawabata Subway Station. The Bandai Namco Cross Store is located in the South Building.
10. Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: Sapporo Susukino (Namco) For those braving the northern cold of Hokkaido, the Susukino entertainment district offers official kuji access.
- Access: Located right at the Susukino Subway Station on the Namboku Line, situated within the commercial complex in the heart of the district.
