Gachapon are coin-operated vending machines, which are ubiquitous in Japan.
Unlike their cousins in the US, which usually dispense cheap candy or poorly-made plastic gadgets, gachapon figurines can be limited-edition collectors items. The variety is endless, and changes constantly based on trends in the entertainment industry.
The prices depend on the detail and rarity of the figurines, but usually range between 100 and 500 yen, with 200 being the typical price. Many of the irreverent figurines can also be used as key chains. Small, easily packable and amusing, gachapon make ideal souvenirs. They even come in their own wrapping!
While it is easy to find small groupings of gachapon machines in train stations, malls and even restaurants like kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) places, there are entire corridors and stores dedicated to them.
The largest of these is, unsurprisingly, located in Akihabara.
The Akihabara Gachapon Kaikan boasts over 500 different machines, from vintage to the latest craze: https://visit-chiyoda.tokyo/app/en/spot/detail/440
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yreMRpLrfQgt5deB7
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