"I can't do it because I'm embarrassed" is no longer an issue! The appeal of capsule toys that adults are addicted to and recommended ways to enjoy them
Capsule toys can be seen in various places around town, such as shopping malls and train stations. Have you ever played with capsule toys as an adult? Some of you may think, "It's embarrassing to play with capsule toys as an adult."
However, the image of capsule toys being just for children is long gone, as many adults are now drawn to the appeal of capsule toys and enjoy them.
In this article, we will introduce the appeal of Bandai's original capsule toy brand, Gashapon, as well as how to have fun at a specialty store, for adults who are interested in capsule toys but feel a little embarrassed to play with them!
Capsule toys are popular with adults too! Why?
Capsule toys, which were once thought of as something for children, are now popular with adults as well. In particular, Bandai's original capsule toy brand, Gashapon, is full of appealing products that adults can't help but reach for, such as high-quality items, appealing designs, and the kind of buzzworthy items that make you want to share them on social media.
Improved quality
In the past, products were available in a single color and with a simple design, but now manufacturing technology has advanced to the point where larger shapes, elaborate gimmicks, and colorful items can be made. Some of them look just like the real thing, making the surprise when you open the capsule even greater.
Among Gashapon items, the "Living Creatures Encyclopedia" series has a reputation for its high quality. This series offers realistic creature figures that are so high quality that you could mistake them for the real thing, down to their shape, color, and texture. It is a popular series that helps you understand the anatomy and ecology of creatures. It has gained a loyal fanbase from children to adults, and sometimes even receives requests for creatures that they would like to see commercialized.
The "Creature Encyclopedia" series also includes the "Creature Encyclopedia Advanced" series, which pursues even higher quality.
Adult Design
For those who are not too keen on childish designs, don't worry. There are now many products with adult designs that can be enjoyed by fashionable adults too.
For example, products such as miniature tableware and furniture that evoke the Showa era have nostalgic designs that adults who grew up during that time can't help but pick up. There are also products that collaborate with popular characters, and they are popular with a wide range of generations.
In addition, the "CONVERSE ALL STAR HI & WEAPON HI MINI FIGURE COLLECTION," which was released in March this year, is a gashapon machine that allows you to get miniature figures of real sneakers. The figures were created by 3D scanning the actual shoes, and the details such as the texture of the fabric and the inside of the shoe are thoroughly pursued. A shoe box and tissue paper are also included, making it an item that sneaker fans cannot miss.
For those who have a favorite character but want something other than a character figure, we recommend the "Capsule Torso" series, which recreates the costumes of characters from popular works. Why not decorate your room with the costumes of your favorite characters from "Puella Magi Madoka Magica," "Cardcaptor Sakura," "Frozen," and more, to make the atmosphere more fun?
Looks great on social media and is a hot topic
Gashapon also offers a wide range of unique items that will make you want to post them on social media or show them to people you know.
The "Waiting" series is a Gashapon miniature figure of various everyday objects and characters hugging their knees and looking a little sad. The daikon radish and ham pen used in oden are adorable and make you want to take pictures of them in various situations.
There are also many items that are collaborations with real companies, and many everyday objects that we have seen have been made into Gashapon.
The third installment of the "Tsukiji Gindaco Miniature Charm Collection" will be released in March 2025. It is a miniature charm of takoyaki served on the familiar boat-shaped plate.
The "MLB™ Uniform Frame Magnet" is a miniature magnet that features framed uniforms from popular MLB teams, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees. It's a must-have Gashapon for fans.
As you can see, modern Gashapon are very unique and have a wide variety. If you casually display one on your desk or in your pencil case at work, it might spark more conversation than usual!
Tips for adults to enjoy capsule toy specialty stores
I know there are a lot of attractive items, but I still feel embarrassed to go to a capsule toy specialty store as an adult. For those who can't shake that feeling, I'll tell you some tips to ease that embarrassment a little and have fun.
Have fun with friends
It's easier to be with someone than to be alone, so if you're not comfortable playing with capsule toys on your own, why not invite a friend over first?
With one in three adults using capsule toys, there's a good chance that one of your friends is a capsule toy fan.
Even if you're not a capsule toy fan, it's fun to join in on a friend's hobby. You might be surprised at how easily they'll accept your invitation.
Buy online
If you feel embarrassed about using capsule toys when you're out and about, we recommend purchasing them online.
Gashapon's official online shopping site, "Gashapon Online," allows you to purchase Gashapon online, and you can pick up the items you win at home or at a specific store at a later date.
One of the attractions of Gashapon Online is that you can pre-order some items before they are released, so if you really want something, you can buy it in advance. Some items are only available online, so we recommend checking it out from time to time.
Use a specialty store
After reading this article, whether you're an adult and want to play with capsule toys or not, we recommend you try a specialty store at least once. Once you step inside, you'll find everyone, both adults and children, wanting to enjoy capsule toys. There are plenty of adult capsule toy fans other than you, and everyone is focused on the capsule toys, so you can enjoy them without worrying about the eyes of those around you.
Another appealing feature is the lineup that can only be found at a specialty store. You might find a rare capsule toy that you can't find anywhere else.
Gashapon department stores are now operating in over 140 locations nationwide. The Ikebukuro main store in particular has the world's largest collection of capsule toys, with around 3,000 faces. There are also plenty of services to enjoy your purchases after you've bought them, such as the "Gashapon Photo Spot" where you can take stylish photos of the items you've acquired, so why not stop by and check it out?
Click here for details on Gashapon specialty stores
Don't worry about being embarrassed, just enjoy what you love!
So far, we have explained why capsule toys are becoming popular among adults as well as tips for adults to enjoy capsule toys.
We are now in an age where adults can enjoy not only capsule toys, but also manga, anime, plastic models, figures, and many other contents that were once considered to be for children. I think this means that we are now in an age where anyone can enjoy what they like without hesitation.
The excitement of turning the handle and the joy of getting the item you want are shared by both adults and children.
Please feel free to enjoy capsule toys and be honest with your feelings!
* "Gashapon" is a registered trademark of Bandai Co., Ltd.