Those colorful, capsule-filled vending machines known as Gachapon may seem like the average red gumball machine every kid knows, but these machines are a treasure trove of surprises. Each capsule offers a delightful mystery of a wide variety of types due to their ability to vent up to a 4in ball. With mini cranes that often accompany them vending up to 7in balls. This is a huge difference from the metal "gumball" machines of US fame that vend a 1/2in to 2in acorn. Let’s dive into the types of items you might find in these colorful, plastic, fun-filled machines!
Miniature Figures
One of the most popular items in Gachapon machines are miniature figures. These can range from cute animals and characters from popular anime and manga to quirky collectibles. Each figure is meticulously crafted, often with intricate details that make them perfect for display or to add to your collection.
Keychains
If you’re looking for a functional yet fun souvenir, Gachapon machines often offer keychains. These can feature anything from adorable characters to miniature food items or iconic symbols from various franchises. Coming in 3 main types: figure, rubber, or acrylics; they’re a great way to carry a little piece of your favorite things with you wherever you go.
Toys and Gadgets
Some Gachapon machines specialize in small, nifty gadgets and toys. These can include things like mini puzzles, tiny tools, or even small, interactive games. They might be simple, but they often pack a lot of fun into a small package.
Stationery Items
For those who love to write or draw, Gachapon machines sometimes offer stationery items. Think tiny notepads, unique pens, washi tape or decorative stickers. These items can be practical yet charming additions to your desk or journal.
Accessories
Jewelry and fashion accessories also make an appearance in Gachapon machines. From quirky earrings and pins to stylish bracelets, or even a dragon that uses its tail to function as a ring, these items often feature fun designs and are a hit with those who love a bit of whimsy in their wardrobe.
Functional items
These are more common then one might think. A fun pencil case, makeup bag, reusable shopping bag, coin purse, water bottle marker, measuring tape, watches, flashlights and so much more. All kinds of things you can use in everyday life.
Food Replicas
One of the most amusing items you might find are tiny, realistic-looking food replicas. These miniatures often mimic popular Japanese snacks or dishes, complete with intricate details that make them look almost good enough to eat. They usually even include their own utensils!
Capsule Toys adds
The minis hobby is alive and well in Japan. You might think of it like the doll house hobby but rather then little kids these appeal to photographers. See a Gachapon filled with odd acrylic magic circles, halos, plastic water splashes? These are for getting fun photos of your figures! You can usually also find full house sets for making dioramas.
Collectibles
Beyond the standard figures, you can find various capsule toys and collectibles that tie into different themes or franchises. Whether it’s a miniature scene, a themed trinket, or a collectible badge, these items cater to a wide range of interests. Often appearing with a themed cafe or pop up shop.
There of course are larger capsules, some as big as a child even! But those are usually setup for some kind of game, event, or locker machine. This is a list about what you'll find in your average Gachapon machine.
Each Gachapon capsule is a little adventure, not knowing what you’ll get until you open it. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious, exploring these machines can be a delightful experience. So next time you spot a Gachapon machine, don’t hesitate to give it a spin—you never know what you might find inside!
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