Gashapon is a brand that specializes in miniature collectible toys dispensed through vending machines. These toys are often based on popular anime, manga, video game, and movie franchises.
Started in Japan in the 1960s, Gashapon quickly gained popularity as a unique and affordable way to collect toys.
The term 'Gashapon' comes from the sound made when turning the crank on the vending machine to get a toy.
Gashapon machines started featuring licensed characters from popular media, making them even more desirable to collectors.
The brand expanded beyond Japan and became popular in various Asian countries, as well as in the United States and Europe.
Gashapon has continued to innovate by introducing collaborations with well-known brands and designers to create limited edition collectibles.
Kinder Surprise is a popular brand of chocolate eggs that contain small toys inside. Though not dispensed through vending machines like Gashapon, it also targets collectors of miniature toys.
Capsule Corp is another brand that specializes in capsule toys, similar to Gashapon. It offers a wide range of collectible toys and has a strong presence in Japan.
Gashapon toys featuring characters from popular anime series, such as Dragon Ball, Naruto, One Piece, and My Hero Academia.
Gashapon toys based on popular video game franchises, including Pokemon, Final Fantasy, Super Mario, and Legend of Zelda.
Gashapon toys inspired by blockbuster movies, such as Marvel and DC superhero films, Star Wars, and Disney/Pixar animations.
Gashapon toys featuring mythical creatures, fantasy characters, and magical items.
Gashapon toys can be bought from various sources, including specialty toy stores, online retailers, and conventions that feature collectibles.
The price of Gashapon toys typically ranges from a few dollars to around 10 dollars, depending on the rarity and collectibility of the specific toy.
No, the toys dispensed from Gashapon machines are randomized, adding an element of surprise to collecting.
Some Gashapon toys are released as limited editions or exclusive variants, which make them more sought after by collectors.
Gashapon toys are generally safe for children, but they often contain small parts and may not be suitable for very young children due to choking hazards.