Have you ever seen footage of a Japanese idol concert? You’ll often see the audience holding up colorful, decorated “Uchiwa” (fans) or boards. These are written with the name of their favorite idol (their “Oshi”) or messages like “Point at me.” This is part of a uniquely Japanese enthusiastic support culture called “Oshikatsu.”
If you are attending a concert in Japan and haven’t had time to prepare, don’t worry. Japan’s major convenience store chain, 7-Eleven, has launched a groundbreaking service. It’s called the “Oshi-moji Print Maker,” allowing you to create your own custom support messages.
Surprise Official Support for “Oshikatsu”
Japanese convenience stores, often called “Konbini,” are open 24 hours a day and are convenient places where you can find everything from food to daily necessities. In particular, the “Multi-copy machines” installed inside are not just photocopiers; they are multi-functional tools used for issuing concert tickets and printing documents. This new service takes these machines to the next level.
Until now, printing existing celebrity photos (bromides) was the mainstream use. However, with this new service, you can print text designed by yourself using your smartphone. You can input Japanese characters (Hiragana) and design your favorite phrases.
For example, you can create specific requests like an idol’s name or “Blow a kiss” on the spot. Even if you decide to go to an event suddenly during your trip to Japan, you can create materials in your hotel or on the train. 7-Eleven Japan understands not only the needs of travelers but also the passion of fans.
Details of “Oshi-moji Print Maker”
There is no need to download a special app for this service. It works on a web browser, and the designs you create can be printed instantly at 7-Eleven stores nationwide.
Freely Customizable
The biggest attraction is the high degree of freedom. On the editing screen, you can choose the font style and place stamps. You can also freely change the background color, making it possible to match the “Member Color” of the person you are supporting.
Templates Safe for Non-Japanese Speakers
There are also features for those who are not confident in design or find Japanese input difficult. Messages seeking standard “Fan Service” (Fansa) at Japanese concerts, such as “Peace sign, please” or “Shoot me pose,” are prepared in advance as templates. If you choose these, you can complete effective cheering goods without fail.
Wallet-Friendly Pricing
The price is surprisingly affordable. A large A3 size is 100 yen (approx. $0.67 USD) per sheet, and A4 size is just 60 yen (approx. $0.40 USD).
It is overwhelmingly cheaper than ordering from a specialty shop or buying materials to make it yourself. With the money saved, you could even buy more official “Merch” sold at the concert venue.
Product Information
Service Name: Oshi-moji Print Maker Paper: Plain paper A3 size / A4 size
Price: A3 100 yen / A4 60 yen (tax included) Compatible Frames: Uchiwa (fan) shape / Board shape
Editing Functions: Text (Hiragana), Stamps, Background Color
Easy for Anyone! How to Use
The operation is intuitive and simple. Follow these steps to create your own unique cheering goods.
First, access the “Oshi-moji Print Maker” website on your smartphone and tap the “Make it now” banner.
https://www.fujifilm.com/fb/solution/multicopy/oshikatu/oshimojiprintmaker
Next, select the shape you want to make (Uchiwa or Board) and the paper size (A3 or A4). Choose according to the size of the “Uchiwa” fan you have.
Then, proceed to the editing screen. Input your favorite text or decorate with stamps to complete your design. You can adjust it while checking the preview screen, so there is no need to worry.
Once the design is decided, make a “Print Reservation” on the site. A QR code will be issued. Take that QR code to a nearby 7-Eleven.
Hold the QR code over the multi-copy machine in the store, and printing will start immediately.
Finally, paste the printed paper onto a plain “Uchiwa” or board (sold at 100-yen shops, etc.), and it’s done. As long as you have scissors and glue, you can create a one-of-a-kind cheering item in no time.
Experience it Now at 7-Eleven
It is useful not only for concerts but also for watching sports or as a commemorative photo item for your trip to Japan. It is a convenient tool that grants the wish of travelers who “don’t have time to prepare, but want to have fun.”
Please try this unique service at a nearby 7-Eleven during your next stay in Japan. It should be a great opportunity to touch upon Japan’s “Oshikatsu” culture.
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