Experience Entertainment at Japanese Convenience Stores! ME:I’s “ME:EYE’s” Character Lottery Debuts

The official characters of Japan’s popular idol group “ME:I (Mee-Aye)”, “ME:EYE’s (Mee-Ayes)”, are coming to major Japanese convenience stores like Lawson. This isn’t just a merchandise sale. It’s a sale using “Kuji”, a uniquely Japanese entertainment format. “Kuji” is a lottery system where you pay at the register and draw one ticket from a box.Tickets display prize tiers from A to E, and you instantly receive your prize on the spot. The thrill of not knowing what you’ll win is precisely what drives Japanese pop culture fans wild. On Friday, January 30, 2026, stores nationwide will be buzzing with fan excitement.

The product being released this time is the “Character Lucky Draw ME:I Official Characters ‘ME:EYE’s'”. The highlight is the newly drawn illustrations created specifically for this project. The characters are wearing adorable ribbons. This is a rare chance to encounter them in special dress-up outfits, different from their usual looks.

The price is 770 yen per play. You can participate for just a little more than a Japanese coin (500 yen coin). If you’re lucky, you’ll get a large plushie; even if not, you’re guaranteed to receive cute goods. Since it ends once items sell out, Japanese fans rush to stores on release day.

A Prize: Plushie

The highest-ranked A Prize is a large plush toy. When it comes to top prizes in “lotteries,” a plush toy with real presence is the classic choice. Japanese fans enjoy these plushies as their “Oshi (My Favorite),” displaying them in their rooms or taking them out on outings. The fluffy ME:EYE’s with ribbons are incredibly cuddly. If you manage to win one on your first try, you could call that day your luckiest day ever.

Placing it on your desk or in your living room means you can always be with the character. While collecting all types is the fan’s dream, getting your favorite character first is the goal. Some stores even have staff ring a bell and say “Congratulations!” to celebrate, making that moment especially joyful.

B Prize Die-Cut Pouch

Prize B is a die-cut pouch shaped exactly like the character. It’s an item that combines cuteness with practicality. Japanese women use various pouches to organize their bag contents. It’s the perfect size for storing small items that tend to get lost, like lip balm, eye drops, earphones, or charging cables.

With ME:EYE’s design, you’ll feel uplifted every time you take something out. Its quality makes you want to collect multiple—for safekeeping or as gifts for friends. Even on a quick outing, this pouch can make you feel like you’re heading to a special event.

C Prize: Metal Charm

Prize C is a metal charm with a beautiful metallic sheen. Unlike acrylic keychains, it has the distinctive weight and solid feel of metal. Attach it to your bag’s zipper pull, bundle it with your house keys—the possibilities are endless. Its understated elegance allows you to subtly show your fandom, making it popular among mature fans.

The ribbon from the original illustration is faithfully reproduced. Collecting all types and adorning your bag with them is a status symbol among Japanese anime and idol fans. It has a premium feel you wouldn’t expect from a ¥770 lottery prize.

Prize D: Card Case

Prize D is a card case. In Japan, transportation IC cards like “Suica” and “PASMO” are widely used for trains and buses. Many people also carry employee IDs or idol trading cards, making card cases an essential modern item.

Precisely because it’s used daily, decorating it with favorite characters is part of the Japanese fan style. Seeing ME:EYE’s every time you pass through an automatic ticket gate makes your daily commute more enjoyable. It comes with a strap for attaching to bags, making this D Prize the top target for those prioritizing practicality.

E Prize: 3-Sticker Set

Prize E is a set of three stickers. Getting three at once feels like a great deal. In Japan, it’s common to place stickers behind transparent smartphone cases to enjoy original designs. You can also decorate laptops, tablets, or planners in ME:I colors.

Stickers are incredibly versatile since they can be placed anywhere. Even if you win multiple, you can keep some for display and use others, so it’s never a “losing” prize. For fans, it’s a delightful prize allowing you to enjoy the beautiful illustrations up close.

Last Lucky Prize: Hoodie

This “lottery” also features a uniquely Japanese system: the “Last One Award.” This special prize is given to the person who draws the very last ticket remaining in the store, in addition to the regular prize. This time, a hoodie is up for grabs.

While figures are often chosen, receiving apparel is exceptionally luxurious. It’s perfect for lounging around the house or as your go-to outfit for live events.True to the Japanese proverb “There’s fortune in leftovers,” whoever draws the final ticket is blessed with miraculous luck.

Release Date and Important Notes

This “Character Lucky Draw” will be released sequentially starting Friday, January 30, 2026. While many Japanese convenience stores operate 24 hours, the exact start time for the draw varies by location. Popular items often sell out quickly.

Meeting the ME:EYE’s adorned with ribbons is a privilege exclusive to this lottery. Will you aim for the plushies, or hold out for that final hoodie? On January 30th, head to your nearest Lawson and experience the fervor of Japan’s “lottery culture” for yourself.