Even after his sudden passing in 1998, Japanese rock star hide continues to captivate fans around the world with his undeniable charisma.
As the guitarist for X JAPAN and as a solo artist, he helped establish the unique Japanese rock culture known as “Visual Kei.”
Having celebrated what would have been his 60th birthday in 2024, he remains an enduring icon of the Japanese music scene.
Now, a special project has been announced to commemorate the 30th anniversary of his masterpiece 2nd album, PSYENCE, originally released in 1996.
The project is titled “hide Kuji 2026.”
This campaign will be held exclusively at the “Lawson” group, a major Japanese convenience store (konbini) chain. Sales will begin sequentially from Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Lawson, Lawson Store 100, and HMV stores across Japan.
The merchandise lineup features an abundance of photos and CD jacket artwork that color his illustrious career.
These products will be sold in a format known as “Kuji.” “Kuji” refers to a character lottery popular in Japanese convenience stores and bookstores where there are no losing tickets. You draw a ticket from a box and are guaranteed to receive a prize corresponding to the rank (A Prize, B Prize, etc.) printed on it right on the spot.
The thrill of “not knowing what you’ll get” feels as if hide himself has overturned a toy box just to surprise us.
Lineup of the ‘PSYENCE’ 30th Anniversary Collection
The price for this lottery is 790 yen (approx. $5.30 USD) per draw. In addition to the peace of mind that comes with “no losing tickets,” every item in the lineup is a high-quality collector’s piece. Here is an introduction to the prizes, ranging from art to display in your room to items for daily use.
A Prize: Memorial A4 Clear Panel (1 Type)
The most notable item is the A Prize: the Clear Panel. With its impressive A4 size (approx. 8.3 x 11.7 inches), you can fully appreciate hide’s visual art. If you frame it and display it, your room will transform into a small gallery. The translucent clear material harmonizes perfectly with hide’s futuristic and pop image. This is a monumental piece that any fan would want to get their hands on.
B Prize: Clear Stand (4 Types)
The “Acrylic Stand,” a staple of Japanese anime and idol merchandise, has also been designed with hide’s unique worldview. There are four types in total. They are the perfect size for displaying on a desk or shelf. Catching a glimpse of hide in your peripheral vision will surely give you a boost of energy. These come in “blind packages” (opaque bags), so you won’t know which design is inside until you open it. You’ll likely want to collect them all and line them up.
C Prize: Clear Multi Case (4 Types)
For those who value practicality, this Clear Multi Case is highly recommended. It can be used as a pencil case, a small accessory pouch, or a ticket holder. The transparent texture of the PVC (polyvinyl chloride) material is convenient as it allows you to see the contents. Moreover, it excels as a fashion item. Slipping hide’s artwork into your bag will add a little stimulation to your everyday life.
D Prize: Square Tin Badge & Postcard Set (8 Types)
This set is perfect for those who enjoy collecting. It includes a square-shaped Tin Badge and a postcard. The rich variety of 8 types expresses the multifaceted charm of hide. You can pin the postcard to your wall or use it as a message card for a friend. Attaching the tin badge to a bag or clothing is a popular style in Japanese street fashion.
E Prize: CD Size Clear File & Sticker Set (8 Types)
For music fans, “CD size (approx. 12cm / 4.7 inches square)” holds a special meaning. There is no size better suited for enjoying CD jacket artwork. Additionally, a sticker is included in the set. There are 8 types in total. You can stick the stickers on your smartphone or laptop to create your own personalized hide gadgets.
The “LAST Prize” for Drawing the Final Ticket
Japanese character lotteries like “Ichiban Kuji” have a unique system called the “LAST Prize” (Last One Prize).
LAST Prize: T-shirt (1 Type)
The lucky person who draws the “very last ticket” of the set at the store will receive the “LAST Prize” for free, in addition to their regular prize. The prize this time is a T-shirt. While it is a classic item in fan apparel, this specific design is exclusive and cannot be obtained anywhere else. To get this T-shirt, Japanese fans often frequently check the number of remaining tickets at stores.
Bulk Purchase Bonus: Die-cut Guitar Card (5 Types / Random)
Furthermore, if you purchase 5 draws at once, you will receive one “Die-cut Guitar Card” on a first-come, first-served basis. These cards are motifs of hide’s beloved guitars. They are distributed randomly from a total of 5 types. It’s an attractive bonus that will make fans want to aim for a complete set. Quantities are limited and distribution ends once stock runs out, so you will need to visit the store immediately after release.
Sales Information and Notes
This “hide Kuji 2026” is a limited-quantity event.
- Product Name: hide Kuji 2026
- Release Date: Sequentially from Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Price: 790 yen per draw (tax included / approx. $5.30 USD)
- Retailers: Lawson, Lawson Store 100, and HMV stores nationwide in Japan
Please note that release timing may vary by store, or some stores may not carry the product. Additionally, due to extremely high popularity, it may sell out on the release day.
Checking stock via phone calls to stores is prohibited. Please visit the store in person to check the inventory with your own eyes.
A Weekend Meeting a Legendary Rock Star at a Japanese Konbini
Masterpieces like ROCKET DIVE and Pink Spider. And an overwhelming presence that gave birth to the term “Visual Kei.” What hide left behind continues to live on today, not just as music, but as fashion and an attitude toward life.
In February 2026, you can feel his spirit at your local Lawson in Japan. Listen to the album PSYENCE to hype yourself up and wait for the release day. Enjoy this stimulating experience that hasn’t faded even after 30 years, through the unique “Kuji” culture of Japanese convenience stores.
We hope you pull the prize you are aiming for.
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