Japanese convenience stores aren’t just places to buy groceries. They’re also hubs for pop culture, where you can get the latest anime and character goods. SEGA FIVE Inc. will sequentially release the SEGA Lucky Lottery “Nmeneko” at Ministop stores and hobby shops nationwide starting Friday, January 16, 2026.This time, it features completely new illustrations drawn exclusively for this lottery by illustrator Shirimoto-sensei, the creator of the immensely popular SNS character “Nmeneko”.
This “lottery” sales format is a unique aspect of Japan’s character goods culture. Instead of buying a box where you can’t see the contents, you draw a lottery ticket at the register and exchange it for a prize corresponding to the result. This lineup consists of six tiers with no losing tickets, plus a “Last Lucky Prize” available to the person who draws the final ticket at each store. Here are the details of this lottery, featuring a luxurious specification that fans won’t be able to resist.
Japan’s Unique “Kuji” Culture and Sales Information
First, let’s explain the basic purchase method clearly for travelers. Sales begin sequentially starting Friday, January 16, 2026. The price is 770 yen per draw. Main retailers include the convenience store “MINISTOP,” recognizable by its yellow and blue logo, and other hobby shops.
Japanese convenience store merchandise rotates very quickly. Since start times may vary by store and some locations might not carry it, we recommend checking nearby stores near your accommodation beforehand. Also, since sales are limited in quantity, it’s entirely possible they could sell out quickly depending on popularity. Finding one and trying your luck right then and there is part of the fun of Japanese convenience store lottery tickets.
A Prize: Special Occasion Plush Toy
The highest-tier A Prize is the “Special Occasion Plush Toy.” Two types are available.
The characters “Nmeneko” and “Usukuro” have been transformed into plush toys, dressed in slightly different “Formal Dress” outfits than usual. They feature an adorable charm, as if the atmosphere of the original illustrations has been perfectly translated into 3D form.Simply displaying them in your room will likely put you in a celebratory mood. Their soft, fluffy texture and the way they sit so daintily are sure to be soothing.
B Prize: Exciting♪ Silicone Mold
The B Prize features the “Exciting♪ Silicone Mold.” This prize comes in one type.
Japan has a culture of enjoying character-shaped foods, like “Kyaraben” (character bento). This item is especially noteworthy for those who love cooking or handmade crafts. Using this mold, you can easily create chocolate, ice, or jelly shaped like “Nmeneko.”It should be perfect for Valentine’s Day, and might even be useful for resin crafts. It’s a highly practical item that even non-fans will want.
Prize C: Cheers! Melamine Cup
Prize C is the “Cheers! Melamine Cup,” available in two designs.
Made of melamine, it’s lightweight and shatter-resistant, perfect for everyday use. It’s handy as a cup for children and ideal for taking along to hanami or picnics in Japan. Its design promises to make mealtimes more enjoyable, and you might find yourself wanting to collect and display all the designs.
Prize D: Gourmet Lunch Mat
Prize D is the “Gourmet Placemat.” Its charm lies in the rich variety of five designs.
Simply lay this placemat on your usual dining table to instantly transform the atmosphere. How wonderful to enjoy meals alongside your favorite “Nmeneko” characters! With five designs, you can match them to your mood or the day’s cuisine. The material wipes clean easily, making it exceptionally practical.
E Prize: Famous Scene Tin Badge 2-Piece Set
Prize E is the “Famous Scene Tin Badge 2-Piece Set.” A total of 8 designs are available.
These tin badges capture the surreal and adorable famous scenes of “Nmeneko.” Tin badges are popular items in Japan, where there’s even a culture of decorating bags with favorite character badges called “Itabag.” This set is a luxurious 2-piece offering.Of course, you can enjoy attaching them to bags or pouches, but displaying them as a collection on a corkboard is also a great idea. With all 8 types available, the fun is in the anticipation of which famous scene you’ll get when you open it.
F Prize: Famous Scene Sticker
Prize F is the “Memorable Scene Sticker,” also available in all 8 varieties.
The uses are endless—slip them into your phone case, stick them on your laptop or planner. If you catch a glimpse of “Nmeneko” in your daily life, you might just find yourself smiling. Since they’re easy to carry around, you can feel connected to your favorite character (Oshi) anytime, anywhere—a delightful perk.
Last Lucky Prize: Full Belly Multi-use Cover
And for the lucky person who draws the very last ticket at that store, the Last Lucky Prize is the “Full Belly Multi-use Cover.” There is one type available.
True to its name, it’s a cover for diverse uses. Throw it over your sofa, use it for bedding, or even as a lap blanket when it’s cold—it adapts freely to your lifestyle. The “Full Belly” name itself conjures images of a contented Nmeneko, promising happiness just by looking at it. Japanese lottery culture often features special prizes like this, embodying the saying “There is luck in the last helping.”
Double Lucky Prize and the Artist’s Worldview
A “Double Lucky Prize” is also available, accessible by entering the code on your lottery ticket. Ten lucky winners will receive the complete set of “Grand Prize: Special Occasion Plushies.” This delightful system keeps the excitement going even after you’ve drawn your ticket. Winning is pure luck, but even if you don’t, you still get a chance at the Double Lucky Prize – truly a two-for-one deal.
The biggest draw of this lottery is undoubtedly the “newly drawn illustrations by Shirimoto-sensei.” The fresh expressions and poses of the “N-me Neko” characters, rendered in their unique style, are precious pieces you can only see through this lottery. Beyond the charm you see in their regular posts, the joy of owning these as goods is truly special. Including experiential goods like silicone molds really hits the mark with fans.
When visiting Japan, be sure to experience this unique Japanese sales style at your nearest Ministop or hobby shop. Sales begin sequentially starting January 16, 2026.
Detailed participating stores and item information can be found on the official website, “SEGA PLAZA”. https://segaplaza.jp/lp/nmeneko_kuji/ 🇯🇵
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