Shopping etiquette in Japan’s card, figure and game shops
By Corentin · updated on September 22, 2026
Shop etiquette in Japan comes down to a few rules. Hobby shops are calm, organised and strict about a few things: many forbid photos, valuable items stay behind glass until staff hand them to you, prices are fixed, and popular products come with purchase limits or lotteries. Carry cash and a bag, ask before you touch or photograph, and you will be welcome everywhere.
Key facts
| Photos | Often forbidden (撮影禁止); ask first |
|---|---|
| Glass cases | Ask staff to open them; never open sealed packs |
| Prices | Fixed, second-hand included |
| Paying | Money in the tray; carry cash; no tipping |
| Popular items | Limits per person (お一人様1点まで) or lotteries (抽選) |
As of September 22, 2026
Can I take photos inside?
Often not. Many card and figure shops forbid photography, and some post signs (撮影禁止, “no photos”). When there is no sign, ask before you take a picture, and never photograph other customers or the staff. On Kaidashi, shop pages say whether photos are allowed when we know it.
How do I look at items in glass cases?
Expensive cards, figures and games are kept in locked cases. Ask a member of staff to open the case: point at the item or show its price tag. They will hand it to you or keep it at the till. Do not open sealed packs or boxes to look inside.
Can I haggle?
No. Prices are fixed in shops, including second-hand chains. The price on the tag is the price you pay (plus tax, see below).
How do I pay?
Put your cash or card in the small tray on the counter rather than handing it over. Cards are widely accepted in chains, but carry cash: some small shops only take cash. Tipping is not done in Japan.
Prices may be shown with tax (税込) or without tax (税抜): check the label.
Why are there purchase limits and lotteries?
For new releases and popular products, shops often limit how many one person can buy (“1 per person”, お一人様1点まで), and very popular items may be sold only by lottery (抽選): you apply before the release date, and winners are allowed to buy. Queues also form before opening on release days. Respect the rules posted at the shop: they are there so that more people can buy.
Bags and small things
- Most shops charge for bags: bring a foldable bag.
- Do not bring food or drinks into the shop.
- Keep your voice down, and your backpack in front of you in narrow aisles and in crowded buildings.
Asking for tax-free
In tax-free shops, ask at the till before paying and show your passport. From November 1, 2026 the refund method changes: see our tax-free guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I touch the items?
Items on open shelves, yes, with care. Items in glass cases: ask a member of staff, who will hand them to you. Never open sealed packs or boxes.
Do shops take cards?
Chains widely accept cards, but some small shops take cash only. Carry some yen.
Should I bring a bag?
Yes: most shops charge for bags. A foldable bag is enough.
Is tipping expected?
No. Tipping is not done in Japan, in shops or anywhere else.