新年あけまして！おめでとうございます。

Happy New Year, and thank you for reading.

(This opening greeting is written in Japanese for local readers.)

I took a short break from updating my blog over the past few days.
That said, I wasn’t inactive I was simply taking a moment to reset.

Watching the First Sunrise of 2026 in Aso

On January 1st, I visited Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture with my family to watch the first sunrise of the year.

Aso is one of Japan’s largest active volcanic regions, known for its massive caldera.
It felt like a fitting place to welcome the start of a new year.

The temperature that morning was around 6.5°C (about 44°F).
It wasn’t just “cold” it was the kind of cold that makes your body tense up.

Still, when the first sunlight appeared over the mountains,
I quietly thought to myself, “Alright… the year has truly begun.”

The Atmosphere in Japan After New Year’s

In Japan, many businesses remain closed until around January 4th.
Things usually begin moving again from January 5th onward.

Because of that, the streets felt noticeably quieter than usual less traffic, fewer people, and a calm, almost paused atmosphere.

What I Do During Long Holidays

During these quieter periods, there’s something I often do.
I visit several convenience stores and buy card packs.

This time, I went to about four different stores and mainly picked up One Piece Card Game packs.

Some of you may have noticed that I’ve been talking more about One Piece lately.
The reason is simple:

Pokémon packs and boxes have become very difficult to find in stores right now.

Even living in Japan and visiting shops in person,
I can clearly feel how limited the supply has become.

Normally, limited supply leads to sharp price increases.
But interestingly, prices haven’t exploded yet which makes the current situation feel a bit unusual.

That said, 2026 marks Pokémon’s 30th anniversary,
and a new set, “Munikis Zero,” is scheduled for release on January 23rd.

Personally, I expect the overall mood and market dynamics to shift again around that time.
I’ll be sharing more Pokémon-related updates as things develop.

An Honest Note About Convenience Store Packs

I live in an area where many convenience stores still carry One Piece packs and boxes,
so I was able to purchase a variety this time.

Here’s an honest reality check:

• Buying 2–3 loose packs rarely results in hits
• From experience, buying a full box offers a much better practical chance

At convenience stores, packs are sold individually after being removed from boxes.
This means there’s always a chance that the high-value cards have already been pulled.

This isn’t limited to convenience stores the same applies to Pokémon Centers as well.

You’ll also find many cheap packs online (Mercari, eBay, etc.),
but a significant number of them are searched or filtered packs.

Buying solely because something is “cheap” is usually not a good idea.

How Much I Bought & A Small Update

Between January 1st and January 4th,
I purchased roughly 80 packs, including some boxes.

Before December 31st, 2025,
I had already sold around 50 packs via Instagram,
and I’ll be gradually listing the newly purchased items as well.

To keep things simple:

• Cards already in cases: $2 per card
• Other items: price depends on condition and content

To be honest, there are still many cards I haven’t even sorted yet
—I’m losing track myself (laughs).

Contact Information

For updates or availability, feel free to reach out here:

• Instagram: @pokeshopjp
• WhatsApp: Please contact me here
  (WhatsApp replies are usually faster)

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This year as well,
I’ll continue sharing real, on-the-ground perspectives from Japan,
at a pace that feels natural.

Thank you for reading, and I look forward to another year.

shinobu 🇯🇵

ONE PIECE Starter Deck EGGHEAD (ST-29)

Why This Deck Is Getting Attention in Japan at the End of the Year

December 31st.
As it is the end of the year in Japan, shopping malls are extremely busy with people doing their last shopping of the year.

Card shops are no exception.
Pokémon cards are drawing large crowds, especially with Mega Dream ex boxes on sale. Even though the shrink wrap is removed at the time of purchase, many people are still lining up.
This kind of atmosphere feels very typical of the year-end season in Japan.

What I Was Actually Looking For

While Pokémon cards were attracting attention, my purpose that day was different.

I was looking for the ONE PIECE Card Game Starter Deck EGGHEAD (ST-29), released on December 20, 2025.

This was not for myself.
I had already received a request from an overseas customer asking me to find this deck in Japan.

Because it was still shortly after release, I visited several card shops during the busy year-end period and checked the actual stock myself.

Why Is ST-29 So Popular?

The popularity of Starter Deck EGGHEAD (ST-29) is not just about the pre-built deck itself.

The key reason is the black bonus pack that comes with the deck.

Each deck includes one black bonus pack, which contains one random card out of 14 different characters.

The Card Everyone Is Talking About

Among those 14 cards, one card has drawn particular attention:
Monkey D. Luffy (Parallel / Black & White version).

This card is currently trading for around $109 on overseas markets, and its presence alone has significantly increased interest in the EGGHEAD starter deck.

Of course, it is not guaranteed.
However, the fact that this card can be pulled is enough to change how many collectors view this product.

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Why It Looks Expensive Overseas But Is Actually Cheap

On overseas platforms such as eBay, the Starter Deck EGGHEAD (ST-29) is often listed for around $35 (approximately ¥5,500).

At first glance, that may seem expensive for a starter deck.

However, when you look at the real situation in Japan, it is often cheaper to obtain this deck directly from Japan than to buy it overseas.

Considering that:

• The product can be sourced locally in Japan
• Condition can be checked properly
• Unnecessary risks can be avoided

many buyers find that it is simply cheaper overall to get it from Japan.

What I Can Offer

I regularly visit card shops in Japan and confirm actual availability, condition, and timing based on the current market.

Because of this, there are cases where I can offer this deck cheaper and under more realistic conditions than buying through overseas markets.

If you are looking for the ONE PIECE Starter Deck EGGHEAD (ST-29), I can assist depending on availability.

For Those Who Are Interested

If you are looking to get the ONE PIECE Starter Deck EGGHEAD (ST-29) at a cheaper price, feel free to contact me.

I provide options based on real conditions in Japan, without forcing unrealistic pricing.

Final Note

This will be my last blog post of 2025.

Throughout this year, I have communicated with many collectors and buyers overseas, and I strongly believe that sharing what is actually happening on the ground in Japan is important.

In 2026, I will continue to share:

• Real on-site information from Japan
• Honest market perspectives
• Practical ways to obtain products directly

Instagram: pokeshopjp
WhatsApp: Please contact me here
(WhatsApp replies are faster)

shinobu 🇯🇵

Year-End & New Year’s Pokémon Card Market in Japan What I’m Actually Seeing on the Ground

How is everyone spending the end of the year?
As I’m writing this blog, it’s around 3:00 PM on December 30th (Japan time).

In Japan, this period is often associated with year-end cleaning and last-minute shopping in preparation for the New Year. There is a strong cultural sense of “resetting” before December 31st organizing, clearing things out, and starting the new year with a clean slate.

In this article, I’d like to share what the Japanese trading card market really looks like during the year-end and New Year period, based on what I’m seeing directly on the ground.

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The Japanese Card Market During Year-End & New Year

The Japanese card market is often perceived as “inactive” during the year-end holidays.
It’s true that many Japanese companies begin their winter holidays around December 29th.

However, card shops are a different story. Many of them remain open through the end of the year. Typically, December 31st has shortened hours, January 1st is closed, and many shops reopen on January 2nd.

During this time, card shops are surprisingly busy until the final business day of the year. Not only Pokémon, but also newly released booster boxes and packs from before Christmas continue to sell well.
At the same time, foot traffic gradually slows after Christmas, and many shops shift their focus toward preparing and restocking “Lucky Bags” and “Oripa” (random packs).

The Season of Lucky Bags & Oripa

If you visit a card shop in Japan right now, you’ll almost certainly see Oripa.
Oripa are randomly packed trading card products created and sold by card shops or individuals.

For example, you might see an Oripa priced at ¥3,000 (about $19) advertised as “SAR or higher guaranteed,” with no way to see what’s inside. In rare cases, high-end cards like Mega Charizard ex or Meloetta ex SAR may appear — making Oripa feel almost like gambling.

There are many different concepts and styles depending on the shop.
If you manage to pull a high-value card for $19, that’s obviously a great outcome.

That said, from my personal experience, the odds feel lower than opening standard Pokémon packs. Because of that, I tend to look at Oripa calmly and objectively.
Of course, some people do get lucky that’s also a reality.

Pokémon Center During the Holidays

Pokémon Centers become extremely crowded during the year-end and New Year period, especially with international tourists.
As of December 30th, many locations are already sold out of packs and boxes.

If you’re hoping to buy packs, your best chance is to arrive right when the store opens.

Mega Dream ex↑

Start Deck 100↑

Mega Dream ex & Start Deck 100 — Current Situation

Since Pokémon Centers came up, here’s the current situation for Mega Dream ex and Start Deck 100.

As of now, the Japanese market price for Mega Dream ex (BOX) is around ¥9,500 (approximately $60).
This price includes boxes purchased at Pokémon Centers where the shrink wrap is removed, but compared to earlier levels, prices have dropped significantly.

However, physical card shops often list Mega Dream ex boxes around ¥16,000–17,000 ($102–109), creating a noticeable gap between online and in-store prices.

For Start Deck 100, the current market price is around ¥1,500 (about $9.60), which is much lower than before.
With some luck, it may still be possible to buy it at retail price from electronics stores or Pokémon Centers (with purchase limits).

Important Notes: Weight Searching & Re-Shrinking

There are a few important risks to be aware of during this period.

Mega Dream ex

Mega Dream ex has been affected by “weight searching.” Popular cards like Mega Dragonite ex MUR and Mega Gengar ex SAR can sometimes be predicted based on box weight.

In simple terms, heavier or lighter boxes may have different odds.
There are also issues such as re-shrinking, where packs are searched and replaced before being resealed.

Start Deck 100

Start Deck 100 faces similar concerns.
Cards such as Mega Charizard Y ex (MUR version), Pikachu, and Lillie SAR are believed to be more likely in decks of certain weights.

While weight searching may increase odds somewhat, my personal estimate puts accuracy at around 60%.
As a result, Start Deck 100 has been slowing down on platforms like Mercari and eBay, especially for individual sellers.

Market Outlook During the Holidays

Based on current conditions, I believe prices still have room to fall.

Mega Dream ex has already seen reprints, and supply remains relatively high.
Start Deck 100 still attracts interest due to key chase cards, but price expectations and probability concerns are causing buyers to cool off.

During the year-end and New Year period, Japanese market prices may drop another step. If prices become more accessible, popular singles could follow downward. Personally, I think waiting a bit longer is reasonable.

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About pokeshopjp

We operate 365 days a year without designated holidays.
However, FedEx shipments are suspended until January 4th, 2026 (EMS is operating normally), so there may be minor shipping delays. Otherwise, operations remain normal.

Hotel Delivery Service for Visitors to Japan

We offer a delivery service for travelers visiting Japan, delivering Pokémon cards and boxes directly to hotels.
We already have experience delivering to hotels in Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Kyoto.

This service is designed for travelers who are unable to find boxes during their trip. Even Japanese residents struggle to buy boxes at retail prices, so we aim to provide a fast, reliable, and fair option.

• Those planning to visit Japan
• Those currently traveling in Japan

Feel free to contact us if you need assistance.

Final Thoughts

Year-end and New Year periods are often quiet in terms of major news and announcements. Because of that, relying only on visible online information can lead to misunderstandings about the real market atmosphere.

I personally visit Pokémon and One Piece-related locations daily and engage in buying and selling. For me, action itself is information.

Even when the market appears quiet, there are opportunities unique to this time of year.
I’ll continue sharing real-world observations and daily insights on this blog.

If you’re interested in cards or boxes, please contact me using the details below.

From Fukuoka,
Shinobu 🇯🇵

Instagram: pokeshopjp
WhatsApp: Click here
(WhatsApp responses are usually faster)

Recently, I’ve been receiving more inquiries not only about Pokémon and One Piece trading cards, but also about Japanese food and everyday household items.

The photos here were taken while I was shopping at Don Quijote to fulfill one of those requests.

People rarely start by saying,
“Please buy this for me.”

Instead, as we continue trading cards and communicating over time, conversations gradually expand. Topics often shift to things like:
“What kinds of products exist in Japan?”
or
“What left a strong impression when I visited Japan?”

What I find interesting is that many requests are not for typical “souvenirs,” but for everyday Japanese products and food.

Souvenirs can usually be purchased at airports, on Amazon, or on eBay sometimes at a slightly higher price. However, many of the items people ask about are not easily available through those channels.

They are often things that are simply convenient, cleverly designed, or so common in Japan that locals hardly think twice about them. Yet overseas, they may be completely unfamiliar.

At times, we find ourselves learning as well, thinking,
“I didn’t even realize something like this would be interesting.”

This time, the request was related to a very familiar Japanese food style:
Tamago Kake Gohan warm rice topped with a raw egg and soy sauce.

The product ordered was a compact, packaged version of this concept. From a Japanese perspective, it’s an “idea product,” but it’s made by a well-known company famous for mayonnaise, so it’s safe and reliable.

I tried it myself, and honestly, I felt it was even more delicious than the traditional version. That experience is what motivated me to write about it here.

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Naturally, Japanese tastes and perspectives differ from those of people overseas. Everyone’s preferences are different.

But learning about another country’s culture especially through everyday food and habits—is something I find genuinely fascinating.

In our case, transactions never happen without communication.

Even when cards look identical, their condition can vary significantly. We discuss condition and pricing carefully before finalizing any agreement.

Through these exchanges, requests, suggestions, and detailed conversations naturally occur. In between, small gaps open up where casual conversation begins.

Those moments of casual talk are important. They help us understand each other better, beyond just buying and selling.

Japan is filled with food items and useful products.

Many people who visit Japan buy souvenirs, but I often wonder—what items left the strongest impression on you?

If you don’t understand Japanese, you may hesitate to buy food or products because you’re unsure what they are. In those cases, feel free to send us a photo and ask,
“What kind of product is this?”

Recently, some overseas customers have even sent clothes for our children or snacks from their own countries.

What started as simple transactions has grown into genuine human connections. Sometimes we meet customers in person when they visit Japan, and even share meals together.

We continue to learn a great deal from our customers. None of this feels extraordinary—it’s simply part of our everyday life now.

Today, I wanted to leave a small record of that everyday life in Japan.

I look forward to meeting you someday.

Shinobu

Weekly Shonen Jump New Year Combined Issue (No. 4–5)

“All Applicants Service”
ONE PIECE Card Game Special Starter Deck

In Japan, the Weekly Shonen Jump New Year Combined Issue (No. 4–5) was released on December 22, 2025.

This issue includes a special promotion called the “All Applicants Service,”
through which a special ONE PIECE Card Game starter deck is offered.

Weekly Shonen Jump is one of Japan’s most iconic magazines.
ONE PIECE first began serialization in August 1997, and the magazine has also featured legendary titles such as Dragon Ball.
It is published weekly and is priced at around $2.11 USD in Japan.

The Relationship Between Shonen Jump and ONE PIECE Promo Cards

Weekly Shonen Jump has released many promotional cards over the years.

One particularly notable example is the Monkey D. Luffy (P-043) promo card that was included in the August 2023 issue.

Although it was originally just a magazine bonus,
the card continues to be actively traded in the Japanese market today.
This clearly shows that Jump-origin promotional cards are not always short-lived items.

This special starter deck can be seen as part of that same lineage.

How the Application System Works

The “All Applicants Service” works as follows:

• Purchase Weekly Shonen Jump (approx. $2.11 USD)
• Cut out the application ticket included in the magazine
• Attach it to a postcard and mail it to the designated address
• The product is delivered around May 2026

The starter deck is shipped via cash-on-delivery for 1,650 JPY (approx. $10.54 USD).

※ This service is limited to residents of Japan, and domestic shipping only.

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Actual Availability and On-the-Ground Situation

I personally subscribe to Weekly Shonen Jump, so I was aware of this promotion in advance.

However, whenever ONE PIECE Card Game application tickets are involved,
competition tends to be intense based on past experience.

Because of this, I went to a nearby convenience store early in the morning on release day to secure my copy.

On social media, some people said things like
“you can buy it anywhere” or “there are plenty left,”
but in reality, availability varied significantly by store.
Some locations were already sold out.

While Weekly Shonen Jump usually has a large print run and stable distribution,
this time it felt noticeably tighter, with clear regional and timing differences.

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Comparison With Past “All Applicants” Promotions

In April 2025, another “All Applicants Service” offered
Monkey D. Luffy (ST01-012) for 1,540 JPY (approx. $9.84 USD).

Looking at current prices in Japan and overseas markets,
that card has increased in value since its release.

With this new starter deck,
even the Weekly Shonen Jump issues that include the application ticket
are already being resold at higher prices.
This shows that market movement has begun before the cards are even delivered.

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Thoughts on This Starter Deck

The actual starter decks are scheduled to ship starting around May 2026.

To be honest, this type of promotion often feels like
“something that arrives long after you’ve forgotten about it.”

However, judging by the early response, interest is extremely high.

Historically, promotional cards and starter decks distributed through Shonen Jump
often receive renewed attention once the physical items begin circulating.
From a medium- to long-term perspective, this makes the project particularly interesting.

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Final Notes

Because this starter deck requires domestic application and delivery within Japan,
it can be difficult for overseas collectors or those without a Japanese address to obtain.

I have secured the application tickets myself
and am in a position to receive the starter decks in Japan.

For those who find it difficult to apply on their own
but want to secure a copy reliably,
I handle inquiries individually through my usual social media channels.

Conditions may vary depending on timing and availability,
so please contact me directly for details.

Instagram: pokeshopjp
WhatsApp: Click here

As of December 28, 2025, we are approaching the year-end holiday season in Japan.

While I will explain the details in a separate post, please note that FedEx’s final pickup for this year is December 29.
In Japan, many companies and households take holidays from December 30 through January 4, 2026.

We personally do not take an extended holiday and will continue operating as usual.
However, due to carrier schedules, shipping may be slightly delayed during this period.
Please rest assured that we remain fully open for business.

Today, I would like to highlight several products that have received a particularly high number of inquiries and orders recently.

Dragon Ball Super Divers 9-Pocket Binder Set – DRAGON BALL 40th Anniversary Edition

🔗 https://p-bandai.jp/item/item-1000236546/

• Pre-orders closed: September 2025
• Shipping period: Starting around December 27, 2026

This is a luxury commemorative set celebrating the 40th anniversary of Dragon Ball, the legendary work of Akira Toriyama, who sadly passed away in March 2024.

The set includes:

• A 9-pocket binder featuring only illustrations by Akira Toriyama
• 7 brand-new exclusive cards

Interest in Dragon Ball memorabilia is currently very strong in Japan, with even government-issued commemorative coins being released.
A binder + exclusive card set of this nature is guaranteed to be highly collectible and extremely scarce.

ONE PIECE Card Game 3rd ANNIVERSARY SET

🔗 https://p-bandai.jp/item/item-1000235098/

• Lottery period: August–September 2025
• Shipping: Rolling shipments beginning December 2025

This limited set was released to celebrate the 3rd anniversary of the ONE PIECE Card Game.

It includes:

• Premium supplies inspired by the bond and flame of the three brothers
• Exclusive promotional cards and special DON!! cards

While 3rd Anniversary items are planned for other countries as well, the Japanese version is especially noteworthy and highly anticipated by collectors worldwide.

Serial-Numbered Nami Get Campaign

🔗 https://www.onepiece-cardgame.com/topics/106.php

• Application period: September–November 2025

This campaign was open to players who had participated in three or more official or authorized ONE PIECE Card Game events.

Winners receive:

• A limited serial-numbered Nami card
• Officially stated as 1,000 copies, shipped in December 2025

Although serial numbers go up to 1,200, the official announcement lists only 1,000 units, leaving the remaining numbers unclear.
Regardless, this card is extremely rare and already trading at a premium price.

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Status Card Collection (15 Types Total)

🔗 https://jumpshop-online.com/products/18041995?srsltid=AfmBOook3IMzbUrtZzLPJRoes__IH1IzWgrGXnTejBIOUzgXz2L5hWvH

This is a blind-pack style product (1 random card per pack, 15 types in total).

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is extremely popular both in Japan and worldwide.
While these are not game cards like Pokémon or ONE PIECE, they are sold as status cards, focusing on character attributes and collectible design.

Similar to franchises such as Pokémon and ONE PIECE, these cards appeal strongly to collectors rather than players.

Pokémon TCG High-Class Pack: Mega Dream ex

🔗 https://www.pokemon-card.com/ex/m2a/index.html

• Release date: November 28, 2025

No detailed explanation is necessary this is a very popular high-class box with consistently strong demand.

Pokémon TCG Start Deck 100

🔗 https://www.pokemon-card.com/ex/mc/

• Release date: December 19, 2025

Availability has gradually improved, making it easier to purchase compared to the initial release period.

Final Notes

Some of these items are already trading above retail prices.
At the moment, most products are still available, but prices may rise for certain cards while others stabilize.

If you are interested or would like the latest availability and pricing,
please feel free to contact me anytime.

📷 Instagram: @pokeshopjp
💬 WhatsApp: Click here to contact
(Replies are faster on WhatsApp)

⚠️ Pokémon Card Repackaging & Trust Issues What’s Really Happening

Recently, videos and discussions have been spreading online about Pokémon card repackaging.
In simple terms, this means opened packs or boxes are resealed after valuable cards are removed, then sold again as if they were new.

I will not mention specific countries or individuals in this article.
What matters is the method itself, and the fact that it is already affecting collectors worldwide.

Some of the videos circulating show machines and processes that make repackaging extremely easy.
This proves one important point:

Repackaging is not difficult.
It can be done quickly, cheaply, and at scale.

Why This Is a Serious Problem

Pokémon cards are not just pieces of paper.

They are built on:

• Trust
• Memories
• Culture
• Community

Once trust is broken, the entire ecosystem is affected.

What shocked me most is not just that repackaging exists but how openly and confidently some sellers appear to be doing it.

This means buyers can no longer rely on assumptions like:

• “It’s safe because it’s on eBay”
• “It’s safe because it’s Facebook”
• “It’s safe because the price is low”

Those assumptions are no longer valid.

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Cheap Does Not Mean Safe

One phrase I repeat often is:

“Buying just because it’s cheap is the most dangerous choice.”

In Japan right now, there are many boxes and packs listed at unusually low prices.
For example, MEGA Dream ex boxes can be found for around $45.

However, many of these boxes are:

• Already searched
• Already altered
• Already stripped of valuable cards

In some cases, the contents have clearly been swapped.
SAR cards will not appear, and even AR cards are questionable.

Why does this still work?

Because many buyers are:

• Not collectors
• Not resellers
• Not familiar with pull rates

They are regular people who simply want to open Pokémon cards.

This makes them easy targets.

And unfortunately, the same applies to overseas buyers who are unfamiliar with Japanese pull rates and market behavior.

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My Position as a Seller in Japan

As many of you know, I sell Pokémon cards in Japan.

For me, cards are not just products.
They represent trust, memories, and long-term relationships.

Right now, in front of me, I have:

• MEGA Dream ex boxes and packs
• Start Deck 100 boxes
• Products prepared for shipment

I want to be very clear:

I do not weigh packs.
I do not search boxes.
I do not manipulate contents.

My sourcing comes from:

• Pokémon Centers
• Verified individuals with confirmed identities

I do not work with sellers who lie about their identity or handle altered products.

Because of this, I have never had:

• A complaint
• A serious problem
• A trust issue with customers

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The Myth of “Platform Safety” Is Over

This situation proves something important:

There is no longer such a thing as:

• “Safe because it’s eBay”
• “Safe because it’s Facebook”
• “Safe because it’s a big platform”

Trust has shifted from platform-based to person-based.

It now comes down to:

• Who you buy from
• How they think
• Whether they protect customers or exploit them

Large-scale sellers who handle massive volumes are becoming less trustworthy, not more.

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Why I’m Writing This

Some people may react strongly to this article.

You might hear comments like:

• “Japan is finished”
• “Pokémon is finished”

That’s not true.

Nothing is finished.

What is changing is the need for:

• Clear judgment
• Personal standards
• Trusted relationships

This article is not written out of fear.
It is written because I am confident in how I do business.

I believe protecting customers builds real trust.

And yes I am also writing this to say:
If you want safe products and honest information, you can rely on me.

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Final Thoughts

We are entering an era where blindly trusting prices and platforms is risky.

Please:

• Think for yourself
• Set your own standards
• Find sellers you can talk to openly like a trusted friend

That kind of relationship matters more than ever.

If you are interested in Pokémon cards or ONE PIECE cards, feel free to contact me anytime.

Instagram: pokeshopjp
WhatsApp: Please contact me here
(WhatsApp replies are usually faster)

Thank you for reading.
Shinobu

Introduction

There are only a few days left in this year.
As always, I (Shinobu) find myself traveling through Pokémon and ONE PIECE worlds and at the same time, exploring Japan’s history and culture along the way.

I lived in Tokyo for many years, but Fukuoka is very different in a good way.
It’s compact, and within about 30 minutes by train or car, you can reach beautiful beaches or historical sites dating back roughly 13,000 to 2,300 years ago.

Tourism here is fun, of course but in my opinion, Fukuoka is an incredible place to live.
The infrastructure is stable, power outages are rare, and the airport and major stations are very close, making travel extremely convenient.
Even in areas that feel more rural, there are plenty of shops and services, so daily life is not very different from living in a big city.

This time, I received a request from a customer for ONE PIECE items, so I visited Canal City Hakata to purchase and inspect the products.
Let me briefly share that experience with you.

Bandai Namco Cross Store Gashapon

Anyone who has visited Japan before probably knows this, but Gashapon is still hugely popular.
For around $2–3 per play, you get a capsule containing character goods, miniatures, and other fun items.
It’s loved by everyone from kids to adults.

ONE PIECE Official Store

Pokémon Cards are incredibly popular, but the popularity of ONE PIECE is just as impressive.
It’s often said that in 2026 Pokémon card supply will increase while ONE PIECE card supply will decrease, but recently the excitement around ONE PIECE has been growing not only in Japan, but overseas as well.

As shown in the photos, I’ve been receiving many inquiries about the
ONE PIECE Card Game 3rd ANNIVERSARY SET.

This store mainly focuses on boxes and packs, and compared to Tokyo or Osaka, it’s much less crowded—making it easier and more comfortable to shop.

Pokémon Plastic Models

A quietly popular category is plastic models.
While Gundam is seeing a resurgence, Pokémon plastic models are also gaining popularity.

Unlike figures, there’s the joy of building them yourself which makes them fun in a different way.
Sometimes I even feel like keeping them unbuilt, just as part of a collection.

Wafer Stickers

In Japan, snacks + collectible stickers are a classic combination.
In reality, many people are buying them for the stickers rather than the snack itself.

ONE PIECE, Dragon Ball, and other major anime series release wafer snacks with collectible stickers, some of which are quite rare similar to Pokémon cards.
Many people enjoy collecting them.

Overseas demand is also slowly increasing. Rather than serious collectors, many buyers are simply curious and want to try them.
They’re affordable, making them great as event prizes or gifts for kids.

Crane Games

Modern crane games are filled with cute prizes.
But… they’re not easy to win.

Each play costs around $0.60, but the claw strength is weak.
It’s less about grabbing and more about slowly pulling the item into position.
Even if you win cheaply, it often ends up costing around $13 in total.

JUMP SHOP

Right now, the most talked-about place is JUMP SHOP.
They don’t sell trading cards, but they carry a wide range of goods like can badges and character items.

Jump titles have been popular for nearly 30 years, and that popularity has never really faded.

Final Thoughts

That was a quick walk-through of Canal City Hakata.
When people think of Fukuoka, many international visitors—especially from Asia—come here, partly due to its proximity to Korea and China.

However, travelers from the US and Europe often follow the Tokyo–Hakone–Kyoto–Osaka–Hiroshima route, so many have never visited Fukuoka.

That’s a shame, because Fukuoka offers nature, incredible food, and plenty of fun places for both kids and adults especially if you love Pokémon or ONE PIECE.

Occasionally, customers tell me they want to move to Japan, and Fukuoka is a city I often recommend.
Of course, work opportunities and education matter, but with a population of about 5.1 million, it’s a city that is genuinely friendly to international residents.

I’ll continue sharing regional insights on my blog, and I hope this gives you a reason to be interested in Fukuoka.

Thank you,
Shinobu

Weekly Shonen Jump (Released December 22, 2025)

One Piece Card Game Special Deck Entry Campaign

The Weekly Shonen Jump issue released on December 22, 2025 includes an official entry ticket for a One Piece Card Game Special Deck.

The magazine itself costs only ¥330 (around $2).
By purchasing this issue and applying by January 13, 2026, you can obtain the Special Deck for ¥1,650 (around $10.5) through this limited campaign.

This is a very unique opportunity, as the deck is not sold through regular retail channels.

Why this is getting so much attention

We have already received many inquiries from both Japan and overseas collectors.

The reason is simple:

• The Special Deck will be delivered from late May 2026
• However, you must obtain the entry ticket now
• The only way to get the ticket is to buy this magazine
• The application deadline is January 13, 2026 (no extensions)

In other words,
if you miss this magazine now, you cannot apply later.

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Market outlook (reference)

Once the Special Deck is physically delivered after late May 2026, it is expected that:

• Prices in the Japanese market
• And on international platforms such as eBay

will be significantly higher than the original application price.

Looking at past Weekly Shonen Jump entry campaigns and promotional decks,
there has often been a large gap between the application cost and the later market price.

Important notes

• The entry ticket is included only in this magazine
• The most critical timing is now — from December 22 onward
• Depending on the area, some stores are already selling out

If you are considering applying, early action is strongly recommended.

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Contact & inquiries

For details regarding pricing, shipping, or the application process,
please feel free to contact us.

• Instagram: @pokeshopjp
• WhatsApp: Click here to contact us
  ※ Responses are faster via WhatsApp

In Japan, Start Deck 100 was just released on December 19, 2025.

However, on the very next day, December 20, 2025, new Pokémon TCG products were officially announced.

In addition, lottery applications at major electronics retailers in Japan will begin from December 22, 2025.

Expansion Pack: Munikis Zero

• Release Date: January 23, 2026 (Friday)
• Price:
  • ¥180 per pack (tax included)
  • ¥5,400 per box (30 packs, tax included)
• Contents: 5 cards per pack (randomly inserted)
• Total Cards: 80 cards + Secret Rare slots
• Regulation Mark: M3

The expansion pack Munikis Zero is expected to be the first expansion released after the new regulation begins.

Based on official information and currently revealed card lists, this set does not appear to be centered around a single main Pokémon.
Instead, it is expected to focus on widely usable cards that support the overall Standard format.

Currently Revealed Cards (Partial List)

Pokémon

• Mega Zygarde ex
• Meowth ex
• Binacle
• Barbaracle

Trainers / Items / Stadiums

• PokéPad
• Core Memory
• Taragon
• Puur
• Lumiose City

These cards have been revealed as part of a lineup that emphasizes deck consistency and setup support.

Relation to Regulation Changes

After the release of Munikis Zero, changes to the Standard regulation will take effect.
As a result, commonly used cards such as:

• Nest Ball
• Earthen Vessel
• Arven

will rotate out of the Standard format.

Because of this, Munikis Zero is expected to include new Item cards, Abilities, and Supporters that serve as replacements for these rotated cards.

Same-Day Release: Special Card Set Mega Gallade ex

• Product Name: Special Card Set – Mega Gallade ex
• Release Date: January 23, 2026 (Friday)
• Price: ¥1,980 (tax included)

Contents

• Promo Cards:
  • Mega Gallade ex (Holo) ×1
  • Power Protein (Holo) ×2
  • Ralts ×1
  • Kirlia ×1
• Munikis Zero Booster Packs ×8
• Pokémon Coin ×1

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Additional Context: 2026 Expansion Sets

Expansion packs released in 2026 are expected to feature Trainers and Pokémon connected to the world and characters from Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Because of this, Munikis Zero may also include Trainer cards based on characters appearing in the game.

This post summarizes all information officially confirmed as of December 20.

I know many of you are probably wondering about prices and availability.

However, before focusing on numbers, please feel free to contact us first.
Building mutual trust always leads to smoother and safer transactions.

We ship worldwide using FedEx and Japan Post, as long as the destination is supported by these carriers.
So you can order with confidence, no matter where you are.

One of our biggest strengths is speed at the initial release stage.
We move quickly, handle transactions safely, and maintain a 100% positive review record on Instagram.

There are still many highly anticipated products such as MEGA Dream ex and Start Deck 100,
and we are already shipping orders worldwide every day.

If you are interested, we highly recommend placing a reservation as early as possible.

Instagram: pokeshopjp
WhatsApp: Click here
(WhatsApp is the fastest way to reach us.)