Bandai Namco Unveils Mega-Hub of Character Goods, Plushies, and Sweets at Ario Kurashiki
Prepare for an explosion of charm and delight as the Bandai Namco Group announces the grand opening of four distinct official character shops at Ario Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture. Slated for April 17, 2026, these new destinations — the “Ichiban Kuji Official Shop,” “Sun-Star Bungunoomise,” “shop Nui,” and “BANDAI CANDY OFFICIAL SHOP” — will transform the second floor of the shopping complex into a vibrant haven for fans of Japanese pop culture.
These four new stores, managed by Bandai Namco Experience Inc. and Bandai Namco Amusement Inc., will join the existing “namco” arcade on the same floor. The collective vision is to create a dynamic entertainment hub, brimming with the rich tapestry of Bandai Namco’s content, designed to bring smiles and cherished memories to the local community.
Ichiban Kuji Official Shop: The Thrill of the Draw
The “Ichiban Kuji Official Shop 岡山アリオ倉敷店” offers a dedicated space for “Ichiban Kuji,” Japan’s beloved “no-lose” character lottery. This system allows participants to draw for original merchandise, guaranteeing a prize with every ticket. Beyond the inherent excitement of not knowing what prize awaits, the shop promises an extensive lineup of high-quality goods, ensuring a satisfying and secure lottery experience for all. Fans can look forward to popular releases, such as the Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Ichiban Kuji, available from April 10, 2026, for ¥860 per draw, and the Utagawa Ichimon Ichiban Kuji, launching sequentially from April 11, 2026, for ¥800 per draw.
Sun-Star Bungunoomise: Trendy Stationery and Clever Gadgets
Dubbed “Trendy IP x stationery… sometimes idea goods,” the “Sun-Star Bungunoomise アリオ倉敷店” is the official outpost for Sun-Star Stationery. It will showcase a curated selection of stationery and miscellaneous goods featuring popular IPs, alongside unique original products. Visitors might discover new treasures with every visit, from innovative items like the “Ukammuri Clip Watery Clear” (¥660), designed to hold pages without obscuring content, to practical stationery like the “Sindbat Mechanical Pencil Refills” (¥682).
shop Nui: A Paradise for Plushie Enthusiasts
Marking its 11th location, “shop Nui アリオ倉敷店” is set to become a haven for “nui-katsu” (plushie activities) enthusiasts. The store will feature a wide array of plushie collections from Bandai Namco Nui’s “Nui Kore” line, spanning various intellectual properties from anime to fantasy. With a rich selection of items to enhance plushie collecting and interaction, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to adorn their favorite soft companions. Highlights include the “Mini Mini Chibi Plushie Mascot Tamagotchi” (8 types, ¥990 each) and the adorable “Poncho Wolf Gray” (¥1320) for dressing up plushies.
BANDAI CANDY OFFICIAL SHOP: Delicious Fun in Every Bite
The “BANDAI CANDY OFFICIAL SHOP 岡山倉敷店” embodies the concept of “delicious and fun.” This shop will offer a diverse range of entertainment confectionery, such as the popular Tsuri Gumi (fishing gummy) series, character-themed sweets, and high-quality shokugan (food toys – collectible figures or items that come with a piece of candy) at affordable prices. A key feature is the display case showcasing various figures and samples, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate details firsthand. Indulge in treats like the “Charapaki Excavation Dinosaur Chocolate” (¥130), where you ‘excavate’ dinosaur bones, or the playful “Uogyotto Tsuri Gumi” (¥76).
These four new shops are located on the 2nd floor of Ario Kurashiki (12-2 Kotobuki-cho, Kurashiki City, Okayama) and will operate from 10:00 to 21:00. This concentrated hub of specialty stores promises an immersive experience for fans of all ages.
“It’s like a treasure hunt for all my favorite characters, all in one place!” one fan might exclaim, perfectly capturing the excitement these new openings are sure to generate. This expansion further solidifies Bandai Namco’s commitment to delivering engaging entertainment and character experiences directly to communities, fostering a vibrant future for kawaii culture.
For more information on each shop, please visit their official pages:
