Shokugan

Shokugan, a term combining the Japanese words for "candy" (菓子, "shokugashi") and "toy" (玩具, "omocha"), refers to a category of Japanese toys that are sold with candy or snacks. These products are characterized by their affordability, small size, and collectibility. Shokugan toys cover a wide range of popular culture franchises, including anime, manga, video games, and more, making them highly popular among fans of all ages.  You buy Bandai shokugan models kits online at P-Rex Hobby.

History: Tamashii Nations

Tamashii Nations is a premium collectibles brand under Bandai Spirits, a division of Bandai Namco Holdings. Established in 2007, it specializes in high-quality action figures and statues from popular anime, manga, and tokusatsu franchises such as Dragon Ball, Gundam, and One Piece. Bandai, its parent company, has been a leading Japanese toy manufacturer since 1950, known globally for iconic products like Gunpla and Power Rangers. Together, they deliver innovation, craftsmanship, and authenticity to collectors worldwide. Shokugan are small-scale collectible toys by Bandai, originally sold with candy or gum in Japanese convenience stores. Shokugan has evolved into a detailed, affordable line of mini figures, model kits, and diorama sets from franchises like Gundam, Dragon Ball, Digimon, Super Sentai, and more. Despite their size, these figures offer impressive articulation and paintwork. Popular sub-lines include Converge, MiniPla, and Adverge. Perfect for display or desk decoration, Shokugan delivers collectible charm at a compact scale and great value.

Key Features of Shokugan:

Candy or Snack Included: Traditionally, every Shokugan package includes a small candy or snack. This combination of food and entertainment product is a unique aspect of Japanese consumer culture, appealing to both collectors and casual buyers.

Collectibility and Variety: Buy bandai shokugan figures online often feature many characters or items from a single franchise, encouraging fans to collect them all. The toys can range from figures and model kits to keychains, stationery, and other accessories.

Affordability: One of the appealing aspects of Shokugan is their relatively low cost. This affordability makes it easy for fans to collect multiple items from their favorite series without a significant financial investment.

Blind Packaging: Buy Bandai shokugan figures online in blind boxes, meaning the item inside is unknown until the package is opened. This adds an element of surprise and excitement to the purchase, although it can also lead to duplicates for collectors seeking a specific item.

High Quality: Despite their small size and low price point, Shokugan toys are known for their high quality and attention to detail. Advanced manufacturing techniques allow for detailed sculpting and painting, rivaling more expensive collectible figures in terms of aesthetics.

Limited Editions and Exclusives: Some Shokugan lines include limited edition or exclusive items that are highly sought after by collectors. These may feature unique designs, color schemes, or packaging not available in the standard range.

Cross-Promotion with Franchises: Shokugan toys often tie in with popular franchises, releasing products in conjunction with new movies, anime series, or video game launches. This makes them timely and relevant collectibles for fans following current entertainment trends.

Cultural Impact: Shokugan has become a significant part of pop culture collectibles, offering fans an accessible and fun way to engage with their favorite franchises. They are not only popular in Japan but have also gained international appeal among collectors and fans of Japanese entertainment. The combination of collectibility, affordability, and the joy of unboxing has made Shokugan a beloved category among both casual and serious collectors.

Recommended YouTube Videos

1. BANDAI SMP Voltes V Legacy Let's! Volt In SET "Voltes V Legacy", Bandai Shokugan SMP

Start Your Collection—Shop P-Rex Hobby Today!

Explore a vast selection of collectible figures and model kits at P-Rex Hobby! From Bandai's vendors' iconic Gundam models to premium P-Bandai exclusives, you'll find everything to enhance your collection. Discover the detailed Soul of Chogokin, action-packed Robot Spirits, and dynamic S.H. Figuarts. Anime and pop culture fans will enjoy items from One Piece, Pokémon, and Star Wars. Plus, the Ichibansho and Figure-rise series offers stunning craftsmanship. Whether you're into high-quality figures or hobby-building kits like 30MM and Builder Parts, P-Rex Hobby is your one-stop shop!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Bandai Shokugan figures?
You can buy authentic Bandai Shokugan figures and collectibles at P-Rex Hobby, Amiami, and HobbyLink Japan, a trusted online store for anime toys and models. 

What is Bandai Shokugan?
Shokugan (short for "shokuhin gangu") are collectible mini toys that were initially sold with candy in Japan. Today, Bandai Shokugan offers high-quality miniature figures, model kits, and diorama accessories, often featuring popular characters from Dragon Ball, Gundam, Super Sentai, Kamen Rider, and other franchises.

Are Shokugan figures pre-assembled or do they require building?
It depends on the series. Some Shokugan items, like Adverge or Converge, are pre-assembled or snap-together. Others, such as MiniPla, are small model kits that require simple assembly, but no glue or paint is needed.

Do Shokugan figures come with candy?
Traditionally, yes. Most Bandai Shokugan products include a small piece of Japanese candy or gum, but the real value is in the collectible toy itself. The candy is included to comply with Japan’s food-toy packaging rules.