How to Buy Japanese Pokémon Cards: A Complete Guide

In this article, I will talk about How to Buy Japanese Pokémon Cards. The artwork on Japanese cards is renowned for its unique style as well as being an early release the card itself is a collectible piece.

No matter if you are a seasoned collector or a beginner, this guide will show you what to consider when buying, shipping, and purchasing authentic Japanese Pokémon cards.

Understanding Japanese Pokémon Cards

Japanese Pokémon cards were the first to be issued as part of the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) by Media Factory in Japan in 1996. They are Produced by The Pokémon Company and are usually released before the English versions.

The cards have Japanese lettering, special holofoil designs, limited editions, and superior printing. Collectors appreciate these cards for the differences in artwork. Labeled illegal for use in most international tournaments, these cards are sought after by fans, collectors and investors alike.

How to Buy Japanese Pokémon Cards

Example: Ordering a Booster Box at PokeNinJapan

Step 1: Access the Shop

• Navigate to PokeNinJapan’s official site, which is a reliable dealer of Japanese Pokémon cards. You can find it here.

• Check out the different types of cards like Booster Boxes, Single Cards, or PSA-Graded Cards.

Step 2: Select an Item

• Assume that you would like to go for the “Shiny Treasure ex” Booster Box.
• Click on it to see the specifications, price and shipping details.

Step 3: Add to Cart & Checkout

• Confirm quantity and select Add to Cart.
• Complete the purchase flow and fill in your shipping details.
• Pick your payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.).

Step 4: Delivery Information

• Orders are dispatched within 72 hours via FedEx or DHL.
• Tracking information will be provided as soon as it is shipped.

Step 5: Unbox & Enjoy

• Inspect the package upon delivery, then add the cards to your collection!
• Optional: Get rare cards graded or displayed as a collection.

Best Places to Buy Japanese Pokémon Cards

Amazon Japan

For purchasing Japanese Pokémon cards, Amazon Japan is strongly suggested because it sells all kinds of genuine products straight from Japanese merchants, including new releases. It often sells exclusive box sets and limited edition items which are hard to find.

What sets it apart is the access to Pokémon Center products months before the rest of the world, which is excellent for dedicated collectors. While shipping overseas needs a forwarding service, the site’s dependability, selection, and reliable availability of authentic Japanese cards make it worth the effort.

eBay

eBay stands out as an excellent market to purchase Japanese Pokémon cards, particularly for those searching for collectible, obsolete, or out-of-print items. Its particular advantage is the direct access to individual sellers from Japan who frequently have difficult to obtain single cards as well as complete sets.

Numerous listings show photos of the actual cards, enabling purchase decisions based on the condition. eBay offers flexible and secure access to authentic Japanese cards across multiple generations and series, including buyer protection and worldwide shipping.

Plaza Japan

Plaza Japan is a reputable online store for purchasing Japanese Pokémon cards as they provide direct links to licensed sellers. booster boxes and decks are particularly appealing as they are sealed and purchased directly from Japan, guaranteeing authenticity.

There is no need for Plaza Japan’s customers to use middlemen because the company ships directly from their headquarters. Collectors looking for genuine English and Japanese card sets also flock to Plaza Japan because the company stocks new releases and allows preorders.

Using a Proxy or Forwarding Service

A proxy or forwarding service is crucial when purchasing Japanese Pokémon cards from shops that do not ship internationally. Services like Buyee and ZenMarket are considered proxy services because they buy the item for you, collect it at their warehouse, and ship it to you straight after.

With forwarding services like Tenso, you receive a Japanese shipping address which lets you place an order with the seller directly and the order is then shipped to your place. These types of services assist you in solving payment issues, language barriers, and even shipping problems.

They are a lot more beneficial when transacting on Japanese sites like Mercari, Yahoo Auctions, or Amazon Japan. Although these companies have service fees and shipping fees, the ability to get exclusive cards that are difficult to obtain outside of Japan makes it worth it.

Tips for First-Time Buyers

Prioritize Reliable Sources: Utilize trusted websites or verified eBay/Amazon Japan sellers to avoid fakes.

Understand Payment Options: Some Japanese sites don’t accept international cards—use PayPal or proxy service wallets.

Expect Import Costs: Factor in shipping fees, customs duties, and taxes in your total budget.

Check Card Language: Ensure you’re buying the Japanese cards and not the English versions sold in Japan.

Research Card Sets: Familiarize yourself with popular sets to not get ripped off.

Store Properly: Purchase sleeves and binders to prevent your cards from damage.

Keep Records: Maintain transaction records for expensive cards, especially receipts for valuable items.

Caring for and Storing Your Cards

In order to maintain the quality and value of your Japanese Pokémon cards, storing and caring for them is crucial. Maintaining cleaning standards while handling cards is critical, along with avoiding bending or scratching them.

Each card should be stored in a penny sleeve and subsequently kept in toploaders or binder pages which are made of acid-free materials. To keep the cards in pristine condition long term, they should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight, humidity, and heat to avoid warping or fading. For sealed items or large collections, deck boxes or card storage cases can be used.

Extra protection and display can be provided using graded card holders or display stands for high value cards. Following these suggested practices ensures that when properly stored, the cards will both appreciate in value in the future while retaining their sentimental value.

Resale and Investment Considerations

Rare, exclusive, or early-release sets of Japanese Pokémon cards can be a savvy collectible investment. As time goes on, promotional editions, limited-run holofoils, and older expansion cards increase in value. When making investments, adhere to the card’s condition—mint or PSA-graded are best—popularity of the set, and the card’s rarity.

Collectors prefer Japanese cards because they tend to be printed with better quality and released earlier than English editions.

Still, resale value depends on brand name, market demand, authenticity, preservation, and the condition of the card. You can monitor market prices and trends on eBay or TCGPlayer. For high-value cards, grading should be done to maximize resale value. As with all collectibles, market prices are variable, so make sure to do research and find what you love.

Conclusion

Purchasing Japanese Pokémon cards is beneficial for both the collectors and the fans. It offers them exclusive sets, unique artwork, and high-quality prints. You can carefully grow your collection by sticking to a trusted platform, using dependable proxy or forwarding services, and knowing how to spot fakes.

Whether you are investing long-term or collecting for fun, proper care and research pertaining to Japanese Pokémon cards will aid you greatly in value and enjoyment throughout the journey.

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