Hafa Adai!
Capsule toys are incredibly popular with children. If you're Japanese or have visited Japan, you're probably familiar with the machines where you insert a coin, turn the crank, and receive a toy in a plastic capsule. Commonly known as gachagacha, these machines are also referred to as gacha or gachapon.
Did you know there's a place in Guam where you can enjoy these gachagacha machines? It’s at Don Don Donki Guam, the large supermarket that opened last year. Right after you finish shopping and exit the checkout area, you'll find the machines at the far end of the food court.
There are about 86 machines in total, 52 of which are gachagacha. Some machines feature characters from popular Japanese anime, offering items like keychains, drawstring pouches, and tote bags.
Even if you're not into anime, there are machines with keychains shaped like Japanese food or even dinosaur fossils.
The thrill of turning the lever and opening the capsule is exciting not only for kids but also for adults. Whether you get what you hoped for or something unexpected, the toys are so charming that you'll find yourself wanting to collect them all.
In addition to gachagacha, there are also crane games. These let you maneuver a claw to pick up and win a prize.
The prizes are often plush toys about the size of a fist. All of them are adorable and collectible as well.
To play either gachagacha or crane games, you’ll first need to purchase tokens, which are special coins used in the machines. The photo above shows the token vending machine. Tokens cost $1 each. If you're paying with cash, simply insert the amount that corresponds to the number of tokens you want.
If you're using a credit card, press the button labeled “COMPLETE” to set your desired purchase amount, then tap or swipe your card to complete the transaction.
Instructions on how to buy tokens are available in English, so be sure to check them out.
Gachagacha costs 10 tokens ($10) per turn, while the
crane games cost 1 token ($1) per play.
It’s easy to get carried away with spending but have fun!
Don Don Donki Guam
Business Hours: 7:00 AM – 1:00 AM
