The Story Behind Japan’s Purikura Craze

What Is Purikura?

“Purikura” (short for Print Club) are Japanese photo booths that let you take pictures, decorate them with digital stickers, and print them instantly. They first appeared in the mid-1990s — and became an icon of Japanese youth culture.

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Brief History

The first Purikura machines appeared in 1995 in Tokyo’s game centers.
Originally aimed at teenage girls, the trend quickly spread, evolving with technology. Today’s Purikura allows you to edit skin tone, enlarge eyes, add makeup effects, and even send digital versions to your phone.

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Why It’s So Popular

• Bring a small towel and coin locker money (¥100–¥200).
• If you’re shy, look for private onsen or hotel rooms with open-air baths.
• Customization: Dozens of filters, poses, and decorations.
• Instant results: Take, edit, and print in under five minutes.
• Social experience: Friends often go together after karaoke, shopping, or maid café visits.

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Where to Try Purikura in Tokyo

• GiGO Akihabara – The heart of anime and otaku culture, perfect for themed photo booths.
• Shibuya 109 – Popular with fashion-conscious teens.
• Ikebukuro Sunshine City – Features the latest Purikura machines and collaboration themes.

Smartphone vs. Purikura

While smartphones dominate casual photography, Purikura remains special because of its fun, shared experience and unique Japanese aesthetics.
Many maid cafés and idol events even let you choose between cheki (polaroid) and digital smartphone photos, blending old and new Japanese subcultures.