90 replies
I was interested in trying out some Angel playing cards as —I've heard positive things about them. I have a friend in Japan and planned to ask if they could pick some up. Is there a particular retailer in Japan that stocks them? Thanks in advance!
I picked up a few setups from @quintooo (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/8974/) when he was last in Japan. He can probably weigh in on this.
yes, Bic Cameras, Yodobashi Cameras, and Donki stores stock them on the toy floor. Some stores will have them, some won't. I didn't have much luck with the Donki's, but I have found a couple there.
You won't find any of the Angel Club Pokers though. The ones you see in store are these ones (https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%BC%E3%83%AB%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%83%97-SPNN601P-%E3%83%97%E3%83%A9%E3%82%B9%E3%83%81%E3%83%83%E3%82%AF%E8%A3%BD-%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%83%97/dp/B07WBRPZS1/ref=sr_1_5?__mk_ja_JP=%E3%82%AB%E3%82%BF%E3%82%AB%E3%83%8A&crid=2IEBS2R7CT2P1&keywords=angel%2Bplaying%2Bcards&qid=1701141631&sprefix=angel%2Bplaying%2Bcard%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-5&th=1)
tell your friend to stock up! Last time I went, I just bought all the stock from all the stores lol.
yes, Bic Cameras, Yodobashi Cameras, and Donki stores stock them on the toy floor. Some stores will have them, some won't. I didn't have much luck with the Donki's, but I have found a couple there.
You won't find any of the Angel Club Pokers though. The ones you see in store are these ones (https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%BC%E3%83%AB%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%83%97-SPNN601P-%E3%83%97%E3%83%A9%E3%82%B9%E3%83%81%E3%83%83%E3%82%AF%E8%A3%BD-%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%83%97/dp/B07WBRPZS1/ref=sr_1_5?__mk_ja_JP=%E3%82%AB%E3%82%BF%E3%82%AB%E3%83%8A&crid=2IEBS2R7CT2P1&keywords=angel%2Bplaying%2Bcards&qid=1701141631&sprefix=angel%2Bplaying%2Bcard%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-5&th=1)
tell your friend to stock up! Last time I went, I just bought all the stock from all the stores lol.
Awesome! I'll definitely ask my friend to hit them up and buy them haha. Thanks for the info!
Is there no way to buy Angel Club Poker in retail stores in Japan?
No, I don't think Angel Club Pokers are available through retail anywhere. There was a group buy for them a few years back, but I don't know whether a casino connection was required or if the minimum order quantity was simply extremely high.
The only Angel Club Poker set I own came through a casino contact.
I was curious about trying the Angel playing cards as I’ve heard positive reviews. I have a friend in Japan and planned to ask if they could purchase some there. Is there a particular shop or retailer in Japan that stocks them? Thanks in advance!
Buy them from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20).jp.
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/SPNN6...efix=plastic+playing+cards,aps,66&sr=8-9&th=1 (https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/SPNN633P-Plastic-Playing-Millionaire-Included/dp/B07G7QTDFR/ref=sr_1_9?crid=2LOMQ32EO4R9A&keywords=plastic%2Bplaying%2Bcards&qid=1701193917&sprefix=plastic%2Bplaying%2Bcards%2Caps%2C66&sr=8-9&th=1)
Buy them from Amazon.jp.
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/SPNN633P-Plastic-Playing-Millionaire-Included/dp/B07G7QTDFR/ref=sr_1_9?crid=2LOMQ32EO4R9A&keywords=plastic+playing+cards&qid=1701193917&sprefix=plastic+playing+cards,aps,66&sr=8-9&th=1 (https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/SPNN633P-Plastic-Playing-Millionaire-Included/dp/B07G7QTDFR/ref=sr_1_9?crid=2LOMQ32EO4R9A&keywords=plastic%2Bplaying%2Bcards&qid=1701193917&sprefix=plastic%2Bplaying%2Bcards%2Caps%2C66&sr=8-9&th=1)
@Geremie (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/1768/) your time to shine (again!)
I knew that Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) Japan sold many Angel decks, I just wasn't certain they matched the size and material that we typically seek on the forum.
I knew that Amazon Japan sold lots of Angel decks, just wasn't sure they were the size and material that we're generally looking for on the forum.
They're bridge size, std index, plastic and come as single decks in a nice plastic case. (choice of red or yellow). I don't know if they're acetate or PVC. The decks are cheap but shipping is expensive so order in bulk. They are really nice cards. ("same quality as their casino cards")
Collected from Yodobashi Umeda...
https://www.plazajapan.com/search-results/?q=angel+plastic+playing+cards
If you have someone in Japan then could pick them up at a good price.
Collected from Yodobashi Umeda...
View attachment 1233833 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1233833/)
Omg, I hoped you bought up all the stocks
@Geremie (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/1768/) your time to shine (again!)
These decks aren't the greatest ... you definitely want the club poker lime green box (bridge/jumbos)
Omg, I hoped you bought up all the stocks
Only 2 setups left in the country when I bought them. No idea when they will restock.
These cards are bridge standard index. Spoke to the manager in charge of that section during pickup. Apparently no more jumbo of these will be produced for a long, long time (specifics were lost due to my bad japanese)
Collected from Yodobashi Umeda...
View attachment 1233833 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1233833/)
dibs!
These cards are bridge standard index. Spoke to the manager in charge of that section during pickup. Apparently no more jumbo of these will be produced for a long, long time (specifics were lost due to my bad japanese)
retract dibs!
yes, Bic Cameras, Yodobashi Cameras, and Donki stores stock them on the toy floor. Some stores will have them, some won't. I didn't have much luck with the Donki's, but I have found a couple there.
You won't find any of the Angel Club Pokers though. The ones you see in store are these ones (https://www.amazon.co.jp/%E3%82%A8%E3%83%B3%E3%82%BC%E3%83%AB%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%83%97-SPNN601P-%E3%83%97%E3%83%A9%E3%82%B9%E3%83%81%E3%83%83%E3%82%AF%E8%A3%BD-%E3%83%88%E3%83%A9%E3%83%B3%E3%83%97/dp/B07WBRPZS1/ref=sr_1_5?__mk_ja_JP=%E3%82%AB%E3%82%BF%E3%82%AB%E3%83%8A&crid=2IEBS2R7CT2P1&keywords=angel%2Bplaying%2Bcards&qid=1701141631&sprefix=angel%2Bplaying%2Bcard%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-5&th=1)
tell your friend to stock up! Last time I went, I just bought all the stock from all the stores lol.
I had a good time switching back to US Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) lol
Only 2 sets remained in the country when I purchased them. No clue when they’ll be restocked.
These cards use bridge standard indexing. I spoke with the manager responsible for that section during pickup. Apparently no more jumbo versions of these will be manufactured for a very, very long time (I missed the specifics because of my poor Japanese).
Still an excellent discovery.
Congratulations :tup:
@greenchip (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/12194/)
Green back and yellow back remain available on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20).co.jp .
https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B009PGC4WC/
https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B07G7QTDFR/
Red back and blue back are unavailable.
Does anyone know a physical store in Tokyo that carries a selection of cards?
Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) jp could be problematic due to shipping times
Give these folks a call. They specialize in cards. It’s a tobacco shop that also stocks cards for magic tricks and similar items. They likely know where to find quality cards.
FYI, a couple new Angel plastic decks just showed up on amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20).jp. It's the first time I've seen Angel Poker and Angel Blue Back Bridge on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20). The blue backs are really cheap at $4.50 USD. Shipping is expensive so it pays to buy in quantity. I'm anxious to try Angel Poker.
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/dp/B07G7ZQL9Y?smid=AN1VRQENFRJN5&ref_=chk_typ_imgToDp&th=1
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/dp/B06XRBRWZR?smid=AN1VRQENFRJN5&ref_=chk_typ_imgToDp&th=1
People need to tell me where to buy IN PERSON!
I know Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) jp carries them, and Yodobashi Umeda in Osaka does too.
@mns99 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/14600/) @Hokuto789 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/4109/) where in Tokyo are these sold? I have someone who can pick one up for me and I want to check what selection they have there.
Also, I don't have a rental car, so I'm searching for an Engel cards shop in Tokyo that’s easy to reach by train.
I'm interested too. Actually thinking about visiting the Angel factory in Kyoto in a couple of weeks if it's possible to buy some decks there...
Interested
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/dp/B06XRBRWZR?smid=AN1VRQENFRJN5&ref_=chk_typ_imgToDp&th=1
Is there any distinction between this green box and the green box labeled "Club Poker" that I’ve noticed in other parts of the forum?
So far I’ve located this comparison: https://www.pokerchipforum.com/thre...d-slam-fournier-2826-more.114996/post-2373312 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/wts-plastic-bridge-cards-angel-poker-dal-negro-grand-slam-fournier-2826-more.114996/post-2373312)
Is there a difference between this green box and the green box that says "Club Poker" that I've seen elsewhere on the forum?
Found this comparison so far: https://www.pokerchipforum.com/thre...d-slam-fournier-2826-more.114996/post-2373312 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/wts-plastic-bridge-cards-angel-poker-dal-negro-grand-slam-fournier-2826-more.114996/post-2373312)
Club Poker appear to be paper cards:
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/dp/B007AXF3IE?smid=AN1VRQENFRJN5&ref_=chk_typ_imgToDp&th=1
Is there a difference between this green box and the green box that says "Club Poker" that I've seen elsewhere on the forum?
Found this comparison so far: https://www.pokerchipforum.com/thre...d-slam-fournier-2826-more.114996/post-2373312 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/wts-plastic-bridge-cards-angel-poker-dal-negro-grand-slam-fournier-2826-more.114996/post-2373312)
The green box that says "Club Poker" and is a two deck set up are PVC and sometimes(usually?) jumbo index. I only have one set of them in bridge size. They are still very nice cards but are similar, if not the same as the Casino Angel for Poker green back single decks on there and the red, yellow and blue back options from the above link(not the Club Poker single decks though). The Angel Poker two deck set up is an excellent acetate card in bridge regular index, and I've had no bowing issues with them. If those came in a jumbo or blackjack index, they'd be perfect imo.
People gotta tell me where to buy IN PERSON!
I know Amazon jp sells them, plus Yodobashi Umeda, which is in Osaka.
@mns99 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/14600/) @Hokuto789 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/4109/) where in Tokyo these are offered? I know someone who can grab one for me and I want to see the selection of what is offered there.
Also, no rent a car, so looking for Engel cards retailer in Tokyo, easily able to go by taking a train.
Yodobashi is a huge chain everywhere. If you can play around online on their website, you can have them transfer your items free of charge from Osaka to Tokyo with a simple click. It's also possible to have them do a stock check in every store across Japan. Takes around two days, IIRC. Doesn't need Japanese fluency as well; I can barely read Japanese lol
Collected from Yodobashi Umeda...
View attachment 1233833 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1233833/)
Lucky you. Was there last August and I didn't see them anywhere in Osaka
Lucky you. I was there last August and didn't spot them anywhere in Osaka.
I think they're available only through online orders on the website.
Hey everyone, I stumbled onto this thread by chance. I was the person who originally organized the OG group buy from Chiptalk. I have a lot of knowledge about all the cards and the lineup. What would you like to know?
Hey guys, just found this thread randomly. I was the original one who organized the OG group buy from Chiptalk.. I have alot of knowledge of all the cards and line up. What do you guys want to know
I for one would really like confirmation theyre made of Acetate and not ordinary PVC. Can't find confirmation on the packaging or on the Angel website.
I, for one, would really like confirmation they're made of acetate and not ordinary PVC. I can't find any confirmation on the packaging or on the Angel website.
Angel Poker description from amazon.jp: (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/where-to-purchase-angel-playing-cards-in-japan.112741/#-angel-poker-description-from-amazon-jp) (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/where-to-purchase-angel-playing-cards-in-japan.112741/#-) About this item (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/threads/where-to-purchase-angel-playing-cards-in-japan.112741/#-about-this-item)
Professional plastic playing cards (2 decks) for poker produced by Angel Trumps, a domestic playing card maker with over 50 years of history. They are also used in leading casinos and poker rooms overseas, and are supported by many players.
In poker you often slightly bend the corners of cards laid aside so other players can't see them. Cards become marked when bent and need a smooth surface to return to their original shape easily.
Uses the finest acetate material developed to offer exceptional flexibility and durability. It also has a significantly reduced odor compared with traditional acetate playing cards, so you can use it without concern.
Set Contents: 2 x Poker Playing Cards
This was the line up , before seeing this new one from this post
Angel Poker (Black Box) - casino grade, their most premium offering. This wasn't really offered to the public. These are my favorite of all. Acetat, flexible , have a shimmery texture. Kind of like Kem but less papery feeling, slightly less matte than KEM. A similar, but branded card was used on Poker After Dark for a while 7-10 years ago when they starting posting episodes from the poker room with all the pros . I believe these are also used at the Venetian poker room now (I recognized them on Rampages most recent video where he said he burned 100k)
Angel Club Poker (green box)
These were the ones that everyone fell in love with, the jumbo elongated font and super clean design. They had a micro dotted (perforated finish) to help with gliding of the cards. They were PVC, not acetate like the previous ones. Slightly thicker and more stiff. Used in Crown Casino in Australia at the time. They were thr more desirable and I did a group by with about 50 sets
Angel Playing Cards Co (green box)
Exact same material and fit and finish as the Club Poker (PVC). Except is a regular index (not the jumbo). Same stock, different graphics. Images are the exact same as the Angel Poker (black box), but these are PVC and those are Acetate
Angel Texas Hold'em (single deck)
Same as Angel Playing Cards Co above but just a single deck instead of 2 with a plastic case and cut card. PVC as well
Angel Cards (from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) and elsewhere)
These are cheap and can be found anywhere in Japan at toy stores and big department stores. They are very thin and flexible. Actually they aren't too far off from the premium acetates on the Angel Poker (black box) or casino versions, just feel slightly cheaper and slightly thinner. The graphics are a brighter red ink than all the above poker/casinocards which are a slightly darker red. They feel great, just slightly lower quality. But my players seem to like this alot..so an easy and cheap way to get Angels with Japanese quality on the cheap
Matsui (?) Group Buy (By Angel)
I never felt these ones but my understanding they are printed on PVC and with different graphics
Lime Green Box Angels
Id like to see these. The question is are they PVC, acetate and do they come in regular index or Jumbo also. Based on what I can see. The back design is different (same design as the Angel Poker cards now, id have to see a better photo). This could indicate they are Acetate or they are just blending lines and redundancies now. They may also just have changed the box color and rebranded the same cards on PVC with a new back design
If anyone wants to send me a set I can check it out and confirm where they fall.
If not, I'll be in Japan in 10 days if anyone wants to direct me to get a couple
Hope that helps. Cheers
Per the Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) description, "Angel Poker" (Green Box) is made of acetate:
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/gp/product/B06XRBRWZR/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AN1VRQENFRJN5&th=1
Hey everyone, I stumbled onto this thread by chance. I’m the person who originally organized the OG group buy from Chiptalk. I’ve got a lot of knowledge about the cards and the lineup. What do you want to know?
Can you put another one together?
I'm starting my Japan vacation in a week. Will drop in some of the bigger department stores to see what I can find. Potential targets in Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe. Will be in Taipei as well but I don't expect to find anything there.
I'm starting my Japan vacation in a week. Will drop in some of the bigger department stores to see what I can find. Potential targets in Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe. Will be in Taipei as well but I don't expect to find anything there.
Good idea on the department stores. When I bought my old Club Angels I found them in a high-end toy store in Ginza
I will also be in Osaka/Kyoto in July. I could bring back 10-20 sets if there is a physical store where I can pick up.
I will also be in Osaka/Kyoto in July. I could bring back 10-20 sets if there is a physical store where I can pick up.
As regards Osaka dept stores, Hankyu in Umeda, Takashimaya in Namba station and Daimaru in Shinshaibashi would be your best bet. Specially toy stores may also be an option if you can google them
As regards Osaka dept stores, Hankyu in Umeda, Takashimaya in Namba station and Daimaru in Shinshaibashi would be your best bet. Specially toy stores may also be an option if you can google them
Do you think American tariffs are raising the prices of these?
Do you think American tariffs are raising the prices of these?
Why would it? Why would you want it to? Or is there another reason why you're asking?
Just arrived in Tokyo. Wish me luck for the next two weeks as I hunt for cards whenever I have the chance!
So far the fishing is not great. Found 7 random decks at a Yodobashi in Akibahara Tokyo, but everywhere else has been a big blank. Heading to Osaka now, will be in the surrounding region 10 days, so will keep trying.
Fishing hasn't been great up to now. I located 7 random decks at a Yodobashi in Akihabara, Tokyo, but it's been mostly a dead end elsewhere. I'm off to Osaka now and will be in the surrounding area 10 days, so I'll keep looking.
Hope you manage to find enough for everyone (save one for me!).
Have a buddy in Japan right now, lime green box is the way to go? @allforcharity (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/3770/) did you find them anywhere other than Yodobashi?
Have a buddy in Japan right now, lime green box is the way to go? @allforcharity (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/3770/) did you find them anywhere other than Yodobashi?
I haven't found any lime green boxed sets, period. In Osaka tonight, might have time to look around Dotonbori.
I haven't found any lime green boxed sets, period. In Osaka tonight, might have time to look around Dotonbori.
Good luck!
I found 5 more single decks at Yodobashi Umeda. That will be the last of my opportunities as the other places I'm visiting have no outlets.
I recommend.anybody who has contacts in Tokyo to hit every Yodobashi in the area as the single decks appear to be regular stock items. Don't bother with Bic or DQ.
I found the most success ordering online on Yodobashi. It is a PITA but it works. They are very efficient too with the click and collect. I could pick them up at the counter day of. Need a little bit of japanese but nothing you can't do with Google translate.
Link (https://www.yodobashi.com/product/100000001002938148/)
Lucked out today. Went back to Yodobashi Umeda and they restocked another 3 singles, so picked them up. Then was in Dotonbori and walked past a Bic Camera, checked it out and luckily found another 5 singles.
Total 'harvest' so far = 20 decks.
I'm wondering what the "out the door" price per deck translates to in USD. Are these less expensive than Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20)?
Wondering what the "out the door" cost per deck is when converted to USD. Are they less expensive than what Amazon charges?
I'd say they're roughly the same. Shipping is what always makes the difference.
Last night in Japan and scored another 5 decks from Yodobashi Umeda restock. Total haul 25 decks. 4 different back patterns but uneven at 12:8:3:2.
Last night in Japan and scored another 5 decks from Yodobashi Umeda restock. Total haul 25 decks. 4 different back patterns but uneven at 12:8:3:2.
Card pr0n please!
Card pr0n please!
:)
I’d like to see if the designs are different from what appears on Plaza Japan or amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20).co.jp
A friend of mine was in Tokyo recently so I sent him on a mission. He went to Yodobashi and these were the only two decks they had in stock when he was there. I think they’re the same ones on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) JP?
View attachment 1518276 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1518276/)
I will post pics when I'm back home
A friend of mine was in Tokyo recently so I sent him on a mission. He went to Yodobashi and these were the only two decks they had in stock when he was there. I think they’re the same ones on Amazon JP?View attachment 1518283 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1518283/)
They should be.
A friend of mine was in Tokyo recently so I sent him on a mission. He went to Yodobashi and these were the only two decks they had in stock when he was there. I think they’re the same ones on Amazon JP?View attachment 1518283 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1518283/)
Those are the PVC decks. Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20).jp has stocked them in addition to the Angel acetates. They also come in yellow.
View attachment 1518283 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1518283/)
Anyone know why the blue deck is marked ¥16 more than the other? That seems like a randomly miniscule amount.
Anyone know why the blue deck is marked ¥16 more than the other? That seems like a randomly miniscule amount.
Maybe blue ink costs marginally more?
Anyone know why the blue deck is marked ¥16 more than the other? That seems like a randomly miniscule amount.
The patterns are also slightly different. Not for the feint of OCD heart.
Those Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20).jp Angel PVC cards are also dirt cheap at around $4-6/deck. They're not as nice as their green Acetate Poker but they're really pretty nice plastic cards.
A friend visited Tokyo recently so I gave him a mission. He stopped by Yodobashi and those were the only two decks available when he went. I believe they’re the same ones listed on Amazon JP? View attachment 1518283 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1518283/)
I love the colors! I didn’t care for the texture though — a bit too slick for my apes. Still, very pretty.
I love the colors! I didn’t care for the texture — it’s a bit too slippery for my apes. Still, they’re very pretty.
My group prefers jumbo index, so these might not get used for a while, but I’m excited to try them.
My brother-in-law is in Shibuya. Anybody know if they’re still sold at Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera?
My brother-in-law is in Shibuya. Anybody know if they’re still sold at Bic Camera or Yodobashi Camera?
yea the ones in the clear plastic are always there. Some bic's might not have them though, just have to shop around or if proficient in japanese could ask an employee to look up which stores have stock.
I think another member was able to find the green angel club variety at a bics as well (maybe @grandmeme (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/13610/) ?)
Was there last summer and I also found some at the Haneda airport before flying out!
yea the ones in the clear plastic are always there. Some bic's might not have them though, just have to shop around or if proficient in japanese could ask an employee to look up which stores have stock.
I think another member was able to find the green angel club variety at a bics as well (maybe @grandmeme (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/13610/) ?)
I did click and collect from Yodobashi and Bic - i.e. https://www.yodobashi.com/product/100000001002938148/
IIRC you can't just walk into a Yodobashi or Bic and expect those green setups to be around. They're usually just sitting in the storage so periodically they will restock on the site. 24 hr delivery to your hotel room or pickup is possible.
Yeah yodobashi hobby section will be the place. What’s with chippers visiting Japan where there’s no casino?
What’s with chippers visiting Japan
All of us are just huge anime nerds who think we learned Japanese by watching the dubs, and want to test it out in the "home" land.
where there’s no casino?
Then, why do they make such great cards?
All of us are just huge anime nerds who think we learned Japanese by watching the dubs, and want to test it out in the "home" land.
Then, why do they make such great cards?
Very nice you guys, I lived there in the 2000s and was pretty fun. Japanese is a very hard language to learn, we all struggle.
I am not an anime nerd, but I want to date Japanese women because I only dated American women.
They do to serve East Asian gambling market like Macau, closer than US or Vegas with high precision manufacturing?
I just got back from two weeks in Japan and Angel cards were high on my shopping list.
I was pretty much resigned to not being able to find the coveted green box setups, but I like the PVC ones that come in a single deck so I went out searching for those. Pic from a previous home game, using the cards I mentioned earlier this year in this thread:
We started the trip in Tokyo, and these proved to be tough looking at Yodobashi and BIC camera stores. I wasn’t going out of my way to look at all the stores, but if we were near one I would try and pop in.
I had probably looked in 8 different stores in Tokyo, and ended up with just two PVC decks (one at a BIC and one at Yodobashi). And in my jet lag haze I erroneously got two decks that looked similar but were from a different brand, Hanayama, another Japanese plastic card manufacturer.
Our next stop was Kyoto, which didn’t have as much concentration of these stores, and my wife’s patience was starting to wear thin, so I didn’t really seek these out there.
In Osaka we stopped into a BIC Camera which had three blue decks in stock. This was a typical section in these stores, with a few cheap plastic decks from Hanayama and Nintendo (who actually started as a company making playing cards for the Yakuza games well before Mario and Donkey Kong) and a bunch of paper ones with anime characters.
At one store the playing cards were right next to the sex toys (insert your joke of choice here). No luck on Angels at that stop.
After Osaka, I had resigned myself to coming back with four blue decks and one red, plus the two Hanayamas, since that’s all I could find.
We had one more night in Tokyo, in Ginza, and there had been a mention of a specialty toy store there so I promised my wife just one more stop and then we’d be done. It was called HAKUHINKAN TOY PARK.
They had a massive collection of playing cards… and no Angels. I even asked an associate and he just winced and said they didn’t have any left. I guess these are really popular or there’s just low inventory.
Then, on our literal way to the airport, we stopped into a 7/11 for some drinks/snacks and to spend the rest of our cash. It was bigger than the typical 7/11 corner store. And walking toward the register, wouldn’t you know it…
I picked up three reds - which were a different pattern than the red deck my friend had found on his trip earlier this year, and from the deck I found in Tokyo - to make it an even four setups for the trip. These also had cardboard packaging outside of the plastic you usually get with these.
My takeaways, for anyone going over there: This seems to be total hit or miss by store, with most being out. If you speak Japanese, calling ahead is probably advised. A patient travel partner is a must. I would look in the bigger 7/11s in addition to Yodobashi/BIC. Hakuhinkan is probably a good option too when they’re in stock. The green setups seem to be completely gone everywhere now.
Looking forward to getting these in play soon!
I also came across a few Angel singles and some Hanayama in a random 7/11 while I was visiting last summer. I like the Hanayama even though it’s made in China rather than Japan.
I too found some Angel singles and Hanayam in a random 7/11 when I was visiting last summer. I like the Hanayama despite being Chinese-made and not Japanese.
I think those Hanayama handle better than angels. My preference though. I found angels in most 7/11’s including the one in the airport.
I would appreciate your thoughts on the Hanayamas.
I just returned from two weeks in Japan and Angel cards were high on my shopping list.
I had pretty much accepted that I wouldn’t find the sought-after green box sets, but I like the PVC single-deck versions so I went looking for those. Pic from an earlier home game, using the cards I mentioned earlier this year in this thread:
View attachment 1674518 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674518/)
We began the trip in Tokyo, and those proved hard to find at Yodobashi and BIC camera stores. I wasn’t intentionally visiting every location at all the stores, but when we were nearby I would try to pop in.
I probably checked 8 different stores in Tokyo, and wound up with only two PVC decks (one at a BIC and one at Yodobashi). In my jet-lagged fog I accidentally bought two decks that looked similar but were from a different maker, Hanayama, another Japanese plastic card producer.
View attachment 1674520 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674520/)
View attachment 1674537 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674537/)
Our next stop was Kyoto, which didn’t have as many of those stores, and my wife’s patience was thinning, so I didn’t really hunt for them there.
In Osaka we popped into a BIC Camera which stocked three blue decks. This was a typical section in those stores, with a few inexpensive plastic decks from Hanayama and Nintendo (who actually began as a company producing playing cards for the Yakuza games well before Mario and Donkey Kong) and a lot of paper decks featuring anime characters.
View attachment 1674526 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674526/)
At one shop the playing cards were shelved next to the sex toys (insert your joke of choice here). No luck on Angels at that stop.
View attachment 1674527 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674527/)
After Osaka, I had resigned myself to returning with four blue decks and one red, plus the two Hanayamas, since that was all I could locate.
We had one final night in Tokyo, in Ginza, and I’d heard about a specialty toy shop so I promised my wife one more stop and then we’d be done. It was called HAKUHINKAN TOY PARK.
They had an enormous selection of playing cards… but no Angels. I even asked a staff member and he just winced and said they were out. I guess these are really popular or inventory is low.
View attachment 1674533 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674533/)
Then, literally on our way to the airport, we stopped into a 7/11 for drinks/snacks and to spend the rest of our cash. It was larger than the usual 7/11 corner store. Walking toward the register, wouldn’t you know it…
View attachment 1674534 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674534/)
I grabbed three reds - which had a different pattern than the red deck my friend found on his trip earlier this year, and different from the deck I found in Tokyo - to make an even four setups for the trip. These also came with cardboard packaging outside the plastic you usually see.
View attachment 1674535 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674535/)
My takeaways for anyone going there: availability seems totally hit-or-miss by store, with most locations sold out. If you speak Japanese, calling ahead is probably wise. A patient travel partner is essential. I’d check the larger 7/11s in addition to Yodobashi/BIC. Hakuhinkan is likely a good bet when they have stock. The green setups appear to be gone everywhere now.
I’m looking forward to getting these into play soon!
Yeah I had some luck last year at the same spots and ended up with a bit more variety than others I’ve seen. Maybe I’ll try some of the other brands depending on what @ekricket (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/1555/) says about them.
Do you prefer the other brand over the green back (Angel poker) or the green box set (angel casino)? I might have the names mixed up…
View attachment 1674946 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1674946/)
Yeah I had some success last year at the same spots and have a bit more variety than some others I’ve come across. Maybe I’ll test some of the other brand depending on what @ekricket (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/1555/) says about them.
Do you prefer the other brand over the green-backed (Angel poker) or green-box (angel casino) setups? I might be mixing up the names…
Wow! That’s an impressive haul. I’m envious of the cardback variety you’ve got there.
I suppose I’ll pull out the Hanayamas sooner rather than later. There’s been very little talk about them here before, and I couldn’t find much information elsewhere either. I figured they were just a cheap plastic card line.
I haven’t had the chance to try any other Angel varieties, so I can’t compare, but I know the green-box sets around here are treated like the holy grail for Angel, so I can’t imagine Hanayamas being superior to those.
If you go to Japan to buy cards, I’d recommend you bring a deck of cards as a visual aid. Playing cards aren’t part of their normal everyday life. Store staff has no idea what you are asking for unless you show them a picture or the actual object. They will inevitably send you to the Yu-Gi-Oh trading cards or just smile and say “no, sorry” when they are literally one row over from them (this happened). It would help immensely if I spoke Japanese, but all I can do is grunt and point at things like a caveman.
I did a mini review of what I found and where but you’d have to search for it.
If anyone wants to order cards from Yodobashi online, but needs an account, send me a DM and I can help you out with my account. Let me know the pickup address (Yodobashi/Bic store) and URL to the item. You'd probably need 2 days notice at least. @Saditsfact (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/17463/) and a few others have picked cards up with no problems.
If anyone wants to order cards from Yodobashi online, but needs an account, send me a DM and I can help you out with my account. Let me know the pickup address (Yodobashi/Bic store) and URL to the item. You'd probably need 2 days notice at least. @Saditsfact (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/17463/) and a few others have picked cards up with no problems.
I thought that was only a special deal for me :rolleyes:
But I’d guess they are discontinuing the green boxes, last I checked they put a sale on them and they’ve been out of stock since so they might have stopped production. Same as the last green back one I picked up this way…
Or maybe whoever ordered them on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/?tag=amznpcfx-20) grabbed all the stock from all the stores idk
As @ekricket (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/1555/) said the average person in Japan doesn’t give a shit about poker cards and all I got from the store employees or owners was head shake when asking or showing them the green boxes. Even the bridge contract cards I found last year were gone.
I assumed that was a one-off deal for me :rolleyes:
My guess is they’re discontinuing the green boxes — when I last looked they’d put them on sale and they’ve been out of stock ever since, so production might have stopped. Same as the last green-backed set I bought this way…
Or maybe someone ordered them all on Amazon and cleared the stock from every store, who knows
As @ekricket (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/members/1555/) said the average person in Japan doesn’t care about poker cards and all the store staff or owners did was shake their heads when I asked or showed them the green boxes. Even the bridge/contract cards I found last year were gone.
Everything’s on special for you, sir...
Anyone see these cards when they were in Japan?
(https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/img_0959-webp.1685019/)
Did anyone come across these cards while in Japan? View attachment 1685019 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1685019/)View attachment 1685018 (https://www.pokerchipforum.com/attachments/1685018/)
I didn't spot them during my visit.
My brother in law just got back from Japan and gifted me these. Can't wait to break em open and test em out.
I only own two decks, but I like these cards a lot. I misplaced the decks I had open, so I haven’t opened these ones yet.