If you’ve ever spent your childhood mornings glued to the screen watching Goku power up in Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon twirl into action, or Pikachu zap away in Pokémon, then the newest addition at SM City Grand Central might just send you on a nostalgia trip with a twist of excitement and surprise.
Gashapon, the official Bandai capsule vending machine, has made its way to the mall, offering a wealth of collectibles that appeal to a diverse range of anime fans, pop culture enthusiasts, and collectors of capsule toys.
Each machine invites you to twist a handle, drop a coin, and receive a surprise capsule filled with detailed miniatures such as your favorite anime character, a food miniature, a quirky accessory, or even a hyper-realistic animal figure.
While Gashapon has long been a staple in Japan’s toy culture, what many don’t realize is that some of the machines and even the figures themselves are proudly made in the Philippines. Bandai Namco Philippines Inc. (BNPI), located in Lipa City, Batangas, manufactures these iconic machines, making each turn of the handle a distinctly glocal (global-local) experience.
For the younger generation, Gashapon isn’t just a toy. It’s a form of self-expression, a curated collection, and, in many cases, social media content waiting to happen. The element of surprise built into every capsule has turned Gashapon into more than just a vending experience. It’s a moment of joy, a collectible hunt, and a throwback wrapped into one.
Whether you're a seasoned collector hunting for limited edition miniatures or a casual passerby looking for a little thrill, Gashapon at SM City Grand Central proves that small things, especially those inside a capsule, can bring big delight.
So, the next time you're at the mall, stop by the Gashapon. Who knows what pop culture gem is waiting for you inside that tiny capsule? 07/25/2025 (The Lifestyle Portal)
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