Buy Japanese Pokémon cards

Many collectors buy Japanese cards: they are released first, and some only exist in Japan. There are a few differences to be aware of.

Different expansions

Expansions are released first in Japan. For the French and English versions, they are often grouped or reorganised. A Japanese card therefore does not always have the same number or expansion as its French version.

Smaller boosters

A Japanese booster generally contains 5 cards, compared to 10 for a French or English booster. A Japanese display contains 30 boosters, compared to 36 in French or English. To compare prices, calculate the price per card.

A different price

A Japanese card does not have the same price as its French or English version. Depending on the card, it may be worth less or more. Always compare with the value in the same language. On BDPokéCards, each listing indicates the language of the card, and the catalogue allows filtering by language.

Exclusive cards

Some promo cards, special products, and certain illustrations exist only in Japanese. These are often the most sought-after Japanese cards.

Reading a Japanese card

No need to read Japanese: the Pokémon is recognisable by the illustration, and the number, rarity, and expansion symbol can be read just like on a French card. The symbols are explained in the rarities guide.

Counterfeits

There are also fake Japanese cards. Compare with an authentic card and read the guide on how to recognise a fake card.