Where to buy Original Tamagotchi?

Tamagotchi is so much more than just a Japanese toy. Loved and cherished worldwide, it holds a special place in childhood memories—both heartwarming and bittersweet. Playing with a Tamagotchi is pure joy, but losing one is always tough. Long before neural networks and artificial intelligence emerged, Tamagotchi taught many people to care for and empathize with virtual creatures. Curious about their success, the different types available, and where to get authentic Tamagotchi from Japan? Find out in our article.

The secret of Tamagotchi's success

In 1996, the Japanese company Bandai released a toy that not only quickly gained popularity among Japanese children but also, without exaggeration, captivated the entire world. It was called Tamagotchi (たまごっち, tamagocchi), combining two Japanese words – tamago (たまご, egg) and uocchi (ウォッチ, watch), as the toy resembled a small egg with a display, much like an electronic watch. The premise of the game was simple – you had to care for a virtual pet that lived inside the "egg" and could be carried around everywhere. The device could also be used as a watch and pedometer. This simple yet incredibly successful idea came to Aki Maita and Akihiro Yokoi, who later referred to themselves as the mother and father of Tamagotchi.

Akihiro Yokoi has a deep love for animals, so he knew firsthand how much effort it takes to care for them – which is why the idea of creating a virtual pet accessible to every child seemed incredibly exciting to him. Moreover, there had already been similar electronic games in Japan, such as those where players cared for aquarium fish. However, Yokoi introduced the concept of responsibility – the life of the pet was literally in the hands of the player.

Tamagotchi quickly conquered the world – and it was able to purchase all over the world. The 90s generation, who had the chance to play with Tamagotchi as kids, remembers how sad it was when a virtual pet died. To prevent this, you had to feed it, entertain it, and take care of its health. However, Tamagotchi still had a limited lifespan – so avoiding a sad ending was ultimately impossible. Many people were so affected by the death of their virtual pet that in Japan, Tamagotchi cemeteries even appeared, where children would bury their toy. In the end, Tamagotchi became something more than just a game for many – and this largely determined its tremendous success. Since 1996, over 91 million Tamagotchi have been sold worldwide – they are still popular even today with both children and adults.

Also Read: Can Tamagotchi Die from Being Overweight?

What are Tamagotchi?

There are so many types of Tamagotchi that it’s easy to get confused, and we’re here to help you avoid that. Today, there are three generations of Tamagotchi, each with its own unique models. In addition, each specific model comes with versions featuring different designs – colorful, transparent, or gold-plated cases. Rare Tamagotchi in unique colors are especially popular among collectors and were released exclusively for different Asian countries. For example, the Malaysian version had a black case with a pattern of green turtles.

First Generation (1996–1998) 

Original Tamagotchi from 1996, Tamagotchi Angel, Osutchi, Mesutchi, Devilgotchi

Also known as  Tanjouki (誕生期), or Birth Period. These were the very first Tamagotchi, which appeared in the late 90s. Today you can find both original vintage models and re-releases of the first generation, which are still produced by Bandai.

Most first-generation Tamagotchi featured a 5-centimeter case with a small black-and-white LCD screen (16x32 pixels), under which a colorful cardboard background was placed. It had three buttons at the bottom for controls, and it was powered by two flat LR44 batteries. The 2017 re-release used a single CR2032 battery instead.

The first generation included several iconic models:

• Original Tamagotchi from 1996 (たまごっち, tamagocchi). In this version, you raised a pet from an alien egg, and the type of creature was determined randomly each time. Then, depending on how you cared for it, the Tamagotchi could grow into different forms;
• Tamagotchi Angel from 1997 (てんしっちのたまごっち, tenshicchi no tamagocchi). In this version, you raised angels that regular Tamagotchi would turn into after they passed away;
• Tamagotchi Osutchi and Mesutchi (たまごっち オスっち・メスっち, tamagocchi osucchi mesucchi) from 1997. These were two separate Tamagotchi devices in blue and pink – male and female (osu means male in Japanese, and mesu means female). Both devices could be connected to each other via a special connector to marry the Tamagotchi pair. This model differed from the standard ones with a larger case (5.6 cm) and a taller, narrower screen (18x29 pixels);
• Devilgotchi from 1998 (デビルっちのたまごっち, debirucchi no tamagocchi). Also known as Tamagotchi Monster, in this version, the pets were demons who could tease the player, unlike the angels in Tamagotchi Angel. It was only released in Japan, making it quite rare now.

Second Generation (2004-2007)

Also known as Tsushinki (ツーしん期), or Connection Period. In the early 2000s, the Tamagotchi craze had somewhat subsided due to the rise of mobile phones, which occupied a lot of students' time. To rekindle interest in Tamagotchi, the second generation introduced connectivity via infrared ports – now two players could connect their devices to play mini-games together and exchange gifts. Additionally, Tamagotchi of different genders could get married, as seen previously in the Osutchi and Mesutchi models.

The standard model featured a 5.6 cm case and a 32x30 pixel screen. In Japan, it was released in 2004 under the name Kaettekita! Tamagotchi Plus (かえってきた!たまごっちプラス). The second generation Tamagotchi underwent several major updates:

• The second version introduced in-game currency Gotchi Points (ごっちポイント), the ability to receive various bonuses by entering special codes, and a larger number of characters;
• The third version added the ability to connect to a PC and access the interactive website Tamatown;
• The fourth version introduced skill points and jobs for Tamagotchi;
• The fifth version featured a larger screen and the ability to raise up to three Tamagotchi simultaneously.

Third Generation (2008 – Present)

Also known as Karaaki (カラー期), or Color Period. These Tamagotchi became larger (6.8 cm) and featured a color screen with backlighting, sized 128x128 pixels. Most models are powered by two AAA batteries. The most well-known models include:

• Tamagotchi Plus Color from 2008 (たまごっちプラスカラー, tamagotchi purasu karaa) – the very first color Tamagotchi model. It retained the infrared port from the previous generation. Today, it is not easy to find, so aftermarket prices are usually over 20,000 yen;
• Tamagotchi Nano (たまごっちナノ, tamagocchi nano), released in 2010. This is a unique spin-off of the original Tamagotchi concept, featuring pets based on various popular anime and game characters. For example, in modern Tamagotchi Nano models, you can raise Anya from Spy x Family or Nezuko from Kimetsu no Yaiba! Although formally part of the modern color generation, it features a small black-and-white screen of 22x22 pixels;
• Tamagotchi P's from 2012 (たまごっちぴーす, tamagoсchi piisu) – a model celebrating the 16th anniversary of Tamagotchi, based on the anime Tamagotchi! Yume Kira Dream. It introduced the Tama Deco Pierce (たまデコピアス, tama deko piasu) feature – an accessory inserted into a special port at the top of the device that added new characters, mini-games, and wallpapers to the Tamagotchi. There were various accessories shaped like hearts, stars, and butterflies with different bonuses. With these additions, you could even raise characters from Disney cartoons or the anime Aikatsu;
• Tamagotchi 4U (たまごっちフォーユー, tamagoсchi fou yuu) from 2014. This model replaced the old infrared connectivity technology with NFC, similar to modern smartphones. Thanks to this, the device could be tapped at special touch spots across Japan to download various updates, such as new characters and other bonuses. It also featured a replaceable front panel with different designs;
• Tamagotchi m!x (たまごっちみくす, tamagocchi mikusu) from 2016 allowed players to create new Tamagotchi with traits inherited from their parents;
• Tamagotchi Meets (たまごっちみーつ, tamagocchi miitsu) from 2018 built on the idea of the previous model and introduced the ability to connect via Bluetooth to a mobile app. It was sold in the West as Tamagotchi On;
• Tamagotchi Smart (たまごっちスマート, tamagocchi sumaato) from 2021 features a touchscreen and a rechargeable battery. It can be worn on the wrist like a smartwatch and can also be used as a step counter;
• Tamagotchi Uni (たまごっち ユニ, tamagocchi yuni) – the newest Tamagotchi model of 2023, released in 12 countries and 7 languages. It combines the best features of previous models and returns to physical buttons instead of a touchscreen. Its main innovation is the introduction of Wi-Fi connectivity, a first for Tamagotchi.

Where to buy Tamagotchi ?

You can buy original Tamagotchi from Japan in several online stores and various marketplaces. 

1. Bandai Online StoreThe best place to purchase new Tamagotchi is, of course, through the official online store of the manufacturer – Bandai. Today, the Japanese company focuses on promoting four product lines:

• Tamagotchi Uni
• Tamagotchi Smart
• Tamagotchi Nano
• Tamagotchi Original

In addition to the latest models and re-releases of the original Tamagotchi in various designs, the website also offers unique Tamagotchi collaborations with famous Japanese streetwear brands – BAPE and Supreme. You can also read various news updates from Bandai about upcoming releases.

Buy Tamagotchis from Japan in the Bandai Online Store  

2. Amazon JapanAmazon Japan has everything – and often with free shipping within Japan. This includes a wide selection of Tamagotchi, both new and used. Additionally, Bandai has its own official store on Amazon Japan.

Find Tamagotchi on Amazon 

3. Hobby SearchThis well-known Japanese online store sells not only figurines but also various new Tamagotchi models. It's definitely worth checking out as their prices are quite reasonable.

Buy Tamagotchi on Hobby Search now 

4. MandarakeIf you haven’t found the Tamagotchi model you need at the previous places, it’s worth checking out the aftermarket. Here, you can easily find used and older models at quite reasonable prices. The selection at Mandarake is extensive, but items sell out quickly, so the specific product you’re looking for may not always be in stock.

Buy Tamagotchi on Mandarake 

5. SurugayaAnother giant in Japan’s used goods market, Surugaya offers various Tamagotchi models and a wide range of accessories, as well as games, toys, and plushies. For example, how about this adorable plush toy Oyajitchi, one of the secret characters from the original Tamagotchi?

Find Tamagotchi on Surugaya 

6. JDirect Items Auction

On Jdirect Items Auction, you can find a wide variety of Tamagotchi models, both new and used. This platform includes online shops of famous Japanese physical stores like Book Off, offering a selection of Tamagotchi products that are worth your attention.

Choose Tamagotchi on JDirect Items Auctions! 

7. Rakuten

Like Amazon, this store needs no special introduction. Here, you'll find a great selection of various Tamagotchi models, making it worth a visit—perhaps you'll find exactly what you're looking for.

Purchase Tamagotchi on Rakuten 

8. Hard Off

Hard Off is another well-known Japanese chain of stores selling used goods in various conditions—ranging from so-called "junk items" to items in fairly decent condition. The store provides detailed and honest descriptions for every used product along with photos, making it a trustworthy place to search for Tamagotchi toys.

Search for used Tamagotchis on Hard Off 

9. Mercari

On Mercari, you can find rare and old Tamagotchi models directly from individuals—but prices for especially rare models can be high. Additionally, Mercari offers free shipping within Japan, making it a great option for finding affordable used Tamagotchis from common models. However, be sure to check the seller's rating to avoid scams.Buy Tamagotchis on Mercari

 10. Qoo10

Qoo10 is the Japanese version of the well-known eBay site. Among the vast array of goods, you can find a good selection of Tamagotchis from sellers not only in Japan but also in South Korea and China. Therefore, be mindful of the seller's location—shipping from other countries will be more expensive.

Choose Tamagotchis on Qoo10 now 

How to Buy TamagotchisBuying original Tamagotchis from Japanese online stores is very simple. Follow these steps to avoid any difficulties:

• Decide which specific model and color you want. New models can be easily found on the Bandai website in the relevant sections, while older and rarer versions are harder to find and need to be searched for on the aftermarket. Search for Tamagotchis on Japanese sites using their Japanese name—たまごっち. You can find the Japanese names for specific versions in our list above, or on this website. Simply visit the page for the model you want and copy its Japanese name into the store's search bar. On the ZenMarket site, you can also try searching by the English name of the model, which may give you a broader range of results.

• On different Japanese sites, you can read detailed information about various Tamagotchi models and their features. Pay attention to the included accessories listed in the description, such as those shown in the Bandai online store;
• If you choose a Tamagotchi from one of the Japanese sites, copy the product link and paste it into the ZenMarket search bar. Then click confirm, double-checking all details. If you are purchasing from stores integrated into our site, simply add them to your cart. For bidding on JDirectItems Auctions, check out our dedicated guide;
• After adding the product, we will issue you an invoice—pay it and wait for your Tamagotchi to be delivered to our warehouse in Japan;
• Once the product arrives at the warehouse, create a parcel, wait for the shipping invoice, and after paying it, wait to receive your beloved Tamagotchi at your local post office!

Buy Tamagotchis with ZenMarket! 

Tamagotchis are a whole universe of virtual pets beloved not only in Japan but around the world. Whether you want to reminisce about your childhood toy, explore the newest Tamagotchi models, or try the famous device for the first time, let's do it together!   

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