How to Take Purikura in Tokyo: Japan's Photo Sticker Booths, Explained
Published: 2026-10-15
Bigger eyes, smoother skin, doodles on top, and stickers printed on the spot. Japanese purikura photo booths are a perfect souvenir with friends or family. Here's how they work and the rules worth knowing.
The short answer
| Purikura | |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A booth that takes photos you can decorate and print as stickers |
| Where? | Game centers and dedicated purikura shops |
| Time | About 10 minutes from shooting to printing |
| Payment | Most machines take coins. Change machines are nearby |
| Heads-up | Male-only groups are banned in many purikura corners |
Many purikura corners don't allow men without a woman in the group, to prevent trouble and voyeurism. Mixed groups are almost always fine.
How it works
1. The shooting boothInsert coins, pick modes for brightness or eye size on the screen, and pose to the countdown.- Screens are mainly in Japanese, but some machines can switch to English or other languages.
- You can walk into the booth with your shoes on.
Sending images to your phone may require registering on a website or app. Do it right after the stickers print.
Where to go
- Shibuya: girls mignon in SHIBUYA109 is a dedicated purikura shop renovated in February 2025, with a makeup touch-up area.
- Harajuku, Ikebukuro, Shinjuku: big game centers often have a whole purikura floor.
- See our Shibuya, Harajuku and Ikebukuro pages.
Rules and etiquette
- Many corners ban male-only groups (see above).
- Keep big bags out of the booth. There's usually a spot to leave them.
- When it's busy, move to the doodle booth as soon as you finish shooting so the next group can go.
- Some shops lend hair irons and other tools. Put them back after use.
Frequently asked questions
Can men take purikura without women?
Many corners ban male-only groups. Mixed groups are almost always allowed. Rules vary by shop, so check the sign at the entrance.
Can I take purikura alone?
Yes. A woman on her own is no problem.
Can I get purikura photos on my phone?
Most machines can send them. You may need to register on a website or app.
Can I pay by card?
Most machines take coins only. Use the nearby change machine to break your notes.
Official websites
Hours, prices and rules can change. Check the official websites for the latest before you go.
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