We will introduce simple and easy-to-understand steps for beginners who have never played pachinko before. Just follow the steps below so that you don’t get lost even if it’s your first time.
Basic flow of pachinko (steps for beginners)
[Step 1] Preparation before entering the hall
Bring ID (no entry for those under 20)
Beginners should go to “major chain stores in front of train stations” (clean and with polite directions)
[Step 2] Enter the hall
If there are restrictions on admission, you will need a “numbered ticket” (such as popular stores or when new machines are installed)
There will be staff and information panels, so ask them immediately if you have any questions
[Step 3] Choose a machine
Beginners should feel safe with “light middle” or “sweet digital machines”
“1 yen pachinko” is written above the digital display “1 Yen Pachinko” and “4 Yen Pachinko” are displayed.
Beginners are recommended to play “1 Yen Pachinko” (low risk).
[Step 4] Put money in and buy balls.
Put bills into the “Sand (automatic ball dispensing machine)” on the machine.
Example: 1000 yen → about 250 balls (for 4 Yen Pachinko).
Press the ball dispensing button and balls will come out.
[Step 5] Try playing pachinko.
Turn the handle to the right and the balls will be fired.
When the balls enter the “Start Chucker (hole in the center)”, the LCD screen will start to move (lottery begins).
If you get three, you win! You may enter a winning streak or a special bonus.
[Step 6] Collect or release the winning balls
The balls may be automatically collected in the “dollar box” or “counting machine for each machine”.
When you leave, press the “settlement button” or “call button” to call the store attendant and receive a receipt for the prize exchange.
[Step 7] Exchange for prizes at the prize counter
Exchange for “sweets”, “stationery”, “special prizes”, etc. at the counter.
Special prizes can be exchanged for cash at the nearby “prize exchange office” (a system unique to the pachinko industry).
🎉 Supplementary points
Points Explanation
A lever to the right of the machine to adjust the ball shooting speed
Flashy sounds and lights for effects such as winning and reaching. The volume can be adjusted
If you don’t know what to do, tell the store attendant “I’m a beginner…” and they will often kindly explain it to you
Be careful not to lose too much It’s better to set a limit so you don’t play for too long
