Whether a Japanese booster box really comes from The Pokémon Company, you check by the JAN barcode, the logo in the wrap, the print and the Japanese text on the box, and by the seller. At Kaikan Cards we check every box on these points when it arrives and take photos. This is exactly how we do it, so you can do it yourself too.
This article is about whether a box is genuine. Whether a genuine box is also still untouched, i.e. not opened and resealed, you check by the wrap, the seams and the packs. You can read about that in checking a factory-sealed booster box.
Step 1: Scan the JAN barcode
Every Japanese box has a JAN barcode, the Japanese counterpart of the EAN. Every set has its own code. Look up the code online: if it does not match the set name on the box, something is wrong.
Step 2: Look for the logo or pattern in the wrap
Look at the pattern or logo in the wrap and compare it with a box of the same set that you know for sure is genuine. Wrap that is thick or cloudy, or has a different pattern, is a warning.
Step 3: Check the print and cardboard
Compare the colours, sharpness and typeface of the box with official product photos. Blurry edges, wrong colours or mistakes in the Japanese text mean the box does not come from The Pokémon Company.
Step 4: Check the set name and contents
The set name on the box, the JAN code and the number of packs must match. How many packs and cards each set has, you can see in what is in a Japanese booster box?
Step 5: Buy from a recognisable seller
A box far below the usual price is almost always too good to be true. Buy from a reliable seller: with a Chamber of Commerce number, an address in the EU and real reviews, and someone who can tell you where the box comes from.
Step 6: After opening – the cards
A genuine Japanese card measures 63 x 88 mm and is about 0.30 mm thick. Look for sharp printing, the right typefaces and an even shine on holo cards.
Our working method at Kaikan Cards
- JAN barcode checked against the set name
- Logo/pattern in the wrap compared
- Wrap and seams checked
- Photos taken and kept with the order
We buy from a regular Japanese wholesaler and a selected supplier. If something is not right during the check, the box does not go on sale.
Also read: how to check whether a box is still factory sealed and our explanation of authenticity and origin.
Frequently asked questions
Is a genuine box always untouched too?
No. A box can genuinely come from The Pokémon Company and still have been opened and resealed. So also check the seal: see checking a factory-sealed booster box.
What do I do if I doubt whether my box is genuine?
Take photos of the wrap, the barcode and the box before you open it and contact the seller. If you paid with a payment method that has buyer protection, report it there too.
Want to know more about Japanese cards? Read Japanese vs English Pokémon cards: all the differences.
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