What Are Claw Machines Called in Japan? A Guide to UFO Catchers

5/19/2025, 12:00:00 AM

Discover what claw machines are called in Japan with YPFuns. Explore the fun world of “UFO Catchers”—Japan’s famous arcade games. Learn the differences and tips for playing claw machines in Japanese game centers.

Introduction

Claw machines, those enticing arcade games where players attempt to grab prizes with a mechanical claw, have captivated audiences worldwide. In Japan, these machines hold a special place in the hearts of many and are commonly referred to as "UFO Catchers." This term has become synonymous with claw machines across the country, reflecting their unique design and cultural integration.

The Origin of UFO Catchers

The term "UFO Catcher" was popularized by Sega in 1985 when they introduced their version of the claw machine. The name derives from the machine's claw mechanism, which resembles a UFO descending to capture a prize. Sega's UFO Catcher became immensely popular, leading to widespread adoption of the term for similar machines throughout Japan. By 1991, Sega had sold over 10,000 units, and the UFO Catcher series accounted for 90% of stuffed toy claw machine sales in Japan .

Cultural Significance in Japan

UFO Catchers are more than just arcade games in Japan; they are a cultural phenomenon. These machines are prevalent in arcades, shopping centers, and entertainment complexes, offering a variety of prizes ranging from plush toys to electronics. The appeal spans all age groups, with both children and adults trying their luck. The challenge of skillfully maneuvering the claw to secure a desired item adds to the allure, making it a popular pastime and date activity.

Variations and Innovations

Japanese arcades have continually innovated the traditional claw machine concept. Some establishments have introduced "sweets crane games," where players can win fresh desserts like donuts and puddings . Others offer high-end prizes, including luxury items, catering to adult audiences . These variations keep the experience fresh and cater to diverse interests.

Tips for Playing UFO Catchers

Observe Before Playing: Watch others play to understand the machine's mechanics and claw strength.

Choose the Right Machine: Some machines are designed to be more challenging. Look for ones with prizes positioned near the drop zone.

Positioning is Key: Align the claw precisely over the prize, considering its shape and weight distribution.

Limit Your Attempts: Set a budget to avoid overspending, as the cost can add up quickly.

Where to Experience UFO Catchers in Japan

Sega Shinjuku Kabukicho: Holds the Guinness World Record for the most claw machines in a single venue, with 477 machines .
Everyday Tottekiya Tokyo Honten: Located in Saitama, this arcade boasts 448 machines and offers a wide variety of prizes .
Molly Fantasy: Found inside Aeon malls, these arcades are tailored for children, featuring easier machines and kid-friendly prizes .

Conclusion

UFO Catchers are an integral part of Japanese arcade culture, offering entertainment and the thrill of winning prizes. Their widespread presence and continual innovation make them a must-try experience for visitors to Japan.

For those interested in exploring a wide range of claw machines and prizes, consider visiting YPFUNS. They offer an extensive selection of machines and prizes, catering to both casual players and enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer, YPFUNS provides an engaging and enjoyable experience.

FAQs

Q: What is a UFO Catcher? A: A UFO Catcher is the Japanese term for a claw machine, popularized by Sega in the 1980s.

Q: Are UFO Catchers only found in Japan? A: While they originated in Japan, similar machines are found worldwide, though the term "UFO Catcher" is primarily used in Japan.

Q: Can you really win prizes from UFO Catchers? A: Yes, with skill and sometimes a bit of luck, players can win various prizes.

Q: Are there strategies to increase chances of winning? A: Observing the machine, choosing the right prize, and precise claw positioning can improve success rates.

How Do You Know When a Claw Machine Will Win?

Do Claw Machines Make Money? YPFuns Expert Profit Guide

How Do You Know When a Claw Machine Will Win?

Do Claw Machines Make Money? YPFuns Expert Profit Guide

Is a Claw Machine Gambling? The Truth Behind the Game

Custom Claw Machine Factory: YPFuns - Your Ultimate Partner in Prize Machine

What Is the Cheat Code for the Claw Machine?

Prdoucts Categories

FAQ

Product

Which parts can you customize?

You can customize the light color, logo and sticker of the machine. The size of the machine is fixed.

Why the price is lower?

A lower price is one of the advantages of our products; it is the result of our selling point and promotion strategy. First is our scale advantage: self-build supply chains to cut down on total costs. Second, our prize machine factory operates in a healthy and reasonable manner without any on-performing assets. Operating efficiency can be maximized. Last, our business insists on the road of cost-performance; if you really plan to cooperate with us, the price is flexible.

Solutions

Materials that need to be prepared in the early stage of opening?

Site area: ground paste, knife flag, game coin, coin box, coin basket, coin bag, advertising water sign, exchange area notice, special cart, work clothes, gift bag, doll label card, electrical tool box, exchange area points label rack and label paper, machine code, currency, play instructions, audio and microphone, battery.

Office supplies: such as computers, printers, A4 paper, doll guns and glue needles, black pens, big head pens, and staplers.

Daily necessities: such as scissors, gift hooks, size of transparent glue, sanitary towels, mop, bucket, dustpan, large trash can, garbage bags, sewing bag, key ring, rubber band, and so on.

Customization

We Help You Open a Claw Machine Shop , What’s we provide?

We support customization for free.

1. We are a source claw machine factory with a mature supplier chain and a good production schedule. The price is more competitive in the market.

2. We support OEM/ODM, promoting your own brand.

3. We support product-free design within 2 working days.

What kind of payment acceptable?

We accept payments by T/T (bank transfer), Western Union and L/C.