*AI Translated
"Purikura" (photo sticker booths) are especially popular among young people. In fact, right now, new trends such as cutting-edge technology and "Heisei retro" are taking off among Japanese high school girls (JK) and Generation Z.
To coincide with "Puri Day" on March 21, industry leader FuRyu Corporation released the "2025 Purikura Trend Survey." What do today’s Japanese youth find “cute,” and what poses are they striking? Here’s a report on the latest purikura trends that you’ll definitely want to try for yourself the next time you visit Japan!
[Pose Category] “Love You So Much I Could Explode!” Takes 1st Place? Fan Activities Take Center Stage in Purikura
The biggest dilemma when taking purikura is always “what pose to do.” For 2025, the overwhelming favorite is influenced by idol groups and “oshi-katsu” (supporting your favorite idols or characters).
1st Place: “Love You So Much I Could Explode!” Pose
This catchy pose, inspired by the popular group M!LK’s song, expresses the feeling of “my love is exploding and I feel like I might disappear.” It went viral on TikTok and has become a staple purikura pose.
2nd–4th Place: Heisei Revival
Classic poses like “Gao” (roaring like a lion), “Peace Sign,” and “Small Face Pose” remain timeless favorites and made the rankings.
5th Place: Holding Oshi Goods
It’s now common in Japan to take photos with acrylic stands or cards of your favorite anime characters or idols.
[Doodle Category] “MBTI” and “Heisei Deco” Are the Two Big Trends
The latest purikura trend is to go all out with flashy decorations.
Heisei-Style with Neon Pens
It’s trendy to fill the screen with words and stamps in neon pink and purple. Writing phrases in “gyaru-moji” (gal characters) from back in the day, like “Isshou Nakako” (Best Friends Forever), is considered cool.
Making Your Identity Visible
It’s also popular to write out your personality test results (MBTI) or a detailed self-introduction. Purikura has become a communication tool for sharing “This is me!” on social media.
If You’re Taking Purikura in Japan, Try These! Top 5 Most Popular Machines
There are many types of purikura machines in Japanese arcades (game centers) and amusement facilities, but if you’re not sure which to choose, look for these top five.
| Rank | Machine Name | Features |
| 1st | WataUsa | Features a crescent moon-shaped catchlight in your eyes, making you look your absolute best—highly rated for its beautifying effects. |
| 2nd | DEAR Reiwa & Heisei | A special machine celebrating the 30th anniversary of purikura. The legendary Heisei-era machine is back, letting you enjoy retro-style photos. (Available until June 30, 2026, on the “Bloomit” and “Meidy” machines.) |
| 3rd | Bloomit | Perfect for those who love a natural, translucent finish. |
| 4th | Hyper Shot | Lets you take high-angle shots and choose your preferred level of beautification. |
| 5th | IDOLY studio | You can freely choose background colors and photo props, making it feel like a self-photo studio. |
When You Visit Japan, Be Sure to Try Purikura!
Japanese “Puri” photo booths are more than just sticker photos—they are a mirror reflecting the culture of their era. The latest trend is to enjoy them by incorporating “cutting-edge technology” and a sense of “Heisei-era nostalgia.”
Next time you visit Japan, be sure to stop by an amusement center with a Puri booth. Strike the “Love It So Much I Could Die!” pose with the latest machine, and you too can become a trend master in Japan!
“Puri Trend Survey 2025” Overview *Survey by the Furyu Kawaii Laboratory
- Survey period: January 15 (Thu) – January 17 (Sat), 2026
- Details: Popular Puri trends in 2025 (poses, doodles, Puri machines)
- Participants: 204 females aged 13–28
*“Kawaii Lab,” “WataUsa,” “Bloomit,” and “IDOLY studio” are trademarks of Furyu Corporation.
Other company names, product names, and service names mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
- Cooperation: Furyu Corporation
Source: PRTIMES
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