TV anime “Gintama” has unveiled a new line of pass cases that light up when held over card readers. The “PIICA(R)” pass cases are now accepting pre-orders at Premium Bandai’s “Bankore! – BANDAI FASHION COLLECTION -” shop.
“Gintama” is a manga by Sorachi Hideaki that ran in Weekly Shonen Jump starting in 2004. Set in Edo after the arrival of aliens (Tenjin) suddenly changed society’s values, the series blends side-splitting comedy and action with themes of human connection and bonds, earning it enduring popularity.
The TV anime aired from 2006 over 13 years. Theatrical films include “Gekijouban Gintama Shinyaku Benizakura-hen” (2010), “Gekijouban Gintama Kanketsu-hen: Yorozuya yo Eien Nare” (2013) written by original creator Sorachi Hideaki, and “Gintama THE FINAL” (2021), which depicted the manga’s ending. Additionally, “Shin Gekijouban Gintama – Yoshiwara Daienjou -,” a CinemaScope film adaptation of the popular “Yoshiwara Burning” arc, opened on February 13, 2026.
The newly released product emits light when held over a non-contact IC card reader. Users place the PIICA card together with their own IC card inside the included clear pass case with ball chain. When held over card readers at ticket gates or convenience stores, the card catches the radio waves and lights up. (LED built-in, no battery required)
The lineup includes four designs: Sakata Gintoki, Sakata Gintoki & Takasugi Shinsuke, Hijikata Toushirou & Okita Sougo, and Tokugawa Shigeshige. When lit, the colorful illustrations are designed to stand out. (The way the light appears varies depending on the reader machine.)
Gintama PIICA + Clear Pass Case (Sakata Gintoki)
Gintama PIICA + Clear Pass Case (Sakata Gintoki & Takasugi Shinsuke)
Gintama PIICA + Clear Pass Case (Hijikata Toushirou & Okita Sougo)
Pre-orders are open until September 13, 2026 (Sunday) at 23:00. This playful product lets fans enjoy their favorite characters glowing with every use.
Product Details
| Price | 1,980 yen (tax included) |
|---|---|
| Pre-order deadline | September 13, 2026 (Sunday) 23:00 |
| Shipping | Scheduled for November 2026 |
| Shop | Bankore! – BANDAI FASHION COLLECTION – |
| Planning | Bandai Co., Ltd. |
| Target age | 15 and up |
Set Contents
PIICA main body, clear pass case
Sizes
- PIICA card: approx. 53.5mm (W) x 85mm (H) x 1.2mm (thick)
- Clear pass case: approx. 59.7mm (H) x 101.5mm (W) x 4mm (thick)
Materials
LED bulbs x3, card body: PC, print surface film: PET, mount: paper
Production Area
PIICA card body: Korea; Designed, printed & assembled: Japan
Notes
- When inserting cards into machines for transit IC, cash charging, or commuter pass renewal, only insert the electronic money IC card. Never insert this card (the glowing card) into a machine, as it may cause malfunctions.
- This product can only be used with non-contact IC card readers.
- Placing a metal plate between the product and the reader will prevent it from lighting up.
- The glowing parts may be difficult to see under direct sunlight or strong lighting.
- The company is not responsible for damage or loss of devices or data caused by customer negligence or improper use.
- Delivery dates may change, and orders may be accepted with adjusted schedules.
- Sales may end early if the prepared quantity is reached.
- Product specifications may change without notice.
- Photos shown are of the product in development and may differ slightly from the actual product.
(C) Sorachi Hideaki / Shueisha, TV Tokyo, Dentsu, BNP, Aniplex
