Gintama × Tsukiji Gindaco Collaboration Coming Summer 2026 to Stores Nationwide in Japan

Japan’s soul food “takoyaki,” and the wildly popular anime Gintama, beloved by passionate fans around the world.

These two have come together for a dream collaboration that almost nobody saw coming.

“Gindaco” and “Gintama” — a special project born from the shared kanji 銀 (“gin,” meaning silver), and described as the first and last (?) of its kind.

The collaboration runs from May 28, 2026 (Thursday) to August 10, 2026 (Monday). For Gintama fans visiting Japan and for any traveler who loves takoyaki, this is absolutely not to be missed.

Collaboration takoyaki, limited cards including a secret variant, and packaging that comes with newly drawn clear files — there’s plenty to look forward to.

“I want to know what the collaboration is about.”
“When and at which stores can I buy it?”
“What do the limited cards look like?”

To answer these questions, a Japanese writer based here in Japan has put together the full picture and tips for enjoying the collaboration.

If this article is helpful, we’d love it if you shared it on social media.

First, what is Tsukiji Gindaco?

Crispy outside, soft inside — “Absolutely delicious!! Takoyaki”

Tsukiji Gindaco is a takoyaki-specialty fast food chain born in Japan.

Their tagline — “crispy outside, soft inside, springy octopus” — sums up the signature texture, and you can get takoyaki of consistent quality at any of their stores nationwide.

Only Madako (common octopus) is used, and the batter is made fresh in-store every day — a simple yet meticulous approach.

For Japanese people, it’s a familiar “everyday taste,” almost a soul food.

Found everywhere — a chain that represents Japan

You can find Tsukiji Gindaco stores in shopping malls, inside train stations, at airports, in food courts, at tourist spots — really, all over Japan.

With locations from Hokkaido all the way to Okinawa, it’s easy to stop by while traveling, which is a nice plus. Watching takoyaki being cooked on the iron griddle right in front of you also makes for a small entertainment experience for travelers from abroad.

For locals, Gindaco is a very familiar place — somewhere you drop by “when you’re a little hungry” or “between shopping.” If you’re visiting from overseas, feel free to pop in.

The collaboration partner is the legendary gag anime Gintama

An Edo + sci-fi world by the popular creator Hideaki Sorachi

Gintama is a hugely popular Japanese manga by Hideaki Sorachi.

Serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump, the series has sold over 73 million copies worldwide. It has been adapted in many forms — anime, theatrical films, live-action movies, and stage plays.

Set in a slightly unusual world where aliens (known as Amanto) arrive in the Edo period, the story balances rib-tickling gags with intense action and heartfelt human drama.

Centered on Sakata Gintoki, aka Gin-san, with the Yorozuya & Shinsengumi taking the stage

The protagonist is Sakata Gintoki, a former samurai who runs an odd jobs shop called Yorozuya. Together with his companions Shimura Shinpachi and Kagura, he takes on requests while stirring up all kinds of chaos.

Members of the Kyoto-based police group Shinsengumi are also fan favorites, with characters like Kondo Isao, Hijikata Toshiro, and Okita Sogo making regular appearances.

The characters have such distinct personalities that the series has fans all over the world.

“Gindaco” and “Gintama” — a fated collaboration linked by the kanji 銀 (gin)

“Gindaco” and “Gintama” — both brand names share the kanji 銀 (gin, “silver”). Surprisingly, the two have never collaborated before — this is the first time.

The official comment from Tsukiji Gindaco: “We’ve been on standby in Tsukiji this whole time.”

Officially described as a one-time, first-and-last (?) special collaboration, fan attention is running quite high.

Gindaco × Gintama collaboration: overview

Here is the basic information for the collaboration. Take a look while comparing it against your Japan travel schedule.

The period spans about two and a half months, which makes it easy to line up with a summer trip to Japan.

That said, some cards and goods are limited in quantity, so if there’s something specific you’re after, it’s safer to stop by early.

Collaboration highlights & limited product lineup

Collaboration Takoyaki Vol. 1: “Yorozuya’s Refreshing Fresh Lemon & Tartar” (Yorozuya no Soukai! Nama Lemon & Tartar) (from May 28)

Kicking off the collaboration is a flavor inspired by the “lively everyday life” of the Yorozuya trio — Gintoki, Shinpachi, and Kagura — paired with fresh lemon and tartar.

The combination of refreshing lemon and rich tartar sauce makes it a perfect summer dish.

The detail to notice is the little playful touch in the toppings.

The thinly sliced white scallions are actually a nod to Shinpachi’s signature glasses.

Seeing them lined up on the takoyaki is sure to bring a knowing smile to any fan’s face.

The dish comes with a special paper sleeve and a limited collaboration card featuring newly drawn artwork — making it a menu item you can enjoy from the visuals alone.

Collaboration Takoyaki Vol. 2: “Shinsengumi’s Hot-Blooded Cheese Meat Sauce” (Shinsengumi no Atsuki Kokoro no Cheese Meat Sauce) (from June 26)

Vol. 2 is a cheese meat sauce flavor inspired by the “hot-blooded spirit” of the Shinsengumi.

Rich meat sauce paired with melted cheese makes for a hearty, satisfying takoyaki.

What makes it even more fun is the small packets of mayonnaise and Tabasco that come on the side, representing Hijikata Toshiro and Okita Sogo.

Fans will instantly catch on — these are playful toppings that recreate the characters’ favorite condiments.

Add them to taste, and you can create your own original arrangement.

Since the flavor is completely different from Vol. 1, it’s also fun to compare the two during the period.

Turning the well-known character traits — Hijikata loving mayonnaise, Okita loving Tabasco — directly into product elements really shows the attention to detail in this collaboration.

A real treat for fans!

Special sleeve & limited collaboration cards (25 types in total + a secret)

A limited collaboration card comes with every purchase of collaboration takoyaki, without exception.

In addition to character illustrations newly drawn for this collaboration, there are original chibi-style characters and full-body character versions — 25 varieties in all.

The surfaces have a foil-stamped finish, and the premium feel is even more impressive in person than in photos. On top of that, secret cards are mixed in, so the excitement lasts right up until the moment you open the pack.

It’s highly collectible, designed to make fans want to come back again and again.

They also make great souvenirs to take home.

Original-design Danran Pack (danran pakku / “family gathering” pack) + clear file (3 designs in total / from June 1)

For anyone who wants to share takoyaki with others, the 24-piece “Danran Pack” is the recommended choice.

During the collaboration period, it becomes a special version that comes with a limited clear file featuring newly drawn illustrations.

Three clear file designs — Vol. 1, Vol. 2, and Vol. 3 — will be released in sequence. The front and back feature different designs, and the careful finish makes them fun to collect.

They’re convenient for hotel parties or group meals. The capacity is generous, and the value is solid as well.

Since they’re takeaway-only, it’s a good idea to figure out where you’ll eat before buying.

L-size drink with original-design sticker

There’s a collaboration treat on the drink menu as well. During the period, ordering an L-size drink comes with one original-design sticker.

The sticker is just the right size — cute when stuck on a phone or notebook.

It’s a small bonus item you get simply by ordering a drink alongside your takoyaki.

Ordering it together with the collaboration takoyaki is a smart and enjoyable combination.

Collaboration-exclusive original goods (made-to-order)

Goods featuring collaboration-exclusive original chibi-style illustrations are also scheduled to be sold on a made-to-order basis during the period.

The lineup features Gintama-style illustrations, including a design with Kagura wrapped in a takoyaki boat tray, evoking the famous “Nemurenai aru” (“I can’t sleep, aru”) scene, as well as a scene of Hijikata turning takoyaki into his signature “Hijikata Special.”

Since this is a made-to-order sale, items will be sold by application rather than purchased in-store on the day.

For details, be sure to check the announcements on the official campaign site.

It’s also a good idea to check the official information regarding whether international shipping is available.

Official X (Twitter) follow & repost campaign

A campaign where you can win limited collaboration goods by following and reposting on X (formerly Twitter) is also being held.

The prize to watch is the “Elizabeth Takoyaki Cushion” — a piece that fans will love, with the mysterious creature Elizabeth turned into a takoyaki shape.

Entry is free, so even overseas fans who can’t visit a store can easily take part, as long as they have an X account.

It’s planned twice during the period, so entering both rounds is recommended.

Who would have imagined Elizabeth turning into a takoyaki cushion?

It’s an item you can only get through this collaboration, so fans are encouraged to give it a try.

Tips for travelers to enjoy the collaboration

Downloading the Gindaco app is worth it

The free “Gindaco app” is something worth downloading before you visit.

You earn a stamp with each purchase of a takoyaki boat (8 pieces or more), and once you collect a certain number, you get a coupon for a free 8-piece takoyaki.

Purchases of the collaboration takoyaki count toward stamps as well. On the 8th, 18th, and 28th of every month there’s a “double stamp day,” so if any of these overlap with your stay, the value gets even better.

If you’re after the cards, visiting early is recommended

The limited collaboration cards are limited in quantity. Vol. 1 goes on sale on May 28, but if you’re aiming for the popular secret card, buying as early as possible is the safer bet.

Weekends and evenings tend to get busy, so aiming for quieter times like weekday afternoons makes things smoother.

The goods after eating make great souvenirs too

The limited cards and clear files are light and easy to carry, so taking them home overseas is no trouble.

Just tuck them into the gaps in your suitcase. They’re sure to be appreciated as a souvenir for friends who are Gintama fans.

The fact that they’re limited items you can only get in Japan also adds to their value as a gift.

Check store availability in advance

The campaign runs at Tsukiji Gindaco stores nationwide, but some stores — such as Gindaco Sakaba, ballpark, racetrack, and pop-up event locations — are not included.

It’s safer to check on the official site in advance whether the store you plan to visit is participating.

Note that collaboration items are also not available for delivery, so you’ll need to visit a store in person.

Summary

“Gindaco” and “Gintama” — a special, first-and-last (?) collaboration that finally came together through the unexpected shared kanji 銀 (gin).

Period-limited flavors, highly collectible cards, newly drawn clear files, goods full of fan-only playful touches, and a prize campaign too.

It’s a summer event that Gintama fans — and travelers who love takoyaki — won’t want to miss.

If your trip to Japan happens to overlap with the May 28 to August 10, 2026 period, be sure to stop by a Tsukiji Gindaco store somewhere in Japan.

It’s bound to make for a fun memory you can only have here.