Japanese vs English Pokémon cards: the differences that matter

Japanese and English Pokémon cards share the same artwork, but they are printed, packaged and released differently. Here is what changes for a collector.

Japan gets the sets first

Every modern set is released in Japan before its English counterpart, so new cards appear on the Japanese market first. Some Japanese sets are later merged or reshuffled into a single English set.

Smaller packs, different set structure

Modern Japanese packs usually contain 5 cards (high-class sets such as Pokémon Card 151 use larger packs), and Japanese sets are smaller. Japan also releases "high-class" sets — compilation sets with an unusually high share of illustrated rares, such as 151 (SV2a), Terastal Festival ex (SV8a) and VSTAR Universe (S12a).

Card stock and finish

Japanese cards are widely regarded by collectors as having cleaner print quality and more consistent centering, which is one reason Japanese cards are popular for grading. The surface texture of illustrated rares can also differ.

Rarity names

Japanese cards print the rarity code next to the card number: AR, SAR, SR, UR and so on. Our rarity guide explains each one.

Are Japanese cards worth less?

Not necessarily. Value depends on the card, its condition and demand. Some Japanese-exclusive cards and high-class set rares trade above their English counterparts; for others the English version is pricier. Compare the specific card.