Proxy Buying & Forwarding Guide

How to buy dakimakura from Japanese stores that don't ship internationally

Introduction

Many Japanese dakimakura stores do not ship internationally or accept foreign payment methods. To buy from these stores, you need to use a proxy buying service or a package forwarding service. This guide explains the differences, how to use them, and what to watch out for.

Proxy Buying Services

Proxy buying services purchase items on your behalf from Japanese stores, pay the seller, receive the package at their warehouse, and then ship it to you. They handle all communication and payment with the store.

If you want to buy from auctions on Yahoo Japan, you'll need to use a proxy service that supports bidding. You cannot use a forwarding service for auctions.

How Proxy Buying Works

  1. Sign up for an account on the proxy service website
  2. Find the product page on the Japanese store
  3. Submit the product URL and details to the proxy service
  4. Pay the proxy service (item price + domestic shipping + service fee)
  5. The proxy buys the item and receives it at their warehouse
  6. Once all your items arrive, choose your preferred shipping method to your country
  7. Pay for international shipping and receive your package

NSFW/Adult Item Warning

Buyee and some other proxies may not buy adult/NSFW dakimakura and may cancel your order if it is discovered to be R-18. ZenMarket, DeJapan, and Japan Rabbit are generally more flexible, but always check their policies before ordering.

Package Forwarding Services

Forwarding services give you a Japanese shipping address. You order and pay the store directly, ship to your forwarding address, and the forwarder sends the package to you. You are responsible for payment and communication with the store.

How Forwarding Works

  1. Sign up and get your Japanese address from the forwarder
  2. Order from the Japanese store using your forwarder address
  3. Pay the store directly (credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer)
  4. The store ships your order to your forwarder
  5. The forwarder notifies you when your package arrives
  6. Choose your shipping method and pay for international shipping
  7. Receive your package

Pros & Cons

  • Pros: Can buy most items, including NSFW, if the store accepts your payment
  • Pros: Usually a bit cheaper than proxy services
  • Cons: You must handle all ordering and payment yourself; some stores do not accept foreign cards

Tips & Recommendations

  • Check the store's payment options before choosing a forwarder. If you can't pay directly, use a proxy buying service.
  • Combine multiple orders at your proxy/forwarder to save on shipping.
  • Check for prohibited items (e.g., some proxies/forwarders may not ship adult goods, batteries, or liquids).
  • Always read the service's FAQ and fee schedule before ordering.
  • For NSFW dakimakura, avoid Buyee (sometimes refuses adult goods). ZenMarket, DeJapan, Blackship, and Japan Rabbit are generally safe.

Useful Links