Number Selection Lottery "Bingo 5" Sales begin in April

Ahead of the nationwide launch of the new number-selection lottery "Bingo 5" on April 3, a commemorative event was held on March 23 at the Tokyo Lottery Dream Hall in Chuo Ward.

Bingo 5 is a new type of lottery based on the familiar bingo game played at banquets and parties. It features a grid of 3 squares vertically and 3 squares horizontally, totaling 9 squares. Players select one number each from the 5 numbers listed in the 8 squares (excluding the central (FREE) square), choosing a total of 8 numbers (selected numbers). Wins occur when one or more of the eight lines (vertical, horizontal, or diagonal) are completed using the matching numbers from the selected numbers and the drawn numbers, along with the center (FREE) square. The number of completed lines determines the prize level, ranging from 1st to 7th prize. The 1st prize is expected to be approximately ¥5.55 million (theoretical value). Tickets cost ¥200 each, and drawings are held every Wednesday.

A portion of the proceeds from "Bingo 5" will support the Rugby World Cup 2019, the first time the tournament is held in Japan and Asia. The lottery tickets will also feature the tournament's official mark.

At the event, the lottery's "Goddess of Fortune" and mascot character Kuu-chan introduced Bingo 5. Following the screening of a new TV commercial, guests Dave Spector and fashion model Akane Hotta appeared.

Ms. Hotta shared the fun of lottery tickets, saying, "I like lottery tickets and buy them often. I haven't won big, but it's okay even if I don't win. The excitement before the results are announced is indescribable." Mr. Spector then spoke about the appeal of Bingo 5, saying, "Bingo games are fun, right? It really gets exciting when someone gets close to winning. Bingo games have been around for a long time, but it's interesting that it became a lottery."

On stage, Dave and Hotta made predictions for "Bingo 5." Based on these, a mock draw was held, greatly energizing the venue. Unfortunately, their predictions were off. When asked what they would do if they won the first prize, Dave showed his generous side, saying, "I already have everything I want, so I'd give it to Hotta." Hotta shared her dream: "I'd definitely go on a trip around the world. I'd love to visit places like the Amazon."

Official Site: http://www.takarakuji-official.jp/know/bingo5/