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Dagashiya are often located near elementary schools. Children go there after school to buy a treat, play with their friends, and chat with the shopkeeper. One of these stores is called Takasanchi (Taka-san's place). Late one afternoon on a school day, Takasanchi is filled with kids, who call out to the proprietor, Takahashi Yukako - or "Taka-san," as she is affectionately known - "Taka-san, this costs thirty yen, right?" or "I won the lucky draw again!"
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Most of Takasanchi's customers are in elementary school, but some are in middle or high school. Some kids come every day, while others drop by once or twice a week. The children all love it there. "I have a good time here, and Taka-san is nice to us," says one girl in fourth grade. "I like being able to win candy and snacks in the lucky draw," says a fourth grade boy. Among the best-selling items are sweets that, when opened, reveal a message saying "You won!" or "Too bad!" If you get a winning message, it means you win another snack. Other popular items include Butamen (mini cup noodles), Sour Paper Candy (a long, thin chewy candy), and Morocco Yogurt (a soft yogurt-flavored candy that comes in a mini yogurt pot).
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