If you’re an anime fan planning a trip to Japan, Tokyo is the ultimate destination to dive into the world of anime and manga. The city is packed with incredible anime shops in Japan, offering everything from rare collectibles to the latest merchandise. I recommend checking out four key areas: Akihabara, Nakano, Ikebukuro, and Tokyo Station. These places are home to some of the biggest and most famous anime shops in Japan, like Animate, Mandarake, and Surugaya. In this guide, I’ll break down the top anime shops in Japan in these locations, including must-visit spots like Radio Kaikan and Tamashii Nations Tokyo in Akihabara. I’ll also share tips on finding great deals at large electronics stores like Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, Softmap, Edion, and Yamada. Let’s get started!
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Why Tokyo is a Paradise for Anime Fans
Tokyo is the heart of Japan’s otaku (anime and manga fan) culture. Whether you’re hunting for figurines, manga books, or exclusive merchandise, the city has it all. I recommend exploring four amazing areas—Akihabara, Nakano, Ikebukuro, and Tokyo Station—for the best anime shops in Japan. Each spot has its own vibe and specialties, making them perfect for any anime lover. Let’s explore what makes these places so special and which anime shops in Japan you should visit.
Akihabara: The Anime Capital of Tokyo
Akihabara, often called “Electric Town,” is the go-to place for anime fans. It’s packed with colorful anime shops in Japan, maid cafes, and endless anime goodies. Here are the best anime shops in Akihabara you can’t miss:
Animate Akihabara
Animate is one of the biggest anime shops in Japan, and its Akihabara store is a must-visit. Located just a short walk from Akihabara Station, this multi-story shop has everything: manga, DVDs, CDs, figurines, and cosplay items. It’s perfect for fans of the latest anime series. The store often has exclusive items and events with voice actors, so check their schedule before you go!
Mandarake Akihabara
Mandarake is another giant in the anime world, famous for second-hand goods. The Akihabara branch is an eight-floor paradise filled with rare manga, figurines, toys, and video games. If you’re looking for vintage or hard-to-find items, this is the place. Prices vary based on condition, but you can score some amazing deals.
Surugaya Akihabara
Surugaya is a treasure trove for second-hand and overstock anime merchandise. It has multiple locations in Akihabara, but the main store on Chuo Dori is the biggest. You’ll find figurines, DVDs, games, and more at great prices. It’s a fantastic spot for budget-friendly shopping.
Radio Kaikan
Radio Kaikan is a famous building in Akihabara with over 30 stores inside, all focused on anime and electronics. You can find shops like K-Books, Volks, and even an AmiAmi branch here. It’s a one-stop spot for figurines, trading cards, and hobby items. The bright yellow building is easy to spot near Akihabara Station.
Tamashii Nations Tokyo
Tamashii Nations Store Tokyo is a must for fans of high-quality anime figures. Located in Akihabara, this store specializes in Bandai’s premium figurines from series like Gundam, Dragon Ball, and One Piece. They also sell limited-edition items and have cool displays of upcoming releases.
Large Electronics Stores in Akihabara
Don’t skip the big electronics stores like Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, Softmap, Edion, and Yamada. These shops have dedicated anime sections with figurines, games, and merchandise. I always find better prices at Yamada and Edion—they’re usually cheaper than Yodobashi and Bic Camera. Yodobashi Akiba, near the station, is huge and has a great selection, while Bic Camera AKIBA is perfect for combining anime shopping with electronics.
Nakano: Hidden Gems at Nakano Broadway
Nakano is less touristy than Akihabara but just as exciting for anime fans. The star here is Nakano Broadway, a shopping complex packed with anime shops in Japan. It’s a 5-minute walk from Nakano Station and a goldmine for collectors.
Mandarake Nakano Broadway
Mandarake has over 30 specialized shops inside Nakano Broadway, making it one of the best anime shops in Japan for rare finds. Each store focuses on a niche, like magical girls, mecha, or vintage toys. Most items are second-hand, so you can dig for unbeatable deals on manga, figures, and more.
Other Shops in Nakano Broadway
Nakano Broadway is full of small, independent stores selling everything from retro manga to modern collectibles. It’s less crowded than Akihabara, so you can take your time exploring. Look out for shops with Ghibli merchandise or old-school anime goodies.
Ikebukuro: A Hub for Anime Fans
Ikebukuro is a fantastic spot for anime shops in Japan, offering a mix of huge stores and unique specialty shops. It’s easy to reach via Ikebukuro Station and has plenty for anime fans to explore.
Animate Ikebukuro
Animate’s flagship store in Ikebukuro is the world’s largest anime shop. With nine floors of manga, figurines, CDs, and cosplay gear, it’s a dream for any fan. It’s near Ikebukuro Station and has a huge selection of female-oriented merchandise, like boys’ love manga. Don’t miss the events and exclusive items here!
Mandarake Ikebukuro
Mandarake’s Ikebukuro branch is smaller than Akihabara’s but still amazing. It’s located in the basement (B2F) of P’PARCO shopping mall next to Ikebukuro JR Station and specializes in second-hand manga, figures, and games. It’s a great place to find niche or older titles at good prices.
Sunshine City Ikebukuro
Sunshine City is a huge shopping complex in Ikebukuro with some awesome anime-related stores. Check out the Gashapon Bandai Official Shop, where you can find tons of gashapon machines with tiny figures from your favorite anime. It’s super fun and affordable! There’s also a Pokémon Store here, packed with Pokémon plushies, cards, and exclusive items. It’s a must-visit for Pokémon fans.
Tokyo Station: Anime on the Go
Tokyo Station isn’t just a travel hub—it’s also a surprising spot for anime shops in Japan. The Character Street area in the station’s basement (First Avenue Tokyo Station) is full of shops dedicated to anime and popular characters.
Character Street Shops
Character Street has stores for big anime franchises like Studio Ghibli, Jump Shop (for Shonen Jump series like Naruto and One Piece), and even a Pokémon Store. You’ll find plushies, keychains, snacks, and exclusive merchandise here. It’s smaller than Akihabara or Ikebukuro, but it’s perfect if you’re passing through or short on time.
Tips for Shopping at Anime Shops in Japan
Bring Cash: While most big stores accept cards, smaller shops might only take cash.
Check for Tax-Free: Show your passport at stores like Animate or Mandarake for tax-free shopping.
Compare Prices: Yamada and Edion often beat Yodobashi and Bic Camera on price, so shop around.
Look for Exclusives: Stores like Tamashii Nations and Animate have items you can’t get anywhere else.
Condition Check: For second-hand items at Mandarake or Surugaya, inspect the condition carefully.
Where to Stay and Plan Your Trip
To make the most of your anime shopping, pick a good base in Tokyo. Check out my guide on Where to Stay in Tokyo for hotel ideas. If you’ve got five days in the city, my 5 Days Itinerary in Tokyo will help you plan your visits to the best anime shops in Japan alongside other must-see spots.
Final Thoughts
Tokyo’s anime shops in Japan are a dream come true for fans. I recommend visiting four key areas: Akihabara, with Animate, Mandarake, Surugaya, Radio Kaikan, and Tamashii Nations Tokyo; Nakano, with its Nakano Broadway treasures; Ikebukuro, featuring Animate and Sunshine City’s Bandai and Pokémon stores; and Tokyo Station, with Character Street’s quick anime fixes. Plus, explore electronics stores like Yamada and Edion for deals. Whether you’re a casual fan or a hardcore collector, these four spots will leave you with bags full of treasures and memories to last a lifetime. Happy shopping!
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