Where to Buy Anime Figures in Japan
If you're an anime lover, toy collector, or a curious traveler exploring Japan, buying anime figures in Japan is an experience you simply can't miss! From bustling Akihabara streets lit up with anime billboards to the cozy hidden gems in Nakano Broadway, Japan is heaven for anime figure fans. Whether you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly gachapon goodies, high-end scale figures, or limited-edition exclusives, this guide is your kawaii roadmap to figure-shopping bliss in Tokyo.
Where to Buy Anime Figures in Japan
1. Akihabara – The Heart of Otaku Culture
Akihabara, Tokyo's electric town, is a magical wonderland for any anime fan. It's the ultimate destination to shop for anime figures of every kind.
Photo by AXP Photography: https://www.pexels.com/photo/buildings-with-multicolored-bill-boards-on-a-night-street-akihabara-tokyo-18848570/
AmiAmi Akihabara is known for its massive variety of both new and secondhand figures. Their selection is constantly updated, so you never know what new treasure you'll find!
Image source: https://akihabara-trip.com/shop/character-and-hobby-shop-amiami-a-popular-online-store-now-in-akihabara.html
Kotobukiya Akihabara is the official store of the famous figure brand and features high-quality statues, Japan-only releases, and limited-edition collectibles.
Image source: https://www.kotobukiya.co.jp/en/kotobukiya-shop/detail/3/
Mandarake Complex is a multi-floor paradise for secondhand figure hunters. You’ll find vintage, rare, and collector's items that are often hard to locate elsewhere.
Image Source:https://www.mandarake.co.jp/dir/cmp/img/shop/cmp.jpg
Radio Kaikan is a tower of anime goods, filled with independent figure shops across its many floors. It’s a great place to explore a variety of series and price ranges.
Image Source: Viridiana Rivera: https://www.pexels.com/photo/bustling-shoppers-at-akihabara-radio-kaikan-30856699/
Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and increase your chances of finding rare items still in stock.
2. Nakano Broadway – Hidden Treasure Trove
Tucked away in a quieter neighborhood, Nakano Broadway is another legendary spot for collectors. This shopping complex is known for its labyrinth of stores packed with anime memorabilia.
Image Source: https://www.japan-guide.com/g18/3069_01.jpg
Mandarake Nakano, the original Mandarake location, specializes in rare and vintage figures. Their collection spans decades and is especially valuable for seasoned collectors.
Pro Tip: Prices in Nakano are often more affordable than Akihabara, so you might find better deals here.
3. Ikebukuro – Ideal for Female Anime Fans
Unlike Akihabara, which leans toward male-oriented content, Ikebukuro is geared more toward female fans, including lovers of shoujo and BL (Boys’ Love) series.
Photo by Boris Radisic: https://www.pexels.com/photo/vibrant-streets-of-ikebukuro-tokyo-at-daytime-30990114/
Animate Ikebukuro is one of the largest anime stores in Japan, with multiple floors featuring figures, merchandise, and media from popular series.
Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Animate_Ikebukuro_20120613_1.jpg
K-Books and Surugaya Specialty Stores offer a mix of new and used figures, often with exclusive items from female-targeted anime and games.
Image Source: https://www.suruga-ya.com/en/feature/honten-announcement/index.html
Pro Tip: If you’re shopping for otome game figures or merchandise from BL or shoujo anime, this is your go-to spot.
How to Find the Best Deals on Anime Figures in Japan
To maximize your shopping experience, here are a few practical tips:
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Compare Prices between stores before purchasing.
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Check Pre-Owned Shops like Mandarake and Surugaya for gently used figures.
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Look for Store Promotions during seasonal sales or events.
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Take Advantage of Tax-Free Shopping if you're a tourist—bring your passport!
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Avoid Scams by shopping only at reputable stores and staying cautious with unusually low prices.
FAQs: Buying Anime Figures in Japan
Q: Are anime figures cheaper in Japan?
Yes. New releases and secondhand figures are often more affordable in Japan than overseas.
Q: Can I shop tax-free as a tourist?
Yes! Most stores allow tax-free purchases if you meet the minimum spending requirement and present your passport.
Q: Where can I buy rare or limited-edition figures?
Kotobukiya, Gamers, Volks, and event-based pop-up shops are great places for exclusives.
Q: Can I buy figures from Japan without visiting?
Yes. Services like TokuDeals can help you buy anime figures in Japan and ship them internationally.
Need a Personal Shopper for Anime Figures?
Can’t make it to Japan? TokuDeals is your trusted personal shopper in Japan, helping fans worldwide purchase anime figures, limited-edition collectibles, and exclusive merchandise straight from Japanese stores. From Akihabara to Nakano Broadway, we can help you find that hard-to-get figure and have it shipped to your door.
Contact us today or DM us on Instagram to start shopping for your dream figure from Japan.
Japan is every anime figure fan’s dreamland. Whether you’re after vintage finds, the newest releases, or exclusive goodies, Tokyo’s top shopping spots have it all. Plan your trip, bring your wishlist, and dive into the wonderful world of figure shopping. And if you can’t be here in person? TokuDeals is here to help you shop like a local—no matter where you are in the world.
