Japan, the birthplace of manga and anime, is a paradise for enthusiasts of these art forms. From massive bookstores to quaint, specialised shops, the country offers a treasure trove of manga, comics, and related items. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a casual fan, exploring Japan’s manga and anime culture is an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to buy manga and comics, along with must-visit spots for anime and manga enthusiasts.
Top Stores for Anime and Manga
Mandarake
Locations: Akihabara, Shibuya, Nakano Broadway (Tokyo), and various other cities.
Highlights: Mandarake is a haven for manga and anime fans, offering a vast selection of new and used manga, rare collectibles, and anime merchandise. The Nakano Broadway store is particularly famous for its extensive collection and vibrant atmosphere.
Animate
Locations: Ikebukuro (Tokyo), Akihabara (Tokyo), and branches across Japan.
Highlights: Animate is one of Japan’s largest anime and manga retailers. The Ikebukuro flagship store is a multi-floor paradise featuring manga, anime DVDs, character goods, and cosplay items. It’s a must-visit for any anime fan.
Book Off
Locations: Nationwide, with prominent locations in Shinjuku, Akihabara, and Shibuya.
Highlights: Book Off is a popular second-hand bookstore chain where you can find manga at bargain prices. The stores are well-organised, making it easy to hunt for hidden gems and out-of-print titles.
Kinokuniya
Locations: Shinjuku (Tokyo) and various other cities.
Highlights: Kinokuniya is a renowned bookstore with a comprehensive selection of manga, light novels, and Japanese literature. The Shinjuku South store offers a large collection, including English-translated manga.
Village Vanguard
Locations: Various cities, including Shibuya (Tokyo) and Nagoya.
Highlights: Known for its quirky and eclectic inventory, Village Vanguard offers a unique shopping experience. Alongside manga, you’ll find an array of pop culture merchandise, unusual snacks, and fun gadgets.
Toranoana
Locations: Akihabara (Tokyo) and other major cities.
Highlights: Specialising in doujinshi (self-published works), Toranoana is the place to go for unique and fan-created manga. The Akihabara store is particularly popular among manga enthusiasts.
Must-Visit Places for Anime and Manga Enthusiasts
Akihabara (Tokyo)
Highlights: Often referred to as the “Electric Town,” Akihabara is the epicenter of Otaku culture. The district is packed with stores selling manga, anime, figurines, and electronics. Don’t miss iconic spots like Mandarake, Animate, and the Akihabara Radio Kaikan building.
Ikebukuro (Tokyo)
Highlights: Ikebukuro is another hotspot for anime and manga fans. The area is home to the massive Animate Ikebukuro store and the Otome Road, known for its focus on female-oriented manga and merchandise. The Sunshine City complex also hosts various anime-themed events and shops.
Nakano Broadway (Tokyo)
Highlights: Nakano Broadway is a shopping complex renowned for its diverse range of manga, anime, and pop culture items. The multi-story mall features numerous specialty stores, including the flagship Mandarake, and is a treasure trove for collectors.
Odaiba (Tokyo)
Highlights: Odaiba is a popular entertainment district with several attractions for anime fans. The DiverCity Tokyo Plaza features the life-sized Unicorn Gundam statue, and the nearby Aqua City shopping center has a range of anime stores and themed cafés.
Den Den Town (Osaka)
Highlights: Located in the Nipponbashi district of Osaka, Den Den Town is similar to Akihabara, offering a wide selection of electronics, manga, and anime goods. The area is also known for its many game arcades and maid cafés.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
Highlights: Situated in Kyoto, this museum is dedicated to the history and culture of manga. It houses an extensive collection of manga from different eras and countries, offering visitors a chance to read and explore in a relaxed setting.
Tips for Buying Anime and Manga in Japan
Language Barrier: While some stores may offer English-translated manga, the majority of titles will be in Japanese. Brush up on basic Japanese or use translation apps to help navigate your purchases. Fortunately, many stores will also sell plenty of other items like figurines, games and posters that should keep most Otaku happy.
Condition and Pricing: Second-hand stores like Book Off often have manga in excellent condition at lower prices. Check the quality before purchasing, especially for rare or collectible items.
Special Editions: Keep an eye out for special editions and exclusive releases that may not be available outside Japan. These can make unique additions to your collection.
Customs and Shipping: If you’re buying a large number of items, consider how you’ll transport them. Many stores offer international shipping services, but be aware of customs regulations in your home country.
Japan offers an unparalleled experience for manga and anime enthusiasts, with a myriad of stores and districts dedicated to these beloved art forms. Whether you’re hunting for rare comics, exploring vibrant shopping areas, or immersing yourself in otaku culture, Japan has something for every fan. Plan your visit, and dive into the world of manga and anime in the country where it all began
