INTRODUCTION
Animate is a major anime store with stores all over Japan and is the best place to find all your anime fan goods. Boasting an extensive lineup of the latest anime merchandise, manga, figures, character goods, and more, Animate is a veritable haven for anime enthusiasts. With stores in major cities such as Akihabara and Ikebukuro in Tokyo, as well as Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, these locations are easily accessible to tourists.
This article details the anime fan goods that should be available at animate stores. Animate is loved by fans in Japan and abroad for its exclusive merchandise, events, and up-to-date information on popular anime. For anime fans visiting Japan for the first time or looking for specific character merchandise, this guide is a must. Learn how you can enhance your trip to Japan through shopping at Animate.
Basic Information
Animate is a major anime store chain with stores all over Japan and an essential stop for anime fans. founded in 1978, Animate now has more than 100 stores throughout Japan. The main animate store in Ikebukuro, Tokyo, has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest anime store. The Ikebukuro main store is a 10-story building filled with anime goods, manga, figures, and character goods, offering something new to discover each time you visit.
Hours of Operation and Directions
Most animate stores are open from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., making it easy to visit during sightseeing or work hours. The main Ikebukuro store is located just a few minutes’ walk from JR Ikebukuro Station, making access very convenient. Other stores are located in major cities such as Shinjuku, Akihabara, Osaka, and Nagoya, making it an easy location for tourists to visit.
Product Lineup
Animate offers a wide variety of merchandise including the latest anime goods, manga, figures, character goods, Blu-ray, DVD, and CDs. Particularly popular product categories include:
- Figures: A must-see for collectors, featuring many of the latest anime character figures.
- Manga: a wide variety of titles, from the latest manga to classic classics.
- Character goods: A wide variety of character goods are available, including posters, key chains, T-shirts, bags, and more.
Special Offers and Events
Animate regularly holds special offers and limited-edition goods sales for anime and manga, and there are many events for fans not to be missed. The Ikebukuro main store, in particular, frequently holds exhibitions, autograph sessions, and cosplay events, making it an enjoyable place to visit.
Animate is loved by anime fans in Japan and abroad for its extensive product lineup and excellent service. When you visit Japan, be sure to visit Animate and experience its charm. A great opportunity to acquire the latest anime goods and manga awaits you.
Popular Merchandise
Animate is a haven for anime fans, offering a wide selection of the latest merchandise and exclusive items. Below are some of the most popular items available at Animate.
1. Figures
Animate offers a large selection of figures of the latest anime characters. For example, figures from the popular “Blade of Oni no Kai,” “My Hero Academia,” and “Shinkage no Kyojin” are a must for collectors. Limited editions and figures with special offers are also frequently released, making them a can’t-miss item for fans.
2. Manga
From the latest manga to classic classics, Animate offers a wide variety of manga genres. In particular, popular series such as “One Piece,” “Naruto,” and “Shinkage no Kyojin” are beloved by many fans. There is also a wide selection of manga based on works that have been adapted into anime, making this lineup attractive to anime fans.
3. Character goods
Animate carries a wide variety of character goods such as posters, key chains, T-shirts, bags, and more. In particular, limited edition products and event-specific goods are extremely popular among fans. For example, “Love Live! and “THE iDOLM@STER” character goods are favored by many fans.
4. Blu-ray & DVD
Anime Blu-ray and DVD are also popular items at animate. Whenever the latest anime series or movie is released, many fans visit Animate. Some of them come with bonus videos and limited-edition goods, making them attractive collectors’ items.
5. Music CDs
CDs of anime soundtracks and character songs are also popular items at animate. In particular, opening and ending themes of popular anime are loved by many fans. Many CDs come in limited editions or with first-run special offers, making them a can’t-miss item for fans.
6. Trading Card Games (TCG)
Animate also carries a wide variety of trading card games, including Pokemon card games and Yu-Gi-Oh! Limited edition packs and promotional cards are very attractive to collectors. Events and tournaments are also held regularly, providing a place for fans to interact with each other.
Animate is loved by anime fans in Japan and abroad for its diverse product lineup and high quality merchandise. When you visit Japan, be sure to visit Animate and pick up your favorite character goods and manga. A fulfilling shopping experience awaits you.
Shopping Tips and Deals
To get the most out of your shopping experience at Animate, it helps to know a few tips and deals. Use these information to save more money and enjoy shopping more efficiently.
1. Take advantage of the point card
Animate’s point card allows you to accumulate points based on the amount of your purchases, which can then be used on your next shopping trip. New registration is easy, and there is no enrollment or annual fee. The accumulated points can be used as 1 point for 1 yen, making it very profitable for frequent Animate customers.
2. use the online store
Animate’s official online store offers a wide variety of online-only products in addition to the products sold in stores. By using the online store, you can check inventory and place orders in advance, making your shopping experience at the store smoother. Also, don’t miss out on sales and special offers exclusive to the online store.
3. Check out our sale deals.
Animate regularly holds sales and campaigns. During these periods, many items are offered at discounted prices, allowing you to enjoy shopping at a discount. Sale information is often announced on the official website and SNS, so it is a good idea to check regularly.
4. Aim for limited-edition goods
Animate sometimes sells limited-edition goods in conjunction with certain events or fairs. These limited-edition goods are only available during the event period, so it is recommended to check and purchase them as early as possible. Especially popular goods often sell out early, so it is a good idea to gather information in advance.
5. Consult with store staff
Animate’s staff is very helpful and knowledgeable about their products. Especially if you are visiting for the first time or looking for a specific item, consulting with the staff will help make your shopping experience go smoothly. They can also tell you about events and sales, so be sure to talk to them when you visit.
6. Choosing a Payment Method
Animate accepts a variety of payment methods, including cash, credit cards, debit cards, and e-money. Some credit cards offer additional rewards for earning points, so check the benefits of the card you use.
7. Follow newsletters and SNS
In order not to miss out on the latest information from animate, it is recommended to follow the official mail magazine and SNS. You will be the first to get the latest information on sales, new arrivals, event announcements, and more.
Use these tips and information to make your shopping experience at animate more fulfilling. Don’t miss your chance to get the latest anime goods and manga at the best prices.
Reviews and Ratings
Animate is highly rated by many users for its extensive product lineup and excellent customer service. Below is a detailed description of Animate’s appeal based on the latest reviews and evaluations.
Extensive Product Lineup
Animate offers a wide variety of products including anime goods, manga, figures, character goods, Blu-ray, DVD, and CDs. In particular, the latest anime and manga related products are always in abundance, and the fact that new products can be found every time you visit is highly appreciated. The entire 10-story building of Animate Ikebukuro is filled with anime-related merchandise, making it a true paradise for fans .
Excellent Customer Service
The staff at Animate has been praised by many reviewers for their product knowledge and helpfulness. In particular, if you are looking for a particular product or want to know about the latest merchandise, you can consult the staff for the right advice. Many stores also have English-speaking staff on hand, making shopping a safe and enjoyable experience for foreign visitors .
Convenient Location
Animate’s main stores are located in locations that are very accessible and easy to visit from stations. For example, the Akihabara store is just a few minutes’ walk from JR Akihabara station, which is convenient for many visitors. The Ikebukuro main store is also located within a few minutes’ walk of Ikebukuro Station, making it easy to stop by while sightseeing or on business .
Overall, Animate is highly regarded by many fans for its extensive product lineup, excellent customer service, fun events, and convenient location. When you visit Japan, be sure to visit Animate and experience what it has to offer.
Summary
As a major anime store with a nationwide presence in Japan, Animate is an indispensable resource for anime fans. Its extensive product lineup and high-quality customer service have earned it a high reputation among many users. With a wide variety of anime goods, manga, figures, Blu-ray, DVDs, CDs, and more, customers are sure to find something new every time they visit.
Furthermore, animate regularly offers fun events and products with special offers, serving as a place for fans to interact with each other. For example, the Ikebukuro main store frequently holds exhibitions, autograph sessions, cosplay events, and other events that can be enjoyed just by visiting. These events provide unforgettable memories for anime fans.
In addition, many of the stores are located in locations that are easily accessible from the station, making it easy to stop by while sightseeing or on business. For example, the Akihabara and Ikebukuro main stores are just a few minutes’ walk from major stations, making them convenient shopping destinations for many tourists.
To get the most out of your shopping experience at animate, we recommend that you utilize tips such as using your point card, checking for sale information, and consulting with the staff. Use this information to enjoy a more fulfilling shopping experience.
When you visit Japan, we encourage you to visit Animate and experience its charm. A great opportunity to acquire the latest anime goods and manga awaits you. Shopping at Animate will make your stay in Japan even richer and more enjoyable.
