Japan can be considered a paradise for subculture enthusiasts, with many stores offering products related to subculture. “Animate” is one such specialty store dealing with various products related to manga and anime. As a franchise, it operates throughout Japan.
“Animate – Largest Number of Stores in Japan”
Animate is recognized as the animation and manga-related store with the most extensive number of outlets in Japan, reportedly twice as many as Korea’s Kyobo Bookstore. Animate’s main store is located in Ikebukuro, Tokyo.
“Animate Tokyo Shibuya Branch”
As my group was in Shibuya, we visited the Animate store there. Animate is situated in the same building as Mandarake Shibuya, with Mandarake on the basement floor and Animate on the third floor.
While Mandarake, located underground, had an overall dark and peculiar atmosphere, Animate was bright and had a cheerful ambiance.
“A Store Selling Various Manga and Related Products”
Animate, like Mandarake, is a store that sells manga and animation, along with related goods. Naturally, the store was filled with such products.
Given that it offers a variety of subculture-related items, it’s a place where those interested in this culture can joyfully explore. During a trip to Japan, it’s a great spot to purchase animation-related products that may be exclusive to Japan.
A friend who accompanied me to the store was from the UK and had a strong interest in animation. Consequently, they naturally ended up buying various products, not just for themselves but also as gifts for friends who share a love for animation.
“Japan Tokyo Shibuya, Animate”
- Address: Shibuya BEAM 3F, Udagawacho, 31-2, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0042, Japan
- Phone: +81 3-5458-2454
- Website: Animate
- Operating Hours: 11:00 – 22:00