In Japan, there are various accessory stores that sell character goods, and “Village Vanguard” is one such store where you can find unique products.
Village Vanguard is a variety store that sells a diverse range of products and is found in multiple locations. What makes it interesting is that, despite primarily selling accessories, the store is registered as a “bookstore.”
“Village Vanguard, a Variety Store Found Throughout Japan”
Village Vanguard is a well-known variety store found throughout Japan, operating as a franchise. With its main store in Tokyo, you can also find it in the Yodobashi Camera building in Fukuoka and at Namba Parks in Osaka.
Moreover, you can discover a Village Vanguard store in America Mura in Osaka.
“Osaka’s Little America, America Mura”
Osaka’s America Mura gives off a vibe similar to popular areas like Hongdae or Itaewon in Seoul, South Korea. Originating in the 1970s, this area earned the name “America Mura” or American Village as shops emerged selling goods imported from the U.S., establishing a street known as “America Street.”
- Osaka “America Mura”: America Mura: Embracing Youthful Vibes in Osaka
“Village Vanguard in Osaka’s America Mura”
Village Vanguard is also present in Osaka’s America Mura, perfectly blending with the atmosphere of the street. This store sells various creative and character goods. Categorized as a bookstore, you can also find books, including manga and novels. Interestingly, they even offer items like “chunhwa,” which was once used as sex education material in Japan.
While the store had a diverse range of products, finding something worth purchasing wasn’t easy during my visit. Perhaps, this could be attributed to my lack of a strong collecting hobby. However, for those with a passion for collecting, it might be an excellent place to explore.
“Japan, Osaka, America Mura, Village Vanguard”
- Address: 1 Chome-10-28 Nishishinsaibashi, Chūō-ku, Ōsaka-shi, Ōsaka-fu 542-0086, Japan
- Phone: +81 6-6258-0070
- Website: Village Vanguard
- Operating Hours: 11:00 – 23:00