Anime Paradise: Top 20 Essential Anime Stores in Los Angeles

Anime lovers rejoice! The City of Angels is a veritable haven for anime enthusiasts, with a myriad of exceptional anime stores catering to every taste and budget. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a thrilling journey through the anime hotspots of Los Angeles, highlighting 20 must-visit destinations for all things anime.

1. Kinokuniya Bookstore (Little Tokyo)

• Address: 123 Astronaut E S Onizuka St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
• Specialties: Japanese books, manga, anime, stationery

Kinokuniya Bookstore, a Japanese-owned emporium, is a veritable treasure trove for anime enthusiasts. With over 20,000 square feet of retail space, it boasts an unparalleled selection of manga, anime DVDs, and related merchandise. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting to explore the world of anime, Kinokuniya has something for every taste.

2. Anime Jungle (North Hollywood)

• Address: 5523 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91601
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
• Specialties: Anime figures, collectible cards, vintage merchandise

Anime Jungle is a wonderland for collectors and enthusiasts alike. This sprawling store features an impressive collection of anime figures, collectible cards, and rare vintage merchandise. From the latest releases to highly sought-after classics, you’re sure to find something to add to your collection or spark your nostalgia.

3. Tokyo Central (Westminster)

• Address: 7316 Beach Blvd, Westminster, CA 92683
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Monday-Friday), 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Saturday-Sunday)
• Specialties: Exclusive merchandise, event signings, community involvement

Tokyo Central is a global anime and entertainment hub with a flagship store in Westminster. This vibrant store hosts exclusive merchandise releases, autograph signings, and community events that bring anime lovers together. With a focus on premium goods and limited editions, Tokyo Central is the ultimate destination for serious collectors and fans.

4. Anime Expo (Downtown Los Angeles)

• Address: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
• Hours: Varies depending on event schedule
• Specialties: Convention, industry showcases, celebrity guests

Anime Expo, the largest anime convention in North America, is an annual spectacle that draws hundreds of thousands of attendees each year. Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Anime Expo showcases the latest anime releases, industry innovations, and celebrity guests. With its massive vendor halls, cosplay competitions, and exclusive merchandise, Anime Expo is a must-attend event for anime enthusiasts.

5. Animate USA (Little Tokyo)

• Address: 350 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
• Specialties: Official merchandise, limited edition releases, Japanese imports

Animate USA is a subsidiary of the popular Japanese anime retailer. This well-stocked store offers a wide selection of official merchandise, limited edition releases, and exclusive Japanese imports. From character figurines to plush toys, Animate USA has everything you need to show your love for your favorite anime.

6. Crunchyroll Store (Online)

• Address: Online store
• Hours: 24/7
• Specialties: Online shopping, exclusive merchandise, streaming services

Crunchyroll Store is the official online retail outlet of Crunchyroll, a leading anime streaming service. This online store offers a vast selection of exclusive merchandise, including clothing, accessories, home goods, and collectibles. With its convenient online shopping experience and access to streaming services, Crunchyroll Store is a one-stop shop for anime enthusiasts.

7. AkibaHobby (Online)

• Address: Online store
• Hours: 24/7
• Specialties: Rare merchandise, anime statues, Japanese pop culture

AkibaHobby is an online retailer specializing in rare and exclusive anime merchandise. This store imports a wide variety of anime statues, figurines, and other collectibles from Japan. With its extensive selection and commitment to authenticity, AkibaHobby is a trusted source for discerning collectors.

8. Raromaru (Gardena)

• Address: 1620 W Artesia Blvd #102, Gardena, CA 90248
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
• Specialties: Kawaii merchandise, plush toys, collectibles

Raromaru is an adorable store that specializes in all things kawaii. This store features a wide selection of plush toys, collectible figurines, keychains, and other cute merchandise that is sure to make your heart melt. With its colorful displays and charming atmosphere, Raromaru is a must-visit for fans of all things cute.

9. The Anime Spot (Torrance)

• Address: 20401 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA 90503
• Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Monday-Friday), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday-Sunday)
• Specialties: New and used anime, retro anime, DVD and Blu-ray

The Anime Spot is a well-established store that offers a wide selection of new and used anime. This store also has a large collection of retro anime, as well as a variety of DVD and Blu-ray formats. With its friendly staff and knowledgeable experts, The Anime Spot is a great place to find both classic and contemporary anime titles.

10. Comic-Con International (San Diego)