Anime has become a global phenomenon, with fans all over the world. Los Angeles, as a major cultural hub, is home to a thriving anime community and a plethora of anime stores. Whether you’re a seasoned otaku or new to the world of Japanese animation, these top 10 anime stores in Los Angeles are a must-visit for any anime enthusiast.
1. Kinokuniya Bookstore
Located in Little Tokyo, Kinokuniya Bookstore is the largest Japanese bookstore in the United States. It boasts an extensive collection of anime DVDs, Blu-rays, manga, and other anime-related merchandise. The store also hosts regular anime-themed events and screenings, making it a popular gathering spot for anime fans.
2. Anime Jungle
Anime Jungle is one of the largest anime stores in Los Angeles, with two locations in Little Tokyo and Gardena. They carry a wide variety of anime merchandise, including figurines, toys, clothing, and collectibles. Anime Jungle also has a dedicated section for used anime, where you can find rare and out-of-print items.
3. Tokyo Otaku Mode
Tokyo Otaku Mode, also known as TOM, is a global online retailer that has a physical store in Downtown Los Angeles. TOM specializes in limited-edition anime merchandise, exclusive figures, and rare collectibles. They also have a large selection of anime apparel and accessories.
4. Crunchyroll Store
Crunchyroll, the popular anime streaming service, has a brick-and-mortar store in the Arts District. The Crunchyroll Store carries a wide range of anime merchandise, including apparel, home goods, and collectibles. They also host regular anime-themed events and signings.
5. Akiba Plaza
Akiba Plaza is a Japanese-themed lifestyle center in Little Tokyo. In addition to restaurants and shops, Akiba Plaza also has an anime store called Ani-mazing. Ani-mazing specializes in anime figurines and collectibles, and they also have a large selection of Japanese snacks and drinks.
6. Little Tokyo Galleria
Little Tokyo Galleria is a shopping center in Little Tokyo that is home to a number of anime-related stores. These stores include ACME Anime, Anime Jungle, and Tokyu Hands. Little Tokyo Galleria also hosts regular anime-themed events and festivals.
7. Nijiya Market
Nijiya Market is a Japanese supermarket chain with a location in Little Tokyo. In addition to groceries and Japanese cuisine, Nijiya Market also has a small anime section. They sell a variety of anime DVDs, Blu-rays, and manga.
8. Daiso Japan
Daiso Japan is a Japanese variety store chain with a location in Little Tokyo. Daiso sells a wide range of items, including anime-themed merchandise. They have a large selection of anime figurines, plushies, and other collectibles.
9. Mitsuwa Marketplace
Mitsuwa Marketplace is a Japanese supermarket chain with a location in Torrance. In addition to groceries and Japanese cuisine, Mitsuwa Marketplace also has a small anime section. They sell a variety of anime DVDs, Blu-rays, and manga.
10. J-World Los Angeles
J-World Los Angeles is an indoor theme park dedicated to Japanese pop culture. In addition to rides and attractions, J-World Los Angeles also has a number of anime-themed stores. These stores sell a variety of anime merchandise, including apparel, figurines, and collectibles.
Conclusion
These top 10 anime stores in Los Angeles are a must-visit for any anime enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for the latest anime releases, rare collectibles, or exclusive merchandise, you’re sure to find it at one of these stores. So next time you’re in Los Angeles, be sure to check out these amazing anime destinations.