【animate】The leading anime merchandise retailer in Japan! What is Animate, which also releases game software and related goods?

“If you’re an anime fan, you’ve probably been there at least once, right?” — that’s the kind of presence Animate has. But actually, it’s not just an ordinary anime merchandise store. With stores in all 47 prefectures across Japan, it’s truly a “sacred ground for anime, comics, and game culture.” Isn’t that kind of amazing?

Animate’s store shelves are lined with exclusive items you can’t easily find elsewhere. Why is that? It’s because its group companies acquire licenses and develop products in-house. And not only are they rare, but the quality really speaks to fans — like, “They really get it!” Things like acrylic stands of your favorite characters or merch that recreates iconic anime scenes — you just can’t resist buying them!

When talking about Animate’s appeal, you can’t leave out the “bonus perks.” When you pre-order CDs or DVDs, you might get not only the standard first-press bonus, but also Animate-exclusive items. Posters, original illustration cards...... it’s like a treasure hunt. Some bonuses include event tickets, so if you want to meet your fave, be sure to check!

In major city stores, they even hold events with voice actors and anime song artists. These live-style events are a unique experience only Animate can offer. Of course, not just anyone can attend — you usually need to pre-order or buy related products. But even that “effort” is a reward for fans.

When you buy books or CDs at Animate, you get perfectly-sized clear covers for free. Sounds plain? Actually, a lot of people swear by these covers. They keep your shelves looking neat, protect from dust — it's a thoughtful detail. Plus, they’re also sold separately, which is great for bulk buyers.

Did you know Animate also sells doujinshi and indie games? However, the selection is small and mostly aimed at women. The focus is mainly on BL and otome games, making it a paradise for core fans. There’s even an insider tidbit that Melonbooks handles the consignment sales — a fun detail for hardcore otaku.

In places like Fukui, Miyazaki, and Okinawa, where there’s little anime on terrestrial TV, many people say Animate is their saving grace. They show PVs and clips of anime that weren’t aired locally, making it feel like you’ve stepped into the anime world. Animate is truly an oasis for rural otaku.

When you make a reservation at Animate, there’s a unique system called “deposit payment.” This means you pay part or all of the price in cash when you place your order. For items with event bonuses or high-priced goods, there’s often a minimum deposit required. But thanks to this system, you can rest assured knowing you’ll secure popular items.

Animate isn’t just a place that sells anime and game merchandise. It’s filled with thoughtful touches and gimmicks that delight fans — truly a hub of pop culture. Just being there lifts your spirits — it’s like a magical space. Why not drop by on your next day off?